Things To Do
in Stara Zagora
Stara Zagora sits in the Thracian plain of central Bulgaria with a deep history spanning Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. The modern city center is walkable and lively, filled with cafés, markets, and cultural sites. It sits in the Maritsa River valley, offering easy access to Thracian heritage and nearby natural scenery.
Known for its thermal springs, hospitable locals, and a relaxed pace, Stara Zagora makes a great base for exploring central Bulgaria.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Stara Zagora, admiring its beautiful neoclassical architecture. Visit the Regional Historical Museum to gain insight into the city's ancient past and rich cultural heritage. Don't forget to grab a coffee at one of the charming local cafes as you soak in the atmosphere.
After lunch at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant, take a guided walking tour of the ancient Roman ruins at Augusta Traiana. Explore the well-preserved amphitheater, which once hosted gladiatorial games and is now a site for cultural events. As you wander, listen to stories about the city's significance during the Roman Empire.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, sampling local delicacies such as Shopska salad and grilled meats. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk in the central park, where locals often gather to relax. End your day by enjoying live music or a cultural performance at the State Opera House.
Embark on an early morning drive to Buzludzha Peak, where the fresh mountain air will invigorate your senses. Upon arrival, hike up to the iconic monument that commemorates the founding of the Bulgarian Socialist Party. The panoramic views from the top are a perfect way to start your adventure.
After exploring the monument, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene backdrop of the surrounding nature. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails in the area, where you can discover diverse flora and fauna, as well as hidden waterfalls. Capture the beauty of the landscape with photos as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the mountains.
Return to Stara Zagora, where you can unwind at a local tavern, enjoying a hearty meal with traditional Bulgarian music. Reflect on your day as you savor a glass of local wine or rakia. If you're lucky, you might catch a folk dance performance to complete your evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine or beer | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km or short ride) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and Roman heritage
- Walkable city center with affordable dining
- Access to nearby nature and parks
- Good value for money and friendly locals
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- Limited international flight connections from the city itself
- Some sights require a short trip to surrounding areas
- "Здравейте" - Hello (formal)
- "Добър ден" - Good day
- "Моля" - Please / Excuse me
- "Говорите ли английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Колко струва това?" - How much does this cost?
- "Бих искал да поръчам" - I would like to order
Places to Visit in Stara Zagora
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins of the ancient Roman city of Beroe set against the modern city, offering a compelling contrast for wide shots and detail work.
Neoclassical façades, tree-lined streets, and lively squares provide colorful daytime and golden-hour photography opportunities.
A tranquil lakeside setting with forest trails, ideal for nature photography and sunset landscapes.
Food in Stara Zagora
Stara Zagora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chilled cucumber and yogurt soup, refreshing in summer and widely available in cafés and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A bright mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and white cheese (sirene); a staple starter everywhere.
A layered pastry with cheese, often enjoyed for breakfast or snacks; pairs well with ayran or yogurt.
Slow-cooked meat (often pork or chicken) with vegetables and pepper, served in a clay pot at traditional taverns.
Grilled minced meat sausages (kebapche) or meat patties (kyufte), typically served with sides like salad and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling indoor market offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, regional specialties, and homemade snacks.
Casual stalls and small eateries offering quick Bulgarian bites, grilled skewers, and warm pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and eye contact are standard when meeting new people; greet with a polite 'Zdrasti' or 'Dobyr den' in Bulgarian.
Modest dress when visiting religious sites; remove hats indoors for mosques or churches if required; casual but respectful attire is typical in everyday settings.
Bulgarian hospitality is warm; accepting offers of food or drink is common, and guests are often offered complimentary treats.
Safety
Tipping in Stara Zagora
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bulgaria, a tip of 5-10% is common in restaurants if service is good. Round up taxis, and leave small tips for hotel staff if applicable.
Cash (BGN) and cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; ATMs are readily available. Credit cards are commonly used in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flora make it ideal for outdoor walking tours and early-season photography; expect occasional showers.
Hot days (often up to the 30s°C). Seek shade and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons; water is essential.
Pleasant temperatures and fall colors create great scenery for city walks and nature trips; harvest festivals may be happening.
Cold with possible snow; indoor cultural venues become appealing; layering and heating are important for outdoor activities.
Stara Zagora at Night
Hiking in Stara Zagora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails around lakes and forested areas, suitable for day hikes and photography.
Hiking opportunities in the nearby foothills of the Sredna Gora region, offering scenic overlooks and woodland paths.
Airports
How to reach Stara Zagora by plane.
Approximately an hour’s drive to Stara Zagora; convenient for regional domestic and some international connections.
About 2.5-3 hours by road; major international hub with broad global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, including families and students.
A visible minority community with cultural contributions in markets and local life.
A smaller but established community contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Several universities and institutes attract a youthful demographic to the center.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Bulgaria, with local clubs and viewing options in the city.
Common in schools and community centers; local teams and courts are accessible.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stara Zagora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bulgarian dishes are veggie-friendly (salads, lentil soups, bean dishes). Look for vegetarian plates or request dairy- and egg-based options; grilled vegetables and Shopska salads are common vegetarian choices.