Karlovo - Discovering Bulgaria

Travelling to Karlovo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Karlovo, a pretty good destination in Bulgaria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Karlovo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Karlovo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bulgaria, here's everything to know about Karlovo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Karlovo

Karlovo is a town located in central Bulgaria, in the valley of the river Stryama. It is situated at the foot of the Balkan Mountains and is known for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and rich cultural heritage. Karlovo is famous for being the birthplace of one of Bulgaria's most prominent historical figures, Vasil Levski, who played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence in the 19th century. The town is also known for its rose oil production, traditional crafts, and folk festivals. Karlovo is an ideal destination for those who love nature, history, and culture.

What to visit in Karlovo

Karlovo is a small town located in the central part of Bulgaria, known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and culture. Here are some of the tourist attractions that you can visit in Karlovo: 1. Museum of Vasil Levski - Vasil Levski was a Bulgarian revolutionary and the most prominent figure of the Bulgarian National Revival. The museum dedicated to him displays documents, photos, and relics related to his life and activities.
2. House-Museum of Petko Slaveykov - Petko Slaveykov was a distinguished Bulgarian poet, writer, and public figure. His house in Karlovo has been preserved as a museum, and it displays his personal belongings, books, manuscripts, and other significant artifacts.
3. Holy Forty Martyrs Church - The Holy Forty Martyrs Church is one of the oldest churches in Karlovo, built-in 1843. It is a remarkable example of Bulgarian Orthodox church architecture, with unique frescoes and icons.
4. Sopot - Sopot is a picturesque mountainous village near Karlovo, famous for its natural beauty, clean air, and thermal springs. It offers many opportunities for hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities.
5. National Park "Central Balkan" - The National Park "Central Balkan" is one of the largest and most valuable protected areas in Bulgaria. It offers stunning landscapes, rare flora and fauna species, and various recreational activities.
6. Kalofer - Kalofer is a nearby town, known for its traditions, folklore, and the annual Rose festival. It is also a gateway to the Central Balkan National Park and the Sopot mountain resort.
Visiting Karlovo is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Bulgarian history, culture, and nature.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bulgaria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Karlovo

The best time to visit Karlovo (Bulgaria) is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with activity. September and October can also be good months to visit as the weather remains mild, and the fall foliage is beautiful. However, it's important to note that Karlovo can get quite crowded during peak season, so you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season of May or September for a quieter experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Karlovo

The most convenient way to get to Karlovo is by taking a flight to Sofia International Airport, which is the closest international airport to Karlovo. From Sofia, you can take a train or bus to Karlovo.
By train, there are regular direct trains leaving from Sofia to Karlovo. The journey takes about 2-3 hours and the ticket price is around 10-15 EUR. Train schedules and tickets can be found on the Bulgarian State Railways website.
By bus, there are several bus companies operating regular services between Sofia and Karlovo. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and the ticket price is around 8-10 EUR. Bus schedules and tickets can be found on websites like Busbud or Omio.
Alternatively, you can also rent a car and drive from Sofia to Karlovo. The journey takes around 2 hours and the distance is approximately 140 km.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Karlovo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Karlovo

Karlovo is a beautiful town in Bulgaria known for its delicious traditional cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Karlovo with a short description for each of them: 1. Patatnik - Patatnik is a traditional Bulgarian potato dish that originates from the Rhodope Mountains. It's made from grated potatoes, onions, and spices that are mixed together and baked in the oven. The result is a crispy and delicious potato pie that's perfect for a meal.
2. Kavarma - Kavarma is a traditional meat and vegetable stew that's cooked in a clay pot. The dish is made with pork or beef, tomato, pepper, onions, garlic, and spices, and it's slowly cooked to perfection. Kavarma is usually served with fresh bread, and it's perfect for cold winter days.
3. Kapama - Kapama is a Bulgarian meat stew that's cooked in a clay pot. The dish is made with pork or beef, sauerkraut, rice, and spices, and it's slowly cooked for hours. Kapama is a popular dish during the winter holidays and is usually served with fresh bread and pickled vegetables.
4. Lyutenitsa - Lyutenitsa is a type of relish that's made from roasted peppers, tomatoes, and onions. The vegetables are mashed together with garlic, spices, and oil to create a thick and flavorful spread that's perfect for bread or as a condiment for meat dishes.
5. Banitsa - Banitsa is a traditional Bulgarian pastry made with filo dough and cheese. The dough is layered with feta cheese, eggs, and butter, and it's baked until golden brown. Banitsa is a popular breakfast dish in Bulgaria, and it's usually served with yogurt.
6. Galatnik - Galatnik is a traditional Bulgarian dessert made from layers of phyllo pastry, ground walnuts, cinnamon, and honey syrup. The layers are baked until golden brown, and the dessert is cut into small squares before serving. Galatnik is perfect for sweetening up your day.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bulgaria here.

Is Karlovo an expensive destination for tourists?

Karlovo is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists compared to other destinations in Bulgaria. Accommodation rates and dining costs in Karlovo are relatively reasonable compared to other tourist hotspots in Bulgaria. However, the actual cost of your trip will largely depend on your activities, preferences, and budget. It would still be advisable to research and compare prices before booking any trip to Karlovo to ensure you get the most value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Karlovo

The best areas to find accommodation in Karlovo, Bulgaria would be in the city center or near popular attractions such as the Vasil Levski Museum or the Church of the Holy Mother. Additionally, there are some nice hotel options in the surrounding countryside for those who prefer a more rural experience.
You can check hotel prices at Karlovo here:
Booking.com

Is Karlovo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Karlovo is considered a safe place for tourists. Bulgaria, in general, is a safe country with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it is still important to practice common sense safety measures like being aware of your surroundings, not carrying too much cash, and avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Additionally, it is always a good idea to keep your valuable belongings in a secure location and to maintain a close eye on your personal belongings at all times.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bulgaria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Karlovo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Karlovo the most?

Karlovo, Bulgaria is a great location for a variety of travelers. Here are a few examples: - Couples: Karlovo's charming small-town vibe and scenic views make it an ideal location for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a walk through the city and its quaint streets, visit the rose fields and see the famous rose oil distilleries, or take an afternoon stroll through the local park.
- Families: Karlovo is family-friendly and offers a variety of educational sightseeing tours and tours focused on eco-tourism. Children can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and even visiting Thracian tombs. - Active travelers: Karlovo has plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and cycling, making it perfect for active travelers who like to explore the great outdoors.
- Nature lovers: The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Balkan Mountains, the Rose Valley, and the Stryama River. Visitors can take in the scenery by hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying a picnic in the great outdoors.
Overall, Karlovo can be a great destination for any type of traveler!

How to get around Karlovo

Karlovo is a small town in Bulgaria and it is relatively easy to navigate around by foot, especially in the town center. However, if you need to travel further afield, there are several options available to you. The most common form of transportation in Karlovo is the bus. The town has a well-connected local bus network that links different parts of the town and surrounding areas. Taxis are also readily available, but may be more expensive than taking the bus. If you want to explore different areas outside of Karlovo, renting a car could be a good option.

What to see around Karlovo

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Karlovo: 1. Koprivshtitsa - a charming town known for its well-preserved Bulgarian Renaissance architecture and rich cultural heritage.
2. Sopot - a small town in the Rhodope Mountains known for its beautiful nature, hiking trails, and the Sopot Dam.
3. Starosel - a village known for its Thracian tomb, which is considered one of the most well-preserved examples of Thracian architecture in Bulgaria.
4. Hisarya - a small town famous for its mineral springs, Roman ruins, and the Hisarya Fortress.
5. Plovdiv - the second-largest city in Bulgaria, known for its ancient Roman amphitheater, charming Old Town, and many cultural and historical landmarks.
6. Buzludzha Monument - a unique and controversial communist-era monument located in the Balkan Mountains.
7. Shipka Pass - a mountain pass that played a pivotal role in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78, offering stunning views and hiking trails.
For every travel information about Bulgaria you can click here.

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