Veliko Turnovo - Discovering Bulgaria

Travelling to Veliko Turnovo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Veliko Turnovo, 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 Veliko Turnovo 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 Veliko Turnovo, 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 Veliko Turnovo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Veliko Turnovo

Veliko Turnovo is a city located in central Bulgaria, known for being the old capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It is situated on the Yantra River and is surrounded by hills, which provide stunning views of the city. The city is famous for its medieval fortresses, historic churches, and monasteries that are major tourist attractions. The city center is built on three hills and offers charming streets, shops, and restaurants. Veliko Turnovo is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of festivals, concerts, and performances taking place throughout the year. Overall, Veliko Turnovo is a must-visit destination in Bulgaria for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic Bulgarian experience.

What to visit in Veliko Turnovo

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Veliko Turnovo and some information about them: 1. Tsarevets Fortress - This impressive fortress was the medieval capital of Bulgaria during the Second Bulgarian Empire. It is perched on a hill, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the fortress walls, towers and gates, as well as the restored royal palace and church.
2. Samovodska Charshia - This street in the old town of Veliko Turnovo has been restored to showcase traditional Bulgarian crafts and culture. Visitors can browse through shops selling handmade pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more. There are also several restaurants and cafes serving traditional Bulgarian cuisine.
3. St. Peter and Paul Church - This is one of the oldest churches in Veliko Turnovo, dating back to the 13th century. It is famous for its impressive murals and frescoes, which depict scenes from both the Old and New Testament.
4. Assenova krepost - This ruined fortress dates back to the 12th century and was an important defensive stronghold during Bulgarian history. Visitors can explore the remains of the walls, towers and gates, as well as the well-preserved water cisterns.
5. Arbanasi Village - This picturesque village is located just outside Veliko Turnovo and is famous for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the many churches and monasteries in the village, as well as sample local wines and foods at the local restaurants.
Overall, Veliko Turnovo is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning views, impressive architecture, and rich cultural heritage, it is sure to charm any visitor.
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 Veliko Turnovo

The best time to visit Veliko Turnovo is during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when the weather is warmer and there is plenty of sunshine. However, if you are interested in winter sports and activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating, then you may want to visit during the winter months from December to February. There are also several festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year in Veliko Turnovo, so it is worth researching these in advance to help plan your trip.

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

How to get to Veliko Turnovo

There are several ways to get to Veliko Turnovo, a city in Bulgaria: 1. By plane: The nearest airport is in Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria. From there, you can take a bus or a train to Veliko Turnovo.
2. By train: There are daily trains from Sofia and other major cities in Bulgaria to Veliko Turnovo. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, and the trains are comfortable and affordable.
3. By bus: There are also daily buses from Sofia and other major cities in Bulgaria to Veliko Turnovo. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic.
4. By car: You can also rent a car and drive to Veliko Turnovo. The roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate, and you can enjoy the scenic drive through the Bulgarian countryside.
No matter how you choose to travel, Veliko Turnovo is definitely worth the trip. Its historic Old Town, stunning hilltop fortress, and beautiful scenery make it one of Bulgaria's most popular tourist destinations.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Veliko Turnovo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Veliko Turnovo

Veliko Turnovo is a historical town in Bulgaria that offers a variety of delicious traditional foods. Here are some typical local dishes you should try: 1. Banitsa - Banitsa is a pastry made with layers of filo dough and filled with a mixture of eggs and Bulgarian cheese. It is usually served hot and can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
2. Patatnik - Patatnik is a potato dish that is often made with shredded potatoes, onions, and seasoning. It is cooked on a skillet and served either hot or cold.
3. Kavarma - Kavarma is a stew made with pork or chicken, onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It is typically cooked in a clay pot and served with bread or rice.
4. Meshana Skara - Meshana Skara is a mixed grill that includes a variety of meats such as pork, lamb, and sausage. It is often served with roasted vegetables and potatoes.
5. Lyutenitsa - Lyutenitsa is a popular spread made from peppers, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. It is often eaten on bread or as a condiment with grilled meat.
6. Tarator - Tarator is a cold soup made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and walnuts. It is typically eaten during the summer months and is a refreshing and healthy dish.
Overall, Veliko Turnovo offers a variety of delicious traditional dishes that are sure to satisfy any food lover's appetite.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bulgaria here.

Is Veliko Turnovo an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Bulgaria, Veliko Turnovo is considered to be slightly more expensive. However, it is still relatively affordable when compared to many other popular tourist destinations in Europe. The cost of a trip to Veliko Turnovo can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, accommodation choice, and activities planned. Overall, travelers can expect to spend anywhere from moderate to high levels of expenses depending on their preferences and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Veliko Turnovo

The best areas to find accommodation in Veliko Turnovo, Bulgaria are the Old Town (Stari Grad), around Tsarevets Fortress, and along the main pedestrian street (Ulitsa General Gurko). Staying in the Old Town will put you in the heart of the historic district and within walking distance to many of the city's landmarks. Accommodations around Tsarevets Fortress offer stunning views of the fortress and the surrounding hills. Finally, staying along Ulitsa General Gurko will put you close to shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
You can check hotel prices at Veliko Turnovo here:
Booking.com

Is Veliko Turnovo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Veliko Turnovo is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's always a good idea to take precautions like staying aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables in a safe place, and following local customs and laws. You may also want to research any specific safety concerns or areas to avoid before your trip.
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 Veliko Turnovo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Veliko Turnovo the most?

Veliko Turnovo is a city rich in history and culture, making it a great destination for all types of travelers. However, it's particularly popular among couples and families who are interested in exploring the city's historical landmarks and enjoying its scenic views. The city's cobbled streets, old houses and stunning fortress offer a unique and romantic scenery. Families will also appreciate the town's many parks, with plenty of space for hiking, picnicking and peaceful walks. However, Veliko Turnovo is not particularly known for its nightlife scene, so young people searching for fun and parties may not find it as exciting as other destinations.

How to get around Veliko Turnovo

There are several options for transportation around Veliko Turnovo, Bulgaria: 1. Walking: The city center is compact and easily walkable, which is an ideal way to explore its main attractions.
2. Local buses and trolleybuses: Veliko Turnovo has a well-connected public transportation system that operates around the city.
3. Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or called by phone.
4. Car rentals: Cars can be rented from companies located in the city or at airports.
5. Bicycle rentals: For the more adventurous travelers and active travelers, bicycle rentals are also available.

What to see around Veliko Turnovo

Sure, here are some lovely places you can visit in a day trip from Veliko Turnovo: 1. Arbanassi - a picturesque village with traditional Bulgarian houses, beautiful churches, and stunning views of the mountains.
2. Shipka - a town famous for its imposing Russian-style cathedral, beautiful mountain scenery, and historic significance as the site of a decisive battle in the Russo-Turkish War.
3. Etara - an open-air museum of Bulgarian traditional crafts set in beautiful natural surroundings, where you can see craftsmen demonstrating pottery, weaving, blacksmithing, and other trades.
4. Bozhentsi - a well-preserved 19th-century village with cobbled streets, stone houses, and quaint restaurants serving local Bulgarian cuisine.
5. Devetashka Cave - a beautiful natural wonder with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, located about an hour's drive from Veliko Turnovo.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more information about any of these places.
For every travel information about Bulgaria you can click here.

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