Walking around Veliko Tarnovo

The charm of the medieval capital

Veliko Tarnovo, known as the City of Kings, is one of the most picturesque and historically significant places in Bulgaria. Located amphitheatrically on the hills of Tsarevets, Trapezitsa and Sveta Gora, the city offers a unique combination of rich history, impressive architecture and wonderful natural views.

Itinerary for a day walk

Morning: Tsarevets and the Patriarchate

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tsarevets fortress - the political and spiritual center of the Second Bulgarian State. Walk along the fortress walls, visit the Patriarchal Cathedral “Ascension of the Lord” and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the meanders of the Yantra River.

Lunch: Samovodska bazaar

After exploring Tsarevets, descend to the Samovodskaya Bazaar - the restored old shopping street, where you can see local craftsmen in action. Here you will find:

• Traditional craft workshops
• Shops for souvenirs and works of art
• Cozy restaurants serving authentic Bulgarian cuisine

Afternoon: Gurko Street and Museum “Vazrazhdane and Constituent Assembly”

Continue your walk along the iconic Gurko Street - one of the most picturesque streets in the city with authentic Renaissance architecture. Visit the Museum “Revival and Constituent Assembly”, located in the building of the former Turkish cognac, where the first Bulgarian constitution was adopted in 1879.

At dusk: Mount Sveta Gora and Arbanasi

If the weather permits, climb to the hill of Sveta Gora, where the University of Veliko Tarnovo is located and a wonderful panorama of the city opens up. To end the day, take the time for a short visit to the village of Arbanasi, located only 4 km from Veliko Tarnovo, known for its authentic architecture and churches with valuable frescoes.

Main attractions

Architectural and Museum Reserve “Tsarevets”
The medieval fortress where the Bulgarian kings ruled in the XII-XIV centuries.

Trapezitsa Hill
The second most important fortified hill in Veliko Tarnovo with the remains of 17 medieval churches.

Church “St. 40 Martyrs”
Medieval church built by Tsar Ivan Asen II in honor of the great victory at Klokotnitsa in 1230.

Church of St. Peter and Paul”
One of the oldest churches in the city with valuable frescoes of the XIII-XIV centuries.

Museum “Revival and Constituent Assembly”
Place where the Tarnovo Constitution was adopted - one of the most democratic of its time.

Samovodska bazaar
A restored Renaissance shopping street with workshops of local artisans.

Monument “Asenevtsi”
A monumental monument depicting the four kings of the Asenevtsi dynasty - Asen, Peter, Kaloyan and Ivan Asen II.

Special Events

Audio-visual performance “Sound and Light”
An impressive light and sound show that recreates key moments of Bulgarian history with the Tsarevets fortress as a decor.

International Festival “Medieval Turnovgrad”
An annual festival that recreates medieval life with knightly tournaments, craft demonstrations and medieval music.

Holidays of Veliko Tarnovo - 22 March
The official holiday of the city, marked by a rich cultural program.

Services of Grand Hotel Yantra

For the guests of Grand Hotel Yantra we offer:

• Detailed maps of the city with marked tourist routes
• Organized tours with a professional guide
• Information about the opening hours of museums and attractions
• Reservations for the performance “Sound and Light”
• Recommendations for authentic restaurants and cafes

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For more information and to organize your walk around Veliko Tarnovo, please contact the reception of Grand Hotel Yantra.

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