My Wellness & Spa Trip to Varna, Bulgaria – a positive, low cost experience

Just got back from an awesome extended trip to Varna, Bulgaria, and man, I have to tell you about the wellness scene there. Everyone knows Varna for its beaches and nightlife, and those are great, but there’s a whole other side to the city that’s all about chilling out and taking care of yourself. If you’re looking for a relaxing trip, you’ve got to check it out.

I was honestly so surprised by how much there is. For starters, Varna is built on natural mineral springs! I went to a couple of places that offered mineral water treatments and even therapeutic mud baths, which felt incredible. The best part is how affordable everything is. I’m talking about getting a professional hour-long massage for around $30-$50 USD, or a full day at spa with bunch of different saunas and pools for maybe $30. It’s a game-changer. Plus, the spas and massages are so much more affordable than in most of Europe, so you can really treat yourself without spending a fortune. I found a little local spot that became my go-to. I also spent a ton of time in the Sea Garden, which is this huge, beautiful park. It was perfect for long walks or just finding a quiet spot to sit and listen to the waves. And the food! Everything is so fresh and tasty. I loved going to the markets and trying all the local stuff. You have to try their yogurt, “Kiselo Mlyako.” It’s seriously famous for a reason.

My biggest tip for anyone thinking about going is to look for those small, local spots. Don’t just stick to the hotel spas. I found my best experiences by asking locals for recommendations. Even accommodation is super reasonable. You can find a decent hotel for around $50-$100 a night, or a nice Airbnb studio in the city centre for a similar price. So you can really stay for a while without your wallet taking a hit. One small thing to be ready for is that not everyone speaks English, especially older folks. But a translation app or a few simple phrases goes a long way!