Bucharest to Varna

Discover Bulgaria’s spiritual and historical landmarks along your journey

Turn your trip into a unique cross-border experience by adding cultural and religious stops en route to Shumen or beyond. This route offers fascinating sights that blend medieval history, Orthodox tradition, and even architectural marvels.

Optional Sights to Visit on This Trip

Comana Monastery
Founded in 1461 by Vlad Țepeș (Vlad the Impaler), Comana Monastery was originally built as a fortified religious center on what used to be an island surrounded by swamps. The only access was via a wooden bridge that could be burned in times of danger. In the 1970s, archaeologists discovered a headless body on the monastery grounds—believed by some to be Vlad the Impaler himself.

Sveta Troitsa Church
Built in 1632 and tucked below ground level to comply with Ottoman-era restrictions, this church in Ruse features an ornate wooden iconostasis and painted pillars mimicking marble. Its 19-meter-high bell tower was constructed from stones taken from the ruins of Ruschushkata fortress. Today, the site also houses a small museum with religious artifacts and 16th-century texts.

Basarbovo Monastery
This unique cave monastery near Ruse is dedicated to Saint Dimitar Basarbovski, a humble shepherd who lived an ascetic life among the rocks. Mentioned in the famous Bulgarian historical work Istoriya Slavyanobolgarskaya, the monastery became a popular pilgrimage site after the saint’s death in the 17th century.

Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this complex of rock-cut churches and monastic cells dates back to the 13th century. Carved directly into the cliffs, the site once contained up to 40 churches and 300 monastic buildings. Its preserved frescoes are masterpieces of medieval mural painting, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of Bulgaria’s past.

Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria
Perched on a high plateau above Shumen, this massive concrete structure was built in 1981 to mark the 1300th anniversary of the Bulgarian state. With its striking Cubist design and immense presence, the monument is visible from over 30 kilometers away. A wide stairway or road leads visitors to panoramic views and a striking sense of national identity.

Make the Most of Your Journey

With so much more than point A to point B, this experience invites you to step into Romania’s most legendary sites, each revealing a piece of its complex and beautiful past. Create a personalized route, take your time, and enjoy an unforgettable journey through time and landscape.

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