Things To Do
in Veliko Tarnovo
Veliko Tarnovo is a picturesque town in northern Bulgaria known for its impressive medieval fortress perched on a hill. The town's architectural charm is highlighted by its well-preserved traditional houses built in the Bulgarian Revival style. Veliko Tarnovo is also home to Tsarevets, a historical complex that takes visitors on a journey through the town's rich past.
Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape from various viewpoints within the town.
- "Zdraveite" - Hello
- "Blagodaria" - Thank you
- "Dobar den" - Good day
- "Izvinete" - Excuse me
- "Kak si?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Tsarevets Fortress, a historic site with stunning views. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café nearby.
Wander through the picturesque old town, admiring the unique architecture and quaint shops. Don't forget to stop by the local artisans and craft stores.
Dine at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant, sampling local dishes. End your day with a stroll along the Yantra River, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Visit the Archaeological Museum to learn about the rich history of the region. Take your time to appreciate the artifacts and stunning exhibits.
Head to the Samovodska Charshiya, an artisan street filled with galleries and workshops. Try your hand at pottery or other crafts available for tourists.
Relax with a glass of local wine at an outdoor café while enjoying the sunset. Experience an authentic folklore show featuring traditional music and dance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with numerous historical sites.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including views of the Yantra River.
- Vibrant local culture and traditions.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Infrastructural challenges in some areas.
- Seasonal tourism fluctuations affecting local businesses.
Best Activities in Veliko Tarnovo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience aerial views of Veliko Tarnovo while indulging in this exhilarating outdoor activity.
Explore the challenging rock formations and stunning natural scenery in this renowned rock climbing location.
Embark on a picturesque hike in the Balkan Mountains, known for its beautiful trails and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy a thrilling ride through the scenic landscapes and charming villages surrounding the Yantra River Valley.
Tours
Uncover the best of Veliko Tarnovo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Veliko Tarnovo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Veliko Tarnovo and the surrounding Yantra River
Provides a stunning view of Veliko Tarnovo and the mountains
Known for its picturesque cobblestone street and views overlooking the old town
Food in Veliko Tarnovo
Veliko Tarnovo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Bulgarian pastry filled with cheese and often served for breakfast or as a snack. Try it at the Old Bazaar or at local bakeries like the renowned Crown Bakery.
Must-Try!
A refreshing cold soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts. Look for it in traditional Bulgarian taverns like Shtastlivetza, overlooking the Yantra River.
A hearty meat stew cooked with onions, peppers, and tomatoes, often found at rustic restaurants such as Hadji Nikoli Inn, offering a taste of Bulgarian home cooking.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Veliko Tarnovo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this historic market street for a variety of authentic street food, including kebapcheta (grilled minced meat), kofteta (meatballs), and mekitsi (fried dough).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Veliko Tarnovo, it is important to show respect for older people, including using formal titles when addressing them and offering them a seat or assistance when needed.
Greetings are important in Bulgarian culture, so it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is also polite to use formal titles when addressing others and to say 'please' and 'thank you'.
Bulgarians take pride in their traditions and customs, so it is respectful to show an interest in and appreciation for their cultural practices, folklore, and history.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Veliko Tarnovo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Veliko Tarnovo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, tipping is not mandatory but is generally appreciated. A 10% tip in restaurants or for services like taxi rides is common, although leaving small change or rounding up the bill is also acceptable. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it's always a good idea to check before tipping.
In Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, particularly in larger stores, hotels, and restaurants. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of any unexpected situations where card payments may not be possible.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Veliko Tarnovo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Veliko Tarnovo is in spring, from April to June, when the weather is mild, the flowers are blooming, and the city is lively with various cultural events. It's a great time to explore the historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer, from July to August, is also a popular time to visit Veliko Tarnovo as the weather is warm and sunny. The city hosts many festivals and outdoor concerts during this time, and visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures and the stunning colors of fall foliage. This is a great time for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature, as well as enjoying the harvest festivals and local cuisine.
Winter, from December to February, can be cold in Veliko Tarnovo, but it also has its charm with the festive atmosphere, Christmas markets, and the possibility of winter sports in the nearby mountains. It's a quieter time to visit and experience the city's cozy side.
Veliko Tarnovo at Night
Hiking in Veliko Tarnovo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historical site with stunning views and trails around the hill, offering both history and nature.
Located a short drive from Veliko Tarnovo, featuring scenic hikes through the Rila Mountains.
A picturesque area with various trails alongside the river and traditional Bulgarian architecture.
An interesting hike to the famous abandoned monument, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A natural park with multiple hiking routes and diverse wildlife, just a few hours from Veliko Tarnovo.
A relaxing area perfect for hiking that combines nature walks with scenic views of the Danube River.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Veliko Tarnovo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Veliko Tarnovo by plane.
Burgas Airport is located approximately 130 km from Veliko Tarnovo and serves as a gateway to southeastern Bulgaria and the Black Sea resorts.
Plovdiv Airport is situated around 190 km from Veliko Tarnovo and primarily caters to low-cost carriers and charter flights.
Sofia Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Bulgaria, located about 220 km from Veliko Tarnovo, serving both international and domestic flights.
Varna Airport is approximately 130 km from Veliko Tarnovo and serves the coastal city of Varna and the northern Black Sea resorts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Veliko Tarnovo, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority group in the region, with historical roots in the area.
A smaller demographic group present in Veliko Tarnovo, often involved in various trades.
Includes other ethnic groups such as Armenians, Greeks, and Jews, though they are much less prevalent.
The Soul of Veliko Tarnovo
Discover the essence of Veliko Tarnovo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Veliko Tarnovo, with several clubs and a passionate fan base supporting the local teams.
Volleyball enjoys a strong following in Veliko Tarnovo, with many recreational and competitive teams active in the city.
Basketball is also popular among the youth in Veliko Tarnovo, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.
Athletics is widely practiced, with many events held in and around the city, encouraging participation at various levels.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, have a dedicated following, with local dojos and clubs training enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Veliko Tarnovo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Bulgarian cuisine leans heavily on meat dishes, many restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options, such as stuffed peppers, shopska salad, and various grilled vegetable dishes. Shtastlivetza and Ego are known for their accommodating menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, fresh salads, and yogurt-based soups without worry. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs to the restaurant staff, who are often willing to accommodate special requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Veliko Tarnovo with these cultural adventures.