Hisarya Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more tips to help you plan your trip to Hisarya, Bulgaria.


Introduction to Hisarya

Nestled in the heart of the Upper Thracian Plain, Hisarya is a picturesque town located in the province of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Known as a coveted destination for hot springs, Hisarya is also abundant in archaeological and historical sites. As you walk through the charming streets, you will be captivated by the Roman ruins, and the picturesque views of the mountains surrounding the town.

List of Places to Visit in Hisarya

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The town of Hisarya has a plethora of culturally significant destinations to explore:

  • Roman Fortress Wall and Towers
  • Roman Baths
  • Roman Tomb
  • “St. Sophia” Basilica Bishop’s Residence
  • “St. Dimitar” Bulgarian Orthodox Church
  • Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

Each historic destination has its unique story to tell.

Natural Attractions of Hisarya: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The town is surrounded by mountains and greenery, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers. Some of the natural attractions worth visiting are:

  • The Park of Love
  • Mineral Springs
  • Momina Salza Nature Reserve
  • Sredna Gora Mountains

Visitors can go hiking, biking, and swimming in Hisarya’s charming surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hisarya

Hisarya is home to some of the most captivating hiking and biking routes, which give visitors a chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. The routes offer picturesque views of the mountains, stunning waterfalls, and charming wildlife.

  • Sredna Gora Mountain Trail - 15 km
  • Starosel - Voynyagovo Route - 16 km
  • The Hisarya Hot Springs Route - 5 km

Best Things to Do in Hisarya: Activities and Tours

There is a wide range of things to do and tours to take in Hisarya, such as:

  • Visit local wineries and partake in wine tasting.
  • Take a stroll through the town and discover the ancient ruins.
  • Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment with the local mineral hot springs.
  • Go on guided tours of the natural surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hisarya

For visitors who wish to spend longer in Hisarya, here is a comprehensive itinerary for a weeklong trip to the town:

  • Day 1: Arrival and relaxing day at spa
  • Day 2: Take a leisurely walk through town and visit the Roman ruins
  • Day 3: Take a bike ride to the Sredna Gora Mountains
  • Day 4: Go on a guided tour of Momina Salza Nature Reserve
  • Day 5: Participate in a winery tour and wine tasting
  • Day 6: Visit the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari
  • Day 7: Departure day and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Hisarya

No visit to Bulgaria is complete without trying the mouth-watering local cuisine. Hisarya has some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars that serve local cuisines and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the most popular dishes to try in Hisarya include:

  • Kavarma: roasted meat with vegetables
  • Kapama: a stew made with meat and vegetables cooked in a clay pot
  • Banitsa: a pastry with cheese and egg filling

Local Beverages

Bulgaria is famous for its wine, and Hisarya has an abundance of wineries to sample the local wines. Visitors can also try other local beverages such as:

  • Rakia: traditional Bulgarian brandy
  • Boza: a fermented drink made from wheat flour and very low alcoholic content.

Where to Stay in Hisarya: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is no shortage of accommodation options in Hisarya, with everything from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury experiences. Some popular options include:

  • Augusta Spa Hotel
  • Hotel Sana Spa
  • Hissar Spa Hotel

Visitors can also find several budget-friendly options like hostels and guesthouses throughout the town.

What to Buy in Hisarya: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hisarya is renowned for its handmade pottery and Balgarska Roses’ perfume and skincare products. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs such as traditional crafts, jewelry, and wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Hisarya

The people of Hisarya are warm and welcoming and take pride in their cultural heritage. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions like wearing modest clothing when visiting religious places.

Best Time to Visit Hisarya

The best time to visit Hisarya is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the green surroundings are spectacular. The summer months can be hot, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hisarya

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Spend a day relaxing at the spa
  • Explore the charming streets and ruins

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious places
  • Leave trash in public areas
  • Smoke in the public parks and buildings

Safety and Health

Safety in Hisarya

Hisarya is a safe and secure town, with a low crime rate. Visitors should keep their belongings safe and stay alert while in crowded areas.

Health in Hisarya

Hisarya has a high standard of healthcare facilities, and visitors can access medical care with ease.

Getting to Hisarya: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hisarya is easily accessible with many transportation options available.

Airports Near Hisarya

The closest airports to Hisarya are:

  • Plovdiv International Airport
  • Sofia International Airport

Bus Stations Near Hisarya

Visitors can take a bus from central bus stations in Sofia, Plovdiv, or Karlovo to reach Hisarya.

Other Options

Guests can also hire private taxis to reach Hisarya from anywhere in Bulgaria.

How to Get Around in Hisarya

Hisarya is a small town and can be explored on foot. Visitors can rent bikes to explore the surrounding mountains and lovely natural surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Hisarya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hisarya is surrounded by several popular destinations, such as:

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
  • Bachkovo Monastery
  • Arbanassi

Visitors can take guided tours or book private transportation to explore these destinations.

Conclusion

Hisarya, with its wealth of history and charm, is a must-visit destination for travelers in Bulgaria. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan an unforgettable trip that includes exploring ancient ruins, indulging in spa treatments, and sampling the delicious local cuisine. So pack your bags and venture off to the picturesque town of Hisarya for an adventure you won’t forget.

Aerial view of the Southern Gate. Aerial view of the Southern Gate. One of the preserved pools in the Thermae One of the preserved pools in the Thermae