Things To Do
in Veliki Preslav
Veliki Preslav is a small town in northeastern Bulgaria with a deep medieval heritage. It sits in Shumen Province on the edge of the Shumen Plateau, offering a quiet glimpse into the First Bulgarian Empire’s capital era. The town is surrounded by rolling farmland and serves as a gateway to nearby historic sites and countryside.
Visitors are rewarded with a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and authentic Bulgarian countryside scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the archaeological reserve of Veliki Preslav, where you can explore the remnants of the ancient capital of the First Bulgarian Empire. Wander through the ruins of churches and the fortress, enjoying the rich history that surrounds you. Capture photographs of the intricate stone carvings and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this historical site.
After a leisurely lunch at a local tavern, continue your exploration by visiting the Museum of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom to learn more about the significance of Veliki Preslav. Engage with interactive exhibits that illustrate Bulgaria's medieval history and witness artifacts that date back to the era. Spend some time in the surrounding gardens, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the picturesque streets of Veliki Preslav, soaking in the charming atmosphere of the town. Test your taste buds with traditional Bulgarian cuisine at a family-run restaurant, savoring dishes like banitsa and kebapche. End your evening with a walk through the tranquil parks, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Begin your morning with a walk in the lush forests surrounding Veliki Preslav, taking in the fresh air and vibrant flora. Discover the various hiking trails that lead to hidden viewpoints, offering stunning panoramic views of the countryside. This invigorating experience sets a relaxing tone for the rest of your day.
After your nature excursion, head back to town for lunch, followed by a visit to local artisan shops. Explore handmade crafts and regional specialties, supporting local artisans and finding unique souvenirs to remember your trip. Engage in conversation with shop owners to learn more about their crafts and the culture of Veliki Preslav.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance or folk music event, often hosted in town squares or local theaters. Dancing, singing, and traditional customs provide a vibrant picture of Bulgarian heritage. Finish your night with a cozy drink at a local café, reminiscing about the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥖Groceries for a week | $30-60 |
| 🚆Local transportation (one-way) | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $25-70 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval history and museums
- Compact town that is easy to explore on foot
- Affordable prices and warm hospitality
- Gateway to Shumen Plateau and nearby sights
- Limited nightlife and limited public transport
- Some sites require car or local transport arrangements
- Language barrier in more remote spots
- Smaller selection of high-end dining
- "Здравейте" - Hello
- "Благодаря" - Thank you
- "Колко струва?" - How much does this cost?
- "Къде е тоалетната?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Говорите ли английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Моля" - Please
- "Извинете" - Excuse me
- "Аз не разбирам" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Veliki Preslav
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins and reconstructions from the 8th to 11th centuries, including palace remains and church foundations with informative panels.
Old town architecture with gentle light and quiet streets ideal for street photography.
Scenic viewpoints over the plains and farmland, perfect for landscape shots and golden hour photography.
Rural lanes and approaching sunsets offer classic Bulgarian countryside imagery.
Food in Veliki Preslav
Veliki Preslav Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry with cheese; best enjoyed fresh from a bakery in the town center.
Must-Try!
A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and white cheese; widely available in taverns.
Chilled cucumber soup with dill and yogurt; perfect for hot days.
Slow-cooked meat with vegetables and herbs; a comforting village-style dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A daily market offering fresh produce, dairy, and bread; mornings are the best time to visit.
Grilled kebapche and mekici are common around the town square, especially on weekends.
Fresh banitsa and other pastries from local bakeries throughout the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with direct eye contact; use formal titles until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly for religious sites; speak calmly, and avoid loud public displays.
Ask permission when photographing people or private interiors.
Respect local customs around religious or rest times in the evening.
Safety
Tipping in Veliki Preslav
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Bulgaria is customary but not mandatory; leave 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.
Cash is widely accepted in rural areas; cards are accepted in most restaurants and hotels in Veliki Preslav; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; occasional afternoon thunderstorms; carry water and sun protection.
Mild temperatures with colorful fields and harvest festivals; layering is useful.
Cold with possible snowfall; some outdoor sites may be less accessible; pack warm clothes.
Mild and fresh; blooming fields around the town create vibrant photo opportunities.
Veliki Preslav at Night
Hiking in Veliki Preslav
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible routes around the plateau with viewpoints over the valley and villages.
Short hikes connecting the famous ancient relief with scenic landscapes.
Quiet farmland lanes ideal for easy day walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Veliki Preslav by plane.
Nearest international airport, about 110-150 km northeast, with connections to major European cities; drive or bus transfer to Veliki Preslav.
The capital's airport about 380-420 km southwest; offers extensive European connections; longer drive but an option for travelers continuing to central or southern Bulgaria.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The town is predominantly ethnic Bulgarian with a smaller Roma community and other minorities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Bulgaria; you’ll see local matches and news around town and nearby towns.
A common pastime and competitive sport; clubs and school teams play locally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Veliki Preslav.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bulgarian dishes can be vegetarian-friendly with Tarator, Shopska salad, bean soups, and bread-based dishes; communicate dietary needs when ordering.