Gabrovo is one of the most recognizable cities in Central Bulgaria, located along the Yantra River, at the foot of the Stara Planina Mountains. Known as the Bulgarian capital of humor and satire, the city combines a rich cultural and historical heritage, distinctive local traditions, and beautiful natural scenery.

One of the city’s symbols is Racho Kovacha, considered, according to local legend, to be the founder of Gabrovo. His figure is immortalized in a monument on a rock in the Yantra River. Another iconic symbol is the black tailless cat, associated with Gabrovo’s famous sense of humor.

Gabrovo’s location makes it a convenient starting point for visiting Etara, Bozhentsi, Uzana, the Sokolski Monastery, and Shipka. With a rental car from TOP MOBILITY, you can easily combine several of these destinations into a single trip.

Uzana

For nature lovers, one of the most popular places near Gabrovo is the Uzana area, located in the Stara Planina Mountains. It is ideal for hiking and walking during the warmer months, as well as for winter activities when conditions permit. The area is also home to the geographic center of Bulgaria, marked by a special sign. Uzana serves as a good starting point for various hiking trails through the mountains.

Sokolski Monastery

Not far from the Etar Museum is the Sokolski Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The monastery complex is nestled amid beautiful natural surroundings and is a popular stop on tourist routes around Gabrovo. One of the most recognizable features in the courtyard is the stone fountain with eight spouts, associated with Master Kolyu Ficheto.

Shipka

By car, you can easily continue on to the Shipka National Park-Museum. The Monument to Freedom on Shipka Peak is dedicated to the heroic events of the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation and is one of the most significant historical monuments in Bulgaria. The area offers impressive panoramic views of the Stara Planina Mountains, making it a popular tourist destination as well.

Other interesting places in the area

Gabrovo is also a good starting point for a longer trip through Central Bulgaria. With a rental car, you can combine your visit to the city with:

• Tryavna - known for its National Revival-era architecture and artistic crafts.
• Veliko Tarnovo - one of Bulgaria’s historic capitals.
• The Dryanovo Monastery and the “Bacho Kiro” Cave.
• Shipka and Kazanlak - ideal for a route through the Stara Planina Mountains to the Rose Valley.

Top-Rated hotels in Gabrovo according to Tripаdvisor are:

• Hotel Mak
• Sokolovi kshchi
• Hotel Orlovets
• Sokolovi kshchi
• Koliovata Kashta

Top-Rated restaurants in Gabrovo according to Tripаdvisor are:

• Rest Restaurant
• Restaurant Gourmet
• Pizzatempo
• The Delicatessen and Coffee Co. Gabrovo
• Restaurant Mona Lisa