Things To Do
in Omurtag

Omurtag is a small town located in northeastern Bulgaria, characterized by its picturesque landscapes and rich historical heritage. It is known for its proximity to ancient Thracian sites and its charming rural atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding hills and forests.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of traditional Bulgarian culture and modern amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Omurtag
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Thracian tombs to delve into the region's ancient history, followed by a leisurely hike in the surrounding hills.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor traditional Bulgarian dishes and relax with a glass of local wine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Omurtag Museum to learn about the town’s history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the nearby nature reserve, exploring the rich biodiversity and scenic views.

evening
:

Conclude your visit by experiencing the local nightlife at a cozy tavern with live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$1.50
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Less English spoken compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may have limited schedules
  • "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 Omurtag

Visit one of these nice places.

Omurtag Fortress

An ancient site offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for capturing the sunset.

Thracian Tombs

Historical burial mounds that provide a glimpse into the past and fascinating photo opportunities.

Local Market

A vibrant place filled with colors, textures, and local life, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Omurtag

Omurtag offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional Bulgarian cuisine, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Omurtag Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shopska Salata

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

Must-Try!

Kavarma

A slow-cooked meat dish with vegetables and spices, typically served in a clay pot.

Banitsa

A traditional pastry filled with cheese and eggs, often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Omurtag Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods.

Street Vendors

Various food stalls around the town offering quick bites like grilled sausages and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Omurtag experiences a temperate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone, along with a friendly smile.

Respect for Traditions

Understanding and respecting local customs, especially during holidays, is appreciated by locals.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Omurtag is generally a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure.

Tipping in Omurtag

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept cash and credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; perfect for hiking and exploring local attractions.

Autumn

The fall foliage offers stunning landscapes, ideal for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, providing opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Omurtag at Night

Omurtag's nightlife is laid-back, featuring a few local taverns and bars where you can enjoy traditional music and drinks. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, often with live bands playing folk music. It's a great way to experience local culture and meet residents.

Hiking in Omurtag

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kotel Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views and a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.

Sredna Gora Trail

This trail features moderate difficulty and rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Omurtag by plane.

Varna Airport

Located approximately 120 km from Omurtag, Varna Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering flights to various destinations across Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Omurtag is a compact town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably without the need for a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bulgarians

The majority of the population are ethnic Bulgarians who maintain traditional customs and lifestyle.

Roma Community

A small but vibrant Roma community contributes to the cultural diversity of Omurtag, with unique traditions and practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches often drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with schools and community centers promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Omurtag is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules may vary, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Omurtag.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians; just inquire with the restaurant.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Bulgarian cuisine often includes bread, some restaurants offer gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Omurtag is adequate, with a local hospital and several clinics available for routine care. Emergency services are accessible, but for specialized treatment, residents typically travel to larger cities like Targovishte.

Discover Bulgaria

Read more in our Bulgaria 2025 Travel Guide.

Bulgaria Travel Guide