THERE'S a city in Europe that's likened to the Austrian capital by visitors, but considerably easier on the bank balance.
A team of travel experts have dubbed a city in Bulgaria "Little Vienna" thanks to a striking similarity in some of the architecture.
Why Ruse?
Set in northeastern Bulgaria, Ruse (which is also known as Russe or Roussé) is the fifth largest city in the country.
It's been compared to the Austrian capital for many years.
According to Bulgarian Properties, the two destinations have been likened to one another because of their similar architectural styles.
While the styles of the buildings are similar, their price tags are significantly different – with a trip to Ruse being a much cheaper alternative.
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First of all, hotels in the Bulgarian city are extremely affordable.
Sun Online Travel have found an overnight stay at the Grand Hotel Riga, a four-star hotel that includes breakfast, for as little as £31 per night per person.
There are even cheaper spots too like Hotel Anna Palace, another four-star hotel, with rooms from £21.50 per person.
Food and drink is cheap too, with a pint of beer costing as little as £1.11, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost just £6.67.
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Because Bulgaria doesn't use the Euro (its currency is the Bulgarian lev), your holiday cash is likely to go further.
Set next to the border between Bulgaria and Romania, the closest Airport to Ruse is in Bucharest.
Both Ryanair and Wizz Air operate direct flights from the UK to Bucharest, with prices starting from £19 for a one-way ticket to the Romanian capital.
Ruse is a 90-minute drive away from Bucharest, or a three-hour train journey, with several changes needed through Romanian.
When booking a trip, summer is the best time to go as temperatures can reach 32C.
What is there to do in Ruse?
Despite not being too well-known to most holidaymakers, there are plenty of things to do in Ruse.
One of the city's main points of interest is Freedom Square, which is home to the Monument of Liberty.
To discover the ancient history of the city, head to the 2000-year-old Roman Fortress of Sexaginta Prista.
The ruins are set on a hill overlooking the Danube River, and an on-site museum houses several ancient artefacts.
Other points of interest include Sveta Troitsa Cathedral and the Pantheon of the Revivalists.
There's also the National Transport Museum, which can be found in Bulgaria's first railway station.
Entry into the museum costs 5 Bulgarian Lev (£2.50).
Nearby attractions include Basarbovo Monastery – a monastery that's built into a set of caves.
What else is there to do in Bulgaria?
Set in western Bulgaria, the capital of Sofia is home to attractions like St. George Rotunda – a red brick building that is among the oldest in modern Sofia.
The country is also well-known for its beach resorts too.
Brits who are looking ahead to next summer and want some sun, sea and sand should beach to Kavarna.
The seaside resort is 40 miles north of Varna, and it's home to several beautiful beaches.
Bulgaria is also home to several lakes including Lake Pancharevo, which is a short bus ride from the Bulgarian capital.
While swimming is banned, it's an ideal spot to try some water sports like rowing or kayaking.
What else do I need to know?
The local language in Ruse is Bulgarian but English may be spoken at hotels and restaurants in the city.
Bulgaria is currently three hours ahead of the UK.
The local currency is the Bulgaria lev with £10 getting around 22 lev.
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There are currently no Covid restrictions and Brits can stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa.
However, your passport must have at least three months left after the day you plan to leave.
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