Veliko Tarnovo is in north-central Bulgaria, approximately 135 miles (220 km) east of Sofia and 140 miles (225 km) from the Black Sea. The city is on the Yantra River, south of the Danube Plain and north of the Balkan Mountains.

If you’re planning a trip to Veliko Tarnovo, there are many great places to stay. However, we strongly recommend staying near the castle icon on the map below for the best experience. This is in the Old Town where you can enjoy the unique architecture, close to the restaurants with amazing views over the river, and not far from all the best wine bars. And, it’s a short and easy walk to the fortress.

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The best month to visit Veliko Tarnovo depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.

The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Veliko Tarnovo is pleasant throughout the year, with warm summers and mild winters. If you prefer bright and warm days, the best time to visit is May to September. During this period, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Below is a chart showing each month’s average high and low temperatures so you can decide what is best for you.

The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Veliko Tarnovo is April thru May and September thru October. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.

During these months, tourist numbers are lower, allowing you to explore the city’s attractions easily and without jostling among large crowds. The weather during these shoulder seasons is also quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). You’ll still be able to enjoy outdoor activities and soak in the beauty of Veliko Tarnovo but with a more tranquil ambiance.

If you enjoy warm temperatures and bustling streets, the summer months of June to August are ideal. With temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), you’ll have plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities and explore the city’s sights.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Veliko Tarnovo depends on your preferences. Whether you prioritize weather, crowds, or value, there is a suitable time for everyone to visit Veliko Tarnovo.

For those looking for the best value, consider visiting Veliko Tarnovo during the off-peak months of November to March. Although the weather might be slightly colder, with temperatures averaging around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), you’ll find that the city is less crowded and prices for accommodations are lower. This is a great time to explore historical sites, such as the Tsarevets Fortress and the Old Town, without having to compete with large tourist groups. Additionally, you might also enjoy the cozy atmosphere of local cafes and restaurants during this off-peak season.

Although Veliko Tarnovo does not have an international airport with arriving passenger flights, several airport options exist, including Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas, and Varna. Sofia is approximately 2h 51m from Veliko Tarnovo by car; Plovdiv is 2h 50m away; 2h 34m away; and Varna is 2h 32m away. Although Sofia is a few minutes further away, it has a lot more flights than the others.

During the winter, Veliko Tarnovo is on Eastern European Time (EET; UTC +2). It is on Eastern European Summer Time (EEST; UTC +3) during the summer.

The lev is the currency of Bulgaria.

Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria. However, English is widely spoken in Veliko Tarnovo.

Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Bulgaria if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Bulgaria, check out our article on traveling visa-free.

Bulgaria’s electrical outlets are Type C and F. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter. It’s the same adapter used for the rest of Europe.

Bulgaria operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

We recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins if you have many items to plug in. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.

Travelers will want a SIM card for Bulgaria. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.

To get a local SIM card, you must find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.

We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased before arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.

The train system in Bulgaria makes rental cars unnecessary for most destinations. However, rental cars are needed to reach smaller towns and explore the countryside. In addition to the major car rental companies found in the United States, Sixt and Europcar are common throughout Europe. For a comparison of rental car offers from large international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.

Veliko Tarnovo is definitely worth visiting! Located in central Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city was once the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and is home to the impressive Tsarevets Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Veliko Tarnovo also boasts charming cobblestone streets, traditional Bulgarian houses, and a vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, enjoying traditional cuisine, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery, Veliko Tarnovo has something to offer every visitor. So go ahead and plan a trip to this fascinating city – you won’t be disappointed!

If you want more information, we explored this question in depth in our article “Is Veliko Tarnovo Worth Visiting?”

Veliko Tarnovo is famous for being the historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the Tsarevets Fortress and the Patriarchal Cathedral. Veliko Tarnovo is also famous for its picturesque location on three hills overlooking the Yantra River. The city attracts tourists with its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful natural surroundings. Additionally, Veliko Tarnovo hosts a vibrant arts and crafts scene and is home to several universities, making it a center of education and creativity in Bulgaria.

Veliko Tarnovo is generally considered to be a safe city for tourists. Like any popular tourist destination, it is always advisable to take common-sense precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards visitors, making Veliko Tarnovo a welcoming place for tourists. As with any travel destination, it is recommended to check current travel advisories and follow any guidelines provided by local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

In Bulgarian, the word “veliko” means “great” or “grand.” It is derived from the Slavic word “velik,” which carries a similar meaning. The name “Veliko Tarnovo” reflects the city’s historical significance as the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and its grandeur in terms of architecture, culture, and natural beauty. So, when you visit Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll experience greatness in every aspect.

The number of days needed to fully explore Veliko Tarnovo depends on your interests and available time. However, to truly appreciate the city’s historical sites, cultural heritage, and natural surroundings, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Veliko Tarnovo. This will allow you to visit attractions such as the Tsarevets Fortress and the Patriarchal Cathedral and explore the charming streets of the old town.

Additionally, you’ll have time to immerse yourself in the local arts scene and enjoy the picturesque views overlooking the Yantra River. So plan your itinerary accordingly and give yourself enough time to soak in the grandeur of Veliko Tarnovo.

For a list of the best things to see and a suggested walking tour, check out our article “18 Best Things to Do in Veliko Tarnovo.”

Veliko TVeliko Tarnovo is a city in the north-central part of Bulgaria and serves as the administrative center of Veliko Tarnovo Province.

There are several options to get to Veliko Tarnovo. Although it does not have an international airport with arriving passenger flights, several airport options exist, including Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas, and Varna. These cities are just under 3 hours from Veliko Tarnovo by car. We recommend using Discover Cars to compare options and prices if you plan to rent a car. To arrange a taxi or private transfer, we recommend GetTransfer.

Alternatively, if you have plenty of time, you can also take advantage of Bulgaria’s train system. Unfortunately, the train system is not the most efficient in Europe.