Last updated on December 19, 2023.

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.

Hotel Europe in Ruse, Bulgaria
Hotel Europe

 

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:

Al Bundy store in Ruse, Bulgaria
Al Bundy store
Author

Owner of Paisadventure. World traveler. Chicago sports lover. Living in Colombia.

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