A Book-Lover's Guide to Varna

There is at least one bookstore in every shopping mall in the city, and you will stumble upon a few big chain bookstores in the central pedestrian area of the city (including the huge bookstore with a coffee and sweets corner on the second floor of the Festival and Congress Center across the central entrance of the Sea Garden). There are also a few special book places that bookworms will find especially warm and welcoming.

In a country where the second-hand books are usually sold in big boxes straight on the street, Shakespeare & Friends is a breath of fresh air. The arty bookstore sells both new and second-hand books in English and other languages. Its name was inspired by the famous Parisian Shakespeare and Company bookstore, but it has a bit of a British feel, too. Every Wednesday, for example, the bookstore hosts a tea party with a specific topic for discussion. You can contact the bookstore if you have a special book inquiry. It’s closed on Sundays.

28, Dragoman Str, Varna, Bulgaria

This contemporary cultural and art hub strictly follows its own style in all exhibitions, lectures, and events that it hosts, and you will feel it as soon as you walk in the door. Every visitor is welcomed by a small bookstore with selected art, photography, and design books and albums. Then comes the cozy café with a library of books from the personal collections of the owners. Continue downstairs to see the latest art exhibition of carefully selected Bulgarian and foreign contemporary artists as Contemporary Space is the best place for this kind of art in Varna.

23, Marko Balabanov Str., Varna, Bulgaria

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The Social Teahouse is more than a coffee shop, it is a cultural spot where social events and workshops are organized, and more importantly, it is a place with a cause. The teahouse was founded as a project supporting young people who grew up in orphanages and needed a gentle push to create social contacts and take control of their own lives. The bright and homey atmosphere will help put you into a laid-back mood where you can enjoy reading or chatting with other guests while you sip your tea.

53, Preslav Str., Varna, Bulgaria

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