Fodor's Expert Review mOdus

Varna is the biggest city on the Black Sea Coast and the country's third-largest urban center, and the mOdus makes the perfect base from which to explore the whole region. In the heart of downtown, yet only a few hundred yards from the beach, this luxurious hotel enjoys a lofty perch with sweeping views over the famous Sea Garden and the Black Sea beyond. The emphasis here is on stylish and contemporary, with spacious rooms containing all of the modern conveniences. The hotel will also lend you a free bike if you want to get around using pedal power. Guests can enjoy a 10% discount in the hotel's in-house restaurant, which serves good local and international dishes; you can then burn off the calories in the gym or the sauna. Another offer worth considering in the off-season: book two nights and the hotel will offer you a third night free.