2025 Primorski Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Euxinograd (Bulgarian: Евксиноград [ɛfˈksinoɡrat], also transliterated as Evksinograd) is a late 19th-century Bulgarian former royal summer palace and park on the Black Sea coast, 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) north of downtown Varna. The palace is currently a governmental and presidential retreat, hosting cabinet meetings in the summer and offering access for tourists to several villas and hotels. Since 2007, it is also the venue of the Operosa opera festival. Euxinograd is situated at an altitude of 49 m.[1] The park and palace were closed until the summer of 2016 due to extensive renovations. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

Aladzha Monastery is situated in a beautiful area 14 km north of Varna, near Zlatni Pyasatsi Resort (Golden Sands Resort), in the centre of Zlatni Pyasatsi Nature Park (Golden Sands Nature Park). There are no reliable historical records as to when the monastery was established, but there is evidence that it already existed in the 10th – 12th centuries. Aladzha Monastery is one of the few cave monasteries in Bulgaria where the different premises and their functions are clearly distinguishable. The monastery premises are carved and arranged on two levels in a limestone rock that is almost 40 m high. The monastery church, the monastery cells, the refectory, the kitchen, the small cemetery church, the crypt (ossuary), and the farm premises are all situated on the first level. The second level is a natural rock recess in the eastern part of which lies the monastery chapel. A group of caves known as the Catacombs is located about 600 – 700 m to the west of the monastery. The archaeological finds such as pottery, coins, graffiti, etc. discovered there, provide evidence that the Catacombs were inhabited by people during the early-Christian Age (5th – 6th centuries). After the Ottomans conquered Bulgaria at the end of the 14th century, Aladzha Monastery gradually fell into decline and was most likely completely abandoned around the 15th – 16th century. The Christian name of the monastery is unknown. The word “aladzha” comes from Persian-Arabic and means “motley”, “variegated”. K. Shkorpil, the first person who did research in the monastery, recorded a legend according to which St. Spas (derived from the Bulgarian Hristos Spasitel – Christ the Saviour) was the patron saint of the cloister. Nowadays Aladzha Monastery is a popular tourist attraction visited by thousands of tourists. The cave monastery is located in the centre of Zlatni Pyasatsi Nature Park, a protected area where rare tree species can be seen. The combination of beautiful scenery, historic and Christian landmarks makes this place perfect for cultural, religious and ecological tourism. A unique audio-visual show called Legends of Aladzha Monastery has been taking place in the monastery since 2009. The monastery was declared a monument of architecture and construction of national importance by virtue of publication in State Gazette, issue No 16 of 1968. The visitors of the monastery can also take a tour in a museum of miniature models. Souvenirs and information materials are sold there. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 **Balkan Museum (Museum of History)** Located in the large city of Sofia, this museum showcases Bulgaria's rich cultural heritage. You can take the metro to the "Serdika" station and then walk to the museum. There are many ancient artifacts and works of art here, giving you an insight into Bulgaria's history. After the visit, you can enjoy some leisure time in a nearby cafe.

🛣Here is some key information about Varna: 🎄1. **Tourist Attractions**: 🌱- **Sea Garden**: A picturesque seaside garden that has long been a popular place for walking and relaxing, with glass containers, a zoo, a dolphinarium, a sports center, a planetarium, and several museums. 🌱 - **Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin**: A Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral completed in 1886, featuring Byzantine-style features, elements of Russian temple architecture, and even some Gothic styles. 🌱- **Aladzha Monastery**: A 12th-century rock Orthodox monastery, now in ruins, famous for its underground catacombs and the history of early Christian hermits. 🌱- **Varna Archaeological Museum**: Houses more than 50,000 artifacts, including a series of gold items found in the Varna cemetery, which experts believe are over 6,000 years old. 🎄2. **Cultural Activities**: - Varna hosts a variety of cultural events every year, including music festivals, theater festivals, art exhibitions, and marine festivals, among which the "Varna Summer" International Music Festival is one of the oldest music events in Europe.🌿 🎄3. **Economy**: - Varna is an important comprehensive port in Bulgaria, and its strategic location makes it a gateway to Europe and the Middle East. The main industries are port transportation, shipbuilding, tourism, chemical industry, machinery, textiles, food, tobacco and alcohol, furniture manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, among which the chemical industry and tourism are its pillar industries.🌿 🎄4. **History**: - Varna is one of the oldest regions in Bulgaria, with a long history, and the region preserves flint from primitive societies and medieval artifacts, as well as sites of primitive inhabitants from 12,000 years ago. The history of gold making in the region dates back 6,500 years, making it the earliest gold-making region in the world.🌿 🎄5. **Climate**: - Varna has a humid subtropical climate, suitable for year-round tourism.🌿 🎄6. **Transportation**: - The Port of Varna handles more than 50% of the country's maritime trade and is Bulgaria's largest port.🌿 🎄7. **Education**: - The region has 5 universities, 3 colleges, 162 secondary schools, 5 research institutes, and various vocational training centers.🌿 🌲🌲Varna is known for its rich historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural life, making it an important tourist and cultural center in Bulgaria.🌹🌹🌹🌹

#2024wish Just had a royal experience at Euxinograd Palace in Varna! 🏰 The entrance fee, 6 leva, felt like a regal investment for exploring this seaside beauty. #EuxinogradPalace #VarnaRoyalty The palace, set against the Black Sea, is a stunning example of architectural elegance. The manicured gardens, fountains, and the sea breeze create a perfect blend of history and nature. 🌺🌊 After strolling through the palace grounds, I visited the nearby Evxinograd Park. The walking trails and lush greenery make it an idyllic spot for a leisurely afternoon. 🚶♀️🌳 Hungry? Head to the palace's restaurant for some exquisite Bulgarian cuisine. The panoramic views of the sea add an extra layer of indulgence to the dining experience. 🍲🍷 In summary, Euxinograd Palace is a must-visit for those captivated by historic estates and seaside charm. It's a delightful retreat, offering a glimpse into Bulgaria's aristocratic past. #PalaceEscape #SeasideSplendor

#2024wish Just visited the Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship in Sofia, and it's a fascinating piece of Cold War history! 🇧🇬🇷🇺 The entrance fee, only 3 leva, is a symbolic token for the insights into Bulgaria's past. #BulgarianSovietFriendship #ColdWarHistory The monument, with its towering figures, tells a story of political alliances and ideological ties between Bulgaria and the Soviet Union. The sculptures are imposing, and the sheer scale of the monument is impressive. 🏢🤝 After exploring the monument, I walked to the nearby National Palace of Culture. The modern architecture and cultural events make it a dynamic contrast to the historical narrative of the Friendship Monument. 🏰🎭 Hungry? Check out Soul Kitchen for a cozy meal nearby. The eclectic menu and artsy ambiance provide a great spot to reflect on the complexities of history. 🍲🍷 In summary, the Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship is a thought-provoking visit. It's a visual representation of a bygone era, and the surrounding area offers a blend of history and contemporary culture. #SofiaLandmarks #ColdWarLegacy

#bucketlistreboot Festa Dolphinarium is the only attraction of its kind in Bulgaria. It is situated amidst the greenery of the Sea Garden of Varna and offers a wonderful view over the sea. A few years ago, we enjoyed a show at the Dolphinarium. It’s impressive how smart the dolphins are and we were truly impressed by the show and their acts. If you are visiting with kids, this might be a good stop. Not far feom there, you can also find the Varna Zoo, located within the Sea Garden in Varna. It is neighbouring the Dolphinarium. We visited this many years ago but if you have visited zoos elsewhere in Europe e.g. London Zoo, Chester Zoo, you may be a bit disappointed from this one. #varna #bulgaria