2025 Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Day 5 of road trip. Started driving from Bansko to Valiko Tarnovo early in the morning. Took a total of 6 hours drive including breaks. However most of the drive was a straight road on the highway so it was not too difficult. The sky was already dark when we had our early dinner at 5pm. The first impression of this town upon arrival was an arty feel, with many huge wall arts. The night views of the street were what’s left for us to explore today but it was not bad at all ! However most of the shops closed at 530 pm and the streets had very few people.

Perched on a hill in the heart of Veliko Tarnovo, Tsarevets Fortress stands as a testament to Bulgaria's rich and tumultuous history. As you approach this medieval stronghold, the imposing stone walls come into view, whispering tales of ancient battles and royal intrigues. Overlooking the Yantra River, the fortress invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the legacy of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Passing through the main gate, you can almost hear the echoes of the past. The cobblestone paths, worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, lead you deeper into the fortress. Each step feels like a journey through history, with every corner revealing a new story. The ruins of the palace, once the center of power, evoke images of grand feasts and solemn ceremonies. It's easy to imagine these walls once bustling with life, from the clanging of armor to the hushed whispers of courtly conversations. The panoramic views from the fortress are breathtaking. Gazing out over the rolling hills and winding rivers, you feel a profound connection to the land and its history. The beauty of the landscape intertwined with the fortress's history creates an experience that is both humbling and inspiring. Tsarevets Fortress is not just a historical site; it's a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the soul of Bulgaria.

Today, I want to share a hidden gem. This small town offers the most stunning 360-degree views I've ever seen in all my years of traveling. Walking into Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of Bulgaria, I discovered a town with no bad angles. Standing on Tsarevets Hill, you have the majestic palace behind you and the picturesque narrow streets built along the hillside in front of you. To the right in the photo, there's a railway bridge and a castle, while to the left, there's a vast plain filled with residential houses. The claim of zero bad angles is no exaggeration. The town is so small that you can see it all at a glance. The beauty of the town, however, is beyond words.

Veliko Tarnovo (Bulgarian: Велико Търново, romanized: Veliko Tyrnovo, pronounced [vɛˈliko ˈtɤrnovo]; "Great Tarnovo") is a city in north central Bulgaria and the administrative centre of Veliko Tarnovo Province. It is the historical and cultural capital of Bulgaria. Often referred as the "City of the Tsars", Veliko Tarnovo is located on the Yantra River and is famously known as the historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, attracting many tourists with its unique architecture. The old part of the town is situated on three hills, Tsarevets, Trapezitsa, and Sveta Gora, rising amidst the meanders of the Yantra. On Tsarevets are the palaces of the Bulgarian emperors and the Patriarchate, the Patriarchal Cathedral, and also a number of administrative and residential edifices surrounded by thick walls. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Velinko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Velinko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Veliko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Velinko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Veliko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Velinko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Velinko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Excellent third wave coffee shop in the heart of Veliko Turnovo. If not best in this town, this may be the best in all of Bulgaria. So many choices from hot to cold, they have food, and sparkling water. The owner is really passionate about coffee and very knowledgeable, he explains the different roasts and aromas to his curious customers and let’s them smell the aromas. The shop itself is beautifully decorated, plenty of seats and very clean. If you’re into third wave or just coffee in general this is the spot. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Veliko Tarnovo (Bulgarian: Велико Търново, romanized: Veliko Tyrnovo, pronounced [vɛˈliko ˈtɤrnovo]; "Great Tarnovo") is a city in north central Bulgaria and the administrative centre of Veliko Tarnovo Province. It is the historical and cultural capital of Bulgaria. Often referred as the "City of the Tsars", Veliko Tarnovo is located on the Yantra River and is famously known as the historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, attracting many tourists with its unique architecture. The old part of the town is situated on three hills, Tsarevets, Trapezitsa, and Sveta Gora, rising amidst the meanders of the Yantra. On Tsarevets are the palaces of the Bulgarian emperors and the Patriarchate, the Patriarchal Cathedral, and also a number of administrative and residential edifices surrounded by thick walls. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport

Enter the fascinating world of illusion which will trick your confidence in senses, but amaze you by doing it; the world that will confuse you completely, but also educate you… Visit us and you will be thrilled because nothing is what it seems, especially not in the Museum of Illusions! #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

The Hadji Nikoli Inn of Veliko Tarnovo is part of the Bulgarian cultural and historical hetitage and a unique masterpiece from the age of the Bulgarian Renaissance. The inn was built in 1858 for Hadji Nikoli - a famous Turnovo tradesman who took an active part in the struggle for an independent Bulgarian Orthodox Church. The architect and builder was the native genius builder master Kolyo Ficheto who created a magnificent monumental building compared to a Venetian Palace even today. The Inn is also significant because of the fact that it is the only one of all 70 inns built in the city that survived over the years. Recently restored and renovated, it is now open for visitors as a complex of a restaurant, cafe, wine-bar with a wine-shop, museum and an Art gallery. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

Trapezitsa (Bulgarian: Трапезица) is a medieval stronghold located on a hill with the same name in Veliko Tarnovo in northern Bulgaria. The name of Trapezitza is believed to derive from the word “трапеза” (table) or from “trapezium” as is the shape of the plateau. The most likely origin is the word “trapezits” – soldiers guarding the passes who were the first settlers on the hill in the Middle Ages. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

If you're travelling through Bulgaria and want to stop in a small city with a lot to offer, then you're sure to fall in love with Veliko Tarnovo. There are a lot of diverse things to do here and it's simply lovely to wander through and enjoy the scenery. Tsarevets (Bulgarian: Царевец, romanized: Tsarevets) is a medieval stronghold located on a hill with the same name in Veliko Tarnovo in northern Bulgaria. Tsarevets is 206 metres (676 ft) above sea level.[1] It served as the Second Bulgarian Empire's primary fortress and strongest bulwark between 1185 and 1393, housing the royal and the patriarchal palaces, and it is also a popular tourist attraction. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

#EuropeGuidePantheon “Mother Bulgaria” - Veliko Tarnovo If you are visiting the historical city of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, in addition to feeling the charm of the ancient capital, the Pantheon “Mother Bulgaria” is a magnificent place that you should not miss. 🇧🇬 It is more than just a monument, it is a deep remembrance of the Bulgarian people for the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of their country. The Pantheon is located on a high point with a beautiful view of the city, and it exudes a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. The main building of the Pantheon is majestic and magnificent, and in the center stands a female statue symbolizing the “Mother Bulgaria” with her arms outstretched, as if defending the land and its people. Inside the Pantheon, numerous heroes who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Bulgarian independence are buried, and each tombstone tells a heroic story. As you walk around here, you can feel the intense national pride and the weight of history. This is an important window into Bulgaria’s modern history and national spirit, and a place to reflect on war and peace. Visiting the Pantheon is usually free and open at any time. If you are in Veliko Tarnovo, take a moment to stop by and pay your respects to the heroes who gave their lives for Bulgaria’s freedom.

#postandearn #Veliko Tarnovo Veliko Tarnovo is a historic city in north-central Bulgaria, known as the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It’s often called the “City of the Tsars” and is famous for its dramatic landscape, rich cultural heritage, and preserved architecture. ⸻ Key Highlights 1. Tsarevets Fortress • The most iconic landmark of Veliko Tarnovo. • A massive medieval stronghold that served as the residence of Bulgarian tsars from the 12th to 14th centuries. • Features restored towers, a Patriarchal Cathedral, and a panoramic view of the city. • Nighttime light and sound shows are a popular attraction. 2. Old Town Architecture • Cobblestone streets, traditional Bulgarian Revival-style houses, and artisan workshops. • Gurko Street is particularly picturesque with buildings hanging over the Yantra River. 3. Samovodska Charshiya • A revived 19th-century market street with craft shops, bakeries, and cafes. • Great for experiencing Bulgarian traditions and buying handmade souvenirs. ⸻ Other Attractions • Asenevtsi Monument – Honors four great Bulgarian kings; visible from much of the city. • Stambolov Bridge – A scenic spot over the Yantra River. • Art galleries and museums, including the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of the Bulgarian Revival. Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

#springwander 📍Address: Tsarevets, Tsar Asen Square, 5000 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria A few days ago while I was in Bulgaria visiting family, we decided to go on a day trip. we went to Veliko Tarnovo and visited this magnificent fortress! the weather for spring 🌱🌼 was amazing of course, very very sunny. the entrance to the fortress was only like 5 pounds per person and we spent there two hours as it was massive a d a lot to see. make sure to bring water with yourself and snacks because there is no place to buy them from once you enter. and that was our mistake. #thingstodo #parks #park #travel #naturalwonders #newdaynewdestination

A seven-day in-depth tour of Europe will take you to explore the hidden secrets of the Eastern Balkans! The solemnity of the Orthodox Cathedral, the ancient legend of the Sibiu Tower, and the mysterious charm of the Black Church are waiting for you to explore one by one and feel the rich history and unique charm of culture. -- 🗺️Route suggestion: Travel in depth in Eastern Europe and explore historical sites DAY1️⃣: Arrive in Timisoara and visit Victory Square as the first stop. Feel the historical heritage of this city and make a good start for the next journey! DAY2️⃣: Stroll through the Grand Square and feel the exotic atmosphere -> visit the Orthodox Cathedral and appreciate the charm of Orthodox architecture -> walk across the Bridge of Lies and listen to the legends and stories on the bridge. DAY3️⃣: Visit the mysterious Black Church and feel its unique atmosphere -> Go to the Brasov Council Square to experience the local political culture -> Visit the Bran Castle and Peles Castle to explore the legends of the ancient castles. DAY4️⃣: Visit the Romanian People’s Palace to learn about the country’s history -> Visit the Tsar’s Castle to feel the ancient royal atmosphere. DAY5️⃣: Go to Plovdiv, visit the historic Roman theater, and experience the charm of ancient Roman culture. DAY6️⃣: Arrive in Sofia, visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Sophia Cathedral, and feel the fusion of religious culture -> Visit the ancient Niš Castle, and appreciate the castle’s majesty and heavy history. DAY7️⃣: Visit Tito’s Mausoleum to learn about the legendary life of this historical figure -> Visit the Church of St. Sava and the Belgrade Fortress to end this historical trip to Eastern Europe. 🔚 -- Attractions to visit: 1. 🏰Belgrade Fortress: This medieval fortress is a great place to watch the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, and the beauty at sunset is even more intoxicating. 2. 💒Church of Saint Sava: There is endless charm hidden under the magnificent dome. When you step into it, you will experience the unique scenery and sacred atmosphere. 3. Tito's Mausoleum: A great man rests here. His story is intertwined with the vicissitudes of history, which is worth your remembrance and exploration. 4. 🕍Hagia Sophia: This ancient Byzantine-style church carries the profound history and culture of Sofia, and every detail reveals the traces of time. 5. 🌆Niš Castle: Climb up the city wall and the beautiful scenery of the center of Niš will be presented to you at a glance, as if traveling through time and space and returning to that ancient era. -- Essentials before the trip: 🧳 📞 European phone cards or international roaming packages allow you to stay connected at any time without worrying about losing connection. 🔌 European standard conversion plug, worry-free charging, the device is always ready. 👔 A light jacket + a thick jacket to cope with the temperature difference between morning and evening in March, fashionable and warm. 💳 Credit card + a small amount of cash, easy payment for shopping and dining. 💊 Cold medicine + allergy medicine, emergency treatment of minor illnesses, more peace of mind during travel. 👟 Comfortable sneakers for traveling around Europe without stopping. 🎒 A small carry-on bag to hold your ID and snacks, convenient and safe. 📷 Camera or mobile phone, record beautiful moments and leave unforgettable memories. 💄 Small samples of toiletries, travel light and stay fresh. -- Travel to Europe and enjoy the romance and style! Don’t forget to follow me, there are more exciting strategies waiting for you to unlock, let’s explore every corner of the world together! 🌍✨

Perched on a rocky hill in Veliko Tarnovo, Tsarevets Fortress stands as a testament to Bulgaria’s ancient power and medieval splendor. This massive stone citadel, once the heart of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396), evokes the grandeur of a time when tsars ruled, battles were fought, and history was made. The fortress was originally built on the ruins of an ancient Thracian settlement, later fortified by the Byzantines, before becoming the political and spiritual center of medieval Bulgaria. Its thick defensive walls, watchtowers, and royal palace reflect the military strength and architectural mastery of the time. Within its gates, noble families, craftsmen, and clergy once walked the stone streets, shaping Bulgaria’s destiny. At the heart of the fortress lies the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension, restored with striking modern frescoes that depict Bulgaria’s turbulent past. Another intriguing landmark is Baldwin’s Tower, where legend has it that Baldwin I, Emperor of Constantinople, was imprisoned by Tsar Kaloyan after his defeat in 1205. As the sun sets, Tsarevets transforms into an enchanted vision of medieval Bulgaria, illuminated by its famous Sound and Light Show, which brings to life the stories of war, victory, and empire. Standing on its ancient walls, with the Yantra River winding below, visitors can almost hear the echoes of the past, a reminder of a time when Veliko Tarnovo was one of the most powerful cities in medieval Europe. #ancienttownvibes

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 **Veliko Tarnovo** This ancient city is famous for its imposing castle and medieval architecture. From Sofia you can take a train or bus which takes about 3 hours. While visiting, don’t miss Tsarevets Castle, which overlooks the entire city from the top of the mountain. The local handicraft markets are also very popular and you can find unique souvenirs.

I went to Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. This city, which was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, is located in a hilly area with houses lined up along the slopes. The old town is particularly beautiful, and many backpackers like this city and stay an extra night. It takes 3.5 hours by bus from the capital Sofia, and costs about 15 euros (※The currency in Bulgaria is not the euro). Buses can sell out the day before, so I recommend making an online reservation early. I couldn't reserve a bus for the return trip, so I had to take the train back, which took 4.5 hours... lol The recommended food is chorba, which can be found all over Bulgaria. The chorba made with tripe had a strong flavor, but was too thick and went very well with bread, and was warm and delicious, seeping into your body. This time I went in winter, but I had a feeling that summer would be 10 times more fun and beautiful. For those of you who think there is nothing in Bulgaria! Be sure to stop by Veliko Tarnovo. By the way, some hostels are looking for tour partners or rental car partners to go to the Communist Party Hall in Kazanlak. #Overseas travel diary #Solo travel #Veliko Tarnovo #Bulgaria #Eastern Europe #Chorba #Bulgarian State Railways

Planning a 25-day in-depth tour of Hungary and more? This guide will take you to every destination, don't miss it! . Hungary is located in the heart of Europe📍, with a rich history and unique style. From the Fisherman's Bastion to Heroes' Square in Budapest, it exudes the charm of Eastern Europe. Also known as Magyarország, it is a must-see for multi-country tours!🏰✨ . 🏃Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Beijing to Budapest and start your Balkan journey!🛫 Day 2-3: Experience the magnificence of the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest, then head to Szeged.🏛 Day 4: Travel through Serbia and Belgrade, and visit the town of Karlovci.🏰 Day 5-8: Travel through Romania and experience the charm of Sibiu Old Town and Brasov.🌺 Day 9-10: Travel through Bulgaria and explore the Tsar's Castle and Rila Monastery.🏯 Day 11-13: Visit North Macedonia and Albania, and experience the tranquility of Lake Ohrid.🚣‍♂️ Day 14-16: Travel between Montenegro and Croatia, and enjoy the charm of Durmitor and Dubrovnik.🌄 Day 17-19: Explore Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, and experience the historical heritage of Sarajevo and Split.🌟 Day 20-22: Visit Plitvice Lakes and Ljubljana in Slovenia, and take a boat tour of Lake Bled.🚣‍♀️ Day 23: Travel to Austria and enjoy the beauty of Graz Old Town and Vienna.🎻 Day 24: Return to Beijing from Vienna and end this unforgettable Balkan journey.🛬 Day 25: Return to Beijing with full memories and look forward to the next trip!🎉 . Must-see attractions: ✨Danube River Cruise✨ 🌟🌟 - Address: Budapest, Károly krt. 5, 1075 Hungary - Opening hours: 09:00-21:30 - Duration: 1-2 hours - Take a cruise to enjoy the cityscape of Budapest, a unique experience! 🏰Fisherman's Bastion🏰 🌟🌟 - Address: Budapest, Szentháromság tér, 1014 Hungary - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1-2 hours - Climb the Fisherman's Bastion to overlook the Danube River and the Pest District, a great viewing platform! 🏛️Hungarian Parliament Building🏛️ 🌟🌟 - Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 - Opening hours: Nov 1 - Dec 31, 08:00-16:00 - Duration: 1 hour - Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building and experience the fusion of history and culture, not to be missed! . 🧳 Travel preparation: Multi-country tour, have you got these essentials? 📞 SIM card is a must, stay connected. International roaming is too expensive, local SIM card keeps you online. 🔌 Plug adapter, no worries about charging. Different countries have different sockets, bring it, no worries about charging. 🪪 Complete documents, visa is a must. Passport, visa, driver's license, travel essentials, don't forget! 👗 Clothes should be seasonal, comfortable and stylish. December is cold, warm coat and comfortable shoes are a must. 🔋 Charger, power bank, full power. Long-distance travel, keep the power, don't miss any beautiful scenery. . The charm of Hungary, the charm of many countries, once you visit, you will never forget! Don't forget to like and bookmark, next time you travel, you want to come here for inspiration~

Day 6 of road trip. This was the highlight of today. The medival 14th century fortress is the iconic landmark of the city and it looked alluring from afar. This was one place we had to visit. The entrance fee cost 15 Lev for a family pass of 4 which is quite reasonable. The fortress is quite nice but does not need too long to explore, around 1 hour would be sufficient. There are good views of the city from the castle and many instalworthy sights. A must go for this city I would say.

Day 6 of road trip. We get to see the day view of the city today. I personally still prefer the day version of the city. Visibly more traffic than night time but not much people on the streets either. Shops open quite late (some at 1pm). The shopping streets is not too long u can cover in less than an hour. The Ethnographic Complex in the same area is more interesting with shops selling lots of artisan hand crafted souvenirs. The houses are very unique with stone pathed roads.

Travel Together Season 8 - Balkan Tour (14) Veliko Tarnovo, one of the three ancient capitals of Bulgaria Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria - Bucharest, Romania July 2, 2019, sunny, 20-30°C Morning tour of Veliko Tarnovo (Photo 1). Veliko Tarnovo, one of the three ancient capitals of Bulgaria, was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire in history. In 1908, the Kingdom of Bulgaria declared independence here. In 1965, the city was officially renamed "Veliko Tarnovo" to commemorate its rich historical significance (Photo 2). Tarnovo is a strategically important city, and in the Middle Ages, it was the second largest city on the Balkan Peninsula after Constantinople (Photo 3). There are many ancient sites and attractions preserved here, the most famous of which is the Tsarevets Fortress (Photo 4). The fortress is magnificent, with thick walls and towers for defense, and a royal palace inside. It is a famous medieval fortress. It was the main fortress and barrier of the Bulgarian Empire from 1185 to 1393, and is now a famous tourist attraction in Bulgaria. The main buildings of the ancient city include churches (Photo 5), as it was the seat of the archbishop at that time, and is therefore famous for its church architecture. On the top of Tsarevets Hill is the Ascension Cathedral of the Archbishop and the Archbishop's Palace. The churches all have murals, but the difference is that the murals in this church are in a modern style (Photo 6). Today, the ancient city of Veliko Tarnovo has been designated as a key protected area and tourist destination. The ancient city is located on the two hills of Tsarevets and Trapezitsa, with the Yantra River winding through it (Photo 7). 12:30 Drive to Bucharest, the capital of Romania. 14:45 Cross the Friendship Bridge on the Danube River at the Bulgaria-Romania border, 15:30 Enter the border, arrive at 17:00, check in at Hotel Rin Grand after dinner (Photo 8), there is an open wetland park opposite the hotel (Photo 9).