Bulgaria’s seaside city of Varna packs its best sights into a handful of excellent guided experiences. The Archaeological Museum tour stands out with its smart e-guide system, making ancient history digestible and fascinating. A local-led walking tour through the city center lets you connect with authentic Bulgarian culture while hitting all the main attractions.
For something unique, the Museum of Glass tour showcases centuries-old craftsmanship with hands-on demonstrations. Road Trip Bulgaria™ deserves special mention – their audio-guided coastal drive combines independence with expert commentary, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Let’s examine our favorite Varna tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Private Walking Tour with Local Guide offers a fully customizable experience in multiple languages and assistance with attraction bookings.
- The Varna Archaeological Museum provides a self-guided tour with an e-guide, allowing visitors to explore the museum at their own pace.
- The Museum of Glass offers a self-guided tour focused on the art and history of glass-making in Bulgaria, with free cancellation and a pay-later option.
- The Road Trip Bulgaria™ provides an immersive GPS and audio-guided tour along the southern coastline, including car rental, attraction tickets, and lunch.
- The tour options in Varna cater to different preferences, with considerations for accessibility and personalization, while addressing visitor feedback for better experiences.
Self-Guided Tour in Varna Archaeological Museum + Ticket
Although the Varna Archaeological Museum offers a self-guided tour, it provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the vast collection of artifacts at their own pace.
For SEK 116.62 per person, this experience allows a maximum of 15 travelers to freely wander the museum’s exhibits. The tour includes a personalized e-guide and museum ticket, though food, drinks, and transportation aren’t covered.
Visitors can enjoy the museum’s offerings Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 5 PM, with the experience valid until December 2025.
While the tour receives an overall 4.0 rating from 14 reviews, some guests have criticized the high admission cost and lack of guidance. Plus, a few customers reported issues with ticket receipt and museum closures on national holidays.
The museum’s management, however, has attempted to resolve these concerns and clarify any misunderstandings.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Tour in Varna Archaeological Museum + Ticket Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Walking Tour With a Local Guide in Varna
For travelers seeking a more immersive and personalized experience in Varna, a Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide offers an engaging way to explore the city’s rich history and landmarks.
The tour is fully customizable based on the traveler’s preferences, with an in-person guide available in multiple languages, including French, Spanish, Italian, German, and English.
The tour includes assistance with ticket bookings for desired visits, such as the Aladzha Monastery, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, and the Euxinograd Palace.
Pickup and drop-off can be arranged at the traveler’s accommodation or the cruise terminal, with the option to conclude the tour at a different location if specified in advance.
During the tour, travelers can enjoy a drink or food break, though personal expenses and public transport costs aren’t included.
The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and service animals are permitted.
With a starting price of $96.99 per person, the Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Varna offers a personalized and convenient way to explore the city’s highlights.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour With a Local Guide in Varna Review
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Self-Guided Tour in the Museum of Glass in Beloslav
The Museum of Glass in Beloslav offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the art and history of glass-making in Bulgaria. This self-guided tour allows you to discover the museum at your own pace, armed with an electronic personalized guide that provides all the necessary information and logistics.
Priced at just $12.93 per person, the tour includes the entrance fee and is compatible with all devices, making it easy to use. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and the option to reserve now and pay later, you can plan your visit with flexibility.
The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 02:00 PM, and is accessible from July 25, 2020, to June 29, 2025. The meeting and end point is the Museum of Glass itself, located at 9004 32, 9178 Beloslav, Bulgaria.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s a private activity where only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Tour in the Museum of Glass in Beloslav Review
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Road Trip Bulgaria™, GPS and Audio-Guided Tour to the South Coast of Bulgaria
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Bulgaria’s stunning southern coastline will find the Road Trip Bulgaria™: GPS and Audio-Guided Tour to the South Coast of Bulgaria an exceptional choice.
This private tour, departing from Varna, offers a comprehensive and convenient experience, with all-inclusive car rental, attraction tickets, and even lunch covered. Priced from $280.19 per person, the tour can be customized to your group’s size, ensuring a personalized journey.
The tour includes pickup directly from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria. You’ll receive a car, instructions, audio/video guide devices, GPS coordinates, and detailed itineraries to navigate the region’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
With a start time of 8:00 am and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour provides flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a group, the Road Trip Bulgaria™ tour promises an unforgettable adventure along Bulgaria’s picturesque southern coast.
Read our full review: Road Trip Bulgaria™, GPS and Audio-Guided Tour to the South Coast of Bulgaria Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Tour Guides Speak English Fluently?
Most tour guides in Varna speak English fluently, making it easy for visitors to understand and engage with the tour. They’re knowledgeable and provide informative commentary to enhance the overall experience.
What Is the Average Duration of the Tours?
The average duration of guided tours typically ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the key sights and learn about the history and culture of the destination. Tour lengths may vary depending on the specific itinerary and pace.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with some providers offering specialized services for visitors with mobility challenges. Customers should inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure their needs can be accommodated.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Absolutely! Many tour operators allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your interests and needs. This ensures you get the most out of your guided tour experience. Just let the tour company know your preferences when booking.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for flexible changes or full refunds if notified within a certain timeframe, often 24-48 hours prior to the scheduled tour. Specific policies may vary by tour operator, so it’s best to check the details when booking.
The Sum Up
Varna offers a range of guided tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Self-guided options like the Varna Archaeological Museum and Museum of Glass provide flexibility, while private walking tours with local guides offer insightful experiences. For a more comprehensive exploration, the GPS and audio-guided road trip along Bulgaria’s South Coast is a convenient choice. Visitors can select the tour that best suits their preferences and ensure a memorable visit to Varna.