Skip the Line: Tour in Open Air Ethnographic Museum ETAR + ticket

Bulgaria , Bulgaria

Skip the Line: Tour in Open Air Ethnographic Museum ETAR + ticket

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a day in the Open Air Ethnographic Museum ETAR. Do you want to feel the whiff of the past, to see the miraculous power of the water, flowing in a chute, to enjoy the Renaissance architecture, to observe ancient national customs, then visit the Ethnographical Open Air museum "Etar", 8 km. Southwards from the town of Gabrovo.

Available options

Ticket + guiding

Entrance ticket + guiding: Please, write your language preference after booking.

Self-guided visit

Please, write your preferred language for the e-guide after booking.

What's included

E-guide

Ticket

Detailed itinerary

The Ethnographic museum Etar is the first open air museum of this kind opened in Bulgaria. It was established on September 7th, 1964. The museum is situated 8 km South of the town of Gabrovo. The preliminary design and methodology were done by the Gabrovian Lazar Donkov (1908 - 1976) who was also the first director of the museum. "In the museum exhibitions so far the visitor was not placed in an immediate contact with the past - Mr. Donkov writes. That is how I came to the idea of establishing an active museum in the open air ... so that the past becomes visible, easy for perception and understanding and the vast national wealth in kept."

The museum territory covers an area of 7 ha and comprises 50 sites - water technical equipment, houses with craftsman's workshops, places with social importance. The aim of the museum display is showing the architecture, the life style and the economic past of Gabrovo region during the Revival period - the second half of 18 and the 19 centuries. More than 26 main crafts were developed in the town and the goods were sold in different parts of the country and in the region - Bucharest, Vienna, Marseille, Anatolia and other.

The first secular New Bulgarian school was opened in 1835. During the 30-ies of the 19th century under the favourable economic and political changes in the Ottoman empire Gabrovo grew as an important economic, educational and commercial center in the country.

The Ethnographic museum Etar was build and organazed by means of three methods;on site restoration; on site preservation; transportation of originals and restoration of buildings.

Crafts - Coppersmith's Trade, Pottery, Woodcarving, Icon painting, Cart-smithery, Furriery, Silversmith's Trade, Goat's hair processing and weaving, Musical instruments, Cutlery, Harness-making craft, Weaving, Sweet shop, Bakery, Cow-bells making, Water-powered machinery etc.

Available languages

Written guide

DE ZH-TW RU EN IT FR ES

Audio guide

RU EN FR

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is an open space museum, so please wear comfy shoes

About Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a Balkan nation with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. From ancient Roman ruins and medieval fortresses to the Black Sea coast and the Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria offers a diverse and captivating travel experience.

Top Attractions

Rila Monastery

A stunning 10th-century monastery nestled in the Rila Mountains, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.

Religious 2-3 hours 5 BGN

Seven Rila Lakes

A group of glacial lakes in the Rila Mountains, known for their breathtaking beauty and hiking trails.

Nature Full day Free

Veliko Tarnovo

A historic city known for its medieval fortress Tsarevets and its role as the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire.

Historical Full day 10-15 BGN

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banitsa

A traditional pastry made with filo dough, cheese, and eggs.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated cheese.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat sausages made with a blend of spices.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Mountain biking Beach relaxation Spa treatments Wine tasting Museum visits Historical site tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long days, perfect for beachgoers and outdoor activities.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (GMT+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bulgaria is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you

Getting there

By air

Sofia Airport • 10 km from city center
Plovdiv Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Sofia Central Station, Plovdiv Central Station

By bus

Sofia Central Bus Station, Plovdiv Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, connecting cities, towns, and villages.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yango, TaxiMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sofia City Center Old Plovdiv

Day trips

Bansko

160 km from Sofia • Full day

A popular ski resort in the Pirin Mountains, offering excellent skiing and hiking opportunities.

Nessebar

40 km from Burgas • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins, charming old town, and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Rose Festival • First weekend of June International Folk Festival • August

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Bulgarian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and authentic experiences.
Try local specialties like banitsa, shopska salad, and kebapche for a true taste of Bulgaria.
Visit during the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Use public transport to save money and experience local life.