Things To Do
in Haskovo

Haskovo, Bulgaria, is a charming city known for its rich history and vibrant cultural life. It is home to the world's tallest statue of the Virgin Mary, a significant religious site that attracts visitors from all over. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a blend of modern amenities and historical landmarks, Haskovo offers a unique experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Haskovo's Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Virgin Mary Monument for stunning views and great photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

Explore the Historical Museum of Haskovo to learn about the city's past, followed by a stroll in the beautiful city park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Bulgarian dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby Mineral Baths for a relaxing morning in the healing waters.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby village of Lyubimets to explore the local wineries and taste some regional wines.

evening
:

Return to Haskovo for a leisurely evening walk along the main boulevard, ending with dessert at a local café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Street food snack$3
🍷Local wine bottle$8
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable prices for food and accommodation.
  • Limited English-speaking locals.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Some attractions may be less developed for tourists.
  • "Здравейте" - Hello
  • "Благодаря" - Thank you
  • "Извинете" - Excuse me
  • "Колко струва?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Къде е тоалетната?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Haskovo

Visit one of these nice places.

Virgin Mary Monument

The tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world, offering panoramic views of Haskovo.

Haskovo City Park

A picturesque park with well-maintained gardens, perfect for capturing nature photos.

Historical Museum of Haskovo

An impressive building that showcases the history of the region, ideal for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Haskovo

Haskovo offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Bulgarian flavors with local ingredients.

Haskovo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and topped with white cheese.

Must-Try!

Kavarma

A slow-cooked dish of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, often served in a clay pot.

Baklava

A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with nuts and sweetened with honey.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Haskovo Central Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and various street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Haskovo experiences a temperate continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone new. Maintain eye contact for a friendly impression.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start; finishing all your food is considered polite.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual attire is acceptable in most urban settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Haskovo is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached via the local emergency number.

Tipping in Haskovo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but always check if a service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash (Bulgarian Lev) is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for exploring nearby nature spots, though be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors create a scenic backdrop for photography.

Winter

Cold weather with possible snow; enjoy local winter festivities and warm traditional dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Haskovo at Night

Haskovo has a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring a mix of local bars, pubs, and clubs. The city offers live music venues where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian folk music, as well as modern bars with a youthful atmosphere. Popular spots include the Haskovo Club and local pubs, where you can experience the lively social scene and meet locals.

Hiking in Haskovo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kardzhali Reservoir Trail

A scenic trail around the Kardzhali Reservoir, known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Perperikon Trail

A historical hiking trail leading to the ancient Thracian city of Perperikon, offering a mix of nature and history.

Airports

How to reach Haskovo by plane.

Plovdiv Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Haskovo, Plovdiv Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Haskovo is a walkable city, with most attractions located within a reasonable distance from one another. The main pedestrian areas are well-maintained, offering pleasant strolls through parks and along boulevards. Sidewalks are generally accessible, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bulgarian Ethnic Group

The majority of Haskovo's population is ethnically Bulgarian, contributing to the city’s cultural identity.

Turkish Minority

A significant Turkish community resides in Haskovo, adding to the city's cultural diversity and influence.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Haskovo, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has a significant following, with local clubs and youth programs actively promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Haskovo is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, though schedules may vary. Taxis are also available and reasonably priced for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Haskovo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, such as salads and grilled vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Bulgarian cuisine includes bread, some restaurants provide gluten-free alternatives upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Haskovo is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics providing services to both locals and visitors. Emergency medical services are available, and most healthcare professionals can communicate in basic English. Travel insurance is recommended for tourists.

Discover Bulgaria

Read more in our Bulgaria 2025 Travel Guide.

Bulgaria Travel Guide