Shumen Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Shumen, a city in northeastern Bulgaria, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers. Nestled amidst rolling hills and surrounded by natural beauty, Shumen offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Shumen Fortress, perched on top of a hill overlooking the city. Dating back to the 10th century, the fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and serves as a testament to Bulgaria's rich history. Visitors can explore its ancient walls, towers, and gates, and imagine the stories that unfolded within its walls.

For those interested in religious history, the Monument to 1,300 Years of Bulgaria is a must-visit. This impressive monument stands at the outskirts of the city and commemorates the country's foundation in 681. Its striking architecture and intricate details make it a sight to behold, and the surrounding park offers a peaceful retreat for a leisurely stroll.

Art enthusiasts will find delight in the Shumen Art Gallery, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building. The gallery showcases a diverse collection of Bulgarian art, ranging from traditional to contemporary, and hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight the country's artistic talent.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the nearby Madara Rider, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient rock relief carved into a cliffside depicts a horseman and dates back to the 8th century. Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, this site offers a unique glimpse into Bulgaria's past.

As evening falls, visitors can explore Shumen's vibrant dining scene. From traditional Bulgarian cuisine to international flavors, the city offers a variety of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Whether you choose to dine in a cozy local tavern or enjoy a fine dining experience, Shumen's gastronomic offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Local name: Шумен Population: 97.7 thous. (2020)Area: 52.65 mi²Elevation: 755 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°16'17"N, 26°55'33"E

Location

Region: ShumenBulgaria

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Shumen Top Attractions

Shumen Attractions - What to See and Explore

Shumen offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, Shumen fortress, Tombul Mosque, Lilana Dimitrova. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Monuments and statues • Memorial
Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria
The Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, also known as the Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument, is a large monument built on a plateau above the city of Shumen, Bulgaria.
Historical place • Forts and castles
Shumen fortress
The Shumen fortress is an archaeological site overlooking the city of Shumen in north-eastern Bulgaria. It is an ancient fortress with historical links to a village nearby traced to early Iron Age and later owned by the Thracians in the 5th century BC.
Historical place • Mosque
Tombul Mosque
The Sherif Halil Pasha Mosque, more commonly known as the Tombul Mosque, located in Shumen, is the largest mosque in Bulgaria and one of the largest in the Balkans.

Memorial
Lilana Dimitrova
Lilyana Nikolova Dimitrova, nicknamed the goods, is the owner of the Youth and Workers' Communist movement in Bulgaria. He participated in the communist resistance movement during World War II.
Monuments and statues
Madara Rider
The Madara Rider or Madara Horseman is an early medieval large rock relief carved on the Madara Plateau east of Shumen in northeastern Bulgaria, near the village of Madara.
Memorial
Dobri Voynikov
Dobri Popov Voynikov was a Bulgarian teacher, playwright and journalist of the Bulgarian National Revival. He is regarded as the father of modern Bulgarian theatre and the first Bulgarian producer. Voynikov was among the founders of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.
Universities and schools
Shumen University
The Constantine of Preslav University of Shumen in Bulgaria is named after one of the most well-educated and talented students of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Constantine of Preslav.

Day trips

Shumen – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Shumen, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Pobiti Kamani, Great Basilica, Round Church.

39 milesE
Rock, Nature, Natural attraction
Pobiti Kamani
Pobiti Kamani, also known as the Stone Forest, is a natural wonder located in Varna Province, Bulgaria. This geological phenomenon comprises an array of massive stone pillars, some reaching up to 7 meters in height, creating an almost otherworldly landscape that...
14 milesNE
Museum, Historical place, Church
Great Basilica
The Great Basilica in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region. This ancient church, believed to date back to the 5th century, was once a central element of the early Christian community in the ancient city...
11 milesSW
Museum, Church
Round Church
Nestled in the serene Bulgarian countryside, the Round Church of Preslav, also known as the Golden Church, stands as a testament to the rich history of medieval Bulgaria. This architectural gem, dating back to the 10th century, is situated in the former capital of the...
27 milesNW
Mosque
Ibrahim Pasha Mosque, Razgrad
The Ibrahim Pasha Mosque, is the third-largest mosque on the Balkan Peninsula and the second-largest in Bulgaria. Located in the town of Razgrad, the mosque is one of the most exquisite examples of Ottoman classical architecture.
34 milesN
, Museum, Historical place
Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, Isperih
The Thracian Tomb of Svestari is 2.5 km southwest of the village of Sveshtari, Razgrad Province, which is 42 km northeast of Razgrad, in northeast Bulgaria.The tomb is probably the grave of Dromichaetes who was a king of the Getae on both sides of the lower Danube around 300 BC...

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Best Time To Visit Shumen

Learn when is the best time to travel to Shumen weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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April, May, June, July, August and October are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in September and December.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January, February, March and October. Most of it rains in June.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Shumen?

The top attractions to visit in Shumen are:

What is the best time to visit Shumen?

April, May, June, July, August and October are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in September and December. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.