Stara Zagora on a Budget: 5-Day Adventure Guide

Discover Bulgaria's hidden gem on a shoestring budget in Stara Zagora.

21 June 2023

A trip to Stara Zagora, Bulgaria on a limited budget can offer a unique cultural experience whilst ensuring you don't break the bank. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman ruins, the iconic Thracian tomb, and extensive botanical gardens. Accommodation options include budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, whilst local street food and inexpensive restaurants provide economical dining choices.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Settling in

  • Check in at Hotel Elegance this budget-friendly hotel offers clean rooms and free breakfast to start your days off right!
  • Explore the city center stroll down the pedestrianized boulevard Stefan Stambolov and admire the stunning architecture.
  • Unwind in the park head to Ayazmoto park and relax in the shade or enjoy a picnic.
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Visit the Regional Museum of History learn about the city's rich history, from ancient Thracian times to the present day.
  • Wander around Neolithic Dwellings Museum immerse yourself in the secrets of the prehistoric settlement buried under the Stara Zagora’s ground.
  • Take in a show check out the impressive performances at the Opera house or the Drama Theatre.
Day 3

Get Active

  • Hike Buzludzha Peak challenge yourself by hiking the peak and enjoy panoramic views of the Balkans from the top.
  • Explore Maglizh Monastery take a day trip to this serene monastery. It’s set in magnificent surroundings perfect for a picnic and some much-needed rest.
  • Soak up the sun relax by and cool down in Mineralni Bani’s hot springs while breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Day 4

Food and Drink

  • Grab breakfast at Ema’s indulge in traditional Bulgarian breakfast of banitsa (pastry) and buffalo yoghurt at one of the oldests shops in Stara Zagora.
  • Wine tasting at Domaine Boyar sip on some of Bulgaria’s best vintage wine while being guided through the cellar of the vineyard.
  • Dinner at Hadjidraganov’s Houses Restaurant dine in traditional Bulgarian style with a live folklore music and tasty local cuisine.
Day 5

Shopping

  • Browse the Central Market wander through the vibrant market stalls and pick up some tasty local food and souvenirs.
  • Shop at Mall Galleria visit the biggest mall in Stara Zagora and indulge in some retail therapy.
  • Chill out in Ego bring your shopping day to a close by relaxing at Ego with their delicious cocktails and live music.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Stara Zagora by plane would be to fly into Plovdiv International Airport and then take a direct bus or taxi to Stara Zagora. Alternatively, you could fly into Sofia International Airport and take a train or bus to Stara Zagora.

Car

The best way to get to Stara Zagora by car would be to take the A1 motorway from Sofia or Plovdiv. The journey takes around 2 hours from Sofia and 1 hour from Plovdiv. There are several petrol stations and rest areas along the way.

Train

Stara Zagora has a train station with connections from major cities in Bulgaria, including Sofia and Plovdiv. The best way to get to Stara Zagora by train would be to take a direct train from Sofia or Plovdiv to Stara Zagora.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Stara Zagora as it is a landlocked city. The nearest port is Varna on the Black Sea coast, which is around 3 hours drive from Stara Zagora. From there, you could take a bus or train to Stara Zagora.

Bus

The best way to get to Stara Zagora by bus would be to take a direct bus from Sofia or Plovdiv to Stara Zagora. Buses leave regularly from both cities and there are several bus companies to choose from.

Destination

Stara Zagora

In a land where ancient ruins and modern construction clash, lies a city that boasts both with equal fervor. Welcome to a place where history and present-day collide in a way that would make even a time-traveling doctor dizzy.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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