Erasmus in Varna

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Varna

Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria and receives hundreds of students from all over the world, with whom you can share thousands of adventures. Parties, beach events, cultural visits... It could be defined as “a large spa town on the shores of the Black Sea”. But if you are really interested in doing your Erasmus in Varna, do not hesitate to continue reading this article to learn all the secrets that the city hides.

Cost of living in Varna, Bulgaria

The cost of living in this Bulgarian city is quite cheap for students since an approximate monthly budget of €600-650 is enough to live. Of course, keep in mind that this figure may vary depending on your lifestyle and the type of accommodation you choose.

The type of accommodation preferred by the majority of young people who move to study in another city is renting a spare room in a shared apartment. The cost of a room can vary greatly in price, with the minimum normally being €200 per month and the maximum being €600. In addition, you should look at the details that each apartment includes and if the expenses are included in the price or not. This option will allow you to save on your general expenses and enjoy great independence.

Don't forget to bring your ISIC card for students! It is another great way to reduce expenses since this card offers all kinds of discounts for shops and services in Bulgaria and other countries.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Varna

Varna is one of the most student cities in the country and its nightlife is quite active. There are many options for fun, cultural visits and partying. Almost everything is done to make students feel comfortable.

All the clubs have college nights with good discounts for Erasmus students. You will be able to go to the maritime garden, bars, restaurants, clubs and many places with spectacular views. In winter, you can find other venues in the city centre, such as Plaza Night and Masquerade club, and in summer many young people enjoy the atmosphere around the Varna promenade and go to the bars and clubs on the beach, such as Punta Cana Bar and Cubo. Also, in summer they usually carry out many music festivals to which we recommend you go with your friends, such as the Varna Summer International Music Festival.

You can go to the biggest park, Primorski-Park to play sports or just relax, take the opportunity to practise watersports or go to the beach with your flatmates. Relax while you enjoy a cocktail with a wonderful view of the crystal-clear waters of the sea!

Culture and gastronomy in Varna, Bulgaria

In this city, you will probably find the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria and a great archaeological heritage. Some places worth a visit are the largest remains of the Roman thermal complex (Римски терми) in the country, the great coastal park (Primorski-Park or Приморски парк) which borders the sea with the astronomical observatory and the Naval Museum, the historic helmet with the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin (Успение Богородично) and the Stoyan Bachvarov Dramatic Theatre (Драматичен театър „Стоян Бъчваров). It also features some churches to visit, such as the Parish of Saint Gabriel the Archangel, the Orthodox Church of Saint Athanasius and the Church of Saint Nicholas. Without a doubt, you can not miss the Archaeological Museum (Археологический музей Варна) with artefacts from the Paleolithic to works from the Middle Ages, although the most interesting and surprising are the pieces found in the Chalcolithic necropolis of Varna.

What are the main dishes in Varna’s gastronomy? The "shishche” (meat skewers with vegetables), the “shkembé chorbá” (spicy soup made with milk, pork, garlic and red pepper) and the “gyuvech” (vegetable-based stew accompanied by meat). As for the bread and pastries, you cannot stop trying the “banitsa” (salty cake with Sirene cheese and phyllo dough) and the “pogacha” (bread made on the fire, similar to the Italian focaccia or the Spanish loaf). Likewise, in Bulgaria, salads stand out for their variety, and you will surely find one that is to your liking. The most famous is the "shopska" salad, made of tomato, cucumber and cheese, which has the colours of the Bulgarian flag.

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Varna

• You get to delve into the Bulgarian culture, as well as the way of living, its traditions and its gastronomy.

• It is one of the most student cities in the country, in which many students come together from every corner of Bulgaria and from all parts of the world.

• There are places both to rest and to party.

• You can travel to other Bulgarian cities, such as Burgas or Sofia, or to other nearby countries, such as Romania or Turkey.

• Go out, explore and enjoy your experience!

Cheap student accommodation in Varna

Do you need student accommodation in Varna? In Erasmus Play you can search and compare for free the best flats, spare rooms and apartments for students in this Bulgarian city.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Varna

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