Varna is the largest city and seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. It is a major tourist destination, a business and university centre, seaport, and headquarters of the Bulgarian Navyand merchant marine. In 2008, Varna was designated seat of the Black Sea Euro-Region by the Council of Europe.

The oldest gold jewelry in the world, belonging to the Varna culture, was discovered in the Varna Necropolis and dates to 4200-4600 BC.