Gorna Oryahovitsa's centre is ordinary but useful: civic buildings, cafes, shops, and the rhythm of a working Bulgarian town. It will not compete with Veliko Tarnovo's old streets, but it is a good antidote to thinking every stop in the region has to be picturesque.
Use the centre for a coffee, a bakery stop, or a short walk between transport connections. Look for local sudzhuk in shops or restaurants; the town's dried beef sausage is one of its few claims to national culinary fame.