Varna is a fantastic city to explore on foot. Its compact old town, vibrant streets, and seaside parks make walking the best way to soak in the atmosphere. What makes Varna especially appealing is how its history blends with lively modern life—you can stroll past Roman ruins, admire grand churches, and sip local wine all in the same day. Among the options, we particularly love tours that combine cultural sights with authentic tastes, like the Private Exploration: French Influence in Varna + Walking + Wine tasting — a perfect mix of history and vino in just four hours.
If you’re after a more personalized experience, the The Ultimate Private Varna Walking, Culture & Wine Tasting Tour offers in-depth insights with fewer people, including three wine tastings and visits to archaeological sites. For those interested in customizing their journey, the Varna: Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide is an excellent option, with a flexible itinerary that highlights both landmarks and hidden corners. And if you’re curious about nearby Balchik, the Best of Balchik walking tour offers a charming half-day exploring art galleries, palaces, and lush gardens. Below, we’ll break down each tour to help you decide which fits your style.
1. Private Exploration: French Influence in Varna + Walking + Wine Tasting Tour
At number 1 on our list, this tour offers a fascinating look at Varna’s French-influenced architecture alongside sipping Bulgarian wines. Over four hours, your guide will take you through the scenic streets of the old town, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, which is a symbol of the city, in just about 10 minutes of your walk. The tour’s highlight is the wine tasting, where you’ll sample quality Bulgarian vintages while learning how French soldiers during the Crimean War helped shape the city’s architecture.
What makes this tour stand out is its incredible value—at only $56.17 per person, it combines history, local flavor, and cultural insights in a relaxed setting. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide, especially noting the “excellent discovery of the city and very friendly wine tasting.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a rich taste of Varna’s history and wine scene in a small-group setting, ensuring personalized attention. The walking is moderate, and the stops are brief but meaningful, making it accessible even for casual walkers.
Bottom line: This tour offers a compact, affordable way to explore Varna’s French past and its wine tradition, perfect for first-time visitors who want a guided introduction to the city.
2. The Ultimate Private Varna Walking, Culture & Wine Tasting Tour
Next up is the Ultimate Private Varna Tour, which also lasts around four hours but elevates the experience with three wine tastings and deeper cultural insights. This tour is tailored for those who love learning about Bulgarian wines alongside exploring historical sites like the Archaeological Museum, the Roman Baths of Odessos, and the Cathedral of the Assumption. The small group size—no more than eight—ensures your guide can focus on your interests and answer all your questions.
Guests consistently praise the tour’s rich storytelling and the guide’s ability to weave history into a lively narrative. One reviewer mentions, “Radul and Dimo were perfect hosts, sharing personal stories and making the experience memorable.” The tour’s price of $91.04 offers good value considering the three wine tastings, entry fees, and personalized guidance. It’s perfect for wine lovers and those eager to combine culture and tasting without the crowds of larger groups.
Bottom line: If you want a more immersive experience with multiple wine tastings and detailed historical commentary, this private tour offers excellent value and a relaxed pace.
3. Varna: Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide
For those who prefer a tailor-made experience, the Private Custom Walking Tour is your best choice. Lasting about three hours, this tour is led by a local expert who will adapt the itinerary to your interests. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, Opera Varna, and the Roman Baths, with plenty of time for photos and questions.
The guide’s local knowledge shines through as they share insights about Varna’s past and present, revealing hidden corners you might miss on your own. The tour is ideal for travelers who want to dictate their focus—whether that’s art, history, or local life—and enjoy a more relaxed pace with fewer travelers around. The price of $106 makes it a more premium option, but the personalized attention and flexibility are well worth it.
Guests mention the guide’s informative and friendly style, making the city come alive. With carefully curated stops and the ability to skip or linger at sites, this tour suits independent-minded travelers who value custom experiences.
Bottom line: If you want a flexible, personalized tour that covers main sights and hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide, this is a strong choice.
$106 per person
4. The Best of Balchik Walking Tour
Finally, if you’re looking to venture just outside Varna, the Best of Balchik walking tour offers a two-hour journey through Bulgaria’s charming seaside town. The tour visits the Balchik Art Gallery, perched on a hillside with stunning sea views, and the Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Botanic Garden. It’s perfect for art lovers and those interested in Balchik’s unique history as a Greek, Ottoman, and Romanian settlement.
This tour is priced at $151.26 per person, reflecting its comprehensive nature and the inclusion of multiple attractions. Visitors often find the Palace and Gardens particularly memorable, especially those who enjoy exploring lush landscapes and architecture. It’s best suited for travelers who want a short but enriching day trip with a local guide sharing stories of Balchik’s artistic and royal past.
Guests note the collection of artworks and the scenic location make this tour worthwhile, especially for art fans and history buffs interested in Balchik’s multicultural background.
Bottom line: For a scenic, culturally rich experience close to Varna, this tour offers a delightful look at one of Bulgaria’s most picturesque towns.
$151.26 per person
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Varna
When deciding which tour best suits your style, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you love history and wine, the first two tours provide a great combination of both. For a personalized experience with more flexibility, the Private Custom Tour is ideal. Want to explore beyond Varna? The Balchik tour offers a scenic escape with cultural highlights.
Booking early is recommended, especially in the summer months when tours fill quickly. Think about your preferred pace — smaller groups and private tours tend to be more relaxed, while the group tours offer more social interaction. Each provides a different way to experience Varna’s mix of seaside charm, ancient ruins, and local flavors.
In summary, whether you’re after a fascinating historical walk, a wine tasting, or a customized exploration, Varna has a walking tour tailored for you. For a balanced introduction, the French influence and wine tour is a fantastic value. For deeper insights with fewer people, the Ultimate Private Tour shines. And for those wanting a flexible and personalized experience, the private custom tour delivers. Don’t wait—booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot on these popular tours and make the most of your time in Bulgaria’s Black Sea jewel.