Veliko Tarnovo

Велико Търново

The medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, dramatically draped over hills above the Yantra River. Its cobbled old town, restored crafts street and clifftop churches make it one of Bulgaria's most atmospheric cities.

Things to do

• Tsarevets Fortress — Explore the vast medieval stronghold of the Bulgarian tsars, crowned by the Patriarchal Cathedral with panoramic views over the city.
• Sound and Light Show — Watch the dramatic evening spectacle of lasers, lights and music projected onto Tsarevets Hill to tell Bulgaria's turbulent history.
• Samovodska Charshia — Wander the restored crafts street where blacksmiths, potters, weavers and bakers work in traditional Revival-era workshops.
• Asen Dynasty Monument — Admire the striking sword-and-horsemen monument perched on a spur above the Yantra, celebrating the medieval kings.
• Church of the Nativity, Arbanasi — Visit the nearby stone village of Arbanasi to see its unassuming church covered inside with thousands of vivid frescoes.
• Gurko Street — Stroll the photogenic old lane of stone houses clinging to the cliff above the river, one of the city's most atmospheric spots.
• State Art Museum — Cross the river to the museum set in a loop of the Yantra, offering fine views back toward the old town and the Asen monument.

Food to try

• Toplo pileshka supa — Warming chicken and vegetable soups are a Bulgarian staple, often served as a hearty first course in local mehanas.
• Kavarma — A rich slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew, traditionally baked and served in an individual clay pot.
• Banitsa — Flaky filo pastry layered with white brine cheese and eggs, a favorite breakfast bought fresh from local bakeries.
• Shopska salad — The classic Bulgarian salad of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers topped with grated sirene cheese, best with a glass of rakia.
• Local rakia and wine — Sample fruit brandy and regional wines from the surrounding hills, a customary aperitif in the town's taverns.

Local customs & good to know

• Wear good walking shoes — The town sprawls across steep hills and cobbled lanes, so expect plenty of climbing and uneven surfaces.
• Nodding means no — Bulgarians often shake their head for yes and nod for no, which can confuse first-time visitors.
• Respect church dress codes — Cover shoulders and knees when entering the fortress cathedral and Arbanasi churches, and ask before photographing frescoes.
• Cash is handy — Many small craft shops, bakeries and mehanas prefer Bulgarian lev in cash, so carry some for smaller purchases.

Nearby

• Tsarevets Fortress — 2 km
• Arbanasi — 3 km
• Dryanovo Monastery — 23 km
• Tryavna — 27 km