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About Stara Zagora
Stara Zagora Province in central Bulgaria offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Known as the 'City of Linden Trees' and 'City of Poets,' the provincial capital, Stara Zagora, boasts Europe's best-preserved Neolithic dwellings at the Neolithic Dwellings Museum, dating back 8,000 years. History enthusiasts can explore Roman ruins, including the impressive Roman Forum and Amphitheatre, while the Regional History Museum showcases Thracian gold treasures. The region is surrounded by the scenic Sredna Gora mountains, offering excellent hiking and the famous Buzludzha Monument—a striking abandoned communist-era flying saucer structure. Stara Zagora is also Bulgaria's beer capital, home to the Zagorka Brewery, and hosts the lively Trakiyski Praznitsi folk festival. Nearby, the Starozagorski Mineralni Bani spa resort provides thermal springs for relaxation. With its plane-tree-lined boulevards, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (a UNESCO site in the neighboring province), Stara Zagora is a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic Bulgarian culture, history, and natural beauty.
Things to do in Stara Zagora
Places to visit in Stara Zagora
Костенурки
Костенурки, SZR2189, kv. Lozenets, 6013 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Папагали
Папагали, Boncho Bonev, kv. Makedonski, 6004 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Обикновен мишелов
Обикновен мишелов, Boncho Bonev, kv. Makedonski, 6004 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
ул. Свети Апостол Карл
ул. Свети Апостол Карл, Свети Апостол Карл, kv. Makedonski, 6004 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Магазин за художници ЕТЮД
Магазин за художници ЕТЮД, Graf Nikolay Ignatiev 30A, kv. Tsentralna gradska chast, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Avenu
Avenu, Petar Alabin, кв. Самара 1, 6009 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Рай
Рай, Balgarsko opalchenie, kv. Opalchenski, 6001 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Извор
Извор, Okolovrastno shose, Starozagorski bani, Bulgaria
Благороден елен
Благороден елен, Boncho Bonev, kv. Makedonski, 6004 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Щраус
Щраус, Dunav, kv. Vazrazhdane, 6004 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Мечки
Мечки, Фъртун пътека, kv. Makedonski, 6004 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Ески Заара
Ески Заара, Hristo Botev 56, kv. Slaveykov, 6002 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Хотел Сити
Хотел Сити, Съзидание, kv. Industrialen, 6001 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Ла Рока
Ла Рока, Tsar Ivan Shishman 38, kv. Geo Milev, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Елеганс
Елеганс, Petko Rachov Slaveykov, kv. Tsentralna gradska chast, 6001 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Travel Tips for Stara Zagora
Getting Around
Stara Zagora city has an efficient public bus system, with tickets purchasable from kiosks or drivers. Taxis are affordable; use reputable companies like OK Taxi or phone-ordered services (avoid hailing unmarked cabs). Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber are not available, but local apps may exist. Car rentals are available at the airport and in the city for exploring the province. Walking is pleasant in the city center due to its pedestrian-friendly layout. For regional travel, trains and buses connect to nearby towns like Kazanlak and Plovdiv. Bicycles can be rented for exploring parks and boulevards.
Best Time To Visit
Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer mild weather (15-25°C), ideal for exploring historical sites and hiking. Summer (July-August) can be hot (up to 35°C) but lively with festivals like the International Chamber Music Festival (June) and Trakiyski Praznitsi (August). Winter (December-February) is cold (around 0°C) with occasional snow, suitable for spa visits but less ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid peak summer heat if sensitive to high temperatures.
Local Customs
Bulgarians are hospitable; greet with a handshake and direct eye contact. Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries (cover shoulders and knees). Tipping is customary: round up bills or leave 5-10% in restaurants, and tip taxi drivers small change. Avoid discussing politics or ethnic tensions. When invited to a home, bring a small gift like flowers (odd numbers only) or wine. The head nod for 'yes' and shake for 'no' can be confusing—clarify verbally. Respect local traditions during festivals like Baba Marta (March 1st), when Martenitsa bracelets are worn for luck.
Safety Information
Stara Zagora is generally safe with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions: avoid poorly lit areas at night, secure valuables, and beware of pickpocketing in crowded areas like markets or public transport. Scams are rare but be cautious with unofficial taxis—use registered services or apps. Traffic safety is a concern; drive defensively, as local driving can be aggressive. The city center and tourist areas are safe, but avoid isolated areas after dark. Political protests are uncommon but avoid if they occur. Emergency services are reliable.
Health Information
Stara Zagora has modern medical facilities, including the Stara Zagora University Hospital (Multiprofile Hospital for Active Treatment) and private clinics. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency care. Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus) are recommended. Tick-borne encephalitis is a concern in rural/forested areas; use insect repellent. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is advised for sensitive stomachs. Pharmacies ("apteka") are widely available, with some open 24/7. For serious emergencies, medical evacuation to Sofia may be necessary.
Languages Spoken
BulgarianTurkishRomani
Quick Facts
Currency
Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
лв
лв
Timezone
Europe/Sofia +02:00 (GMT) or +03:00 (GMT) during daylight saving time
Calling Code
+359
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
333,265
Area
5151.1 km²
Government
Provincial administration with a governor appointed by the national government, alongside elected municipal councils
ISO Code
BG-59