Фотогалерея ‒ Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Guide to Veliko Tarnovo

A virtual tour of the city

The Tzarevetz Hill was settled by humans as early as the 3rd millennium BCE. At that time, the Thracians settled here. Later, the ancient Romans built the first fortress on this site. Then, the area belonged to Byzantium, and it was only in the 7th-8th century that the Bulgarians settled here. It was during the Second Bulgarian Empire that they built the Tzarevetz Fortress here. The unique relief of Veliko Tarnovo makes walking around the city very interesting and unusual. The main street changes its direction and name several times and passes by the main attraction of the city, the Tzarevetz Fortress. Moving along the main street to the west of Tzarevetz, you will walk along the ridge of the hill, which is washed by the Yantra River on both sides. In this part of the city, there are hardly any paved roads, and houses are located on one of the slopes of the hill. Veliko Tarnovo is literally filled with churches, museums, and ancient streets. To visit all the iconic places of the ancient capital and soak in the atmosphere of a great empire, you should stay here for a few days. In addition to historical buildings, the city offers its guests the delights of local cuisine, the rich nightlife, or strolling through local shops and markets. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore eco-trails, go rock climbing, mountain biking, or take a horseback ride.

Photos of Veliko Tarnovo

Tips for tourists

The currency of Bulgaria is the lev. For currency exchange, it is best to look for exchange offices with a "no commission" sign.
To get a tax free refund, the amount of a receipt from one shop must be at least 1,000 BGN.
When travelling to the hinterland of Bulgaria, it is best to bring cash with you, as there are few ATMs or exchange offices.
Population
71755
Time zone
GMT+3
Language
Bulgarian
Currency
BGN

Tours to Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo, the ancient capital of Bulgaria and the most beautiful city in the country, has so much to offer. From its unique landscapes to ancient fortresses and magnificent churches, it attracts visitors with its rich history and charm. While strolling through the city, you'll discover numerous small shops showcasing the works of local artisans, and cozy restaurants offering delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.

The best time to visit the ancient capital of Bulgaria is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, without the scorching heat or cold temperatures, allowing you to leisurely explore its beautiful streets.

There are several ways to visit Veliko Tarnovo. If you're an independent traveler and organized tours are not your preference, you can fly from Paris to Sofia for 143 EUR round trip. Accommodation options start from 17 EUR per day.

For those who enjoy visiting multiple cities and countries in one trip, bus tours are ideal. The tour includes visits to Romania and Bulgaria, including Veliko Tarnovo, with a cost starting from 86 EUR.

Veliko Tarnovo not only offers a wealth of attractions during the day but also provides an unforgettable nightlife experience. The city hosts numerous festivals, and the annual laser show attracts many tourists.

Interesting places in Veliko Tarnovo

The rich history and abundance of landmarks attract many guests to Veliko Tarnovo. The ancient capital of Bulgaria is ready not only to reveal the secrets of its ancient structures to all who are interested but also to proudly showcase the beauty of the city itself. Veliko Tarnovo has been recognized as the capital of Balkan cultural tourism and has repeatedly been awarded as the most beautiful city in Bulgaria.

To relax from the active sightseeing, visitors can enjoy the numerous restaurants in the city that offer traditional dishes of the local cuisine.

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Travel budget

Flight ticket prices

The closest airports to Veliko Tarnovo are located in Plovdiv, Varna, and Sofia, at a distance of approximately 200 km. Since a larger number of flights arrive in the capital city of Bulgaria on a daily basis, it is more advantageous to search for tickets to Sofia.

From Paris, Ryanair offers the cheapest tickets. The cost of a round-trip flight with carry-on baggage starts from 143 EUR, with a travel time of 1 hour 55 minutes.

From Berlin, Bulgaria Air offers the lowest-cost flights. The price of a ticket with checked baggage starts from 201 EUR, with a travel time of 2 hours 10 minutes.

The best hotels in Veliko Tarnovo

In Veliko Tarnovo, guests can choose from a wide range of accommodation - from hotels to apartments. You can book a double room in the guest house at a price of 18 EUR per night (Diana Guesthouse).

Apartments with two bedrooms and a kitchen will cost from 25 EUR (Apartment Moni). They can accommodate up to 6 guests. A good hotel with stylish rooms will cost from 33 EUR for two per night (Boutique Hotel Tsarevets).

Prices increase to 15-20% in high season.

The cost of vacation

Whether you're going on a luxury tour or a budget trip, it's always important to know how much your trip will cost and where you can save.

For a budget holiday, it is better to consider a low-cost flight with hand luggage included, and to rent an apartment where you will be able to cook for yourself.

The budget for a trip to Veliko Tarnovo
Flight Accomodation from 18 EUR
Average bill in a restaurant from 8 EUR Transport Fare from 0.4 EUR
Excursion from 3 EUR
Total: from 290 EUR for a 4-day holiday per person.

Veliko Tarnovo: tips for tourists

For a bright and memorable trip, take advantage of tripmydream's handy tips.

Visa to Veliko Tarnovo

For European citizens, no visa is required.

The maximum duration of stay for tourists is 90 days within a 180-day period.

Transfer

There are scheduled buses from Sofia Central Bus Station to Veliko Tarnovo. In 3 hours and 7-11 EUR you will reach the ancient capital.
You can get to Veliko Tarnovo by train with a change in Gorna Oryahovitsa for 8-9 EUR.
A taxi from the airport will cost from 110 EUR.

Car Rental

There are local car rental services and international companies in Bulgaria. It is best to book a car online, it will be more economical. You need to take with you: driving license, passport and credit card for deposit.

Transport

Almost all sights in Veliko Tarnovo are within walking distance. A bus ride will cost from 0.7 BGN, and a minibus will cost 1.5 times more.

Safety

Tourism in Bulgaria is developing very rapidly, it is safe and comfortable here. But you need to follow simple safety rules: be careful about personal belongings, especially in tourist places.

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