Stara Zagora: A Thrifty Traveler's Guide

Experience Bulgaria's hidden gem without breaking the bank in Stara Zagora.

21 June 2023

Stara Zagora is a charming city in Bulgaria that offers a lot of things to see and do for travelers on a limited budget. You can explore ancient ruins and museums, take a stroll through the beautiful parks, and dine on delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank. You can also find affordable accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses that provide comfortable lodging for budget-conscious travelers.

Day trip plan

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Day

Explore Historic Stara Zagora

  • Start the day off with a coffee and traditional Bulgarian pastry at the charming Ethno Cafe.
  • Walk the picturesque pedestrian area of Tsar Simeon Veliki and admire the beautiful architecture.
  • Learn about the region's history at the Regional History Museum, featuring exhibits on prehistoric times and the Roman Empire.
  • Step back in time with a visit to the ruins of Augusta Traiana, an ancient Roman city.
  • Take a break at the peaceful Park Ayazmoto, complete with a lake and walking paths.
  • Enjoy a satisfying meal at the budget-friendly Restaurant Raia for traditional Bulgarian dishes like stuffed peppers and grilled meats.
  • Note: Don't forget comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture the city's charm!

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.

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