Things To Do
in Shumen
Shumen is a historic city in northeastern Bulgaria perched at the edge of the Balkan Mountains, where ancient ruins meet modern cafes and Armenian- and Ottoman-era traces. It serves as a gateway to dramatic natural areas like the Shumen Plateau Nature Park and the UNESCO Madara Rider site. The city blends culture, architecture, and warm hospitality, making it easy to sample traditional Bulgarian cuisine and explore nearby monuments.
With friendly locals and a compact center, Shumen offers a welcoming, low-key base for both history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the vibrant Shumen Plaza, where you can enjoy a traditional Bulgarian breakfast of banitsa and yogurt. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the beautiful architecture and local shops. Don’t miss the impressive Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, which offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
After lunch at a cozy local restaurant, visit the Shumen Fortress, where you can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The fortress, dating back to the 5th century, provides a fascinating insight into Bulgaria's past. Spend some time walking along the scenic trails that lead you through the fortress grounds.
As the sun sets, head to a local tavern for dinner, where you can savor traditional Bulgarian dishes accompanied by local wines. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of Shumen, taking in the architecture in a different light. End your evening at a quaint café, sipping on coffee or rakia while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Start your day with a hike in the Shumen Plateau Nature Park, known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Take a deep breath of fresh air as you traverse the trails, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Look out for various bird species and other wildlife that inhabit this beautiful area.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Observatory, where you can learn about astronomy and gaze at the stars through powerful telescopes. The peaceful environment provides a perfect backdrop for contemplation and relaxation.
As the day winds down, return to Shumen and treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal while trying dishes like shopska salad and grilled meats. To end the evening, take a walk around the park as the sun sets, appreciating the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1.5-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚎Public transport ticket | $0.4-1 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Gateway to nearby natural wonders like Madara Rider and Shumen Plateau
- Limited nightlife compared to Bulgaria’s coastal cities
- Some services may be limited in English in rural areas
- "Zdraveyte" - Hello (formal)
- "Blagodarya" - Thank you
- "Kolko struva tova?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kade e toaletnata?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mozhete li da mi pomognete?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Shumen
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic ancient rock relief set on a hillside, with forested approaches and sweeping views of the Shumen region.
Hilltop fortress and bastions offering dramatic vantage points over the city and surrounding valley.
Grand monument with plazas and stairways ideal for sunset shots and wide-city panoramas.
Historic street views, colorful façades, and local life with cafes and markets.
Scenic overlooks along the park trails offering dramatic north Bulgarian landscapes.
Food in Shumen
Shumen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry layered with eggs and cheese, a staple for breakfast and snacks.
Must-Try!
Tomato, cucumber, pepper, and white cheese salad that showcases fresh produce.
Slow-cooked meat with vegetables and herbs, often served in a clay pot.
Cold cucumber-yogurt soup with dill; refreshing in summer.
Grilled minced-meat sticks seasoned with spices; a Bulgarian barbecue classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market for fresh produce, dairy, breads, and regional cheeses; try locally produced yogurt and white cheese.
Casual stalls offering quick bites, pastries and grilled snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; addressing someone formally with Mr./Ms. and their surname is typical in official contexts.
Bulgarian hosts may offer warmth and small tokens or coffee; accepting politely is customary.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and mosques; remove hats in places of worship and speak softly.
Safety
Tipping in Shumen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash (BGN) and cards are widely accepted in urban areas; some small eateries may prefer cash; contactless payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with temperatures often in the high 20s to mid-30s degrees Celsius; bring sunscreen, water, and light clothing; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Mild weather with colorful foliage; comfortable for walking and hiking; some showers possible.
Cold with possible snow and subfreezing nights; layering is essential; roads can be slippery in icy conditions.
Moderate temperatures with blooming flora; great for city walks and park trails.
Shumen at Night
Hiking in Shumen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through karst landscapes with scenic overlooks.
Forest-path hikes around the UNESCO site with photo opportunities.
Rural hillside hikes with village scenery and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Shumen by plane.
Closest international airport serving northeastern Bulgaria, about 100–120 km by road from Shumen.
Main international gateway to Bulgaria; roughly 380–420 km by road from Shumen.
Coastal airport serving the south-eastern region; about 240–260 km by road from Shumen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents; Bulgarian language is predominant.
A historical community contributing to the region’s cultural diversity.
Substantial Roma communities in some districts; local culture and crafts are part of the city fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and matches draw community support.
Common in schools and community centers with local leagues.
Active outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of the plateau and surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shumen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bulgarian cuisine centers on vegetables and dairy; look for vegetarian kavarma or grilled vegetables, and Shopska Salad as a protein-friendly option.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free when prepared without bread; communicate restrictions to cooks; bread is common but you can request no bread with meals.
Some restaurants in the city center offer halal or kosher options; ask staff in advance when making a reservation; consider vegetarian options to accommodate dietary needs.