Courses in Varna: Discover Life-Changing Courses Abroad
Why go here?
In my personal experience, there are few spots in the European Union that offer a budget-friendly educational tourism quite like Varna. The place is wildly sunny, yes, but without the slightest hint of the usual overcrowded summer destinations in Europe. The setting is, truly, stunning. On my first morning at the guest house, near the eco-friendly maritime resort Golden Sands, the sea directly opposite seemed to look like stage scenery, with the blue colour glittering under the sun.
There is everything for everyone: from the high-prestige language schools in the city to breezy beachside outdoor classes, a few regions are as packed with world-class summer programs as Varna. Across all four corners of the city, you’ll find a variety of language learning options, whether you’re in the market for a week-long course or the classic intensive language program.
What’s the vibe?
Stepping into Varna completely changed my idea of a perfect day! Now, it looks something like this: I wake up in my unbelievably sleek suite, stretching out with those amazing panoramic views of the Black Sea, and then head to breakfast (poached eggs, muesli, and a coffee – the usual).
Next, I make my way down to the beach, where our Spanish class meets. I grab my printed materials – essential for the two-hour session. Seriously, those morning outdoor Spanish classes on the beach in Varna are the absolute best learning experience I’ve ever had!
We wrap up classes from 9.00 to 11:00 AM, just before the sun gets too intense. I pop into the coffee shop for a cool drink, warm up for a bit, finish my drink, and then dive straight into the sea! My group and I spend the rest of the day on the beach, soaking it all in until we’re delightfully tired.
Varna is tucked away on the northern Black Sea Coast, about an hour from the lively party scene of Sunny Beach Resort. It’s the ideal spot to really get lost in your learning and enjoy some serious beach relaxation, without any temptation to party all night. There’s so much to do here that you won’t even need to leave, whether you’ve signed up for a three-week course or the 21-day program.
I personally picked the Custom Course option (three weeks). This meant outdoor classes Monday to Friday mornings, plus one-on-one private lessons on the weekends. Honestly, it might have been the most focused and effective learning experience I’ve had in a long time. Once I explained my tricky grammar spots, my personal teacher really zeroed in on those areas during our lessons.
And if you’re planning a longer stay, there’s a huge variety of activities on offer, many of which I got to enjoy myself!
What should you try?
The real question: What shouldn’t you try?
You can choose from a variety of language courses, English, German, Spanish, Italian, and Russian, all taught in cozy small groups of just five people. The outdoor classes on the breezy beach always happen in the morning, so you’ll want to be ready to wake up early! Sometimes, your teacher might even pick a different spot for class, just to give you a fresh outdoor experience. I’m definitely going back next year – I honestly think it’s the best summer course option out there. (And the food in Bulgaria is excellent, I learned how to prepare my own Mish-Mash, my favourite dish now!)
Here are some of my very important Pros to consider:
- Economical intensive courses for beginners – from 3 weeks
- Budget-friendly summer language programs – 1 month or more
- Cost-effective one to one classes with personal teacher
- Reasonable (in price) accommodation rent
- Inexpensive delicious food and drinks in most local restaurants
- Low-cost public transport expenses
- Well-priced taxi services
- Good value for activities and outdoor fitness programs in the Sea Garden
- Accessible (in terms of price) for everyone, no matter your financial background
- Attainable (financially) for gap year abroad
- Modestly priced courses for 6 months or longer learning programs
- Bargain-priced (the very good deal) general experience – summer vacation and learning results
