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Ruse is one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria. Located on the Danube River, it has incredible architecture and some interesting attractions.
Getting There
I traveled to Ruse on an overnight bus ride from Istanbul’s Esenler Bus Terminal (Esenler Otogarı) with Metro Turizm. With an unnecessarily long two-hour border crossing, it took about 12 hours. The bus service, however, was good.
The bus terminal and adjacent train station are about a 20 minute walk to Liberation Square. I was easily able to book a bus ticket to Shumen, my next destination.
Hotel Europe
I had booked a stay at the Princess Hotel, which was only a short walk from Battenberg Square, but about a month before my trip, I was notified that the hotel was permanently closed. My booking was transferred to the Hotel Europe. It was a good and affordable hotel next to the bus terminal. I was happy with the cleanliness, wifi, and comfort, but would have preferred to stay closer to the city center.
Happy Bar & Grill
For lunch, I ate at Happy Bar & Grill, which is kind of Bulgaria’s version TGI Friday’s. They have a varied menu with lots of good choices, such as burgers, fish, pasta, chicken, salads, and soups. I had a burger that I wasn’t expecting much from, but it was excellent. The staff, as the name of the chain suggests, is happy. It’s located on Liberation Square.
Mehana Chiflika
I ate an amazing dinner at Mehana Chiflika, considered one of the best restaurants in Bulgaria. They offer incredible traditional Bulgarian dishes at reasonable prices. When I went, there was also live music and dancing. It had a great atmosphere and good service. I would definitely go again.
Al Bundy?
This picture doesn’t fit in any of my posts about Ruse so I had to put it here. I found this shoe store with a hilarious name while wandering around town:
