The Municipality of Varna is located in northeastern Bulgaria, the administrative center of Varna region, with a population of more than 330,000 people. Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria – recognized as the maritime capital of the country, combining sea charm, rich cultural heritage, and modern urban life.

Varna region, with its 32 km of coastline, is known for its favorable climate, natural resources, and the sea, which creates excellent conditions for tourism and balneotherapy within the four seasons. In 2026, Varna will celebrate the 105th anniversary of its designation as a seaside resort.

HeathXchange Summit 2026 will be held from 11 – 13 May 2026. Read more….

The advantage of the region is that, in addition to its luxurious infrastructure, it also boasts a wide range of specialists trained at the internationally recognized Medical University of Varna in the field of “Rehabilitation, Thalassotherapy, Wellness, and SPA” – a program designed to meet the rapidly growing needs of the healing and wellness markets in Bulgaria and the specific demand for highly qualified professionals in the sector.
There are a total of 25 certified centers in Varna:

• Balneotherapy (Medical SPA) – 8
• SPA – 10
• Wellness – 7

Varna is a city where the sea and mineral water come together in a unique way. As Bulgaria’s third-largest city and the major tourist center of the Black Sea coast, Varna combines 7,000 years of history with a modern lifestyle. Sea, nature, culture, and well-being have merged here into a harmonious overall experience.

Even in ancient times, the healing power of mineral water were combined here with physical activity and regeneration. This tradition still forms the basis of the region’s balneological culture today.

Varna is considered one of the richest regions in Bulgaria in terms of water resources. The calcium-magnesium-rich, lightly mineralized thermal waters with temperatures between 40 and 60°C are ideal for prevention, therapy, and sustainable recovery. Traditionally, these thermal waters are used to support treatment of cardiovascular diseases, disorders of the endocrine system, the musculoskeletal system, as well as functional disorders of the nervous system.

Varna offers first-class SPA and wellness infrastructure with more than 25 certified SPA, wellness, and balneotherapy centers. In the renowned SPA resorts of St. Constantine and Helena, Sunny Day, Golden Sands, and Riviera, modern SPA and balneological centers offer a variety of health and relaxation programs based on natural healing resources. Coastal thermal pools and elegant water facilities connect the regenerative power of thermal springs with the freshness and vastness of the Black Sea.

Tourists can benefit from a wide variety of regenerative treatments in the rehabilitation centers:

• Detox programs: using eastern practices, massages, and natural detoxifying products such as algae, herbs, and Black Sea salts;
• Mud therapies: relieve joint and muscle pain and activate metabolism;
• Rebalance programs: combines immersion in mineral water with guided physiotherapy exercises;
• Healing massages with magnesium oil: relieve muscle tension and promote blood circulation;
• Therapies with natural ingredients: grape cures and wine therapies, as well as treatments with honey, yogurt, and essential oils, specifically promote health and beauty and support natural regeneration processes;
• Individually tailored wellness and health programs: customized treatments for sustainable reduction of stress and exhaustion, strengthening the immune system, and enhancing overall well-being.

Varna – an accesible destination for recreation and exciting experiences

Varna`s excellent accessibility is ensured by a well-developed, multimodal transport network, integrating railway and bus terminals, as well as efficient road connections linking the airport with the city and the nearby seaside resorts.

The railway station
The Varna Railway Station is among the first railway stations built in Bulgaria, dating back to 1866.

Varna airport
Varna Airport is located just 8 km of the city centre. It facilitates convenient access for hundreds of thousands of visitors to Varna and its resorts, while offering high-quality services. Varna Airport welcomes tourists year-round, thanks to the expanded and optimized flight schedules of a number of airlines—there are year-round flights to five cities in Germany, Tel Aviv, Istanbul, Vienna, Brussels, London, Eindhoven, Bergamo, as well as multiple daily flights to the capital Sofia.

Port Varna
Port Varna East is located in the Bay of Varna, only 1 km from the city’s central area. The largest port in Bulgaria and the country’s maritime gateway to the world.

The bus station

The new Varna bus station was officially opened on 1 June 2024. The building features a modern design and high functionality, with 12 departure sectors, 30 bus parking spaces, as well as a 24-hour waiting area and an on-site food and beverage establishment.

Varna Resorts

In and around Varna are some of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria — expansive stretches of golden sand, refreshing greenery, crystal-clear sea waters, and a rich variety of seaside resorts, recreation zones, and places dedicated to relaxation and recovery.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the seaside resorts of Sts. Constantine and Helena and Golden Sands were developed in their modern form. The magnificent beaches and contemporary hotels have since attracted visitors from all over the world. In 2025, Bulgarian recipients of the prestigious Blue Flag international award rank among the world’s best beaches and marinas. Among them are the beaches of the Golden Sands and Sunny Day resorts.

The resorts “Saints Constantine and Helena“, “Sunny Day“, “Golden Sands“, and “Riviera” offer unique opportunities to combine the sea breeze with the healing power of the mineral water. The pools and water facilities located along the coast combine the benefits of sea water and climate with those of thermal springs. In modern SPA centers, you can enjoy a variety of cosmetic and medical treatments using another natural resource – the mud from the lagoon.

Sts. Constantine and Helena

Bulgaria’s first seaside resort, Sts. Constantine and Helena, has been known for more than a century for its beautiful coastal scenery and unspoilt natural surroundings. Today, it continues to attract visitors with its picturesque shoreline, cosy beaches, and clean air. Enriched by the healing power of the sea and the mineral springs found throughout the resort, it offers health, vitality, and well – being.

Golden Sands

A modern resort with more than 65 years of history and tradition. Located 16 km north of Varna, Bulgaria’s maritime capital, it is nestled within the cool forest of the nature park bearing the same name and lies just steps away from its iconic golden sandy beach. One of the resort’s greatest assets is its abundance of healing mineral springs.

1. Mrs Nuša Korotaj, congratulations! Terme Sveti Martin is the big winner in the “Innovative Medical SPA” category of the European Spa Association’s Innovation Awards for 2024. What do you think was the main factor that led the jury to award the program with the highest scores in the category? 

Thank you! I believe our focus on integrating holistic and medical expertise with innovative wellness practices was key to standing out. Our program uniquely combines cutting-edge therapies with natural resources, such as the healing thermal-mineral water, and an individualized, client-focused approach tailored to each guest’s wellness journey. By emphasizing sustainability and a holistic view of health, along with partnerships in the local community, we offer a spa experience that not only meets but anticipates wellness trends, rooted in authenticity and quality. This award confirms our commitment to being a forward-thinking leader in the spa industry as the First Healthness resort in Europe.

2. The awards indicate to innovators that they have the vision and that they are moving in the right direction. Will ESPA’s recognition stimulate you for new achievements, and what does the award mean to you?

This award from ESPA is a powerful affirmation of our vision, showing us that our efforts are valued at the highest level. Recognition like this is both motivating and inspiring, it energizes us to continue pioneering new wellness solutions that integrate local resources and sustainable practices. For us, this award symbolizes more than success, it’s a call to keep innovating and setting standards in the spa industry. We see it as an encouragement to push forward, expand our expertise, and elevate our guests’ wellness experiences, staying true to our mission of a health-focused, and authentic service.

3. Croatia is among the leading travel destinations in Europe. Your complex and your spa and the health programs are a benchmark in the tourism industry. Please present your opportunities in the SPA sector as a base, services, and staff? 

At Terme Sveti Martin, we offer a unique wellness experience in Croatia, designed to nurture both body and mind. Our foundation is our healing thermal water, which supports recovery and relaxation, complemented by holistic wellness services that include our Body Vitality program. We embrace Dr. Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy and the principles of biodynamics to create a balanced, health-centered environment. Our Healthness concept integrates local and healthy gastronomy, providing meals crafted from fresh, biodynamic ingredients. Together, these elements create a comprehensive approach to wellbeing that reflects our commitment to sustainable, whole-body health.

4. After Covid-19, more and more medical programs are becoming part of the tourist industry, as they allow people to combine their vacations with useful procedures for their body and for their health. How do you think medical tourism will develop in the aftermath of the world pandemic?

Post-COVID-19 medical tourism is growing as people prioritize health alongside leisure. At Terme Sveti Martin, we see this as an opportunity to offer unique programs that blend relaxation with health benefits. Our approach integrates medical and wellness services, like the Body Vitality program, thermal water therapy, and holistic treatments. We believe guests increasingly seek destinations where they can rejuvenate both physically and mentally, making comprehensive wellness a vital aspect of travel. By focusing on sustainable health practices, we aim to lead in this evolving tourism landscape, providing enriching and restorative experiences.

5. What is the potential of natural resources for the treatments?

Natural resources are at the core of our business. Our healing thermal water provides unique benefits for relaxation, recovery, and improved vitality. But we also emphasize sustainability in using these resources, meaning our practices ensure that we respect and preserve them for future generations. This includes biodynamic principles inspired by Dr. Rudolf Steiner, sustainable water usage, and eco-conscious facility management. By combining natural healing elements with responsible resource management, we create an experience that is both rejuvenating for guests and harmonious with the environment.

6. One of the biggest challenges facing the tourist industry is the need for qualified professionals. Do young people have an interest in your educational programs, with which they could succeed afterwards in the tourism industry?

We recognize the importance of nurturing young talent in tourism and wellness. Our educational programs are designed to offer hands-on experience and deep insight into wellness, sustainability, and holistic health practices. We see a strong interest from young people eager to learn about our unique approach, from biodynamic principles to sustainable hospitality and advanced wellness services. By providing mentorship and real-world training, we equip them with valuable skills, preparing them for successful careers in the tourism industry. This investment in education not only supports our industry’s future but also enriches our team with fresh perspectives and enthusiasm.

7. The annual congress of the European SPA Association in Druskininkai (Lithuania) is already in the past. We witnessed extremely interesting and useful presentations. Please rate the hosts and organizers of the event, which is a significant part of the global tourism calendar?

The European SPA Association Congress in Druskininkai was exceptional. The hosts and organizers provided an engaging and insightful experience, showcasing high standards in hospitality and event organization. Every detail, from presentations to networking opportunities, was carefully planned, fostering valuable exchanges on wellness and innovation in the spa industry. This congress undoubtedly holds a key place in the global tourism calendar, setting a benchmark for future events in our field.

8. Could you share your future plans and initiatives for Terme Sveti Martin?

Our future plans are deeply rooted in innovation and sustainability. We are committed to enhancing our wellness offerings, incorporating cutting-edge therapies and technology while staying true to our natural resources, like our healing thermal water. Our sustainability initiatives focus on reducing environmental impact through eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation, renewable energy, and waste recycling. Socially, we prioritize local community involvement and sustainable gastronomy, incorporating fresh, biodynamic ingredients. In terms of governance, we aim for transparency and ethical practices, ensuring that every step of our operations supports long-term environmental, social, and economic well-being. These initiatives are part of our ongoing mission to lead in responsible tourism while providing exceptional wellness experiences.

Interview prepared by Ruslan Yordanov

What is thermal water? 

“Thermal water is a natural mineral water from a spring, springing spontaneously or artificially as a result of drilling, which does not undergo addition or subtraction of any element and which has therapeutic properties recognized by the Academy of Medicine,” details Dr. Alain Garcia. It is distinguished from other waters by the nature and stability of the minerals and trace elements that comprise it.

According to the French Society of Thermal Medicine, thermal medicine is defined as “the set of medical knowledge and practices concerning the use of thermal products and educational and care activities in thermal and climatic resorts”. It is a natural medicine without side effects whose benefits have been known since Roman times.

Read the full article by Dr. Alain Garcia here.