Weather

The summer season in Varna begins in the end of May and extends until the end of September.

Local currency

The local currency in Bulgaria is Lev ("Leva" in plural). 1 USD = approx. 1.25 Lv., 1 EUR = approx. 1.95 Lv. ATM machines can be found everywhere. In addition, change bureaus can be found in many places in downtown Varna, as well as in the resorts (a bit worse rates for tourists!). In general, however, all commissions are included in the buy/sell rate (no hidden surprises) since a government directive from 2002.

Restaurants

In many but not all places you may pay using a credit card, so you should better carry cash when you go to a restaurant.

Now you may eat safely and have good food everywhere.

Shopping

There are two main shopping streets in Varna: the downtown shopping street (walking area) "Maria Luiza" and the boulevard, which goes to the airport "Vladislav" in its initial part. Both shopping areas start from the cathedral in the center of Varna. Several malls have opened recently.

Neighboring resorts

"St. Konstantin & Elena", 8 km from Varna.

"Golden Sands" (17 km from Varna).

"Albena", which is north, 30 km from Varna,

plus many places south of Varna including "Kamtchija", Bjala, Obzor

All these resorts have nice beaches and are popular recreation places for tourists.

Museums & attractions

	Archaeological museum (former name: the Varna historical museum): located next to the local government building. The museum is famous for the oldest golden objects made by human hand in the world (4500 B.C.), which were found in a necropolis near Varna, and also for a big collection of icons.
	Palace and gardens in the town of Balchik (35 km north of Varna), built by a former Romanian queen, famous for its botanic gardens.
	Palace and residence "Euxinograd": former residence of the Bulgarian tzar, famous for its castle, gardens and winery. Not generally open to tourists.
	Dolphinarium: at the north exit of Varna in direction to Golden Sands, famous attraction for kids and some grown-ups.