The traditional “Galata-Varna” swimming marathon has established itself as one of the most iconic sporting events in the city. Held annually since 1939, the event will celebrate its 86th edition in 2026 with the only interruption occurring in 1944 due to the political events of that time. The swimming marathon is open to all citizens and visitors of Varna aged 12 and above, regardless of where in the world they come from. It is the oldest swimming competition of this kind in Bulgaria. The founders of the marathon are Eng. Georgi Barnev, Eng. Vasil Kardzhiev, and lawyer Demirdzhiev, who were the first to swim the distance from Galata to Varna on August 14, 1914.
Once a year, at the end of July, anyone can swim across Varna Bay, relying solely on their own strength and endurance. The straight-line distance between the start and the finish is 4,400 meters, but due to open-water conditions, participants swim approximately 5,000 meters to reach the finish -a challenge that requires not only good preparation but also courage.
For more information, visit: www.varnamaraton.info
