What to do in Balchik, Bulgaria

The coastal town of Balchik is a scenic paradise with hilly terraces that connect to the Dobruja plateau, and ultimately, the Black Sea. It is always buzzing with people, with the numbers reaching their peak during summer.

The sprawling town has several attractions that make it ideal for vacationers taking a day trip or longer holiday trip. Although its popularity may seem less than other Bulgaria cities’, Balchik is a tourist destination with lots of fantastic things to do and places to explore.

Best time to visit Balchik

Balchik attracts tourists all year round, with a majority engaging in various holiday activities. Its favorable weather has resulted in increased numbers yearly, with most visitors finding the town to be an excellent place to make memories.

Even so, Balchik during the summer is the best time to visit because of the limited rainfall and warm temperature. The summer season in the seaside town runs from June until September, making it the perfect time to plan a vacation. The average temperature is 27°C during the summer, with the water temperature rising as high as 26°C.

Top attractions in Balchik

Balchik has a lot to offer visitors vacationing in the coastal town for short or long periods. It has many attractions that are worth exploring when you have no idea what to do in Balchik. Some of the famous sights that are a “must visit” are highlighted below.

Don’t Skip Queen Marie’s Castle

The Queen Marie Castle, also known as Summer Palace, is one of Balchik’s most popular attractions. The castle, built in 1926, was a declaration of love by the king of Romania, Ferdinand, for Queen Marie, his wife.

Although small in size, its architectural style, including Islamic, gothic, and local designs, makes the visit worthwhile. The inclusion of a minaret at the top of the palace is a unique addition worth noting. The castle also has a winery, mill, chapel, and sprawling botanical gardens.

The interior of the castle, which has several rooms, has retained most of its original furnishings. Paintings of Queen Marie in different poses within the grounds adorn the walls giving visitors a small glimpse of her personality.

Exhibitions showcasing archeological finds such as mammoth bones and Roman pottery are on display within the palace. Additionally, the castle hosts several art exhibitions temporarily to celebrate Queen Marie’s love for the arts.

Enjoy the Stunning Botanical Garden

Located behind the summer palace, the Botanical garden in Balchik gives tourists a chance to travel through the world’s flora. The garden, which is home to over six hundred flora species, is easily accessible from the beach or the palace.

The flora is showcased using various themed terraces that are quite captivating for anyone walking through the garden. Besides the terraces, visitors can enjoy looking at the collection of cacti, flower alleys, waterfalls, and ponds throughout the garden.

For a deeper understanding of the garden’s vegetation, plant enthusiasts or botanists can hire professional guides to walk them through the garden and provide more details about the various species.

Additionally, walking through the garden reveals a waterfall, wooden watermill, and hidden benches perfect for taking a rest. Remember to carry a bottle of water to sip on when visiting the expansive garden.

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Relax on Balchik’s Beaches

The location of Balchik town along the Black Sea makes it the perfect spot for a beach vacation. It has several beach strips with some under cliffs, which are great for those looking for a secluded location.

The Central beach, located in the northern part of the town, is popular with tourists and free to access for members of the public. Loungers and sun umbrellas are available for rental at an affordable fee giving you a chance to relax. The charming on-site coastal café is a great place to take a break from the beach and interact with locals.

Another beach to visit in Balchik is located at a complex known as Dvata Petela. It is smaller than Central Beach and can be quite crowded during the day, with many people spending time going up the pier to jump into the water below.

Swimming in the water is also a great way to cool off when visiting the beach. If you prefer a secluded beach, then the medium-sized one at the end of the narrow beach strip is the ideal spot. Accessing the beach requires going down a flight of stairs, which ushers you into clean water and warm sand paradise. Nearby is a bar with an inviting atmosphere perfect for eating ice cream or a cold beer, depending on your preference.

Nightlife in Balchik

During the summer, Balchik is abuzz until late in the night, giving tourists a chance to explore it after dark.

The promenade is quite busy at night, with most cafes and bars staying open as late as 11 pm. Grab a bite to eat at these eateries and enjoy the night air as you catch up with friends.

Discos and open-air parties are also common, with big screens being set up on the beach displaying different videos throughout the night. Some discos have beds set up next to the dancing area that guests can use to relax after swaying to the music on the sandy dance floor.

If you wonder what to do in Balchik after dark, consider visiting as many eateries, discos, and parties to enjoy your time in the seaside town.

Taste Balchik Cuisine

Tradition Bulgarian food is typically hearty and fresh, with various ingredients included in preparing various meals. The ingredients used in these meals include meats such as chicken, pork,and lamb, which are part of many popular Bulgarian dishes.

Fresh salads are popular during summer and form part of most menus in the local restaurants. Some popular salads include Ovcharska and Shopska, which are quite filling as well.

If you love seafood and fish dishes, you will enjoy a lot of variety in Balchik or at the Mussel Farm in Dalboka. Most times, the food is prepared using local specialties and aromatic herbs, resulting in a tasty meal.

Dairy products such as cheese and yogurt also make it to a typical Balchik dinner table, giving you a chance to enjoy a wholesome experience when sampling food at a restaurant or local eatery.

Ultimately, finding what to do in Balchik requires some bit of prior planning to ensure that you get the best out of your vacation in the coastal town!