Varna is the 3rd largest city in Bulgaria and one of the oldest in Europe.  A seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, it is the summer capital of Bulgaria. It is also Bulgaria’s main port. There are many sights to see, including the Cathedral, museums, Roman Baths and a zoo, among other things. The waterfront promenade is lined with beach clubs offering a vibrant scene of rock, hip-hop, pop, techno and folk. Varna has been dubbed "Europe’s new funky-town, the good-time capital of Bulgaria". In 2007 it was also named "Bulgaria’s Best City to live in".

Bulgarian’s are a lot more tolerant in relation to being gay and lesbian than they used to be. The younger generation are certainly a lot more open minded than their older relatives. Varna and Sofia are amongst the more liberal cities of Bulgaria. It is advisable to be cautious when in venues which are not gay-friendly or in areas outwith the city. Feel free to be yourself in the gay and gay-friendly bars and clubs, but walking hand in hand along the street would possibly get you some queer looks.

All hotels listed are gay-friendly, there are not enough gay bars and clubs to list only them, so we have selected the only gay venues in Varna, as well as a few gay-friendly options. Restaurants are not gay-friendly as such, they are chosen more for the quality of the food. Hopefully this will all change in the future, and you will see a lot more gay bars and clubs opening in Varna, it might even get it’s own gayborhood!