Things To Do
in Nova Zagora

Traditional layered pastry with cheese (often found at bakeries and cafes in the morning).

Must-Try!

A refreshing salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and grated sirene cheese — ubiquitous and a great accompaniment to grilled dishes.

Grilled minced meat seasoned with spices; commonly available at grills and taverns around town.

Regionally produced wines and house-distilled rakia are popular; visit small wineries or order local bottles in restaurants.

Open most mornings (check local schedule): the place to buy seasonal fruit, vegetables, cheeses, eggs and homemade preserves — ideal for picnic supplies.

Small bakeries sell banitsa, pastries and burek; street stalls may offer grilled sausages or prepared salads during market days.

Use a firm handshake for introductions; a nod or brief hug between friends is common. Address people using Mr./Ms. plus surname until invited to use first names.

Dress modestly when entering churches and be respectful during religious services or holiday events; remove hats in Orthodox churches and speak quietly.

Bulgarians are hospitable — if invited into a home, bringing a small gift (wine, sweets, flowers) is appreciated. Remove shoes if asked.

Wait for the host to begin eating, and accept offers of second helpings; try local dishes and compliment the host if you enjoyed the meal.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: around 5–10% in restaurants for good service, rounding up taxis to the nearest lev, and leaving small change for cafe staff or hotel porters.

Cash (Bulgarian lev) is commonly used in markets and small shops; most restaurants and hotels accept cards but always carry cash for rural purchases and smaller vendors. ATMs are available in town and larger nearby cities.

Hot and dry on the plain, with long sunny days; ideal for photographing fields and vineyards but expect daytime temperatures in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F). Stay hydrated and plan activities for mornings and evenings.

Harvest season brings colourful vineyards and grapes; mild days and cooler nights make it a pleasant time for wine visits and outdoor walks.

Winters are cool to cold with occasional snow; services remain available but expect shorter daylight and fewer tourist activities — pack layers.

Fields and orchards come to life with blossoms and green growth; comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists make spring an excellent time to visit.

Vegetarian options exist (shopska salad, vegetable stews, egg-based dishes, banitsa) but menus emphasize meat; ask about vegetarian preparations and look to bakeries and markets for snacks.

More limited but possible with salads, grilled vegetables and beans; communicate restrictions clearly as many dishes use dairy or eggs.

Challenging because breads and pastries are staple foods; choose grilled meats, salads and vegetable dishes and inform restaurants about gluten needs.

Pork is commonly served; ask about meat sources and choose grilled beef or chicken where necessary. Dedicated halal restaurants are unlikely in a small town.