Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide

This comprehensive travel guide for Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria includes tips on the best places to visit, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options and logistics for your next visit.


Introduction to Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo, also known as the “City of Tsars,” is a beautiful city that is located in North Bulgaria. It is renowned for its remarkable historical and architectural landmarks, scenic locations, and rich cultural heritage. Veliko Tarnovo is a charming city, and it attracts thousands of tourists every year, with a mix of old-world charm and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Veliko Tarnovo

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, scenic locations, or nature, Veliko Tarnovo has it all. Below is a list of the top places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tsarevets Fortress - This medieval fortress was the center of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Today, the ruins of the fortress offer stunning views of the city, and visitors can explore the remains of the royal palace and the patriarchal church.
  • Samovodska Charshia - This charming street is lined with artisan shops offering handmade jewelry, ceramics, and traditional Bulgarian textiles. It’s the perfect place to learn about the local crafts and purchase souvenirs.
  • National Museum of History - A great place for history buffs, this museum showcases the rich history and culture of Bulgaria through its collections of artifacts and exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Veliko Tarnovo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Arbanassi village - Just a few kilometers away from Veliko Tarnovo, this picturesque village is famous for its traditional architecture and scenic landscapes.
  • Yantra River - The Yantra River runs through Veliko Tarnovo and is a popular spot for fishing, picnics, and scenic walks along the waterfront.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and the town is an excellent starting point for exploring the picturesque surroundings by hiking or biking. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Emen Canyon - This beautiful canyon is a great place for hiking, swimming, and picnicking.
  • The Preobrazhenski Monastery - This trail is perfect for those who enjoy a short hike in nature. The trail leads to the picturesque Preobrazhenski Monastery and offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Veliko Tarnovo: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of exciting things to do and tours to take in Veliko Tarnovo. Here are some popular activities:

  • Sound and Light Show at Tsarevets Fortress - This evening show uses lasers, music, and lights to tell the story of the city’s rich history and culture.
  • Day Trip to Ivanovo Rock Monastery - This beautiful monastery is carved into the rocks and surrounded by natural beauty. A guided tour is the best way to explore this hidden gem.
  • Bulgarian Cooking Class - Learn how to cook traditional Bulgarian dishes at a cooking class and then enjoy a delicious meal.

Week-Long Itinerary for Veliko Tarnovo

If you’re planning to spend a week in Veliko Tarnovo, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore Veliko Tarnovo’s historic city center and visit the National Museum of History
2 Hike or bike the Emen Canyon
3 Take a day trip to Ivanovo Rock Monastery
4 Visit the artisan street Samovodska Charshia and attend a Bulgarian cooking class
5 Tour the picturesque Arbanassi village
6 Relax by Yantra River or take a scenic walk along the waterfront
7 Watch the Sound and Light Show at Tsarevets Fortress

Food and Drink Scene of Veliko Tarnovo

Must-Try Dishes

Tasting the local cuisine is always a highlight of any trip, and Veliko Tarnovo offers some excellent options. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • “Tarator” - Chilled yogurt soup with cucumbers, garlic, and dill
  • “Sarmi” - Stuffed vine leaves with seasoned rice and herbs
  • “Banitsa” - A traditional Bulgarian pastry filled with cheese or spinach

Local Beverages

  • Rakia - A traditional Bulgarian brandy that is made from fermented fruit and typically served as a digestif.
  • Bulgarian wine - Bulgaria is famous for producing excellent wine, and the region around Veliko Tarnovo is renowned for its red wine.

Where to Stay in Veliko Tarnovo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Veliko Tarnovo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some popular choices include:

  • Hotel Elena - A modern hotel in the city center that offers excellent service and great value for money.
  • Yantra Grand Hotel - A luxurious hotel with beautiful views of the city and a spa.
  • Hostel Mostel - A budget-friendly option that is centrally located and offers a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Veliko Tarnovo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional textiles - Look for Bulgarian wool rugs, hand-embroidered linen towels, and traditional “kilimi” woven rugs.
  • Bulgarian pottery - The region around Veliko Tarnovo is known for its handmade pottery, which comes in a variety of styles.
  • Rakia - If you’re a fan of brandy, be sure to bring home a bottle of Bulgarian rakia.

Local Culture and Customs of Veliko Tarnovo

Bulgarian culture is rich and diverse, and Veliko Tarnovo is no exception. Here are some customs and traditions you may encounter:

  • Bulgarian folklore dances - Bulgarian folk dances are lively and colorful, often accompanied by traditional music.
  • Rose Festival - Each year, Bulgaria celebrates the rose harvest with a festival in the town of Kazanlak. The festival includes parades, concerts, and traditional costumes.

Best Time to Visit Veliko Tarnovo

The best time to visit Veliko Tarnovo is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny, and the city’s natural beauty is in full bloom. Winter is also a good time to visit if you’re interested in winter sports like skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Veliko Tarnovo

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drink the local wines and rakia.
  • Respect the cultural and religious sites.
  • Bargain with vendors at the market.

Don’t:

  • Wear skimpy clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Litter in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is a safe city, and visitors can move around the city with confidence. However, it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.

Health in Veliko Tarnovo

Bulgaria’s healthcare system is good, and visitors can access medical care in emergency situations. However, travelers should ensure they have adequate health insurance before traveling.

Getting to Veliko Tarnovo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Veliko Tarnovo is well-connected to the rest of Bulgaria, and getting there is relatively easy. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Veliko Tarnovo

The closest airport to Veliko Tarnovo is the Sofia International Airport, which is approximately 220 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo has two bus stations, South and North, which offer connections to other cities in Bulgaria, including Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv.

Other Options

  • Train - Veliko Tarnovo has a train station that offers connections to other major cities in Bulgaria, including Sofia and Varna.
  • Car - Renting a car is a good option for those who want to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is a small city, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance. However, for those who want to explore further afield, taxis and buses are readily available.

Where to Go Next from Veliko Tarnovo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tryavna - This picturesque town is renowned for its traditional Bulgarian architecture, arts and crafts, and museums.
  • Bacho Kiro Cave - A fascinating cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, located in the nearby town of Dryanovo.
  • Belogradchik Rocks - These stunning rock formations are located about three hours away from Veliko Tarnovo and are definitely worth a day trip.

Conclusion

Veliko Tarnovo is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historic landmarks, enjoying outdoor adventures, or sampling the local cuisine, Veliko Tarnovo has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to start planning your trip to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria.

Veliko Tarnovo Cathedral Veliko Tarnovo Cathedral St Demetrius Church St Demetrius Church Old post hall Old post hall Tsarevets Tsarevets View from the balcony of a private room View from the balcony of a private room Motorway A2 (Hemus Motorway) Motorway A2 (Hemus Motorway)