buzludzha monument tour

Buzludzha tour: see the famous abandoned building

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Buzludzha tour to the famous abandoned building that was created by the people and destroyed by the people. Buzludzha monument has a rather peculiar shape. If you look closely, you will see it has the shape of a UFO. This abandoned building is more popular abroad and hated by the locals. Because it reminds them of the communism period in Bulgaria. Buzludzha was an office of the communist party. The chief architect Georgi Stoilov wanted everyone to take part. So, the party collected donations. And each family had to participate by buying stamps. In the end they collected 14 000 000 BGN. In 1981 Buzludzha was officially opened. The idea was that the building would last at least 100 years. But today, only 35 years later, it is one of the lost places in Bulgaria .

Buzludzha tour from Sofia

With our one-day Buzludzha tour we bring you back in the past. We will explore the architecture from the communism period in Bulgaria. With its amazing location and size, Buzludzha monument collects all memories of one generation and their wish to forget. But we believe that history needs to be remembered. Because we think some events should not be repeated. While touring Bulgaria, you will taste local drinks and food. We will bring you back in time by sharing with you old photos, money and newspapers. Be a comrade and pioneer just for one day with us!

We can combine Buzludzha tour with either Plovdiv, Shipka monument or Shipka memorial church.

Additional information

3.30 ~ 4.00 pm.

Please contact us at  [email protected]  for bookings and tailoring your trip in Bulgaria.

We need the following information from you:

• Name; Phone number; Tour Name; Travel dates; Number of Travelers; Special Interests; Budget.

Tour Reviews

Yesterday, I went to the Buzludzha UFO monument. Luckily for us when we reached the top it was snowing and this gave the sight an extra feeling of excitement as we had to walk a bit before reaching the monument. Then suddenly when you are close you start seeing the monuments shadowy figure and shape (due to the fog you couldn’t see it immediately). So with the snow and the shadowy figure it gave the feeling like you are in a movie walking up towards this construction in a UFO shaped form, which gave it a really nice feeling. Also, on the way to the monument we tried some local breakfast that Bulgarians have called Banitza and also tried the Bulgarian Soft drink that most of the foreigners don’t like, well except for me. Not forgetting to mention having some traditional food for lunch and the information provided during the tour was really great. I highly recommend coming to visit Bulgaria and taking part in the communism tour!!

I went to Bulgaria specifically to see the Buzludzha Monument, after reading about it online. I’m very glad I chose nvision travel to take me there.

I was picked up at my hotel, and then we drove for several hours to reach the monument. On the way, we stopped for Banitza – a Bulgarian breakfast made of cheese and pastry. During the trip, I heard lots of stories about what life under communism was like, and stories about the Monument (including the inventive way it was funded). I first caught a glimpse of the monument from a few kilometres away and it send a shiver up my spine.

The monument is even more imposing up close. It’s a huge structure and it’s remote location just enhances the drama of the building.

On the way back, I was told more stories about life under communism and I was also shown a video of the original architect of Buzludzha going back to it now it is in ruin. It was very emotional!

The trip really is one of those “once in a lifetime” experiences, and one I would highly recommend to anybody who is interested in life under Communism who is visiting Bulgaria.

I really enjoy this tour and would recommend it to anyone who is travelling in Bulgaria. The two tour guides spoke perfect English and were extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Both had university degrees in tourism and could answer any question we asked and life in Bulgaria and history of the country.

The tour itself went through a very scenic area of Bulgaria through mountains and villages. We also passed some cool sights such as burial mounts of ancient Thracian kings and flower farms.

Visiting Buzludzha and the Shipka church was also amazing. Even though you cannot enter the Buzludzha monument right now it is still worth seeing just for the views of the mountains and to walk around the building.

On the trip we also listened to traditional Bulgarian music, tried local food and saw some items from Bulgaria’s past (such as old money and newspapers). This was really interesting and you wouldn’t get this level of insights if you just rented a car to see Buzludzha yourself.

The guides also helped me to arrange bus travel to another city and recommended to me attractions in other parts of Bulgaria.

In addition, the tour guides helped me out by sending photos they took of the trip after I had my phone stolen and lost my photos (not during the trip).

10/10 experience.

First things first: Beni and Betty are amazing! We took 2 tours with them in winter and they were both fantastic. This particular tour worked out perfectly for us as they were flexible enough to drop us off in Plovdiv after the tour. We had a very unique experience with them in Buzludzha as it had snowed heavily the night before and the road up to the monument was closed! So we had to hike our way up which was quite a workout but such a unique way to reach it. I honestly think the whole experience was enriched by having to hike up! We were joined by another fellow traveler and that just added to the experience. Making new friends is always fun. And the lunch afterwards was the BEST meal we had in Bulgaria! Betty’s optimism and Beni’s outstanding driving skills are just some of the reasons we think this team is amazing. And the uniqueness and thoughtfulness of the tour planning made this trip one we will not forget. We left Bulgaria feeling we made new friends and hope to be back in the not to far future.

Upon staying in Bulgaria during a trip through Eastern Europe, I was lucky to have the opportunity to go on a day tour to Buzludzha with Beni.

I would not be exaggerating when stating it was the highlight of my trip and that Beni’s guiding was fantastic. She is very personable, professional, prepared and fun. We tried local cuisine during the day and Beni prepared us with facts, while answering all our questions, during the drive. I really enjoyed learning about Bulgarian culture and history. And music!

Buzludzha is quite simply amazing. The location, scale, history, and sheer sights make it a once in a lifetime event to experience. Not only was it a chance to see and feel something out of this world but also to embrace a country and culture that deserves more attention from travelers.

I could not have asked for more from Beni, she is the consummate professional who genuinely enjoys her occupation, the people she shares these adventures with and an inspiring pride in her country. I would highly, highly recommend Beni and nvision travel and will book future adventures with them when I return to Bulgaria.

This tour was one of the highlights of my two years travelling in Europe! Buzludzha is a unique experience, and I would recommend having a good tour guide. It would not be easy to do on your own, nor would you learn as much history. Beni and Betty were wonderful tour guides, and I ended up going on other tours with them after this one. Bulgaria is such an interesting country and has so much to offer, but this tour is a definite must-do when visiting!

Could you possibly travel to Bulgaria and miss such a piece of history-art-sculpture-politics-landscape etc…? Absolutely not! The UFO-shaped building is a must if you travel to that beautiful country especially because the trip to get there is also worth the visit. We didn’t know how to arrange such a trip, but luckily our hotel host suggested nvision travel and there started the fun. We were picked up by our two wonderful guides (Beni&Betty) who welcomed us on board with a map of the area we would have driven across, traditional sweets and big smiles to put us at ease and comfort! We drove all the way to the hilltop passing through gipsy villages, in the countryside and also a food truck where we for a quick local snack; there we learnt how Buza (typical drink) is made. Sooo tasty! Shortly after, we arrived on the windy hill and started the hike which lead us to such a magnificent building, which despite its condition still remains impressive and thrilling. Walking around the monument allowed us to “breathe” the scent of past times and peer inside the immense, almost-collapsing, space. It was a pity not to go in, but security come first and our two friends warned us about the possible consequences. Last adventure of the day (before returning to Sofia singing Bulgarian pop music and learning in the meantime how to say different words), was our visit to Plovid, its wall paintings, Roman theatre and charming city centre and streets. We also ate a delicious lunch, trying all the local cuisine specialities. And at the end of the day what is there left to say? That you had a tour across a beautiful land and its scenic views? No way and definitely that’s not all. We returned with two new friends with whom we still talk and write to, remembering our great day together. Bulgaria has this kind of magic.. it gives you things to see, to eat, to enjoy, but especially bonds to endure and carry on for the rest of your life!

The other reviews make clear that Beni and Tsveti (aka “Betty”) are great tour guides, but the actual experience was so much better than I’d expected. Yes, they are friendly. Yes, they are knowledgeable and informative. Yes, they are flexible and accommodating. But are they willing to hike to Buzludzha from the entrance below instead of driving to the top? Yes. Will they pose with silly hats for photos for a friend’s birthday? Yes. Would they drive across Sofia at rush hour to retrieve a bag I’d left in a shop we’d visited earlier in the day? Yes, yes, yes!

The point of a private tour is to have the guides tailor it to your preferences. Nobody does that better than Beni and Tsveti. I’ve tried to think of something they could have done better, but there just isn’t anything. They do everything you can reasonably expect guides to do, and then they start adding things you’d never think of.

They do more than communism-related tours. Thracian sights? Check. Roman ones? Yes. Christian and Muslim sights? Of course. Regardless of your interests, you simply can’t go wrong with Beni and Tsveti.

Had an amazing daytrip with these guys. Perfectly planned with stops on our way to and from the incredibly beautiful Buzludzha monument. Easy going tour guides with lots of stories and valuable information from communist times – plus a lot of laughs! So nice. Highly recommended!!

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Rose Valley Tour + Buzludzha Monument

• 9.20 / 10 17 reviews | 183 travellers The activity was spectacular. Martin, the guide, also made it spectacular, explaining everything in a clear and simple way. This excursion is highly recommended if you want to learn a little more about Bulgaria's socialist past. 10 José Arturo
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
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On this excursion from Sofia , we'll tour the Rose Valley , see how Damascena rose oil is made, and visit the Buzludzha Monument , one of the most Instagram-famous places in Bulgaria.

At the appointed time we'll meet behind Alexander Nevsky Cathedral . From here, we'll leave Sofia behind and make our way toward the famous Rose Valley .

Did you know that rose cultivation in Bulgaria dates back to the 16th century? Three centuries later, the country became the global leader in rose oil production . To learn more about this, we'll visit the Damascena Ethnographic Complex  and find out why this is one of the best places in the world to grow this type of rose for the extraction of its precious oil.

Next, we'll go to the town of Kazanlak , where the annual Rose Festival is held during the harvest, between the months of May and June. We'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through this town before taking time for lunch.

After some free time for lunch, we'll go to the Buzludzha Monument , a curious UFO-shaped construction perched on a historical peak in the Central Balkan Mountains. It's an abandoned Soviet structure built by the Bulgarian communist regime. You won't be surprised to know that this monument is Instagram-famous , so much so, in fact, that artists like Rita Ora have used it to shoot their music videos!

Before starting on our way back, we'll stop in the town of  Shipka to see its Memorial Church , built in honor of the soldiers who perished in the war between Russia and Turkey. Finally, we'll return to Sofia and drop you off at the starting point, where we'll arrive after a total of 10.5 hours.

Transportation only option

When booking, you can choose to take the tour with a guide, as described in the itinerary, or book an option that includes transportation only.

More Information

10 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Transport by bus or minibus

English–speaking guide (depending on selection)

Not included

Food and drink

Admission to the Ethnographic Complex of Damascena: Лв 15 ( US$ 8.50) per person

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

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Corporate name: Traventuria OOD

Not permitted.

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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

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A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

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Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

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The Buzludzha Monument and the Valley of the Roses

Join us on a guided trip to one of the most iconic communist monuments from the past in Eastern Europe. The UFO-like abandoned building is located on top of Buzludzha Peak in the Central Balkan mountains. Today an empty structure stripped of its initial purposes, it has gained many admirers and popularity around the world and is considered a remarkable representation of this part of history. Another highlight of this day trip is the wonderful Ethnographic Complex of Damascena where you can learn more about the production of the famous Bulgarian rose oil. 

PRICES, DATES & REMARKS

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The tour starts at 7:00 AM at the back of the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The transfer time is about 3.5 hours per direction and the tour is about 11 hours long. First, we will stop at the Complex of Damascena around 10:30. We will arrive at the Buzludzha monument around 13:30. Keep in mind that the Buzludzha monument is currently not open for visitors for safety reasons and cannot be seen from the inside. However, the views from the outside are well worth the time. The monument is atop the Buzludzha peak in the Balkan mountains (1.441m) so make sure you bring a jacket and comfortable shoes. The last stop will be at the Shipka memorial church. We leave for Sofia at around 16:00 and are back at the Alexander Nevski Cathedral around 19:30. 

Please note: Wear comfortable shoes suitable to walk on cobbled streets The tour is not suitable for disabled people Children under the age of 6 years old will not be permitted on this tour

• 60 euros per person

Special offer Price: 60 euros/person The price includes:  English-speaking guide throughout the tour, transport in modern vehicle (car/minibus) with air condition

The price does not include: m eals and drinks, e ntrance fees, t ransportation not per itinerary, h otel pick up and drop off, g ratitudes

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How to Visit Buzludzha: Day Trip to Bulgaria’s Communist UFO

I’m obsessed with Buzludzha. Obsessed . I’ve been three times, but I know a fourth trip isn’t too far around the corner. And it is such a cool place that every time I go, my fiance gets excited to go with me (which is not the case, for say, the opera). Who knew an abandoned Communist UFO in the Bulgarian Mountains would be such a fun date? 

Why do I love it so much? It’s the perfect place for the modern traveler. It’s an important artifact from history, but its abandoned state makes visiting seem transgressive and exciting. Its remoteness means that it is never crowded. Its unique architecture makes it seem both otherworldly and yet anchored to a forgotten chapter of the past. In other words, Buzludzha is my everything. 

History of Buzludzha Monument

Buzludzah was officially known as the House of the Bulgarian Communist Party. Built on the top of Buzludzha peak, its location was carefully selected:

The Buzludzha Memorial House was opened in August 1981, commemorating a location with great significance in Bulgarian history. Three key historic events are linked to this mountain peak: the 1868 death of Hadzhi Dimitâr, a WWII-era battle between fascists and partisan forces, and most significantly, the foundation of the Bulgarian Social Democratic Workers Party in 1891.

When the Communist party fell in 1989, the building was abandoned. Since then, it has become the darling of Red Tourists and Urban Explorers alike. 

How to Visit Buzludzha

If you want your very own Buzludzha selfies, you’ll need to get out here, and it’s kind of in the middle of nowhere.

Once you get to Buzludzha (I’ll cover how to get here in the next section), there are a few things you want to make sure to do. Most people start with visiting the actual building. If you’re on your own, I’d set aside one hour to explore and photograph up here. It’s usually not crowded (I’ve never seen more than 5-10 other people at the complex while I’ve been there). 

Take your time and walk all the way around the building. The views are spectacular, especially if you’re lucky enough to be there at sunset. There’s tons of great street art to appreciate as well, with some of my favorite murals anywhere in the world.

You are not going to be able to break into the building. More on that in the FAQ.

To get from the main building to the torch statue, you’ll want to drive. It’s not marked on Google Maps (or if it is I couldn’t find it last time) but it’s easy enough to find if you know what you’re looking for. I’ve marked both on this map:

[wpgmza id=”16″]

Save this post and you can go back to the map and open the torch statue marker in your Google Maps in case you can’t find it while you’re there. If you don’t have a Bulgarian sim card or an international plan, then download the area of Google Maps to your phone before you leave.

You can also see on the map that neither part of the monument is located at the point where Google Maps lists it as, and it has it under the name “Monument of Hadzhi Dimitar.” If you type “Buzludzha” into Google Maps, it will still get you here, but it will take you to that other location instead of to the building or to the torch statue. 

Of course, if you’re on a guided tour then you don’t have to worry about this, but for road trippers, keep this info in mind.

How to Get to Buzludzha

If you want to travel to Buzludzha independently, the best way is to rent a car.

While I’ve heard rumors of people trying to visit Buzludzha on public transportation, this would be a nightmare in practice. There are really only two practical options for visiting, and I’ve done both.

The easiest way is to go on a guided tour. You can find guided Communist monument tours leaving from Sofia , Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo. For my first trip, this is what I did. It was great because we got a ton of great historical information and details that added something to the trip, and we got to see many more monuments in a single day than we would have been able to on our own.

Take the opportunity to see several communist monuments along the way, either on an organized tour or on your own.

The second option, which I’ve done twice, is to rent a car and drive. The roads in Bulgaria, especially on the main highways, are pretty good. The drive through the mountains is beautiful, and it is easy to find places to stop for gas along the way. If you’re looking for a great Balkan road trip experience, Bulgaria is a good place to start.

Buzludzha is also located near one of the main highways from Sofia to Burgas, so if you’re going to be exploring some of Bulgaria’s beaches and Sofia on the same trip, its a natural place to visit along the way.

To get from Sofia to Buzludza by car, you’ll want to take Route 6 which goes through Central Balkan National Park. This drive is gorgeous, and the park is listed as a Tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The drive takes about three hours if you go direct, but of course expect it to take longer if you stop for lunch, gas, or to visit another place along the way.

Alternatively you can go on an organized Communist Monuments tour from Sofia that includes hotel pickup and the Museum of Socialist art. 

Click here to check out tour details, reviews, availability, and prices.

From Plovdiv

To get from Plovdiv to Buzludzha by car takes about two hours. Your main roads will be a combination of A1 and Route 5, or you can take a combination of Route 64 and Route 6. I can’t find a guided tour on GetYourGuide that leaves from Plovdiv but I believe those who stay at Hostel Mostel  can book a tour through them. 

From Veliko Tarnovo

If you rent a car, the drive from Veliko Tarnovo to Buzludzha is fairly easy. It’s only a little over an hour and a half each way. For this, you want to take Route 5. As for Plovdiv, I can’t find a guided tour on GetYourGuide from Veliko Tarnovo but I believe those who stay at Hostel Mostel  can book a tour through them. 

When is the Best Time to Visit?

If you’re planning your trip to Bulgaria around wanting to see Buzludzha, here’s what you need to know about seeing the monument throughout the year.

Buzludzha In Spring

On my first visit in May 2017, Buzludzha was hidden by fog.

Spring is a fabulous time to visit Bulgaria! The average temperatures here in spring are in the mid-forties to sixty degrees Fahrenheit (6-15 degrees Celcius). The weather gets warm around the beginning of March, and flowers are out by early April. While the weather can alternate between warm and cold throughout March (thanks to Baba Marta ), rainy days are few. So pack layers and a rain slicker just in case, but be prepared to have a great time in Bulgaria during spring.

My first trip to Buzludzha was in early May of 2017. Because you’re up in the mountains, there’s always a chance the monument will be shrouded in a thick fog. We couldn’t even see it in front of us! It was also incredibly windy. While I was sad we couldn’t see it, the fog made everything feel extra spooky. 

You just can’t know if it is going to be foggy, even when nearby towns are bright and sunny. So while there’s a very good chance that in spring it will be a bright and sunny day, if you show up and it’s foggy appreciate the extra cool factor. 

Buzludzha In Summer

Allison at Buzludzha in the summer of 2018

Summertime is the most popular season for tourists to come to Bulgaria. Most head to the Bulgarian Riviera, while others come to explore the cities. The average temperatures here in the summer are in the mid-sixties to mid-seventies Fahrenheit (nineteen to twenty-one degrees Celcius). Though there are days when it gets much hotter.

I haven’t been to Buzludzha in summer, but Allison has. You can tell from her jacket that even though it was summer, it still gets cool when you’re that high in the mountains. And again, she hit it on a day when it was covered with fog. You just can’t control it, so make the most of whatever version of Buzludzha you get! 

Buzludzha In Autumn

Sunset in Buzludzha in October 2017

Bulgaria is autumn is just gorgeous. For my visit, we took a road trip through the mountains and got to see the beautiful changing foliage. This is the only time I got to see the monument at sunset, which was just spectacular. 

The temperatures in Bulgaria during the fall are pretty mild. September and October are still warm-ish, with the average temperatures hovering in the low sixties to low fifties as the season progresses (seventeen degrees to eleven degrees Celcius). However, by November its properly cold with an average temperature in the low forties Fahrenheit (five degrees Celcius). 

Buzludzha In Winter

Snowy Buzludzha in late December

Not many people visit Buzludzha in winter, but it’s a pretty cool sight! We lucked out and there was no fog, and the roads were pretty good considering it was still snowy at the top. We were very happy that we were driving a rental car with four-wheel drive. If you’re coming up to the mountains in winter, make sure you have a car that can handle it.

Average temperatures in winter in Bulgaria stay just around the freezing mark, with some days feeling colder and the occasional day feeling much warmer. Up on the mountain, though, it will feel colder than in the cities, so don’t skimp on layers, gloves, hats, etc. 

If you drive here on your own in winter, make sure you stick to the main roads. We took a wrong turn at one point and our car nearly got stuck on some ice on a small road. 

Travel Tips

Any trip to Buzludzha is a good trip, but there are some things you can do to make your experience better.

First, dress in layers. You will be colder up on the mountain. It’s better to have too many layers and take some off than not enough and be cold. 

Second, prepare for it to be windy. Ladies, only you know your preferred way to deal with your hair in the wind. 

Third, have cash. While service stations will take credit cards, any roadside restaurant you stop at most likely will not. You also will need to pay to use the bathrooms in some service stations if you aren’t a customer (though this isn’t enforced all of the time). For more about Bulgarian money, check out our Balkan currency guide. 

Fourth, wear comfortable shoes. You want a pair with thick soles and good grip. The stairs here can be slippery and the area underneath the dome is covered in rubble. 

Finally, if you’re not going on a tour you need to prepare for the road.  This means having your maps downloaded in case of cell phone data failure, knowing who will navigate, and carefully thinking through your snack strategy. For more about traveling in the Balkans by car (including for just a day) check out our Balkan road trip guide.

Things to Do Nearby

Make sure to set aside enough time to visit the Shipka Memorial Church

There are some other cool sites in the area. Save time to see a few of these if you aren’t going on an organized tour. A tour will include more than just Buzludzha, so your independent road trip should too!

Shipka Memorial Church

So close to Buzludzha that you can see it across the valley, you really must give yourself enough time to stop at this beautiful Russian Orthodox Church. It’s just a thirty-minute drive. Have a few leva in cash for parking, and make sure to see the museum basement.

Arch of Freedom

If you’re coming from Sofia, make sure to stop by the Arch of Freedom in Beklemento Pass on Garaltepe Mount. The views from the top are worth it alone, but the impressive arch monument is another great social realist monument in Bulgaria. 

Defenders of Stara Zagora Memorial Complex

An hour from Buzludzha, the Defenders of Stara Zagora Memorial (Memorial “Samarsko Zname) is a super interesting social realist monument that was erected in 1877 to memorialize the fight for liberation from the Turks and the men who defended the city.

Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

A thirty-minute drive from Buzludzha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak.

Where to Stay

Most visitors to Buzludzha will come as a day trip from Sofia, Plovdiv, or Veliko Tarnovo. If you’re planning a trip around Bulgaria and don’t know where to stay, we’ve picked a few of our favorite hotels and guesthouses for each of these cities for each budget category.

Budget:   Hostel Mostel  /  Mid-Range:  R34 Boutique Hotel  /  Luxury:   Sense Hotel

Budget:   Best Rest Guest House  /  Mid-Range:  Villa Antica  or  8 1/2 Art Guesthouse  /  Luxury:   Hotel Residence Hebros

Veliko Tarnovo

Budget:   Hostel Mostel  /  Mid-Range:   Base Camp Guesthouse  /  Luxury:   General Gurko House

Frequently Asked Questions

The number one thing people want to know is how to get into Buzludzha

Can You Go Inside Buzludzha?

But i heard people can still break into buzludzha.

Not anymore.

Why Can’t You Go Inside Buzludzha?

After being abandoned for thirty years, the monument isn’t safe to go into. When we were there in 2017, the way to get in was to shimmy down a pile of rubble. I skipped it, but my fiance went inside. It was awesome. But he could have broken his leg. 

The monument is finally getting the recognition that it needs to be saved, and there are people working hard to save it. The Buzludzha Project Foundation is frantically working to get the monument restored before it falls into complete ruin.

Through their hard work, the monument was named as one of the Seven Most Endangered Heritage Sites in Europe.  The goal is one day for the interior to be restored and the monument to be open to the public. You can see their restoration plans here . 

Today there are guards in place to keep people from breaking in. They are there 24/7. 

As of mid-2018, Buzludzha is guarded 24/7 to keep people from breaking in.

But I Read a Blog Post from 2019 About People Going Inside?

Those posts are old. They’ve been updated this year, but the writers took those trips before the change in the middle of 2018. It’s likely they just don’t know about the guards. 

Are You Mad People Can’t Go Inside?

No. The site needs to be preserved, and it was getting to be so dangerous that someone would eventually have died. When the restoration is done and people can tour the complex, the wait will have been worth it. 

Bulgaria Travel Resources

Bulgaria has so many hidden corners to discover. Here are some resources to help you along the way.

If this will be your first trip to Bulgaria, check out our post on how to plan a trip to Bulgaria. 

Depending on which part of the country you will be visiting, you may be interested in different city guides. 

If you’re going to be visiting Sofia, check out our post on how to avoid taxi scams. Bulgarian Taxis are inexpensive and a great way to get around the city, but there are a few unscrupulous drivers and we want you to know how to spot them.

You also should check out our massive guide for what to do in Sofia , plus our recommendations for where to stay , the best restaurants , and our favorite bars.

We have more information about Plovdiv in the works, but for now, check out our guide for what to do in Plovdiv and our favorite local photography spots.  

If you’ll be traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv or vice-versa, we have transportation guides. Check out how to get from Sofia to Plovdiv and Plovdiv to Sofia by bus and train.

If you’re going to be exploring Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s historic capital, check out our guides for what to do in Veliko Tarnovo and how to take a day trip to the charming village of Arbanasi .

More Photos of Buzludzha

After three trips out to Buzludzha, I find that it’s a place I want to go back to over and over again. Which means I have about one billion photos (way too many for one article), and I really can’t choose my favorites. So here are all the photos I love that didn’t fit into this post. Enjoy!

Finally, Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re the kind of traveler interest in Urban Exploration, abandoned places, and getting high up in the mountains, then you better have a current  travel insurance  policy. The country is a very safe place to travel, but abandoned places come with risks. You want to know that your medical bills will be covered if you fall, step on glass, or hurt yourself. 

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin this Guide for How to Visit Buzludzha for Your Trip

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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BUZLUDZHA MONUMENT AND KAZANLUK

Safely travel from and back to Sofia in a comfortable modern vehicle

Have full control over the itinerary of this one day trip

Rely on an English-speaking driver who knows the routes and the local attractions

Have a choice of additional activities

September 2024

Tours for august, tours for september, daytourdriver non specified 9:00 am, what to expect on your buzludzha monument and kazanluk day tour:.

This is a 10-hour private journey where you have control over your itinerary. Visit several famous Bulgarian locations with an English-speaking driver.

The travel time to the Buzludzha monument is approximately 3.5 hours per direction, meaning an early departure from Sofia is highly recommended.

Buzludzha monument is an iconic landmark from the communist past of Bulgaria. You’ll have the opportunity to see and learn about this UFO-shaped building, which has admirers around the world.

Another destination on this itinerary is the small town of Kazanluk . In the town, you can decide to visit the popular Thracian Tomb (UNESCO SITE), dating back from the 4th century BC. Another interesting location is the Ethnographic Complex “Damascena”, where you can see how the rose oil is produced.

• Car – up to 3 people – 199 euro per vehicle
• Minivan – up to 8 people – 249 euro per vehicle
• Transfer with a comfortable air-conditioned car or minivan, throughout the tour.
• English-speaking driver. 
• Pick up and drop-off from your accommodation in Sofia.

Not included:

• Admission fees, food, drinks and other personal expenses

Good to know before you go to Buzludzha monument and Kazanluk:

• Please note that entering the monument itself is not possible , due to the crumbling interior from years of neglect.
• Cash or card: Kindly note that payment by credit/debit card is not possible everywhere. There are some cash machines along the way, however, for your expenses, we recommend bringing leva in cash with you.
• During your trip, it’s good to bring warm clothes with you.
• Along the way are a few gas stations and small shops where you can buy food, but it’s good to be prepared in advance.
• You can read more about the Buzludza monument from an interview with one of our guides from Here .
• If you have more questions regarding your day tour, contact us !

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• FULL-DAY TOUR: MELNIK AND RUPITE

Privacy Overview

Buzludzha tour – Communist day trip from Sofia!

• INFORMATION

Explore abandoned monument and hear all about how life has changed over the last 50 years. Visit one of the most important monuments during the socialist movement. The cost just to build this place was nearly 15 000 000 BGN or 35 million $. To make the construction stable they had to reduce the mountain peak with nearly 10 m/30 feet.

Sofia – Buzludzha – Sofia – 520 km/325 ml

Early morning departure to Buzludzha monument . We will visit the famous Shipka monument and the Russian church , important places during the Russo-Turkish war. Stop at a local restaurant, for lunch. Late evening drive back to Sofia.

You can extend the communist trip with a night under the monument in a beautiful forest and next day we can meet you with a local family who can prepare a home-made lunch for us and tell us about the abandoned villages around.( private tours )

<<<For detailed information, please click the green button>>>

CHECK AVAILABILITY - BUZLUDZHA TOUR

You would like to see more! Everything is possible!

For more information:

• Buzludzha monument – Wikipedia

Check as well:

• Day trips from Sofia
• Rila Monastery
• Koprivshtitsa

Looking for some more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Festivals and more
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Wine & Spa Getaway

Create your own itinerary and don’t forget that we can organize traditional lunch, dinner or just to give you a great ideas where to spend your free time. You decide what, when and how.

• Departure Shared tours from Sofia - Alexander Nevsky Cathedral | Shared tours from Plovdiv - Parking - Hotel Ramada Plovdiv Trimontium | Private tours - Pick-up / drop - from any location in Sofia
• Departure Time from Sofia : 7:40 AM | from Plovdiv : 9:30 AM
• Return Time Return Time Sofia : 6:00 - 6:40 PM | Return Time Plovdiv : 4:45 - 5:10 PM
• Included Buzludzha tour – Communist day trip from Sofia! Tour Guide Parking fees Fuel surcharge Transportation – A/C vehicle

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The Red Flat – Life in Communist Bulgaria

The buzludzha monument.

• Tips and tricks
• iron curtain

Is it a bird? A plane? Is it a UFO? It’s the Buzludzha Monument! Once, a huge symbol of the power and might of the Bulgarian Communist regime, attracting people from both the country and all over the world with its bizarre look, monumental construction and embedded ideology. Nowadays, it is completely abandoned. It has been falling apart ever since the end of the communist regime in 1989. This time we are covering one of the most extraordinary and controversial ideological monuments left from Bulgaria’s communist past. And of course, we are going to tell you everything you need to know about it.

You might have seen this outlandish looking building before as it has been included in the list of the 33 most beautiful abandoned places in the world . Its futuristic appearance looks as if taken straight from a science fiction series. This is the main reason for people to call it “the flying saucer”. If you are wondering where the Buzludzha monument is… you will find it in the heart of the Balkan Mountains in central Bulgaria ‘landed’ on the Buzludzha mountain peak.

Buzludzha’s Historic Importance – Why was it constructed?

The Buzludzha peak is a place of national significance. Three important historic events are linked to it. The first one is the the death of Hadzhi Dimitar – one of the most famous revolutionaries against the Ottoman rule who died fighting against Ottoman forces at the peak in 1868.

Following these events in 1877-78 the Battle for Shipka pass was held. It was one of the most decisive battles that lead to the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule.

Third, the location is the cradle of Bulgarian socialism. In 1891 Dimitar Blagoev held the Buzludha congress that basically founded the Bulgarian Social Democratic Workers’ Party. A predecessor to the Bulgarian Communist Party. He chose a place steeped in national significance (the Buzludzha peak) which was also conveniently located in the center of Bulgaria.

Key location

The peak with the monument is located right next to the geographical center of the country – Uzana. Of course, adding a lot of symbolism to the chosen location. A curious fact is that the monument has a ‘pilon’ that has a big red star incorporated on its peak. It’s where 150 KW lights were put and when switched on the big red star was supposed to be seen from all over Bulgaria, from the coast of the Danube river in the North, to the coast of Aegean sea at night with clear weather.

1300 years Bulgaria

The Buzludzha monument was constructed in honor of the congress that gave birth to the Communist ideology in Bulgaria. However, there is also another singificant reason for the construction of the monument. An anniversary. The official inauguration of the monument in 1981 coincided with the opening of several other impressive monuments. Most notably, the National Palace of Culture in Sofia and the monument ‘1300 years’ in Shumen. All of this was part of the official plan of the culture minister at that time (Ludmila Zhivkova) to commemorate the 1300 years anniversary since the creation of the first Bulgarian state.

The Construction

The decision for the construction of the monument dates back to 1971. However, it started in 1974 and lasted only 7 years. The project consists of a body with a main hall and a ‘pilon’ tower with two red stars. First the peak was ‘flattened’ using TNT to bring the height down by nine metres. The idea was to create a stable foundation, blowing up and moving around 15 000 cubic meters of rock. Around 6000 thousand people were used as labor force including soldiers from the construction corps, volunteers, engineers, artists, designers and sculptors. People had to move and live there in order to work in 3 shifts to meet the nearly impossible deadlines. As a result a number of people died in the process, although this was never mentioned by the Party.

Interior and mosaics

The interior of the monument was covered in richly detailed mosaics, which depicted the history of the Bulgarian Communist Party. Notable scenes featured the faces of international communist heroes – Marx, Engels and Lenin, as well as their Bulgarian counterparts. The struggle of the working class, notable deeds, space travel, warfare, and communist workers images are also present. Probably the most emblematic piece was the one at in the center of the dome that consisted of a sickle and hammer and a quote from The Communist Manifesto: “Proletarians of all countries, unite!”

1981 was the year of Buzludzha’s official inauguration. The monument was active for nearly a decade during which it was visited by nearly 2 million Bulgarians.

Buzludzha nowadays

After the democratic changes the monument was abandoned, left to the mercy of weather conditions, vandalism, graffiti artists and curious visitors. Nevertheless, the monument is still attracting visitors with its melancholic past, breathtaking views and remarkable achievements in architectural design and engineering. Nowadays there is a project to restore it and convert into a museum. However, the topic is still controversial and requires a lot of funding. You can find more about the project here .

How to get to Buzludzha?

Nowadays, you can go to the monument but you CAN NOT enter! It’s very dangerous to go inside and all of the ‘known’ entrances have been sealed. To add to that since last year (2018) a police patrol is guarding it 24/7. Still, if you are one of those enthusiasts who would like to see it, before its completely gone, there are various ways to get there. The problem is that there is no direct public transport that takes you to the peak. You have the following options:

Taking a bus

Organized tour to buzludzha, hitchhiking for the more adventurous.

This option is only doable in the summer, but the road is not so busy, so be prepared to wait.

Since getting there requires time and effort and in the end you can only enjoy the views and building from the outside, here are some other suggestions what you can visit or do in the area:

• Shipka memorial
• Shipka church
• Thracian tomb in Kazanlak
• Gabrovo’s museum of humor
• Stay in a hut
• Attend the Rose festival in Kazanlak in May and June

We hope that this will be useful to all of you. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. And remember that if you see a glowing red light in the night, you will know where it’s coming from.

Interested in Bulgaria’s communist past? Make sure to join our daily Sofia Communist Tour .

Author: Free Sofia Tour/Sofia Communist Tour Guide – Vasil Georgiev Photos by: Free Sofia Tour/Sofia Communist Tour Guide – Niki Borisov

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Hello, I’m very interested in visiting the Soviet monument as I’m a Professional photographer. Do you think it’s still possible to get inside?

Hello Alessio! It is now impossible to enter the monument as it is dangerous and there is 24h security there.

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The Buzludzha Memorial House. Photographed by Dimitry Anakin, 2020.

Feb 26, 2020

Positive Results For The First Buzludzha Technical Study

A new architectural investigation gives the Buzludzha Memorial House a clean bill of health.

Jul 17, 2019

Buzludzha Awarded $185,000 Grant In Conservation Bid

The Getty Foundation will support the creation of a conservation and management plan.

Dec 05, 2018

Europa Nostra Publish A Buzludzha ‘Action Plan’

The 10,000 word report details a comprehensive plan for saving the monument.

Jul 06, 2018

The BBC’s Problematic Coverage Of Buzludzha

Buzludzha’s recent feature on the BBC Travel Show raises awareness, but picks its words poorly.

May 20, 2018

Security Guard Posted At Buzludzha

The Buzludzha monument receives a round-the-clock security detail.

Mar 18, 2018

Europa Nostra Adds Buzludzha To 2018 Endangered Heritage List

The Buzludzha Memorial House is recognised as one of Europe’s most endangered heritage sites.

Jul 16, 2017

The Bulgarian Socialist Party Make New Bid For Ownership

The past months have seen a renewed interest in the ownership of the Buzludzha Memorial House.

Dec 12, 2016

Bulgaria Passes New Decommunization Law

This ruling builds upon existing laws relating to the “criminal nature of the communist regime,” and follows similar developments in countries such as Poland and Ukraine, where processes of de-communization are already in effect.

Buzludzha Tours

One day private trips to Buzludzha

Tour to Buzludzha from Sofia

We will do our best to provide the best private tour to Buzludzha for you and your group. That’s why our itineraries are very flexible. If you would like to visit some other interesting place on the way to from Sofia to Buzludzha just send us a inquiry and we will do our best to arrange it. Even if you don’t want to go back to Sofia, but to drop you off on some different location.

Tour availability: The tour is available during the whole year, but sometimes in the winter there is a lot of snow in the mountain and the road to Buzludzha is blocked, because nobody clean it, of course.  In this case you will probably need to hike for 30 minutes, 1 hour (depending on the conditions). Don’t worry, this is a part of the adventure and our guides know where they are going.

Included: Transportation(fuel, VAT and taxes); Local tour guide/driver; Drop on/off from/to your accommodation Excluded: Food and personal expenses

Total distance: 510 km. Total driving time: 6 hours 20 minutes

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More about the Buzludzha Monument

Among Bulgarian sights, there is one listed among the most beautiful spots in abandoned state within the world. That is the Buzludzha monument on the peak formerly called by the same name, now Hadzhi Dimitar peak. It was a commemoration of the founding of the socialist democratic party in 1891. The monument was erected in 1981, a century later.

It is a massive round structure, with a towering concrete pylon. Initially inside the decorations comprised mosaics panels showing milestones of socialist Bulgaria development. Each year to this day, on the first Sunday in August, socialist party members hold a commemorative event.

Unfortunately, after 1989, the monument was subjected to vandalism, with the mosaics gone, the windows broken, although in 1992 it was locked and sealed by the state. Not only does the Buzludzha monument belong with the most beautiful abandoned spots worldwide, but in 2013 it ranked first among those spots. More about the history of Buzludzha monument