Veliko Tarnovo: the capital of the cultural tourism in Bulgaria

article by Veneta Nikolova, Bnr.bg

It doesn’t need introduction, as it is one of the most beautiful and most famous cities in Bulgaria. Over half a million tourists from Bulgaria and abroad visit the city annually and it is famous as an excellent destination for cultural tourism. During the past few years Veliko Tarnovo became one of the most advertised tourism destinations. The city attracts numerous tourists because of the numerous historical monuments from different epochs; the medieval capital of Bulgaria also inflames the fantasy of its guests by the incredible food, the rich cultural program and the numerous opportunities for daytime and nightlife entertainment.

If you decide to visit Veliko Tarnovo, we recommend you to grant more time to this colourful Bulgarian city. Thus you will have time to visit all museums, to stroll around the steep streets on the old market and to take your chance and try the local specialties in the small traditional restaurants. That is the only way to dive into the nostalgic atmosphere of the old capital of Bulgaria. The picturesque houses and churches are situated in amphitheatrically on the two historical hills Tsarevets and Trapezitsa, and the silver waters of the Yantra River pass right between them.

The town and its vicinities are also known as the “Bularian Sveta Gora”, because more than 40 monasteries together with numerous churches can be found in the region, said Mr. Daniel Panov – head of the Municipal Tourism Agency. According to him the Tsarevets fortress, together with the Rila Monastery were the most visited tourism attractions in Bulgaria. The old fortress seems to revive from its century long dream under the sounds of the incredible music and the impressive light and sound effects. “At the moment the hotels in the city are occupied at 70% of their capacity, and we are still at the beginning of the tourism season, which lasts until the end of November!” – explained Mr. Panov.

“The city and it vicinities offer 5200 beds. That is why we need new hotels to focus on the congress tourism and to develop the potential of the city. The city itself offers wonderful opportunities for international meetings and seminars, combined with cultural tours. For example our guests can get acquainted with the local traditions and crafts on the Samovodski Market, situated in the old part of Veliko Tarnovo. 18 city crafts, from the medieval period are presented in the site. Visitors can take a look at the crafts workshop, learn from the masters and receive a special apprenticeship certificate. The city offers 16 museums, which attract tourists all year round.”

Do not miss to visit the Sarafkina House, which presents the town’s lifestyle of the locals from the end of XIX century. The house was owned by a rich tradesman and is tastefully decorated, according to the tendencies of the time. Guests will have the chance to try white jam and can observe the rich collection of icons, traditional costumes and interesting collection of retro photographs.

Another interesting attraction is the Jail Museum, where tourists can see the cells where the most notable rebels for national liberation were thrown. The museum also offers you the opportunity to spend the night handcuffed in the jail.

For the real thrill seekers we recommend to view Veliko Tarnovo from airplane. During the summer evenings, tourists can observe the spectacle “Sound and light” from the plane.
The town is also part of the popular gourmet route. Connoisseurs from all over the world visit the local traditional taverns with live music to try the numerous local specialties and great selections of fine wines. Fine luxurious restaurants offer Italian, French, Japanese and Mexican dishes.