free walking tour veliko tarnovo

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Free Veliko Turnovo Walking Tour

Whether you’re familiar with the sights of Veliko Tarnovo and know how to navigate yourself around, or if you’re a first time traveller to the city, taking the Free Walking Tour will offer you a unique insight into Bulgarian history and the stories that lie behind the most prominent landmarks and statues in the city.

The walking tours start outside the Tourist Information Centre and although they don’t operate every day during the off-peak season, the organisers are happy to arrange a personal tour at your convenience if you arrange it in advance. So, after a short introduction of what to expect and a brief background to Bulgarian history, my guide, Danika, and I meet up and set off a short distance to our first port of call: the Mother Bulgaria Monument.

It was very clear from the outset that the tour was going to be both entertaining and informative as Danika talked passionately about Bulgarian wars, invasions and occupations whilst we walked around each of the memorials – subjects that can often be recounted in a lacklustre way but were told with enthusiasm. Well versed on all aspects of Bulgarian society, past and present, my knowledge is enlightened by a circuit that comprises of a combination of local tourist hot spots and lesser known icons of local history.

Ordinarily, they offer two tours a day: one of the old part of town which encompasses a more historical approach to the most popular tourist attractions and the other, an Art Tour. Danika had suggested that we combine the two which made a more interesting aspect to the walk and so, as we walked through the streets, she also explained the inspiration behind some of the numerous street art. I have seen most of this art adorning the brick walls, doorways, electricity boxes and steps around town for many years, yet her expertise – partly based upon direct research with the artists involved, and partly down to her own knowledge of politics and social struggles – proved to bring a revealing angle to the artwork.

Danika is a very natural tour guide who doesn’t overload you with boring facts, but instead, narrates history, art and culture in an engaging way that is easy to keep up with. Before going on the tour I thought I was relatively well informed about Tarnovo but I was to be proved very wrong! As we strolled from one end of town to the other, there were many more surprising factors to learn but you’ll have to go on the tour yourself to find out more about the old and new urban legends of this city.

The Walking Tour starts at 11am every day and last around two hours. You can find more information and updates here

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Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours

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Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours

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FREE VELIKO TARNOVO WALKING TOURS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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16 Things to Do in Veliko Tarnovo + Map and Walking Route

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

If you’re searching for the best things to do in Veliko Tarnovo, you’ve come to the right place.

This tiny Bulgarian town is a wonderful option for a weekend trip from Sofia and one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in the country.

This quaint cliffside city is also the old capital of Bulgaria so it harbors a lot of history behind its beauty.

The cobblestone streets lead you past colorful houses and the red rooftops cascading down the cliffside look like something out of a fairy tale. Add the greenery, parks, fortress and old monuments and you have a recipe for an amazing weekend!

If you’re ready to visit, use this guide to discover the 16 best things to do in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, and then use the map and walking route at the end to easily see them all on your weekend escape to the city.

Welcome to Veliko Tarnovo! This guide will take you to all of the best attractions in this Medieval city

What to Do in Veliko Tarnovo

Surprisingly, there’s a lot to do in Veliko Tarnovo and our weekend trip from Sofia was packed full trying to fit it all in (spoiler alert: we didn’t).

Here’s some of the most popular options to help you plan your trip.

1. Take the Free Walking Tour

The free walking tour is the best thing to do in Veliko Tarnovo and you should try to take it first.

You’ll get the layout of the city and see most of the main attractions in passing.

Then, you can go back and spend more time at the ones you like the most. Plus, you’ll learn a lot about Bulgaria’s history. The walking tour is 2.5 hours which is a bit long, but I still think it’s worth it.

You can catch the free walking tour every day at 11 am in front of the Veliko Tarnovo Tourism Office.

If you don’t arrive in time for the free walking tour or that’s not really your thing, you can still do pretty much everything there is to do in Veliko Tarnovo in one day – use this list and walking route to see it all with ease!

The absolutely insane view at the Veliko Tarnovo Sky Walk

2. Take Panoramic Pictures at the Sky Walk

In 2014 a group of architecture students chose Veliko Tarnovo for the annual EU summer project.

In two weeks, they built a small sky walk that allows for amazing panoramic views not just of the cliffside city but also the winding river, nearby hills, the monument, and more.

The entrance looks like a wooden cube, and it’s easy to find on the main street in the Old Town.

3. Stop for Ice Cream with a View at Gellato Fresco

Gelatto Fresco has tasty ice cream, cold drinks, and an amazing view of Veliko Tarnovo.

Stop here to grab a cone and take a break from the midday sun while enjoying the picturesque setting.

4. Visit the Free Art Gallery

The Hadji Nikoli Inn Museum Art Gallery is built into the last original inn in Veliko Tarnovo.

The city used to be packed with inns due to its location on the merchant trading roading through the Ottoman Empire, but only one remains. This one has a lovely garden with flowers and a restaurant as well.

After you eat, visit the small gallery on the second and third floors to see works by local Bulgarian artists.

Shamovodska Charshia Market is one of the top Veliko Tarnovo attractions but it left me a bit underwhelmed

5. Walk Down the Shamovodska Charshia Market

This section of Veliko Tarnovo has a lot of promise but doesn’t quite deliver. The picturesque street is fun to walk down, but you won’t need to spend too much time here.

It has “workshops” where people make wood carvings, knives, art, and other traditional pieces, but like most places it’s mostly devolved into overpriced souvenir shops and not much else.

Tsarevet’s Monument is the best things to do in Veliko Tarnovo

6. See Tsarevets Fortress and the Church on the Hill

Tsarevets Fortress is one of the most popular things to do in Veliko Tarnovo and for good reason.

The walls wrap around the hillside and will transport you back to Medieval Bulgaria. Entrance costs 6 lev / 3.50 usd per person and there are plenty of different trails to take to the top.

Here, the main attraction is the Patriarchal Cathedral St. Ascension.

I’m not going to spoil the surprise, and you shouldn’t Google it either! Just make the trek to the top and step inside to see this very unique place for yourself.

My tip: If you visit in the summer, make sure you bring water because none is sold inside. Also, when you make it up to the church take a break behind it. Here the shade and a strategic wind tunnel create the perfect place to cool down in the afternoon heat.

Pretty shops and views await on the less-crowded Gurko Street

7. Walk Along Gurko Street

When the main road is packed with tourists and traffic, get a break from the crowds on Gurko Street.

It conveniently runs along the length of the Old Town, but it’s down at the bottom of the cliff. Here you can get from point A to point B in a much more relaxed fashion, while enjoying amazing views and cute little streets packed with rickety houses.

After you visit Tsarevets fortress, walk all the way to Stambolov Bridge along Gurko street for your next destination.

Fab view of Veliko Tarnovo from Sveta Gora Park

8. Get Some Fresh Air at Sveta Gora Park

Cross Stambolov bridge onto the peninsula and right behind the giant monument (I’ll get to that next), you can continue walking to find a stair case. The steps will take you up to the large Sveta Gora Park.

It has two terraces built specifically for view points of the city, and if you continue upwards you’ll find lots of green space and happy families enjoying the shaded park.

If you really want to relax this is one of the best things to do in Veliko Tarnovo. Simply bring a blanket and grab a few cold drinks at the cafe at the top!

Drink with a view of Asen’s Monument and Veliko Tarnovo Old Town at sunset

9. Watch the Sunset at Asen’s Monument

After you explore Sveta Gora Park, return the way you came and Asen’s Monument will be impossible to miss.

On the peninsula you’ll see four horsemen and a giant pillar rising between them. This is a celebration of the Asenevsti Dynesty and the four kings who ruled Bulgaria during it.

The statues are striking, but it’s also has one of the best views of the Old City from below. Check it out at sunset, and grab a drink outside at the Melon Bar right behind it while you watch the lights flicker on across town.

Asen’s Monument is another one of the can’t-miss things to do in Veliko Tarnovo

10. Try Some Traditional Bulgarian Food

Ready for dinner?

Luckily there’s a great place to try traditional Bulgarian food right nearby. Best of all, it doesn’t have a view, which means it has to attract people based on the merits of their food alone.

To be honest, this was the only meal I had in Veliko Tarnovo that didn’t disappoint.

The restaurant is called Asenevsti and was recommended by our hostel owner. We had a plate of fried chicken, an appetizer, roasted potatoes and two large beers in the garden all for only 28 lev / 16 usd.

11. Watch the Laser Light Show

The laser light show is one of the most popular things to do in Veliko Tarnovo.

You can get a great view and watch it for free on the steps of the Orthodox Church (search Iglesia Ortodoxa in Google Maps to find it).

It only runs on holidays but that’s actually still surprisingly often throughout the year. Check the schedule and make the trek all the way back to Tsarevets Fortress to watch it if you’re lucky enough to be there when it plays.

12. Grab a Drink at the Hipster Art Bar

Last but not least, it’s time to finally relax!

If you want a drink the Hipster Art Bar is the best place to get one. The quirky atmosphere and lively crowd make it a great place to meet locals and travelers alike while you all wind down for the evening.

The Hipster Art Bar is located in the Shamovodska Charshia Market area.

Yes, all of this can really be squeezed into one jam-packed day in Veliko Tarnovo. That’s not all, though. If you have a day to two to spare, there are even more options to check out around the city! 

The abandoned Buzludzha monument is one of the best things to do near Veliko Tarnovo if you have a car

13. Visit the Town of Arbanasi

If you have extra time, another popular thing to do in Veliko Tarnovo is a half-day trip to the town of Arbanasi. This should only cost about 3 to 5 lev / 2 to 3 usd for a taxi from the Old Town because it’s so close.

There’s not a ton to do in this small town, but when the weather is mild and the flowers are blooming it’s still a nice place to be.

Some of the popular things to see here are the Church of the Nativity of Christ and simply wandering the streets to see more than 80 houses that have been preserved as an open-air museum (including the Konstantsaliev house that you can go inside of).

14. Take a Dip at the Krushuna Waterfall

The Krushuna waterfalls are about 1.5 hours driving from Veliko Tarnovo.

They’re easy to reach if you have a rental car, but if you’re stuck with public transport (like we were) you’re probably going to be out of luck.

If you go, hike on the nearby trails and bring a suit to take a cold swim in the gorgeous blue natural pools that lie at the waterfall’s base.

15. Hike to the Devetashka Cave

This cave is perfectly placed to combine with the Krushuna waterfall.

The Devetashka Cave draws visitors because of the open holes in the ceiling that let in natural light and the many species of bats and other wildlife you can spot on the hike.

If you’re driving out to see the Krushuna waterfall, definitely add a pit-stop at the Devetashka cave to your to-do list as well.

16. Check out the Buzludzha Monument

This abandoned communist monument is a must for photography lovers. The eerie UFO shape, graffiti, and crumbling walls all speak to a bygone era that’s definitely best left in the past.

Just like the above trips, the Buzludzha Monument can only be visited by car.

It’s 1.5 hours from the city, but don’t stress trying to fit it into your schedule if it doesn’t work. The monument is also less than 2 hours from Plovdiv and 3 from Sofia, so even though Veliko Tarnovo is the most convenient location to visit from it’s not the only one.

Veliko Tarnovo Walking Route + Map

Use this map to easily find all the best things to do in Veliko Tarnovo and create your own walking route in this order:

• Sky Walk View Point
• Gelato Fresco
• Hadji Nikoli Inn Museum Art Gallery
• Shamovodska Charshia Market
• Tsarevet’s Fortress
• Ascension Church (inside the fortess compound)
• Take a walk on Gurko Street
• Sveta Gora Park
• Sunset at Asen’s Monument
• Dinner at Asenevsti
• Drinks at Hipster Art Bar

Then, if you have more time in Veliko Tarnovo, set out on an adventure the next day to see the caves, waterfalls, and monuments around the city as well!

Pretty houses in Old Town Veliko Tarnovo

Bonus: Where to Stay in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

There are tons of affordable Airbnbs in Veliko Tarnovo – like this 200-year-old home or this penthouse with beautiful views – and the hotels are incredibly budget friendly as well.

Guest Room Tsarvets has a review score of 9.8 and only costs $37 per night, while the Gile Guest House also has a 9.8 and comes in at only $27 per night.

If you’re looking for something even cheaper, the lowest priced rooms in Veliko Tarnovo are at the Diana Guesthouse for only $18 per night.

If you’re traveling solo and looking for a hostel bed, you can snag one at Hostel Mostel or the Hiker’s Hostel for $10 and $11 per bed respectively.

Use This Guide to Discover the Top Things to do in Veliko Tarnovo

There is so much to do in Veliko Tarnovo, and if you have a car there are even more half-day trips to take from the town as well.

Visit this beautiful cliffside city in Bulgaria for a quick history lesson, gorgeous photos, relaxation, and a unique weekend experience in the country.

Ready to go?

Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like this 200-year-old home or this penthouse with beautiful views – and the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan your trip to Veliko Tarnovo. Or, book a multi-day Eastern Europe tour to see the whole region and finish your travel planning in one click! 

This article is part of the Beyond Sofia Travel Series. Read the rest below:

How to get to Veliko Tarnovo from Sofia (Without a Car)

How to Take a Day Trip to the Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria

How to Spend 24 Lazy Hours in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Sozopol Guide: How to Plan Your Trip to the Black Sea Resort Town

Or, explore the complete Bulgaria Series for more to see, do, eat, drink, and discover throughout the country.

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VELIKO TARNOVO - THE MEDIEVAL CAPITAL OF BULGARIA

Free walking tour for march 3rd.

On the national holiday of March 3, the Regional History Museum organizes for the residents and guests of Veliko Tarnovo a free walking tour with a talk dedicated to 146 years since the Liberation of Bulgaria. The tour will visit historical places related to the national liberation movement, the Russo-Turkish war and the restoration of Bulgarian statehood. The tour will pass along the route of the “Prison” museum, the “Sarafkina Kasha” museum, the “Gurko” street, the “Mother Bulgaria” monument . The tour guides will be Teodora Guleva and Petko Petkanski. The participants in the tour will be admitted to both museums for free. The start will be at 10:00 a.m. from “Saedinenie” square No. 1 in front of the “Revival and Constituent Assembly” museum.

Last events

The tourist train will not be working in the period between july 26-th- july 30-th, “ellas” – a concert of a female trio from barcelona, “the book is the alpha and omega of all knowledge”.

Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours

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Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Free Walking Tour of Veliko Tarnovo

The tour departs from the Tourist Information Centre in Veliko Tarnovo at 11.00am every morning. The walk then slowly proceeds to Tsaravets Castle taking the sights, sounds and history of the medieval capital of Bulgaria.

The walk is conducted by a guide in English language who has excellent English language skills. The tour is suitable for any reasonably healthy adult and children. The tour covers approximately 6 Km and lasts to 2 to 3 hours.

When you have finished the tour why not grab a lunch at one of our recommended restaurants .

Remember to take

• Reasonable walking shoes (not flip-flops),
• Sun hat and sunscreen,
• A small bottle of water to drink,
• Camera or smartphone to take pictures – check the batteries are fully charged!

The tour is free of charge but if you have enjoyed the tour consider giving the guide a tip for their time and effort in showing you around Veliko Tarnovo.

Check out what previous guests have said about the tour on the Free Walking Tour Facebook Page.

Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours | Facebook

Contact us (Mon-Fri 09:00-18:00 EET): Phone/SMS/WhatsApp: +13462202110 UK(Phone/SMS): +441586202022

Plamena – The Free Veliko Turnovo tour

The Medieval Bulgarian capital of Veliko Tarnovo is among Bulgaria’s most visited cities. Tourism has been constantly growing here during the past decade. I have contacted Plamena – the founder of Free Veliko Tarnovo walking tour,  with some questions, that may seem interesting to you – our blog’s reader. The free tour of VT has been running since 2012.

1. Where and when can the tourists, who would like to join the Veliko Tarnovo Free Walking Tour find you? Is it necessary to book in advance? Everyone is welcome to join the tour, which starts at 11 am in front of the Tourist Information Centre, located at the centre – 5 Hristo Botev str. People can also find us on Google and send a message with questions on the Facebook page . Given the lower number of participants booking in advance is not required, so just show up on time.

2. Tell us more about the itinerary. How long does the tour take, and which main landmarks could be seen? The duration is 2:30h and it covers the main landmarks in the city, through stories about Bulgaria, it`s history and culture. Keep in mind that the tour does not visit attractions and museums. It is just a friendly and educational walk through the old town, which gives you the basics in order to explore it further on your own.

3. What kind of stories about our country can the tourists learn during the tour? I would describe the tour as a pretty educational activity, since it covers the participation of Bulgaria in the 20th-century wars, the story of occupied Bulgaria under the Ottomans, the history of the city as a capital of the strong 2nd medieval Bulgarian kingdom, which is intertwined with stories of communism, Thracians, Christianity and pagan traditions, practised until these days. Of course, we can just scratch the surface of the topics for the time given, but all this combined with a personal approach makes it interesting for foreign visitors, which I know as a fact from my experience.

4. You are passing along the Samovodska Charshia (Craftsmen street). Can you tell us more about the places you stop by or visit? The tour`s first stop is Mother Bulgaria monument, then Faculty of fine arts, Monument of the Hanged, it goes along Samovodska Charshiya, the craftsmen street, where we have several stops. It proceeds towards the fortress with a brief picture stop and we stop by the Cathedral for the story of the three medieval hills, including Tsarevets. Afterwards, we head to the Konak or the Constitutional assembly, then we continue towards Gurko street from which we have a view of the second landmark of the city – Assens monument and the gallery. The tour ends at Gurko street around 1:30 pm with recommendations on restaurants, activities, etc.

6. Has tourism in Veliko Tarnovo changed since you have been running the free tour? Do you have any other interesting projects for the future? Tourism in VT has definitely changed since I run the tours – the town not only attracts the big organized tour groups but is becoming a popular place for independent travellers as well.

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Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185-1396). During the Middle Ages, it was a bustling cultural and economic hub. Today, it’s a popular stopping point for travelers as they make their way from one end of Bulgaria to the other.

This quiet little town still has its medieval castle dominating the skyline (which is the main draw for tourists). There are also nearby hiking trails and monasteries worth exploring too.

It’s a peaceful mountain town and a hub for university students. I loved the cobblestone streets, the views from the castle, the little cafes in the city, and the accessible hiking trails. Visiting here was one of the highlights of my visit to Bulgaria.

This travel guide to Veliko Tarnovo can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this quiet destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Veliko Tarnovo

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Veliko Tarnovo

1. Go hiking

The area around Veliko Tarnovo is covered in hiking paths, with the climb to Sveta Gora Park being one of the most accessible routes from town (You can start from wherever you’re staying and end with incredible views overlooking the city). The hike is mostly uphill and takes a few hours to complete. For something more challenging, hike the Lyaskovets monastery trail. It’s moderate to challenging and makes a great full-day adventure. The Kartala waterfalls trail is another awesome option, and you can start from the city or from a path near the monastery for a shorter option. You’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, and there are plenty of places to stop and relax en route. The tourist center provides maps and trail conditions if you want to learn more.

2. Visit Arbanasi

Although now it’s home to just 500 people, at one point Arbanasi was a bustling town full of gold, copper, and silk producers. The tiny village, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is located on a plateau just outside of Veliko Tarnovo. Here you can view historic churches from the 17th and 18th centuries and houses built in the Bulgarian National Revival Style. Visit the Convent of the Dormition of The Virgin for more local history and some impressive religious icons, such as a silver sculpture of The Virgin with the Three Hands. The Sveti Nikolai Monastery and Church actually allow visitors to spend the night too. Be sure to check out the frescoes at the churches, watch the craftspeople at work, and simply wander the narrow streets taking in the local pace of life.

3. Stroll down Samovodska Charshia

This is one of the most famous streets in Veliko. It’s been a popular place for shopping since the 19th century when it was a bustling marketplace that attracted farmers and craftspeople from the surrounding villages. In the 1980s, the entire neighborhood underwent an extensive restoration, and the lively market was recreated. Now the area serves as an epicenter for local artisans to share their goods and teach their craft. There are a ton of antique shops to check out, as well as bakeries, pastry shops, and craft workshops. Stroll down the street and watch as the locals work on their pottery, copper-working, weaving, painting, and textiles.

4. Tour Tsarevets Fortress

This medieval castle served as the Second Bulgarian Empire’s primary fortress from 1185-1393. The Ottoman forces finally took the fortress in 1393 after a three-month battle which marked the fall of the Bulgarian Empire. Restoration on the impressive complex began in the 1930s and was completed in the 1980s. It’s now the main tourist attraction in Veliko. Having once been the site of both the royal and patriarchal palaces, you’ll find the remains of 400 houses, nearly 20 churches, an execution area, and a palace. Underneath the modern ruins, archeologists have uncovered even older signs of civilization dating back almost 4,000 years. You can also walk the castle walls for views over the surrounding valley. Admission is 6 BGN.

5. Wander Gurko Street

On the way to the fortress, you’ll pass through the town’s oldest district. Gurko Street is named after the 19th-century Russian General Gurko in honor of his contribution during the Turkish invasion. The area is incredibly picturesque with many historical homes and buildings built during the Revival Period. The crumbling homes here seem ancient as they cling to the hillside practically on top of one another, but they retain all the charm of the old city with flowers on every windowsill, ivy-covered stone walls, and cobblestone streets. There are some great views of the Asen’s monument across the Yantra River too. It’s a beautiful area.

Other Things to See and Do in Veliko Tarnovo

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new destination is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main highlights and learn about the culture from a local. Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours offers regular free tours in English that act as a great introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Visit the Boris Denev Art Gallery

This gallery showcases work by Bulgarian artists from the National Revival Period of the 20th century through to the present day. There is a permanent exhibition on the ground floor featuring paintings, drawings, and sculptures all related to life in the region, including works by locally renowned artists like Nikolai Pavlovich, Marko Markov, and Ivan Funov. Admission is 4 BGN.

3. Admire the Church of Sveti Petar and Pavel

The Church of Saint Peter and Paul has been in operation since the Middle Ages. The murals inside date from the 13th to 17th centuries and the church blends both Byzantine and Bulgarian architectural styles, including a high dome, lots of arches, and columns decorated with carvings. Entrance is an optional 7 BGN donation, with an additional 4 BGN for if you want to take pictures.

4. Drink coffee at Shekerdzinitsa

This is a quirky little café in the old market filled with antique Bulgarian furniture. Shekerdzinitsa is the best place in town to get Turkish coffee prepared the right way — in a miniature copper pot that is run across a basin of heated sand. Come here to relax, try the coffee, and take in the local pace of life.

5. Visit Preobrazhenski Monastery

Also known as the Monastery of the Transfiguration, the Preobrazhenski Monastery is located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) outside of town and dates to the 11th century. With its scenic clifftop views and its fascinating 19th-century murals by painter Zahari Zograf (including detailed portrayals of demons), the journey here is worth it. You can take the bus but be prepared for the 3-kilometer (2-mile) hike to the top. Admission is just 2 BGN.

6. Explore Tryavna

Tryana is located about one hour outside of Veliko Tarnovo. It’s famous for its wood carving artisanship, which is used in architecture across Bulgaria. Walk Tryana’s cobbled streets and its old bridges, and admire the 19th-century National Revival mansions. You can also pop into some wood carving shops or visit the Daskalov House which contains the Museum of Woodcarving and Icon Painting (admission is 2 BGN).

7. See the Asen’s Monument

This epic monument is dedicated to the Asen Tsars that ruled Bulgaria from Veliko Tarnovo. After Ivan and Peter Asen led a murderous rebellion against the Byzantine rulers in 1186, the Asen family established their dynasty and ruled the country for 100 years. The monument commemorates the 800th anniversary of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, with the statues depicting the first four Asen rulers: Ivan, Peter, Kaloyan, and Asen II. Each one holds a sword while riding a rearing horse, all circling a sword that points skyward.

8. Go to Trapezitsa

On top of Trapezitsa hill, you’ll find a ruined fortress with restored ramparts. Unlike Tsarevets, this fort is mainly in ruins. It’s a massive site with a museum detailing an interactive history of Trapezitsa, including artifacts (like jugs and tools) uncovered from the hill. The entrance is from the Asenov quarter in Veliko Tarnovo and there’s lots of signage so you won’t get lost. They have funicular open during the summer but I think hiking up to the top through the main entrance is much more exciting. The funicular costs 10 BGN while entrance to the site is 6 BGN.

  For more information on other cities in Bulgaria, check out these guides:

• Plovdiv Travel Guide
• Sofia Travel Guide
• Varna Travel Guide

Veliko Tarnovo Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostel dorms with 6-8 beds cost 15-22 BGN per night. Private rooms cost 35-55 BGN. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds can be found outside the city for 5 BGN per night. Just keep in mind that wild camping is not permitted in Bulgaria.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels range from 50-90 BGN. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and TV. Some also include free breakfast.

Airbnb is limited in Veliko Tarnovo, with private rooms starting at 30-55 BGN per night, while an entire home or apartment costs closer to 90-150 BGN per night. Book early to find the best deals.

Food – Bulgarian cuisine is hearty and similar to that of its Balkan neighbors. Meaty stews with lamb, goat, or chicken are common, as are sausages and all kinds of yogurts (dairy products are big here). Popular dishes include kebapche (grilled mincemeat), shopska salad (similar to Greek salad), and moussaka.

You’ll find the cheapest food in Veliko Tarnovo at the many bakeries and pastry shops. Food like banica (cheese pastry) are as little as 1 BGN.

A meal at a casual restaurant serving traditional cuisine with a drink costs around 15 BGN. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 13 BGN for a combo meal.

If you want to splash out, a meal at a high-end restaurant with wine costs around 35 BGN.

Beer is around 3-4 BGN while a latte/cappuccino costs around 3.17 BGN. Bottled water is 1.50 BGN.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 40-55 BGN. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Veliko Tarnovo Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Veliko Tarnovo, expect to spend about 55 BGN per day. This assumes you’re cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, staying in a hostel dorm, taking public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and visiting the churches. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 BGN to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 130 BGN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals at fast food places, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the fortress and the museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 220 BGN per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever paid tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BGN.

Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Veliko Tarnovo is an affordable place to visit as there are numerous cheap and free things to do around town. You don’t need to worry about breaking the bank here. That said, here are some extra ways to save money in Veliko Tarnovo:

• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to find a local who can host you for free. You’ll save money on accommodation and get to connect with a local insider who can share their tips and advice with you. There are not many hosts here, but you can also use the app to just meet up with other locals and travelers too.
• Take a free walking tour – Walking tours are a great way to get familiar with a city and its culture. Free Veliko Tarnovo Walking Tours takes you all around town to show you the best highlights. Just be sure to tip!
• Skip the taxis – Taxis in Bulgaria are cheap, but they can add up if you overuse them. Skip the taxis as much as you can.
• Cook your own food – Restaurants here are affordable, but cooking your own meals is even cheaper. Head to the grocery stores and markets if you’re on a budget.
• Eat at the bakeries – Bakeries in Bulgaria have inexpensive pastries and other baked goods that can fill you up in the morning. Two of my favorite snacks there are banica and krenvirshka .
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Veliko Tarnovo

There are only a handful of hostels in Veliko Tarnovo but they’re all affordable and comfortable. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Hostel Mostel
• Rooster Hostel

How to Get Around Veliko Tarnovo

Public transportation – It’s easy get around Veliko Tarnovo on foot as it’s pretty small but there is also a small public bus network here in case you need it. You can buy a ticket on board from the driver for 1 BGN.

Taxi – A taxi in Veliko Tarnovo begins at 1.90 BGN and then is 1.60 BGN per kilometer. Uber does not operate here.

Bicycle – Veliko Tarnovo is easy to bike around, with rentals costing around 12 BGN per day.

Car rental – Car rentals are super affordable here, costing as little as 35 BGN per day for a multi-day rental. You won’t need one to get around town but if you want to explore the region at large having a car might be helpful. Just keep in mind that drivers need to be 21 and have an IDP (International Driving Permit).

When to Go to Veliko Tarnovo

Summer in Veliko Tarnovo is warm and sunny, with temperatures between June to mid-September ranging from 16-24°C (60-76°F). This is also the busiest time of year for tourists. If you visit during this time, make sure you book your accommodations in advance as hostels are limited.

Fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) are the shoulder seasons, with temperatures rarely dropping below 6°C (43°F) or going above 24°C (76°F). This is an excellent time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and if you want to do some hiking.

December to February are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping to below freezing. Since tourism dies out for the winter, keep in mind that some businesses and tourist attractions may be closed for the season.

How to Stay Safe in Veliko Tarnovo

Being a small town, Veliko Tarnovo is very safe. Violent crime is rare, as is pretty theft. That said, it’s always a good idea to keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

While scams here are rare here, you can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Bulgaria and continue planning your trip:

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