Overlooking the Danube River, Vidin lies in the far north-west of Bulgaria along its border with Romania. It was originally established as the Celtic settlement of “Dunonia” and evolved into a Roman fortification before the Slavs transformed it into the town of “Badin”. Today, Vidin is an important hub for the surrounding agricultural and wine-growing regions.
Things to do in Vidin
In the heart of Vidin is Krastata Kazarma, a former Ottoman Empire military facility now home to the ethnography collection of the Konaka Museum. Named after its cross-shaped design, the building was completed in 1801 and conceived by a group of Polish architects. The archaeological collections of the Konaka Museum are housed within an Ottoman konak nearby.
On the bank of the Danube River is Baba Vida, a medieval fortress dominated by nine towers and two concentric curtain walls. It was originally established in the 10th century and withstood an eight-month siege by Byzantine forces before serving as a weapons warehouse and a prison under Ottoman rule. In addition to guided tours of Baba Vida, summer concerts are held within the fortress grounds.
From Baba Vida, follow the riverfront walking trail along the Danube, passing a rose garden and a children’s playground en route to the Monument of Freedom. Gaze up at its soaring column before feasting on traditional Bulgarian food accompanied by waterfront views at the nearby Restaurant Riviera. After lunch, continue walking to Stambol Kapia, an imposing, fortified gate.
Getting around Vidin
Vidin is around three hours’ drive from Sofia and Sofia International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Vidin railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Vidin can easily be explored on foot.