Black Sea Coast (Varna) lifestyle

The two big shopping areas along the Black Sea coast are the cities Varna and Bourgas, where you'll find shops for all tastes. In the resorts of Sunny Beach and Golden Sands smaller shops and bazaars are worth browsing around, particularly along the promenade at Golden Sands. Good souvenirs to pick up include crystal, pottery, gold and sliver.

Bulgaria has some interesting local specialities that are worth a try including Shopska Salad, which is made from chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers and sprinkled with 'Sirene' (Bulgarian white cheese). Kyopoolu is typical of the region: a starter made from aubergines, peppers and plenty of garlic, while Kavarma is a local meat and vegetable stew. Rakia is a strong local spirit, usually made from grapes, and there is a wide variety of red and white Bulgarian wines to sample. Fish lovers should head to Old Nessebar, where the restaurants overlooking the sea serve up the local catch. Last but not least, there are excellent local menus and wine selections in restaurants around Golden Sands and in Varna.

The main resorts of Golden Sands and Sunny Beach both offer numerous bars, discos and nightclubs as well as restaurants with floor shows. Sunny Beach has two good casinos, although the largest and busiest one can by found in St Konstantin.