Things to do in Gabrovo
Discover the best attractions and experiences Gabrovo has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Gabrovo’s iconic Revival-era sites and preserved villages that tell the story of the region’s heritage.
Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex
A living open-air museum showcasing Bulgarian crafts, architecture, and daily life from the National Revival era.
Bozhentsi Architectural Reserve
A well-preserved village with 17th–19th century houses perched above the Yantra River.
Museums
Gabrovo’s museums cover local history, humor, and traditional crafts for an insightful look at the area.
Gabrovo Regional Historical Museum
A local museum with exhibits on Gabrovo's history, culture and daily life.
House of Humor and Satire
A museum and cultural center celebrating Bulgarian humor with rotating exhibits and quirky artifacts.
Etar Ethnographic Complex
An open-air museum presenting traditional crafts, costumes, and rural life.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites around Gabrovo offer serene spaces and impressive architecture.
Shipka Monastery
A historic Orthodox monastery on the Shipka Pass with a serene setting and panoramic views.
Dryanovo Monastery
A picturesque medieval monastery perched above the Dryanovo River offering spiritual atmosphere and cliffside beauty.
National & Theme Parks
Natural escapes near Gabrovo provide forest trails, viewpoints and fresh air.
Bulgarka Nature Park
A mountain park with forest trails, viewpoints, and wildlife-rich landscapes.
Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex (theme park)
An open-air cultural park focused on traditional Bulgarian crafts and daily life.
Neighborhoods
Discover Gabrovo’s core districts and nearby historic villages that shape the town’s character.
Gabrovo City Centre
The bustling heart of Gabrovo with shops, cafes and historic squares.
Bozhentsi Village
A scenic historic village just outside Gabrovo with tightly packed Revival houses.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Gabrovo without spending a dime with these easy and free activities.
Stroll through Gabrovo city center
Take a relaxed stroll through the main streets, bridges and squares.
Walk in Bulgarka Nature Park
Follow forest trails and enjoy the natural scenery at no cost.
Explore Bozhentsi village
Roam the preserved streets and stone houses of this scenic village.
Gastronomy
Sample traditional Bulgarian staples and local flavors found in Gabrovo’s eateries.
Shopska salad
A classic Bulgarian salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions and white cheese.
Kavarma
Slow-cooked meat stew with vegetables, a staple of Bulgarian mountain cuisine.
Banitsa
Flaky pastry layered with cheese, baked until crisp and golden.
Nightlife
Evenings in Gabrovo offer cultural performances and lively venues.
Gabrovo Drama Theatre
Evening performances ranging from plays to contemporary theatre.
House of Humor and Satire
Cultural venue hosting humorous events, shows and conversations after dark.
Entertainment
Humor, theatre and festival culture add color to Gabrovo’s scene.
Gabrovo International Festival of Humor and Satire
Annual festival celebrating humor with performances, parades and street acts.
House of Humor and Satire
Museum and cultural center offering humorous exhibitions and live events.
Sports
Active travelers can enjoy outdoor trails and mountain scenery.
Hiking in Bulgarka Nature Park
Day treks through forests and viewpoints in the nearby mountains.
Mountain biking around Gabrovo
Scenic routes suitable for various levels around the city.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the usual sights for authentic local experiences.
Bozhentsi Village visit
A chance to wander an authentic Revival-era village beyond the usual routes.
Shipka Pass viewpoint
A scenic drive or short hike to a panoramic overlook above the valley.