This western Bulgarian town sits at the base of the Rila Mountains, known for its therapeutic mineral springs and historic sites like the 11th-century Monastery.
Kyustendil, a city in western Bulgaria at the base of Osogovo mountain, has been a thermal spa center since Roman times. You can soak in mineral springs, walk through the 2nd-century Roman Thermae ruins, or climb to the 4th-century Hissarlaka fortress. The city's art gallery contains the world's largest collection of Vladimir Dimitrov paintings, while its surrounding orchards produce some of Bulgaria's best cherries.
Thermal Waters and Wellness
You'll find over 40 mineral springs throughout Kyustendil, with water temperatures reaching 71-73°C. The sulfur-rich waters run through the Roman Thermae, built in the 2nd century AD - now Bulgaria's second-largest archaeological site. You can experience these waters at two active public baths in the city center. The Strimon Garden Spa Hotel uses these same mineral waters in its modern treatments.
Art and Museums
The Vladimir Dimitrov Art Gallery displays Bulgaria's most extensive collection of "The Master's" paintings, including his famous portraits of local farmers and landscapes. At the Regional Historical Museum, you can examine artifacts from the Stone Age through the Ottoman period, including Roman coins, medieval weapons, and traditional clothing. The Ilyo Voyvoda House Museum, built in 1870, demonstrates Ottoman architectural elements with its wooden porch and distinctive bay windows.
Historical Buildings
The 4th-century Hissarlaka fortress remains visible on a hilltop above the city. Romans, Thracians, and medieval Bulgarians all modified its walls over time. In the Kolusha neighborhood, the Church of St. George dates to the 10th century and maintains its original frescoes. The 15th-century Fatih Mehmet Mosque and the 1859 Church of Saint Menas represent different periods of local architecture.
Cherry Season and Local Events
Kyustendil's orchards produce cherries from May to July. During the June Cherry Festival, local farmers sell fresh cherries and cherry rakia (brandy) in the main square, while folk groups perform traditional dances. The Spring Festival in March focuses on local wine and early produce, while October's Fertility Festival celebrates the autumn harvest with food stalls and music.
Getting to Kyustendil
Buses leave Sofia for Kyustendil every 45 minutes from 8:45 AM to 6:00 PM. Five daily trains make the two-hour journey between the cities. By car, you can reach Kyustendil in about 90 minutes from Sofia, following the A6 highway southwest for 90 kilometers.
