As my friends live in Varna, this is where I headed. I got the bus from Sofia to Varna. Got a night bus. Get your ticket early in the day, you don’t want to be stuck up the back. I spent the entire night holding on for dear life on bumpy roads. I think it was about 22 BL to get there. Buses to Varna leave from the main terminal. You can buy a return from the bus station in Sofia or get a ticket from the Black Sea Hotel in Varna. There is a small bus/travel agency there.
When you get there and you need a taxi, make them put it on the meter. I have an advantage, I can speak a bit of BG, so can make do.
I stayed at the Trite Delfina in ul. Gabrovo. Good hotel nice rooms with private bathroom. BG price is around $23 a night. Close to the sea garden and main walking street.
Cheap internet everywhere on the main walking street for about $1 an hour.
I spent most of my time at the sea garden in a bar called ZAZA. My friend owns it. I liked it… he also owns the Martini Bar up near the cathedral.
From here you can take trips to Balchik, Albena, and Golden Sands. All nice, but I prefer Varna.
I felt completely safe here at night, be it walking around or getting taxis. It is a top town. I love it and will go back.