Varna: Madara Rider, Pliska, and Shumen Day Trip
ID: GYG1254084-1920745
Category:
Country: Bulgaria
Duration:
08:00 hours
Description
Explore the origins of the First Bulgarian Empire on a day trip from Varna. Visit the Madara Rider, Pliska, and the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria in Shumen.
Travel back in time and explore the origins of the First Bulgarian Empire on a full-day historical tour from Varna. Begin with a scenic drive to the famous Madara Rider, a remarkable 8th-century rock relief carved into a 23-meter-high cliff. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most mysterious and symbolic monuments in Bulgarian history.
Continue to Pliska, the first capital of the Bulgarian Empire founded in the 7th century. Walk among the impressive ruins of ancient palace complexes, fortress walls, and the Great Basilica—once one of the largest Christian churches in Europe.
Next, head to Shumen, where you will visit the monumental Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria located high above the city. From the Shumen Plateau, enjoy spectacular panoramic views while learning about Bulgaria’s medieval rulers and heroic past.
During the tour, you will also have free time for photos, short walks, and an optional lunch stop at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant.
Highlights
- Step back in time as you explore the origins of the First Bulgarian Empire
- Visit the Madara Rider, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn its history
- Discover the ancient ruins of Pliska, the first capital of the Bulgarian Empire
- See the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria and enjoy panoramic views
- Enjoy free time for photos, short walks, and an optional lunch stop
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Optional lunch stop at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant
INCLUDED
- Scenic drive to Madara Rider
- Visit to Madara Rider
- Visit to Pliska
- Visit to Shumen
- Visit to Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria
- Panoramic views from Shumen Plateau
- Free time for photos and short walks
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
