Shumen - Discovering Bulgaria

Travelling to Shumen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Shumen, a pretty good destination in Bulgaria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Shumen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Shumen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bulgaria, here's everything to know about Shumen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Shumen

Shumen is a city located in northeastern Bulgaria, situated in the foothills of the Balkan Mountains. It is the ninth-largest city in Bulgaria with a population of around 80,000 people. Shumen has a rich history and is home to many historical landmarks, including the Shumen Fortress, the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, and the Tombul Mosque. The city is also a cultural and educational center with numerous museums, galleries, and a university. Shumen enjoys a temperate climate with cool winters and warm summers, making it an ideal destination to visit year-round.

What to visit in Shumen

Sure, below are some of the main tourist attractions in Shumen, Bulgaria: 1. Shumen Fortress - This ancient fortress is believed to be around 3200 years old and has a rich history. It offers spectacular views from the high hill it stands on and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shumen.
2. Monument to 1300 years of Bulgaria - It is one of the most impressive monuments in the country, the monument is a 70-meter obelisk with a statue of a horseman on top, which represents the Bulgarian rider, a significant symbol from the Proto-Bulgarian period.
3. Madara Rider - This is another significant historical monument in Shumen as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Madara Rider is an incredible rock sculpture carved into a cliff that dates back to the 7th century. It depicts a rider on horseback, and it's believed to symbolize the unity of the various tribes forming the Bulgarian state.
4. Archaeological Museum - This museum houses a collection of remarkable artifacts from the region's long history, ranging from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period.
5. Regional History Museum - Another important museum in Shumen that showcases the town's development over time. The museum focuses on presenting art and culture, as well as showcasing the town's traditional crafts.
6. Tombul Mosque - Constructed in the 18th century, the Tombul Mosque is regarded as one of the most significant architectural landmarks in Shumen.
7. Shumen Plateau Nature Park - This is a beautiful park with incredible landscapes, hiking trails, and a spectacular view of the city of Shumen.
These are just some of the tourist attractions in Shumen, Bulgaria, and there are many more incredible places to see and explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bulgaria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Shumen

The best time to visit Shumen is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the hottest months with average temperatures of around 27 degrees Celsius. This is also the busiest time for tourists, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in May, June or September when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are smaller. Keep in mind that rain is possible throughout the year in Shumen, but it is more common during the winter months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Shumen

There are a few ways to get to Shumen, Bulgaria: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Shumen is Varna International Airport, located approximately 80 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to go to Shumen.
2. By train: Shumen has a train station located in the city center, which is well-connected to other parts of Bulgaria. You can take a train from Sofia or Varna to reach Shumen.
3. By bus: There are regular bus services to and from Shumen connecting to other cities in Bulgaria. You can take a bus from Sofia, Varna, or other nearby towns.
4. By car: Shumen is easily reachable by car, with well-connected roads from Sofia and Varna. It takes around 3-4 hours to drive from Sofia, and 1.5-2 hours from Varna.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Shumen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Shumen

Here are some typical foods of Shumen, Bulgaria: 1. Karvavitsa - This is a traditional Bulgarian soup made with beef tripe, potatoes, onions, red pepper, and spices.
2. Meshana Skara - This is a mixed meat grill that usually includes pork, chicken, and beef, along with some vegetables. It is a classic Bulgarian dish and can be found in many restaurants in Shumen.
3. Kavarma - A delicious stew made with pork or chicken, tomatoes, green peppers, onions, and spices. It is usually served with bread or rice.
4. Banitsa - A popular pastry made with phyllo dough, feta cheese, and eggs. It can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
5. Shopska Salata - This is a fresh salad made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers, topped with grated feta cheese. It is a staple of Bulgarian cuisine and can be found in almost every restaurant in Shumen.
6. Kyopolou - This is a roasted eggplant spread made with garlic, tomatoes, and peppers. It is usually served as an appetizer with bread or crackers.
7. Tikvenik - A sweet pastry made with phyllo dough and pumpkin filling. It is a popular dessert in Bulgaria, especially during the fall.
8. Rakia - This is a traditional Bulgarian brandy made from grapes or plums. It is usually served as a digestive after a meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bulgaria here.

Is Shumen an expensive destination for tourists?

Shumen is generally an affordable destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, food, and transportation are relatively lower compared to other popular tourist destinations in Europe. However, costs can vary depending on the season and the specific activities you have planned for your trip. Overall, visitors to Shumen can enjoy a good value for their money.

Where to find accomodation in Shumen

There are several areas in Shumen, Bulgaria that offer convenient and comfortable accommodation options for travelers. The best areas to find accommodation in Shumen include: 1. City center: The heart of the city is a great location as it offers easy access to attractions like the Shumen Fortress, the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, and the Regional Historical Museum.
2. Lake Shumen: Located on the outskirts of the city, this area offers stunning views of the Shumen reservoir and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
3. Madara: A small village located just outside the city, Madara is home to the famous Madara Rider rock relief and offers serene countryside views.
4. Panorama: This area is situated on a hill that overlooks the city and provides visitors with breathtaking views of the entire region, as well as access to hiking trails and outdoor activities.
You can check hotel prices at Shumen here:
Booking.com

Is Shumen a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Shumen is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other city or town, it is always important to take general precautions to ensure your safety. Try to avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, keep your valuables in a safe place and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, it is always a good idea to do your own research on the area and any potential safety concerns before traveling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bulgaria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Shumen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Shumen the most?

Shumen, Bulgaria has something to offer for all types of travelers, which makes it a great destination for couples, young people, and families. Couples may love the romantic charm of the city, especially its old town, where they can stroll and explore the winding cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lovely shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Young people looking for fun will appreciate the city's nightlife, which includes bars, clubs, and music venues. The town also offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and camping that young people may find interesting.
Families can enjoy a range of activities in and around Shumen, such as learning about Bulgaria's history and culture at the regional museum and visiting the famous Madara Horseman monument. The town also features several well-maintained parks and playgrounds perfect for children.
Overall, Shumen is a destination that everyone can enjoy with its blend of history, culture, nightlife, and outdoor activities.

How to get around Shumen

In Shumen, you can use different modes of transportation to move around the city, including buses, taxis, and private cars. The city has an extensive network of bus routes that are affordable and frequent, making it a convenient choice for navigating around town. Taxis are also available, but they may be more expensive than buses. If you have a rental car or your own vehicle, you can easily explore the region and take day trips to nearby attractions. However, please note that the city center of Shumen can be congested during peak hours, so it is recommended to plan your trips accordingly.

What to see around Shumen

Sure, here are some suggestions for nice places to visit in a day trip from Shumen: 1. Madara Rider - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just a few kilometers east of Shumen and features an impressive rock relief depicting a horseman from the 8th century.
2. Pliska National Historical Reserve - This ancient capital of Bulgaria is located just 20 km east of Shumen and features impressive archaeological and architectural ruins dating back to the 7th century.
3. Shumen Plateau Nature Park - This protected area is located just a few kilometers south of Shumen and features beautiful natural scenery, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
4. Ivanovo Rock Monastery - This cliffside monastic complex is located about 40 km south of Shumen and features impressive frescoes and murals dating from the 14th century.
5. Balchik Palace and Botanical Gardens - This stunning palace and gardens complex is located about 90 km east of Shumen and features beautiful architecture and gardens with exotic plants and flowers.
For every travel information about Bulgaria you can click here.

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