Varna International Airport (VAR)

Overview

Varna International Airport started out in 1916 as two sheds set up for mail flights. From there it progressed to the five terminal airport it is today, handling just over a million passengers per year. The airport has a number of cafés, and snack bars as well as great view points for passengers with a few hours to spare while waiting for their flights.

Passengers tend to use the airport as an access point for many of Bulgaria's Black Sea resorts, including the popular Sunny Beach and Golden Sands resorts. The staff at this airport are friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth start and end to your Bulgarian holiday.

Location

The airport is situated on the western outskirts, about six miles (10km) from Varna.

Getting to the city

Public bus 409, which passes through central Varna and travels as far as Golden Sands resort, serves the airport; departures are from in front of the VIP hall. Taxis are available in front of International Arrivals, but the meters are often not working and it is advisable to agree on a fare with the driver before departure. Many resort hotels run their own shuttle services to and from the airport.

Time

Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 from April to September).

Contacts

Tel: +359 52 573 323.

Car rental

Car rental agents are on site at the airport including Avis, Hertz, Sixt and Europcar.

Facilities

The airport has currency exchange facilities, a large restaurant and duty-free shops.

Parking

Parking is available just opposite the terminal and is open 24 hours a day. The first ten minutes are free and charges start at BGN 2 per hour thereafter. However, a flat rate of BGN 15 applies for between seven and 12 hours of parking, while charges increase slightly thereafter.

Departure Tax

US$20 (nationals of the USA only).

Website

www.varna-airport.bg

Airlines

Many Eastern European airlines offer flights to Varna Airport. These include Bulgaria Air, Czech Airlines and Russian carrier Aeroflot. Other airlines offering flights to Varna International Airport are British Airways, Luxair, Wizz Air, Swiss Airlines and Austrian Airlines.

Internet

Internet services at the airport are unreliable. However, the wifi is free in Terminal 1.

Business Lounges

Terminal 1 houses a business lounge offering internet access, computer terminals and fax services as well as snacks, drinks and daily newspapers.

Varna International Airport Taxis: the taxi fares above are intended as a guideline only.