Varna, Bulgaria

General description

Varna is the largest city in Northeastern Bulgaria, located along the Black Sea coast and Varna Lake. The most developed sectors are tourism, maritime industry, port services, trade, outsourcing and IT technologies. 

Varna is a significant port city and seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, as well as the third-largest city in Bulgaria. Varna's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, shipping, trade and industry. Varna is famous for its beautiful beaches and seaside resorts, attracting tourists from around the world

mobility goals

Recent mobility-related developments in Varna, Bulgaria, include several key projects and initiatives aimed at improving the city's transportation infrastructure and connectivity. positioning the city as a key hub in the region. Including:

  • Port of Varna Enhancements: The Port of Varna has seen significant improvements, including its development as an additional transit point for Ukrainian cargo. This enhancement aims to facilitate better logistics and transportation options in the region, potentially boosting the local economy and streamlining supply chains​ (CLC Projects)​.
  • Varna International Airport Upgrades: Varna International Airport has undergone extensive upgrades to enhance its capacity and services. The airport, which handled over 1.8 million passengers annually as of recent reports, features modernized terminals, advanced baggage handling systems, and improved passenger facilities. These upgrades are expected to accommodate growing passenger numbers and improve the overall travel experience​ (Airport Technology)​.
  • Erasmus+ Mobility Programs: Varna's universities, including the Technical University of Varna, are actively participating in the Erasmus+ program, promoting student and staff mobility. These initiatives support international collaboration and exchange, contributing to the educational and professional development of participants​ (TU Varna)​.

Population 

  • 430, 847

Area (km2)

  • 238

modal split (2021)

  • Private vehicle - 48%
  • Public transport - 22.74%
  • Walking - 28.6%
  • Cycling - 0.7%

Challenges:

  • Traffic Congestion: The city's road network struggles to cope with the volumes of traffic during during peak hours and the tourist season. 
  • Public Transport System: Need for modernising and expanding the public transport network is essential to meet the growing demand and to provide a viable alternative to private car use.
  • Sustainable Mobility: Investing in the development of dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian zones and green transport initiatives to encourage more walking and cycling to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. 
  • Funding and Investment: Securing sufficient public funding and attracting private investments funding and investment for large-scale infrastructure projects is a constant challenge. 
European Union

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme under grant agreement No. 101103924. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CIVITAS
Mission Cities

REALLOCATE is a project under the CIVITAS Initiative, an EU-funded programme working to make sustainable and smart mobility a reality for all, and contributes to the goals of the EU Mission Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities.