Things To Do
in Montana

A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and grated sirene (Bulgarian white cheese). Found at almost any restaurant or café—ideal as a starter.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked meat and vegetables in a pot, often pork or chicken with peppers and tomatoes; homestyle taverns and family restaurants serve good versions.

Phyllo pastry layered with eggs and sirene cheese—available at bakeries and breakfast cafés across town.

Simple grilled pork, chicken or kebapche (spiced minced meat) served with fries and salad—common in local restaurants and beer houses.

A weekday market near the center selling seasonal produce, cheeses, cured meats and bread—great for sampling fresh local ingredients and inexpensive snacks.

Small kiosks and bakeries near the promenade where you can grab banitsa, pastries and coffee to go.

Handshakes are the standard greeting; use polite forms (Добър ден / Dobar den) and address older people formally until told otherwise.

Dress modestly when entering Orthodox churches and speak quietly; remove hats and women may cover shoulders during services.

If invited to a local home, bringing a small gift (flowers, sweets) is appreciated and expect multiple courses and hospitality.

Avoid overly personal questions about income; politics and history can be sensitive—listen and follow the local lead in discussions.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up or leaving 5–10% at restaurants for good service is common; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are welcomed.

Cash (Bulgarian lev, BGN) is widely used—smaller shops and markets may be cash-only. Cards are accepted in many restaurants and larger shops; ATMs are available in town but carry some cash for rural trips.

Mild temperatures and blossoming countryside make it a pleasant time for hiking and visiting markets; occasional rain showers and muddy trails are possible.

Warm to hot weather ideal for outdoor activities, reservoir visits and festivals; seek shade midday and bring sunscreen—some days can be quite dry.

Crisp air, colorful foliage and harvest season—great for photography and sampling local produce; evenings can be cool so pack layers.

Cold with possible snow, especially in surrounding hills; town life is quieter and some rural roads or trails may be icy—dress warmly and check road conditions.

Trails on Ruy Mountain (northwest of Montana) provide moderate hikes, ridge walks and borderland views near the Serbia–Bulgaria frontier.

Gentle walks and shore trails around the reservoir with birdwatching opportunities and easy terrain suitable for families.

Iconic rock formations with well-marked paths, stairs and viewpoints—excellent for day hikes and spectacular photo opportunities.

Hiking routes around Chiprovtsi offer mixed forest trails, historical villages and panoramic views of the region.

Vegetarian options are available (shopska salad, banitsa, vegetable stews, bean soups), but menus are meat-heavy—ask for vegetable-based versions and seek out bakeries and markets for snacks.

Vegan choices are more limited; markets and some restaurants can prepare vegetable dishes, salads, grilled vegetables and bean soups if you explain your needs.

Gluten-free availability is limited in traditional kitchens—avoid pastries and ask cooks about ingredients, and consider self-catering with local produce and grilled meats.

Specialized Halal or Kosher food is rare in Montana—look for simple grilled meats or self-cater with fresh produce and dairy, or bring specialty products if required.