7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Varna

Digital nomads in Varna, have the unique opportunity to blend a relaxed seaside lifestyle with the excitement of exploring new places. Varna's strategic location on the Black Sea coast makes it an ideal base for weekend getaways, offering a mix of popular destinations and hidden gems within easy reach. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in history, enjoy nature, or simply unwind, these seven spots provide the perfect escape from your weekday routine.

Balchik

Just a short drive from Varna, Balchik is a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful botanical gardens and the summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania. The Balchik Palace and its gardens are a must-visit, offering a serene escape with a diverse array of plant species and stunning architectural designs. The town's promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the small beaches provide a tranquil spot to relax by the sea.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Balchik is by car or bus, with the journey taking approximately 40 minutes from Varna.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to taste the local wine. Balchik is near some of Bulgaria's best vineyards, and wine tasting tours are readily available.

Where to Stay: The Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Black Sea and an excellent golf course.

Where to Eat: Visit the El Simpatico for a delightful dining experience with a menu that features fresh seafood and Bulgarian cuisine, all while enjoying the sea view.

Nessebar

Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Black Sea." This ancient city is rich in history, with well-preserved medieval churches and ruins that date back to the Hellenistic period. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, explore the old town's charming boutiques, and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea from the peninsula.

How to Get There: Nessebar is about a 1.5-hour drive from Varna. Regular bus services also connect the two cities.

Travel Tip: Visit the Archaeological Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Nessebar's rich history and cultural heritage.

Where to Stay: The Italia Hotel offers a cozy stay in the heart of Nessebar's old town, with easy access to historical sites.

Where to Eat: Plakamoto is a traditional Bulgarian restaurant in the old town, famous for its local dishes and authentic atmosphere.

The Stone Desert (Pobiti Kamani)

The Stone Desert, or Pobiti Kamani, is one of Bulgaria's natural wonders and a fascinating off-the-beaten-path destination. Located just west of Varna, this desert-like landscape is dotted with peculiar stone columns, some reaching up to 7 meters in height. The formations are a geological phenomenon and provide a unique backdrop for photography and exploration.

How to Get There: The Stone Desert is best reached by car, with the drive from Varna taking about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Bring a camera and comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the surreal landscape and the hiking opportunities it offers.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations directly in the Stone Desert, the nearby city of Varna offers a range of options, such as the mOdus Hotel with its modern amenities.

Where to Eat: After exploring, head back to Varna and enjoy a meal at Di Wine Restaurant & Wine Cellar, known for its excellent selection of wines and gourmet dishes.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria, is a city steeped in history and culture. The Tsarevets Fortress is the highlight, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the country's past. The city's hilly terrain, historic houses, and the Yantra River winding through it create a picturesque setting. The Samovodska Charshiya Complex is a vibrant market area where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs.

How to Get There: The journey to Veliko Tarnovo from Varna takes about 3 hours by car or bus.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the Sound and Light Show at Tsarevets Fortress, a spectacular audiovisual performance.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Gurko features traditional Bulgarian architecture and offers stunning views of the old town and the river.

Where to Eat: Shtastlivetsa is a popular restaurant with a terrace overlooking the river, serving a mix of Bulgarian and international dishes.

Provadia

Provadia is a lesser-known destination that boasts the impressive Provadia-Solnitsata fortress – considered to be the oldest prehistoric town in Europe. The town is also known for its salt pans, which have been in operation since ancient times. Visitors can explore the fortress ruins and learn about the area's historical significance in salt production.

How to Get There: Provadia is just a 40-minute drive from Varna, making it an easy day trip by car or bus.

Travel Tip: Visit the Salt Museum to understand the importance of salt in the region's development and its historical trade significance.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in Provadia, but the nearby city of Varna offers various options, such as the Graffit Gallery Hotel with its contemporary art-themed rooms.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the local restaurant Han Krum, where you can taste traditional Bulgarian dishes in a cozy setting.

Kamchia Biosphere Reserve

The Kamchia Biosphere Reserve is an ecological paradise located at the mouth of the Kamchia River. It's a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers, with dense forests, marshes, and a long, unspoiled beach. The reserve is part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves and offers opportunities for boat trips, kayaking, and walking trails through the lush woodland.

How to Get There: Kamchia is about a 30-minute drive south of Varna. Public transport options are also available, but less frequent.

Travel Tip: Rent a kayak to explore the quiet waters of the Kamchia River and enjoy the reserve's natural beauty from a different perspective.

Where to Stay: The Kamchia Resort offers comfortable lodgings within the reserve, allowing guests to stay close to nature.

Where to Eat: The Kamchia Resort has its own restaurant, which serves a variety of dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Shumen Plateau Nature Park

For digital nomads seeking tranquility and a touch of adventure, the Shumen Plateau Nature Park is an ideal getaway. This park features the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, an imposing concrete structure with panoramic views. The park's diverse landscape includes caves, hiking trails, and historical sites like the Shumen Fortress. It's a great spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and bird watching.

How to Get There: Shumen Plateau Nature Park is about an hour's drive from Varna. Public buses also run to Shumen, from where you can take a taxi to the park.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument for an impressive view and a lesson in Bulgarian history.

Where to Stay: The Contessa Hotel in Shumen offers comfortable rooms and is conveniently located for exploring the park and the city.

Where to Eat: The Madara Restaurant in Shumen is known for its traditional Bulgarian cuisine and offers a pleasant atmosphere for dining.