Audio Guide of Balchik Palace

Balchik Palace has opening hours that vary by season. It is generally open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM in summer and until 5:00 PM in winter. We recommend checking the exact schedule on its official website before your visit. You can get there by car, by bus from Varna, or even by taxi. Click here to see contact information and directions.

Admission to the Palace and Botanical Garden usually costs around 12–14 BGN (Bulgarian leva). There are different ticket combinations, for example, access only to the garden or only to the palace, as well as packages if you want to visit the winery. It is best to check the latest prices on arrival or on the website. Find prices and ticket types here.

To fully enjoy the Palace, the Villa, and the impressive Botanical Garden, we recommend setting aside at least 2 to 3 hours. If you are a botany enthusiast or want to explore every corner at a relaxed pace and take lots of photos, you may need even more time.

Balchik Palace was the favorite summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania in the early 20th century. It is unique for its eclectic architecture, which blends Byzantine, Islamic, and Bulgarian styles. It is a place of peace and beauty that reflects the queen’s personality. Discover more about its history here.

Spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal, with pleasant weather and the gardens at their most beautiful. To avoid crowds, we recommend visiting early in the morning, right when it opens, or late in the afternoon, when the light is perfect for photos.

The Palace and its gardens have different levels and some areas with stairs. While the botanical garden and some paths are accessible, full wheelchair access can be challenging in certain areas. We recommend contacting the palace directly for specific accessibility information. The palace contact phone number is +359 579 72332.

Balchik is a charming coastal town with a lovely beach and a harbor where you can find seafood restaurants. In addition, nearby you can visit the Balchik Battle Monument and enjoy views of the Black Sea. The city of Varna, with its Aquarium and Sea Garden, is also just a short drive away.

Of course! Wear comfortable shoes because you will do quite a bit of walking through the gardens. Don’t forget your camera, as the views are spectacular. Consider bringing water, especially in summer. If you are interested in botany, the Sofia University Botanical Garden, part of the complex, is fascinating. And if you are a wine lover, try the wine produced at the palace winery.