Veliko Tarnovo

Cityscape: Historic opulence

Veliko Tarnovo is located in Central Bulgaria on Yantra river and it is famous as the historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. The city has exquisite architecture and it is one of the oldest settlements in Bulgaria. The picturesque situation and panoramic view of the town, its rich cultural and historical heritage wins Veliko Tarnovo the recognition as a historical, cultural and tourist center of contemporary Bulgaria. The town is situated amphitheatrically on three hills - Tsarevetz, Trapezitsa and Sveta Gora and impresses with its specific Renaissance culture, colorful mosaics and handcrafted work of art. Valuable architectural ensembles dating back to the Bulgarian National Revival have preserved the atmosphere of the past century. The buildings are perching one above the other, overhang rocks and precipices and Yantra River below, standing close to one another along narrow winding streets. The great Bulgarian master builder Kolyo Ficheto worked there and created stunning masterpeaces. The antique part of the town has been declared an architectural and historical reserve. Veliko Tranovo is a city that grabs the visitor at the first sight.

Local events

The International Folklore Festival is an annual event. It is held in July and is one of the biggest international folklore forums in the Balkans. It is a huge national event with an unique atmosphere. Balkan Folk Fest is conducted yearly in the beginning of May. More than ten thousand Bulgarian folklore dancers, singers and musicians, and orchestras from all over Bulgaria come to Veliko Tarnovo to perform, see  friends and to show that the Bulgarian Renaissance spirit is still alive. The official holiday of Veliko Turnovo is  March 22nd. It coincides with the beginning of the spring and is often extended to three days of a very interesting and enjoyable cultural program.

Worth seeing

You should not miss the emblem of the city – the fortress hill Tsarevets, located at the eastern end of the city and protected on three sides by the Yantra river. Opposite Tsarevets to the North-West lies Trapezitsa hill with its excavated 17 church foundations. Between the two hills is the picturesque quarter Asenova Mahala. Superb view of the city can be seen from Sveta Gora hill.

Don’t miss the chance to stop at the Cathedral church – the biggest active church in the city, as well as the museum of the Bulgarian Revival and Constituent Assembly. The Archeological museum is also located next door. A stroll down Gurko street will bring a touch of romance from the Revival period, with the unique architecture, the beauty of the Sarafkina house, the church of St. Constantine and Elena, as well as the gorgeous view of the Yantra river and the Asen's Monument. Another part of the old town from the same period is Varosh. There you will find the Samodivska charshia with its traditional crafts work shops, souvenir shops and art galleries. Also there you can visit the St. Nicolas and St.St. Cyril and Methodius churches and from the highest points of the quarter you can witness a breathtaking view towards the whole city.

While you are in Veliko Tarnovo do not miss the chance to witness the unique audio-visual show Tsarevgrad Tarnov - Sound and Light, a thrilling spectacle with hypnotizing sounds where the historic Tsarevetz hill forms a natural decor.

Whether you are shopping for need or shopping for fun, Veliko Turnovo has plenty for you. From the small and locally-owned shops, to the big supermarkets and shopping centers, the city has everything you could ever want, with every shop producing their own style and mood. The city centre is the main shopping area which includes the streets Vasil Levski and Nezavisimost. If you are looking for the freshest and tastiest fruit and vegetables, the City Market located at the corner of the streets Nikola Gabrovski and Bulgaria is the place for you.

Going out

A perfect service, traditional food and excellent wine selection can be enjoyed in restaurant Karuchkata (41, Bulgaria blvd). If you fancy a modern restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine check The Godfather (29, Bulgaria blvd).