population: 22,377 million

extension: 380.66 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Samokov, Bulgaria and interested in visiting museums, I would suggest checking out the Samokov History Museum, which features exhibits on the town's rich cultural and artistic heritage. Another nearby museum you may want to visit is the Rila Monastery Museum, located about 25 kilometers away, which showcases religious art and artifacts from the famous Rila Monastery.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to try in Samokov, Bulgaria according to locals include:

1. Kapama - a hearty stew made with pork or beef, sauerkraut, onions, and spices.
2. Shkembe chorba - a tripe soup that is considered a traditional Bulgarian dish.
3. Banski starets - a dish made with slow-cooked pork, beans, and vegetables.
4. Gyuvetch - a vegetable and meat casserole cooked in a clay pot.
5. Banitsa - a savory pastry made with phyllo dough, eggs, and cheese, often eaten for breakfast.

You can also try local specialties such as grilled trout from nearby mountain rivers, banitsa with spinach, and various types of kebabs. Don't forget to pair your meal with some local Bulgarian wine or rakia for a complete culinary experience.

Activities

Some popular activities that locals enjoy in Samokov, Bulgaria include:

1. Skiing or snowboarding at the nearby Borovets Ski Resort during the winter months.
2. Hiking or mountain biking in the beautiful Rila Mountains during the summer and autumn.
3. Relaxing and swimming in one of the town's thermal mineral baths, such as Aqua Club Kotvata or the Sveti Spas Hotel.
4. Exploring the charming Old Town area of Samokov, with its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic churches.
5. Sampling local cuisine, including traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (a pastry filled with cheese and eggs), kavarma (a stew made with pork or chicken), and yoghurt served with honey and walnuts.