How to Visit Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria – Where the Past Still Walks the Streets

Last Updated on August 2, 2025 by Polly Dimitrova

Tucked into the folds of the Sredna Gora mountains, Koprivshtitsa looks like a postcard—with its cobbled streets, brightly painted houses, and flower-filled courtyards. But behind the beauty lies something deeper. More than just a picturesque town, Koprivshtitsa is a rare blend of remarkable Revival architecture and profound historical significance, playing a key role in shaping Bulgaria’s path to independence.

This is one of the few places in Bulgaria where you can truly walk through history—not in a museum, but out in the open air. Each house, monument, and bridge tells a story from the country’s 19th-century struggle for freedom. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply someone seeking a quiet, scenic escape from city life, Koprivshtitsa offers something special.

From historic house-museums to picturesque bridges, there are plenty of memorable things to do in Koprivshtitsa. And it’s not just a summer destination—the town’s charm stretches across all seasons, with crisp mountain air in autumn, snow-dusted rooftops in winter, and lively festivals in spring and summer. This guide will walk you through what to see in Koprivshtitsa, how to get there, where to stay, and why this historic town in Bulgaria continues to inspire both locals and visitors alike.

Koprivshtitsa History

Koprivshtitsa might be small, but its role in Bulgarian history is anything but. The town was a major center of the Bulgarian National Revival in the 18th and 19th centuries—a period when Bulgarians began to push back against Ottoman rule and reclaim their cultural identity. Most famously, Koprivshtitsa was the spark that lit the April Uprising of 1876—a crucial rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.

The town is home to over 380 historic buildings, many of which have been carefully restored to reflect their original 19th-century appearance. These colorful Revival-style houses are not just beautiful—they are deeply symbolic of Bulgarian culture and traditions. The town also produced writers, poets, and political leaders, many of whom are honored in the house museums you can visit today. That is what makes Koprivshtitsa so special. It is a place where architectural beauty and revolutionary spirit meet—where every colorful façade hides a chapter of the nation’s story.

Things to Do in Koprivshtitsa

Visit Six Historic Houses with One Ticket

The town is a living museum, with several historic homes turned into house-museums. You can visit six of them with a combined ticket, each offering a unique glimpse into Bulgaria’s intriguing past.

• Oslekov House – Baroque-style mansion with stunning murals and interior works of a wealthy 19th-century merchant. Admire the artistry and craftsmanship through beautiful wood-carved ceilings and intricate frescoes.
• Lyuben Karavelov House – The home of Lyuben Karavelov, a key figure in Bulgaria’s National Revival and a passionate writer and journalist. Еxplore Karavelov’s personal belongings and manuscripts, gaining insight into his literary contributions and revolutionary ideas.
• Dimcho Debelyanov House –The beautiful blue house and birthplace of the beloved Bulgarian poet Dimcho Debelyanov. Connect with the soul of one of Bulgaria’s most poetic voices by experiencing the rooms filled with personal artifacts, letters, and photographs.
• Georgi Benkovski House – Commemorates one of the leaders of the April Uprising – Georgi Benkovski. Learn the story of revolutionary activities and the broader struggle for freedom against Ottoman rule. The house contains weapons, personal items, and detailed accounts of the uprising, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Todor Kableshkov House – Аnother crucial figure in Bulgaria’s fight for independence, known for sending the famous “Blood Letter” that ignited the April Uprising. Discover documents, weapons, and personal belongings that bring his revolutionary legacy to life.
• Lyutov House – The museum highlights traditional Bulgarian household items, tools, and artisan work. Take a glimpse into the everyday life and crafts of the Revival period. The exhibits emphasize the importance of craftmanship in preserving Bulgarian culture.

The combined ticket price is 15 BGN per person and includes access to all 6 museums. Visiting all of them would take at least half a day. Personally we decided to visit 2 choosing Todor Kableshkov House and Lyutov House.

Strolling the Streets of Koprivshtitsa

One of the best ways to explore Koprivshtitsa is to simple wander its cobblestone streets. Narrow alleys gently curve, revealing something new at every corner. A beautifully-painted house, an arched stone bridge, or colorful blooms spilling over wooden fences. You might not realize it at first but every step you take echoes with centuries of history.

The sounds of distant bells mix with the soft babble of the river winding through the town. Locals greet you with a quiet nod or a warm smile, as if you are not just a visitor, but someone returning. It is incredibly easy to lose yourself in the charm of it all. Let yourself wander across stone bridges, peek into quiet courtyards, and pause beneath flowering trees. Every corner feels like it holds a secret, every window like a painting in a lived-in museum.

My husband kept asking “What is this place” with a genuine surprise and wonder in his eyes. And he is no stranger to Bulgaria after all of the trips we have taken. I would say a stroll through the streets is slowing down and taking things slow. But somehow, without even noticing, it we tracked more than 17,000 steps in just half a day.

Whether you plan to visit Koprivshtitsa for a day or an extended weekend getaway, strolling the streets is one of the most memorable things to do in Koprivshtitsa – a chance to feel the past, the peace, and the poetry of this extraordinary town.

Where is Koprivshtitsa and How to Get There?

Nestled in the Sredna Gora mountains, Koprivshtitsa is located in central Bulgaria, roughly halfway between Sofia and Plovdiv. Though it feels worlds away from the rush of modern life, it is actually quite accessible. It is funny as my husband kept saying that it feels like we are in the middle of nowhere, and to be honest, that is part of the charm. Koprivshtitsa feels remote in the best possible way.

Getting to Koprivshtitsa by Train

There are a few ways to reach Koprivshtitsa, but the easiest, the cheapest and if you ask me the most romantic is by train. That’s how we traveled, and I would absolutely do it again!

Bulgarian Railways (BDZ) runs regular trains on the Sofia–Plovdiv line, and Koprivshtitsa is one of the stops. Keep in mind that the train station is about 8 km away from the actual town. This is not a reason not to visit, though, as small minibuses are timed to meet most train arrivals and departures, making the transfer very easy. The ride into town only takes about 10 – 15 minutes and costs €2 per person.

Tip: The bus schedule is not available, but you will find it at the train station. Take a photo of it for your return journey.

We travelled on the fast train from Sofia to Koprivshtitsa and it only took an hour and a half. Tickets were extremely affordable at around €7 each way per person. Strongly recommend getting tickets and booking your seat in advance.

Getting to Koprivshtitsa by Car

Driving to Koprivshtitsa can be quite convenint, especially if you are already renting a car and plan to explore other towns in the area. If you are traveling from Sofia, skip the highway and take Route 6, also known as the Podbalkanski pat (Sub-Balkan Road)—a more direct and scenic route through the foothills of the Balkan Mountains. The journey takes you through rolling hills, forests, and small villages, offering a peaceful transition into the mountains. Keep in mind that sections of the road might be a bit more windy. Take your time and drive carefully.

• Distance from Sofia: ~110 km/~1.5 to 2 hours by car
• Distance from Plovdiv: ~90 km/~1.5 hours by car
• Altitude: ~1,030 meters/3,280 feet above sea level

Parking: Since we travelled by train, we did not have to worry about parking. I believe there are several free or low-cost parking spots around town—near the river and the central square. If you will be staying overnight, though, I recommend looking for an accommodation with available parking.

Note: Keep in mind there are no bus options from either Plovdiv or Sofia to get to Koprivshtitsa

Where to Stay in Koprivshtitsa

While many visitors come to Koprivshtitsa as a day trip from Sofia or Plovdiv, spending the night here is absolutely worth it. In the quiet of the evening, after the day-trippers have left, the town takes on a different rhythm—slower and more magical. An evening walk after dusk reveals a quieter Koprivshtitsa, where the soft glow of lanterns and house lights dance gently on the peaceful surface of the river, doubling the town’s charm and inviting you to slow down and savor the moment.

So if your schedule allows it, try to stay at least for a night. Not just to rest, but to fully experience the ambience and soul of this mountain town. We also found Koprivshtitsa to be a great idea for a romantic weekend getaway in Bulgaria. The town is full of guesthouses, many of them family-run and housed in restored Revival-era homes. Expect warm welcomes, thick woolen blankets, and hearty breakfasts!

Where and What to Eat in Koprivshtitsa

Travel Tips and FAQs

Koprivshtitsa is not just a town you visit—it is a place you feel. From its cobbled streets to the quiet beauty of its mountain setting, it invites you to slow down and breathe in the history. Whether you come on a day trip from Sofia or choose to stay a little longer, you will find yourself in a world that feels far away from the everyday. Koprivshtitsa is a place where the past still walks the streets.