best places to visit in sofia bulgaria

15 Fun Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia isn’t a city that typically ends up on your European bucket list. But it should! Over the last four years, I’ve been to Sofia more than 10 times, and have accumulated a big list of things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria. From walking around this ancient Roman city and seeing both ruins and archaeological sites, to eating tasty traditional food or enjoying the booming craft beer scene. There is a lot to do in this city of a little under one million people.

Here are some of the best things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria based on my travels to the city over the last four years!

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Best things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria

With all those travel tips out of the way, let’s take a look at some of the best things you can do in Sofia on your trip!

1. Take the free walking tour

An excellent way to start your time in Sofia is by taking one of the free 2-hour walking tours offered by Free Sofia Walking Tour . In the Summer, Free Sofia Tour operates four times per day, at 10AM, 11AM, 2PM, and 6PM. Besides the standard sightseeing tour, they also started to offer tours in Spanish as well as a tour focusing on the history of the Jewish people in Sofia.

The tour is operated by a non-profit, so it costs nothing and you are welcomed to leave a donation at the end for the tour guide.

2. Take a day trip from Sofia

Bulgaria has way more to offer than just Sofia, and is especially famous for having ancient sites and stunning nature. Here are the top three things you can do as day trips from Sofia to add some variety to your trip:

• 7 Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery Tour from Sofia Recommended – Rila Monastery is one of the TOP sights in the whole country, and this tour not only takes you to the monastery but also shows you some of the famous Bulgarian nature.
• Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa Full-Day Tour from Sofia – Plovdiv is one of the most ancient cities in Europe, and a popular day trip (just 2 hours from Sofia). This is the top rated tour you can take that includes Plovdiv.
• Belogradchik Rocks Full-Day Trip from Sofia – These rock formations in the Balkan Mountains were nominated for the 7 new natural wonders of the world. You can spend the whole day exploring them!

3. Check out Sofia’s former bathhouse, now museum

Known as the Sofia Central Mineral Baths , this spot was once the main social spot to visit in the city. You can think of it as old-school Facebook 😉 Where all the goings-on among the locals. Some people wish the city still had a bathhouse, like the one you might know in Budapest .

Today, this historic building is home to the Sofia History Museum , which has a TON of history as Sofia is such an old city. You’ll find exhibits on pre-history, antiquity, the middle ages, all the way through modern times. If you want to appreciate the history of the city, do pop in. Even a combined ticket for both permanent and temporary exhibits will set you back just 10 lv, or 5€.

4. Enjoy the local craft beer scene

There are a number of great craft beers brewed in Bulgaria, though my favorite is probably the Stolinchno Pale Ale . You can get this beer at a number of different restaurants and bars, though I can specifically recommend two excellent spots for enjoying beerin Sofia.

• Vitamin B – This small bar located on a side street has a huge selection of beers, as well as some spots to stand outside and enjoy the sunshine.
• Kanaal – Lots of nice beers on tap, and even better it has a nice little garden where you can sit outside. Super friendly staff.

5. Taste Bulgarian wines

Bulgaria is also famous for its wine, as the grapes love to grow in the country’s sunny weather. Sofia has a number of different wine-tasting tours if you’d like to get some more information from an expert 😉

TIP – If you’re traveling outside of Sofia, definitely check out Starosel Winery , located near Plovdiv. You can drink wine underground in a room that looks like a Thracian temple! Even if you don’t stay there overnight, you can come enjoy the restaurant and winery during the day. I’ve been here and it was awesome.

6. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Easily the most famous sight in the entire city, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a stunning example of an Eastern Orthodox church. Come inside for a dark and intimate church experience, with stunning ceilings and incredible sculptures. You can buy a photo pass for a 10 lv, or just walk around and enjoy the interior itself.

7. Walk down the main pedestrian street, Vitosha Boulevard

There are so many shops and places to eat on Vitosha Boulevard , the main pedestrian street in Sofia. You can see Vitosha Mountain, the biggest mountain that overlooks Sofia. Come here to walk up and down on the street, go window shopping, stop for a beer at a cafe, and meander past different churches.

8. Go for a hike on Vitosha Mountain

Speaking of Vitosha, you can take the ski lift up to the top and hike down. During the winter, it’s also possible to go skiing. You can also see the biggest waterfall on the mountain, Boyana Waterfall . There’s also a monastery located on the mountain, in case you can’t make it to Rila Monastery.

9. Order some traditional Bulgarian food

A lot of Bulgaria food is like a unique twist on traditional foods in neighboring countries like Greece or Turkey. Bulgaria is especially famous for its wine and tomatoes, and is a country that consumes a whole lot of meat. Here are a few foods worth trying during your trip to Sofia.

• Shopska Salad – Similar to a Greek Salad, but with Bulgarian cheese rather than feta. It’s got tomatoes, cucumber, olives, white cheese, and parsley. Seems simple but trust me, it’s addicting.
• Tarator Soup – This cold soup is yogurt-based and makes a great starter before you have your lunch.
• Meat – In general, there are a lot of options for people who enjoy eating meat. You can go to Skara Bar for a wide array of barbeque accompanied by potatoes.
• Mish mash – A vegetarian friendly option! Mish mash tastes better than it sounds and is offered in many traditional restaurants.
• Fried bread with feta and jam – A popular Bulgarian breakfast food, I could probably eat this by the kilo!
• Banitza – Another veggie-friendly food, this popular snack is commonly made with pastry dough, spinach, and/or feta cheese.

10. Or try some of the more modern restaurants

Traditional food is great, but one of the nice things about Sofia is that the prices are really affordable so you should not feel guilty to spend a ton of time eating in the city! Of course, like most places, a random restaurant on the street might not be the best representative of what the city has to offer. Here are a couple of specific recommendations:

• Made in Home – Super tasty, has indoor and outdoor seating. Cash only. If possible, make a reservation as it can be pretty popular.
• Boom Burger – A Sofia institution, you can order a burger here so spicy you have to sign a waiver. Guess who did that and then regretted it? Yep. Yours truly.
• Sasa – Fun sushi place and better than most in the city. Has multiple locations in the city.
• Rainbow Factory – Great cafe for breakfast and coffee, located in the center.

My lunch from Made in Home in the center of Sofia

11. See ruins dating back to the Roman period

Back in the day, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, Constantine the Great, was debating between setting up the capital of the empire in two places: Constantinople (today’s Istanbul) or Sofia. Owing to the former’s superior strategic location, it was chosen over Sofia, but you can see a ton of remants of the Roman Empire all over the city. It’s not uncommon that anytime they want to build a new building in Sofia, some new ruins are discovered and it has to be evaluated whether to preserve them! That’s how densely used Sofia’s inner city was during Roman times.

12. Visit Europe’s second largest synagogue

Bulgaria used to have 50,000 jews before WWII, 80% of which were in Sofia. One of the most famous kings in Bulgaria’s history, Boris III, asked for delays to avoid deporting the jewish population. The total population of Jews in Bulgaria were saved, and many expatriated to Israel. For this reason, you can visit Europe’s second largest synagogue in Sofia, which is like the little sister of the one in Budapest .

13. See the seat of the former communist regime

Bulgaria was part of the former Soviet Union, and as such has a history of communism that lasted until the late 80’s. There’s evidence of this all over the city, especially places like these which used to be adorned with a red star and facing a statue of Lenin. For the most part, Soviet symbols have been removed but the shadow of communism remains.

14. Get a blast from the past at the ultra-kitsch Raketa Rakia

Curious what it was like to grow up in a Bulgaria positioned behind the Iron Curtain? You can get a small taste of what it looked like by trying out Raketa Rakia Bar , a retro communist-era bar and restaurant. It’s a great place to try out traditional foods like meat dishes or mish mash, or just admire the trinkets and photos plastered over the walls that’ll take you back in time.

While you’re at it, it’s time to try the national spirit of Bulgaria, Rakia. Usually served in a smaller version of a champagne flute, this liquor is about 40% ABV. It’s a brandy made from fruit, usually grapes but it can also be different kinds of fruit too. Although it’s a popular drink through the Balkans, going by different names, archaeologists do believe that Rakia originated in Bulgaria as early as the 14-16th century.

15. Walk around one of Sofia’s many public parks

Sofia has a number of public parks, especially in the city center. It’s hard to far without stumbling into one of the parks. You can go for a picnic, listen to live music, or hang out near some of the city’s famous buildings and monuments. For example, the National Theatre of Bulgaria, which is pictured below.

Tips for visiting Sofia, Bulgaria

• Do not trust just any taxi. Sofia is known for having a lot of scammer taxis who will charge tourists close to double what locals will pay. Two reputable taxi companies include Yellow! taxi or O.K. taxi. Yellow has an app you can use to order a taxi from your phone.
• Book at taxi at the desk in the airport. As soon as you get to the airport in Sofia, you can book a taxi at the O.K. taxi desk. You don’t pay there, but you’ll get a voucher with a number on it. Then be sure to look for your taxi through the exit on the right near the supermarket to find your legit taxi.
• Use the metro for just 1,60 leva. Tired of dealing with taxis? The metro in Sofia is rather new and extremely cost effective, as 1,60 leva is roughly 0,80€.
• Sofia is not very bicycle-friendly. Cars dominate the landscape of Sofia, be aware that it’s not a place for bikes and there is a fair amount of traffic, especially at certain times of the day.
• All menus tell you the weight of your dish in grams. This is a fun fact, no matter where you go, they’ll tell you how much your food weighs. If you’re not familiar with grams it doesn’t help but it’s kind of funny!
• Shaking the head means “yes”. Perhaps the number one most confusing thing about visiting Bulgaria, be aware that when a Bulgaria shakes their head, it actually means “OK” or “Yes”.
• Learn a few basics words in Bulgarian. Blagodariya means “thank you” but you can also use “merci”, which is a common substitute.

Inspired to visit Sofia, Bulgaria?

Shared your thoughts in the comments what you’d most like to do in Sofia, Bulgaria, or if you’ve been and have any tips for my next trip there!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Home > 43 Things To Do In Sofia, Bulgaria

43 Things To Do In Sofia, Bulgaria

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Many people visiting Bulgaria focus on either the ski slopes or beaches, but there’s a lot more. Check out these fun things to do in Sofia.

Over a century ago, Prince Ferdinand of Bulgaria aimed to make Sofia a fashionable capital city to the likes of nearby cities, Budapest or Prague. Walking the locally renowned yellow-bricked-tree-lined road leading to the National Assembly building, you will get a good idea of his vision.

Fortunately, although perhaps the city hasn’t reached the fashionable potential Ferdinand had in mind with matching standards of other European capitals nearby, it has reached its own unique, passionate, and quirky potential to do with culture, tradition, and art and is thriving with its distinctiveness.

There are numerous fun things to do in Sofia, which is growing into an enthralling capital in Eastern Europe. Some travelers swear this city to be the next Berlin because of its quirks, creative takes on culture, and the fact that the young generation has a tremendous impact on the city and what is happening within it. However, Sofia is on track to be whatever it wants to be, and there is no greater potential than that.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Sofia Is One Of Europe’s Most Exciting Cities

Tucked in the country’s western side below the impressive Vitosha Mountain, this city, full of 2,000 years of history it has endured by the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and Soviets, is one of the most special you will experience in Europe.

Many people visiting Bulgaria tend to focus on the ski slopes or the beaches, like Bansko and Varna . Sofia, the country’s capital, is often overlooked in the process. That’s really a shame. Sofia is an eclectic city with so much more to offer than most people realize, including being home to some of the best hotels in Bulgaria.

Sofia is situated in the very heart of the Balkan peninsula —equidistant from both the Black Sea and the Adriatic Sea—and is ancient. Archaeological evidence shows people have lived in the area for more than 9,000 years . Nowadays, it’s a thriving city with many different faces. There are plenty of fun things to do in Sofia, from great museums to Red Army monuments and iconic onion-domed churches to modern businesses.

On top of that, it’s one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe for tourists, with a great selection of accommodations for all budgets .

Entrepreneurs are also drawn to this vibrant and mostly modern city as it’s considered one of the world’s top ten cities for technology start-ups.

Long story short, this is a fascinating place to visit . It’ll surprise you, impress you and enchant you. Find out where to go in Sofia when you visit Sofia, Bulgaria , in this things to see in our Sofia city guide.

Best Places To Visit In Sofia, Bulgaria

Below is the all-inclusive list of best-known and alternative things to see and do within Sofia, Bulgaria, during your holiday :

Best Churches In Sofia

1. alexander nevsky cathedral.

An enormous edifice with a capacity to hold 10,000 people, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is unquestionably the most iconic building in the city, the epitome of Sofia tourism, and one of the very symbols of Bulgaria.

One of the ultimate Sofia landmarks, it’s one of the world’s largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals. Like much of Sofia’s imposing architecture, this cathedral also dates from the late 19th century.

If you’re figuring out what to see in Sofia in one day, this place should be the focal point of your Sofia trip itinerary .

2. St. Sofia Church

Its roots go back to the 6th century; St. Sofia Church is Sofia’s second-oldest church. Even though it’s a rather unassuming building—especially compared to other churches in the city—the St. Sofia Church is the church that gave the town its current name in the 14th century, making it one of the most significant places to see in Sofia.

You can visit the church and see what remains of the building’s foundation and tombs that date back about 1,500 years.

3. The Quadrangle Of Religious Tolerance

A rare area in the world today where four places of worship among four different religions gather and are peaceful with each other. The Orthodox Christian Saint Nedelya Church, the Sofia Synagogue, the Banya Bashi Mosque, and the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Joseph all sit within a hundred feet or so of each other.

On the same street (Knyaz Boris Street), be sure not to miss the Romanian Orthodox Church of Holy Trinity, and on the other side (Todor Alexandrov Blouveard), you will find St Mary Armenian Apostolic church. This is a unique chance to see how religions can coexist harmoniously and peacefully.

4. Church St. George Rotunda

In the center of Sofia, you’ll find this beautiful, small church dating back to the 4 th century. The church was originally built within the ancient city of Serdica as a Roman bath but was converted to a church later. It is now the oldest church in the capital and is made of attractive red brick with a domed roof.  

The church is also part of a set of ruins, and behind the church, you’ll find old buildings, a former basilica, and a drainage system. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes in excellent condition from the 12 th , 13 th, and 14 th centuries.

5. Sofia Synagogue

The largest synagogue in the Balkans and the third-largest in Europe as a whole, the Sofia Synagogue, can accommodate no fewer than 1,300 people. Its measurements are extraordinary, the main hall being 31 meters high and its central chandelier weighing 1.7 tons.

You can step inside to marvel at the Carrara marble columns, intricate wood carvings, and colorful Venetian mosaics. Also, don’t forget to visit the Jewish Museum of history, housed within this enormous synagogue.

6. Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker – Russian Orthodox Church

One of the prettiest sights in Sofia, no doubt about it. Aside from its beauty, you can also take the time and make a wish at the church. Open to people of all faith; all you need to know is where to go. Make your way to Georgi Rakovski Street and Tsar Osvoboditel boulevard and locate the Russian Church’s side door.

From there, make your way to the tables with pens and paper, write your wish and then drop it into the box. From there, you wait for your wish to be granted. My kids wished for a cat; what would you ask for?

7. Boyana Church

Another of Sofia’s many great churches, Boyana Church , is one of the major Sofia sights. This medieval Bulgarian Orthodox church lies outside the city center and is famous for its fresco-covered interior.

You can see no fewer than 89 different scenes, including 240 images of people. Because of this wealth of frescoes, the church was designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Best Historical & Cultural Sites In Sofia

8. serdica ancient complex.

A stone’s throw away from the Serdika Metro station, you will find the Serdica Ancient Complex, a must-visit for history buffs. Here you’ll discover the remarkably well-preserved remains of Serdica, the ancient Roman city.

The remains were found when the Metro was built in 2010, and you can see the outline of eight Roman streets, baths, houses, and a basilica that dates back to the 4th century.

9. Monument To The Soviet Army

The Monument to the Soviet Army was constructed in 1954 as a form of gratitude of the Bulgarian government to the Soviet Red Army for protecting Bulgaria during World War II.

The monument depicts a soldier of the Soviet Army, a male worker, and a female Bulgarian peasant. The monument is located in the King’s Garden on Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard, close to Orlov Most and Sofia University – the heart of the city – which means it is a popular place for young people to meet and hang out. It is also surrounded by a splendid park around the statue and surrounding area. 

It has recently become somewhat of a canvas for local artists and graffiti vandals, and authorities have taken liberties in protecting the monument to reinforce good relations with Russia . It is easy to understand how locals (especially young Bulgarians) don’t appreciate what the statue commemorates or its message. The Soviets had a cold grasp on the country for so long.

10. Sofia Public Mineral Baths

Like many other major Eastern European cities, Sofia originated near or on top of natural hot springs . Arguably the greatest structure that commemorates this integral feature of Sofia is the Central Mineral Baths.

The current Sofia Public Mineral Baths building was constructed near the previous Turkish/Ottoman baths in the early 1900s. It features traditional Byzantine, Eastern Orthodox, and Bulgarian architectural elements and is one of Sofia’s most prominent landmarks. While the mineral baths are now closed, you can still fill your water bottle and taste try water.

11. Monument of Stefan Stambolov

Stefan Stambolov is one of the founders of modern Bulgaria and is a revered figure in the country. This monument is an important spot, and it is also located a stone’s throw from the site where he died, having been killed in the middle of the day by two assassins.

If you want to learn about Sofia’s history, visiting this spot and understanding the founding behind the modern version is essential.

12. Amphitheater Of Serdica

Before 2004, no one even realized that Sofia sat on what used to be one of the largest amphitheaters in the eastern Roman Empire.

The ruins of this colossal amphitheater lie in the heart of modern-day Sofia but were once one of the landmarks of the ancient Roman city of Ulpia Serdica.

Some of the ruins are now integrated into the Arena di Serdica Boutique Hotel, which has to be one of the coolest hotels in Sofia. Tourists can see the ruins free of charge.

13. The Largo

A visit to Sofia is not complete without a walk around Largo. This is the governmental heart of Sofia, and therefore of Bulgaria , comprising three so-called Socialist Classicism buildings. The Largo is regarded as one of the prime examples of this type of architecture in Southeastern Europe .

The collection of buildings consists of the former Party House, which now serves as the National Assembly of Bulgaria, a building housing the Council of Ministers of Bulgaria and the TZUM store, and a third building housing the Sofia Balkan Hotel , Ministry of Education, and the President’s Office. Other notable sites in Largo include the 4th-century Church of St. George.

Brands We Use And Trust

Best tours in sofia, 14. cook & eat with a local tour.

A huge part of visiting any location is trying the food. But eating food in a restaurant and eating food in a local home are two totally different things. This food tour means you can enjoy local, authentic food cooked by those who know while also learning how to cook yourself.

The tour comprises guided shopping, cooking, and tasting the dishes. You’ll get to make a local shopska salad and banista, and you’ll also be able to try local drinks, including rakia!

For those who love food, this is a great day out and a way to say you’ve truly experienced the ‘real’ Bulgaria.

15. Free Walking Tour Of Sofia

This tour will take you around the most popular Sofia attractions and will make you aware of what the city offers.

Around cities in Europe (especially capital cities), you may have taken a free walking tour guided by a local – usually a young adult or student – who has taken the time to study the city’s history and modern realities and is often an excellent source of local information.

In Sofia, it is no different, and the city offers an excellent free walking tour which meets every day at the Palace of Justice at various times depending on what time of year you visit the city. When I was there in summer, the tours ran at 11h, 14h & 18h.

The tour will take you past all of the most well-known attractions in the city center of Sofia and give you the most bang for your buck in terms of historical and present information.

If you would rather explore on your own, check out this self-guided audio tour of Sofia!

16. sofia communism tour.

Step back in time to experience Bulgaria, and specifically Sofia, during the time of communism. This historical 6-hour tour accommodates groups of 1-4 people and takes place in both the City Center and also on the outskirts of town.

Hop into a retro Chaika car and explore various sites around the city, including the Museum Of Socialist Art, the Bells Monument at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, the purpose-built “Druzhba” neighborhood, the former office of the Communist party and the site of a bombing by the communist party in 1925 at St. Nedelya church.

You will also have a chance to pick up old communist relics at the market and eat at a local traditional restaurant during the tour (for an additional charge).

This tour is a great way to understand what everyday life was like for both the political leaders and residents of the time, as well as learning more about the influence and relations of the Soviet Union.

Book this tour or check out more excellent Sofia tours here!

Best parks in sofia, 17. the borisova gradina park.

Many don’t know that Sofia is among the greenest capital cities in Europe . The Borisova Gradina Park is the oldest park in the city and is located at Sofia’s epicenter. Initially constructed on the park’s outskirts, it became centered in the town as the city grew.

It is also the biggest of the city’s four major parks. It takes a while to stroll through and will give you a nice breather from the city. There are ice cream vendors, restaurants, and bars nearby, and it is easy to spend a whole afternoon here!

You’ll find shady spots and plenty of sculptures to explore. It’s also a great place to let the kids run off some steam – much needed when sightseeing! During the summer, you’ll also find a large swimming pool, a lake , and sporting activities, such as football, tennis, and a cycling track.

18. Zaimov Park

The park is named after General Vladimir Zaimov and is easy to find as it is right by the Sofia Theatre. You’ll find many great fountains, statues, kids’ play areas, green spaces, and park benches here. The park is also close to one of the best restaurants in Sofia – Raketa! We got lost here for a while and found it relaxing.

19. Kristal Park

Located in front of the National Theatre, this is an excellent place to pair with your viewing of the iconic theater and can quickly fill an entire afternoon.

After long, cold winters being one of the highest elevated capital cities in Europe, the folks of Sofia are usually itching to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Swing by in the spring and summer months in Bulgaria and participate in your picnic, people-watching, and getting to know Bulgarian customs as you mingle with locals and backpackers.

It is a great place to bring hostel mates as there is also a growing international vibe, with backpackers starting to show up at the park.

Tip: It is an excellent place for sunset, and more locals show up later in the evening anyway.

20. Vitosha Mountain Nature Park

Located on the outskirts of Sofia, Vitosha Mountain towers over the city. Its massive dome rises 2,290 meters toward the sky and is Sofia’s most accessible ski destination. It will undoubtedly feel as though you have made it off the worn tourist track in Sofia once you’re up on this mountain.

It’s so large that it actually consists of many different peaks, ten of which reach more than 2,000 meters in height. This enormous mountain is also a nature park—the oldest one in the Balkans—and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities.

If you’re looking to escape the big city for a while, Vitosha Mountain is one of the best places to go in Sofia . Although many visitors know of the locally famous mountain, few take the time actually to hike up it. It’s easy to reach the top– no need to take an expensive tour with a guide or anything. Make your way toward the foot of Mount Vitosha using public transport (Bus 93 and 122 will get you there from the city center) and find one of many trails to start climbing.

If you’d like to do as little climbing as possible but still want to take in the excellent city views and breathe the fresh mountain air, Bus 66 will take you near the Aleko area, which is the highest you can climb using public transport.

Unfortunately, Sofia is also known as one of the smoggiest cities in Europe. So, hopefully, you get a clear day to take in the view. It may be the only European capital city with a large mountain nearby. Don’t miss your chance to explore nature so conveniently. Make a day excursion out of it!

Best Theaters & Performing Arts In Sofia

21. ivan vazov national theater.

One of the top Sofia tourist attractions, the Ivan Vazov National Theater, is Bulgaria’s national theater and the oldest theater in the country.

Located in the heart of the city, facing the City Garden, it’s named after famous writer Ivan Vazov, whose play “The Outcasts” was the first one that was performed in the theater after it opened. This imposing building, with its huge portico, is a major landmark in Sofia and Bulgaria, depicted on 50 lev banknotes printed in 1999 and 2006.

22. The National Opera & Ballet

Not only is this building pretty unique in terms of architecture, but it’s a cultural hotspot in Bulgaria, not just Sofia. Located in the city’s center, there are regular opera, ballet, and art performances. Be sure to check online to find out what performances are available during your stay, but even if you don’t get tickets, visit the building anyway.

Having been founded in 1890, this is the site of the first opera and drama company in Bulgaria.

23. The National Palace Of Culture

The heart of modern Sofia runs through the National Palace of Culture, built in 1981. This is one of the most well-known attractions on this list. Hosting events – anything from concerts of international pop stars to film festivals to art exhibits and fashion shows. Check the NDK (National Palace of Culture) website for details and prices of all the events at the event center while you are in Sofia, and try to check it out at least once.

There are many ways to get to NDK via public transport: Bus 204/604, Trolley 5, Tram 1, and the Blue Line metro will all take you to NDK. Oh, and while we are talking about the Metro in Sofia, I can say that the experience is top-notch. We rode it to several locations costing just 4 LEV for the day!

Best Museums, Art Galleries & Street Art In Sofia

24. national institute of archaeology with museum (niam).

We know that Sofia is one of the oldest cities in the world, so it makes sense that you can find all types of archaeology. The  National Archaeological Museum is a historically significant architectural landmark filled with fascinating exhibits that makes exploring easy, with everything in one place. The building itself is also pretty special.

The museum is housed within a former mosque, which was once the oldest Ottoman Mosque in the city. Inside, you’ll see examples of architecture dating back to Thracians and Medieval times.

NIAM exhibits cover the complete study of the culture of tribes and peoples who have lived in Bulgaria’s remote past up to more current times. Its displays showcase Bulgaria’s cultural heritage , spread across five exhibition halls—Prehistory, Middle Ages, Treasure, Central Hall, and a gallery for temporary exhibits. 

Spend a few hours browsing through artifacts housed in the multi-leveled building, including tools, metal works, grave goods, gold & silver ornaments, ceramics, and art, all of which tell the story of this unique country’s history.

Discounted tickets are available for students and groups, and if you visit on the last Sunday of the month, admission is free for everyone.

25. Regional History Museum Sofia

Learning about history is much easier when everything is in one place. This museum is an excellent spot for those who want a thorough overview of Sofia’s history, dating back thousands of years. Inside you’ll find eight halls with various attractions and temporary exhibits from time to time. Be sure to check out King Ferdinand’s carriage and the Deed of Tsar Ivan Shishman, which is gold-sealed and dates back to 1378. The old neolithic home exhibit is also a great spot, referring to the 6th century BC.

26. National Museum of History

The vast National Historical Museum exhibits Bulgaria’s history, from prehistoric times to the nation’s communist era. With its 650,000+ artifacts related to history, ethnography, archaeology, and art, this is one of Sofia and Bulgaria’s most excellent museums.

The museum is home to both permanent and temporary exhibits and 59 thematic collections. The permanent exhibits walk visitors through the changes in Bulgarian land over time, with a special focus on the Neolithic, Bronze, Renaissance, and Middle Age periods. A beautiful exhibit of folk culture and costumes is also on display. Collections feature flags, fabrics, traditional clothing, weapons, jewelry, coins, and so much more! 

You can explore the multi-level museum on your own or book a guided tour. Tours are offered in multiple languages (Bulgarian, English, French, German, Russian, or Japanese) and should be requested two weeks in advance so the museum can accommodate a guide who speaks the requested language. Special talks for children can also be arranged ahead of time if you are traveling with young kids . 

Buses No. 63, No. 111, No. 304 (from Monday to Friday), and trolley bus No. 2 can all be taken to the museum from locations around Sofia.

27. Muzeiko Children’s Museum

Muzeiko is a children’s museum, one of the first of its kind in Bulgaria. Award-winning and super-modern, the museum is an excellent spot for children to learn while exploring – they won’t know they’re remembering! With many exhibits for all ages, it’s a great day out for all the family and a good option for a rainy day.

The museum takes you on a journey through time and space and has three floors that help you to explore the past, the present, and of course, the future.

28. Museum Of Socialist Art

Displaying works of art from the period of Socialist rule in Bulgaria (1944-1989), this museum is definitely worth a short visit. It is home to an extensive sculpture garden featuring at least 70 works throughout the park grounds, including the large five-pointed star that once crowned the former Party House. It’s a great place to escape the city for a quiet art history walk.

Indoors, a rotating exhibit hall features easels and fine art based on themes from the era, showing various perspectives and interpretations of the period. Additionally, Socialist-era archival and documentary-style videos are shown in a separate room for a different type of visual experience.

The gift shop is a great place to pick up a piece of authentic memorabilia for those wishing to take a piece of history home with them.

29. National Art Gallery

If you want to immerse yourself in Bulgarian art, the best place to visit in Sofia is the National Art Gallery. Battenberg Square houses no fewer than 50,000 works of Bulgarian art, including the country’s most extensive collection of medieval paintings and superb National Revival and contemporary art pieces.

30. Local Street Art In Oborishte District

Not many tourists stumble upon this little gem of a neighborhood. It has an incredible repertoire of local eateries, artisan shops, and cafes, which is excellent for getting some work done. Not only that, but the entire neighborhood is filled with creative art on walls and sides of buildings which have become a theme for the area.

Arguably the best part of the neighborhood comes when you get north of Chavdar Bridge, where the density of building murals increases.

These aren’t just your ordinary graffiti artists, either. It is apparent from the sheer size of these murals that these local artists were contracted to bring this neighborhood to life. Some murals cover the entire length of the buildings, and the whole area feels like an open canvas.

31. The Big, Vibrantly Colored Snail House

Every bit of this unique building is of the anatomy of a snail , from its entrance doors symbolizing the snail’s mouth. It is as weird as it sounds , but it makes it a can’t miss!

Though this big colorful building is starting to show up on more internet travel lists, it is still (for the majority) unknown. Head here if only to grab a few photos of one of the most unorthodox residential apartment buildings you will ever see.

Located at Boulevard Simeonovsko Shose 187

Best Shopping & Markets In Sofia

32. shishman street.

Shop local culture at Shisman Street!

Though Shishman is prominent and popular, what you find on this street is the real treat. This street will keep your afternoon busy, whether it’s local art, food delicacies, local fashion, or other small trinkets and surprises.

Not only that, but a walk down Shishman Street will take you past a few of the larger landmarks in Sofia, like Patriarch Evtimiy Square and Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church. You’ll find this street easily if you’re staying near the InterContentantal hotel.

33. Vitosha Boulevard

If you like (window) shopping, you want to take a stroll down pedestrianized Vitosha Boulevard. Many a Sofia travel guide says that this is the most important commercial street in Sofia, lined with restaurants, cafés and bars, fashion stores, and boutiques selling luxury products.

34. Bitaka Flea Market

Sofia may be chock-full of culture and history, but it has a lighter side. If you’d like some fresh air after spending hours in the city’s museums, consider going for a walk through the Bitaka Flea Market. This is easily the most interesting flea market/bazaar in the city.

Casually browsing the many stands is one of Sofia’s most relaxing and fun things. Vendors sell everything from jewelry, old cameras, and photos to watches, clothes , merchandise, and toys. Who knows what you might find?

35. Zhenski Pazar Women’s Market

The Zhenski Pazar Women’s Market opened over 140 years ago and is a bustling and vibrant spot even today. Here you can find everything you need and taste some of the most delicious fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also buy clothing, souvenirs, and spices .

The experience of walking through the market is like no other, with a colorful and exciting vibe. The market is also in the city’s center, so you can easily find it and make it a part of your day.

Where To Eat And Drink In Sofia

Eating and drinking are also among the best things to do in Sofia . They’ll enhance your travel experience tremendously, giving a fantastic insight into the local Bulgarian culture. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started.

36. Vodenitsata Restaurant

Eat traditionally, and watch culture at Vodenisata Restaurant. Located On Vitosha Mountain, the journey to get here is already worth your time, not minding the quality of the local food you are served. However, even the food is delicious! And you get more than a healthy serving size of any dish you order for a very reasonable and affordable price.

The restaurant’s interior design is traditional, and almost every night, you can witness a folklore program of traditional dances, costumes, fire dances, and other energizing performances.

It is one of the best places to go for a complete local taste of the city. Though, it will take you on an excellent ride to get there. Completely worth it!

Address: Kv. Dragalevtsi, Park Vitosha, Sofia |  Website: Vodenisata Restaurant

37. Izbata Tavern

In the heart of Sofia, near the Alexander Nevski cathedral and the Parliament, this restaurant serves authentic Bulgarian cuisine in an invitingly traditional setting. Food is local, prices are low, and there is an option for an English menu should you need it.

A hearty selection of vegetarian and meat options are featured on the menu, and recipes for the dishes come from all over Bulgaria to give you a true sense of the country’s cuisine. Sip Bulgarian wine, beer, or rakia as you dine, and don’t forget one of the local desserts to polish off your meal.

Reservations can be made online ahead of time.

Address: ul. “ Slavyanska” 18 , 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia |  Website:   Tavern Izbota

38. The Hadjidragana Tavern

Housed in a building featuring old cellar decor, the atmosphere of this restaurant is unique and cozy. Upon entering, note the stone walls, old wooden barrels, displayed traditional Bulgarian clothing and wood carvings, all carefully selected.

Traditional recipes from all over Bulgaria are on the menu, and each day an entire lamb is roasted in a classic wood-burning oven. Plentiful options for traditional salads, meat platters, vegetable dishes, and desserts fill this menu , all made with local ingredients. In addition, the restaurant hosts an extensive wine list with many Bulgarian varieties.

On Wednesday through Sunday evenings, guests are treated to live folklore music, making this a place that’s incredibly fun to take kids along.

Be sure to call ahead for reservations.

Address:  ul. “Hristo Belchev” 18, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia |  Website:  The Hadjidragana Tavern

39. Raketa Rakia Bar

This trendy & funky bar, set in a Soviet-era building, feels like a museum and bar in one. Both pet and family-friendly, it’s a welcoming spot for all. Enjoy the Soviet-style interior and memorabilia as you relax at this local establishment.

It hosts an extensive selection of Rakija , as the name suggests, and is also a great place to grab a beer and a bite to eat, with local European dishes on the menu. And, as a bonus, if you like the spirits you try, you can buy them by bottle to take home with you!

Address:  17 Yanko Sakazov Blvd Next to Sputnik Cocktail Bar, Sofia 1000 |  Website:  Raketa Rakia Bar

40. Farmhopping Kitchen

Head to Farmhopping Kitchen to enjoy authentic Bulgarian food produced by farmers who are members of the Agricultural Cooperative SIS Coop.

This hidden gem has a constantly changing menu as it specifically uses the freshest local ingredients in season. Diners will love the quality of the food, the excellent value for the cost, and the family atmosphere of the dining experience itself.

The fresh meat, wine from local producers, and homemade raki are all worth a special mention, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. You might find yourself coming back again and again during your stay in Sofia!

Feel free to eat at the restaurant, order take out or have food delivered. 

Address: Bul. “Patriarh Evtimiy” 44, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia | Website: Farmhopping Kitchen

41. Shtastliveca

Shtastliveca is a small chain of popular restaurants, originally started in Veliko Tarnovo in 1997. The Sofia location is on the newer side, and the shabby chic and vintage decor of Europe’s 1930s will make you feel at home.

Two halls and a summer garden provide ample space for diners during both the lunch and dinner hours. The focus here is on traditional Bulgarian, or Balkans region, food, with a menu that lines up with the ingredients of the seasons.

In addition to tasty food, a good, extensive wine list will make any wine connoisseur happy to spend an evening here.

Address:  Bul. “Vitosha” 27, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia | Website: Shtastliveca

42. Mehana Mamin Kolyo

If you are looking for a spot where the locals eat, this is it! Here, you can unwind from the city noise, eating in either the summer beer garden accompanied by music or indoors with authentic decor and often dancing later in the night on the main floor, especially during the weekends.

Here you will experience authentic dining without the restaurant trying to be authentic. Portions are large, and the food can be heavy, so come on an empty stomach. Prices are moderate for the city, so it’s a good choice when looking for something a little less expensive. 

If you are traveling with kids , the garden hosts a play space where they can get out some energy while waiting for dinner to be served.

Book a table online or order for delivery!

Address:  ul. “Pozitano” 40, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia |  Website: Mehana Mamin Kolyo

43. No Matter Where You Eat – Try Rakia

Rakia isn’t unique to Sofia or Bulgaria , but they certainly have their distinctive take on it. I recommend trying Rakia in every city/country in the Balkan region of Europe.

In Bulgaria, plum and grape rakia is often mixed with various herbs, honey , sour cherries, and other ingredients to give it an individual taste different from other versions of Rakia you have tried in the Balkan region.

This fruity brandy is the national drink of Bulgaria and is popular among other south-Slavic countries.

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Visit Sofia Bulgaria, And Revel In Its Quirks!

Sofia is one of the most unique cities in Europe, and it is only a matter of time before the rest of the European tourists catch on to this secret and crowd the city. Beat them to Bulgaria to witness all of the existing culture and traditions that are often lost to major tourism. Now is your time!

As Berlin is to Germany, Sofia is the real heart of the country, and it is easy to recognize it provides life to the rest of the country. There is something special about this city you must see to understand!

So, tell us – will Sofia, Bulgaria, make it on your travel itinerary this year?

• Things To Do In Bulgaria
• Things To Do In Sofia
• Best Day Trips From Sofia
• Things To Do In Varna
• Bansko Ski Resort
• Bulgarian Festivals
• Rent A Car Bulgaria
• Most Beautiful Caves In Bulgaria
• Best Campsites In Bulgaria
• Where To Stay In Nessebar
• Best Time To Visit Bulgaria
• Where To Dive In Bulgaria
• 5-Day Travel Itinerary Through Bulgaria

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A fantastic article, a wonderful blog!

I enjoy reading your travel blog, each time i want to just pack my bag! Now, I feel ready for a dose of Bulgaria.

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20 Amazing Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria!

The many amazing things to do in Sofia make this city a true highlight in Bulgaria. A visit is definitely worthwhile because this up-and-coming Balkan pearl is still a real insider tip and thrills with a number of breathtaking attractions. Particularly fascinating is the mix of old and new, where thousand-year-old history mixes with buildings from the communist era and modern lifestyle. The captivating charm of the old town is unique, and also the many unique museums are absolutely worth seeing. Among the highlights is the imposing Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , which is considered to be the landmark of Sofia. Apart from that, there are many other places to visit in Sofia, so sightseeing in the Bulgarian capital is an unforgettable experience.

In this travel guide, we have summarized the most beautiful attractions and the things to do in Sofia that you should not miss at a glance. In addition, there are many travel tips to help you plan your trip!

Good to know!

If you are still looking for where to stay in Sofia , we can recommend the charming Art ‘Otel , a lovely city hotel with delicious breakfast and in a great location for sightseeing.

1 day in Sofia is just enough to see a few of the main attractions. However, if you want to get to know the city better, you should plan 2 to 3 days for your trip.

There are so many things to do in Sofia and its surroundings! Communism tours , wine tastings and guided trips to Rila Monastery can be found on GetYourGuide .

Sofia is also a tip for a city trip for young people. The nightlife of the city is unique, numerous restaurants, bars and clubs invite you to party until the early morning.

The Best Things to Do in Sofia

On a city trip to Sofia, you can look forward to a whole range of attractions worth seeing. Most of them are located directly in the old town and can be explored on your own during a city tour. So that you don’t lose the overview, we have summarized the best things to do in Sofia at a glance:

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is definitely the most famous attraction in Sofia . Its history dates back to 1882, when the foundation stone for its construction was laid. Completed in 1912, today it is the second-largest church in the Balkans and up to 10,000 people can be seated in this impressive place of worship. What is truly impressive is above all the exceptionally beautiful architecture , which with its numerous turrets and domes conjures up a backdrop like something out of a storybook. The interior of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is also worth seeing, where one is amazed by the rich gold ornaments, the mosaics, the marble and the elaborate carvings.

Tip : Highly recommend is also a visit to the crypt under the cathedral, where there is an extremely interesting museum of icons with Christian art.

Central Mineral Baths

One of the most stunning buildings in Sofia is the Central Mineral Bath . This charming sight is one of the most photographed attractions in the heart of the Old Town. The architecture in neo-Byzantine style, with the bright yellow colors, the mighty dome and the large fountain at the so-called Bath Square, which is still fed by warm spring water , is especially unique. Already in the 16th century, a Turkish steam bath was built on this square, and later, from 1913 to 1988, the city’s thermal bath was located here. Today, the Central Mineral Baths is an interesting museum, the so-called Regional History Museum Sofia , where you can learn many interesting facts about the history of the Bulgarian capital.

Tip : An Accommodation near the Central Mineral Baths is the perfect starting point for sightseeing. The charming The North Tower Apartment is highly recommended.

Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex

A visit to the Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex is one of the best things to do in Sofia. This excavation site is located right next to the Serdica metro station, just near the small Sveta Petka church. During a tour, you will be amazed by the remains of the Roman city of Serdica , which dates back to the 2nd century. The most beautiful is the spectacular ensemble of Roman excavation site, modern architecture and the classical town houses, as well as the famous Banja-Baschi mosque in the background. Part of the ruins is located under a modern glass structure , while another part is completely exposed between the Sveta Petka church and the metro station. Both areas can be visited for free!

Banya Bashi Mosque

Probably one of the most impressive attractions in Sofia is the Banya Bashi Mosque . It is the largest mosque in the Bulgarian capital Sofia and moreover, one of the most important buildings of the Ottoman rule . This imposing place of worship with its high minaret was built between 1566 and 1567. It is said that once there were over a hundred mosques in Sofia, but today the Banya Bashi Mosque is the only mosque that is still active and has been preserved in its former form. Absolutely worth seeing from the outside, this historical attraction can also be visited from the inside free of charge outside of prayer times.

National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture , often referred to as the NDK, is certainly one of the most impressive things to see in Sofia. This massive building complex from 1981 is currently the congress and concert center of the Bulgarian capital, where regular events take place. The spectacular architecture of the building is particularly impressive, which together with the beautiful park and the magnificent fountains conjures up a grandiose backdrop. In the publicly accessible park, right next to the Palace of Culture, meet mainly locals, but also tourists for having a walk or just to enjoy the unique atmosphere .

St. George Rotunda Church

The St. George Rotunda Church is a real gem and a visit is one of the best things to do during any city trip to Sofia. A special feature of this early Christian church made of red brick is its unique location in a courtyard between the Sofia Hotel Balkan and the seat of the President of Bulgaria. The Roman structure dates back as early as the 4th century, and is believed to have been built on the remains of a pagan temple. Today, the Church of St. George Rotunda is not only a popular and much-photographed landmark in Sofia, it is also one of the oldest structures in all of Bulgaria .

Sveta Nedelya Church

One of the most impressive attractions in Sofia’s city center is the Sveta Nedelya Church . This cathedral is centrally located, near the so-called Archaeological-Architectural Complex, and is also not far from the famous Vitosha Boulevard. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, and it is believed that the cathedral had its origins as early as the 10th century. A real eye-catcher from the outside, this Orthodox church is also absolutely worth seeing from the inside . During a free tour, you will be amazed by the imposing huge nave, the rich decorations, the gilded carved wooden wall and the numerous icon paintings.

Sofia’s Central Market Hall

Sofia’s Central Market Hall is one of the most charming traditional markets in the Old Town. The market building was built in the neo-Renaissance style as early as 1909 to 1911, and is still in use today. Impressive is also the bell tower with the three clocks , which, however, were installed only in 1915. Strolling through the large steel and glass market hall, you will find a good selection of local delicacies , fresh fruits & vegetables, spices and meat. There are also a few stores selling souvenirs, handicrafts and gems. Walking around, you can observe the hustle and bustle and also try some typical Bulgarian dishes.

Vitosha Boulevard

The Vitosha Boulevard is the largest and probably the most popular shopping street in Sofia . This wonderful promenade bears the name of the capital’s local mountain, the so-called Vitosha Mountain, which rises majestically in the background. This car-free, absolutely charming pedestrian zone leads from the Sveta Nedelja Cathedral about 600 meters south. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a variety of shopping options with national and international brands, souvenir stores for gifts, and numerous fabulous restaurants and cafés to linger in. A fantastic place to stroll, wander and dine, even if you don’t necessarily want to shop.

Tip : There are some really fantastic hotels for a Sofia vacation in the vicinity of the shopping mile, such as the chic and modern Juno Hotel Sofia situated in a quiet side street.

Earth and People National Museum

The Earth and People National Museum is a real insider’s tip in the city of Sofia, especially if you have some interest in geology and minerals. It is one of the largest mineralogical museums in the world and the comprehensive exhibition of various rocks, gemstones, as well as gigantic crystals, is absolutely spectacular. Over 27,000 rocks and minerals are exhibited in the Earth and People National Museum on 2 huge floors, including very rare examples from all over the world and even from outer space! A real highlight is the exhibition of giant crystals , which come from Brazil.

Church of St. Petka

Sveta Petka Church is a small jewel in the old town of Sofia. Its location is unusual, as it is situated in the underpass between the Sheraton Hotel and the Serdika metro station. This medieval church dates back to the 15th century and was built during the Ottoman occupation. It is actually just a small single-nave building partially dug into the ground, where inside there is only a room of about 70 square meters. It is interesting to note that at that time churches were not allowed to be higher than a soldier on horseback. Therefore, many of these small churches were also built into the ground.

Ivan Vazov National Theater

One of the most beautiful things to see in Sofia is definitely the National Theater Ivan Vazov , named after an important Bulgarian writer. The building dates back to 1906, it has been damaged several times over the years and renovated numerous times. Absolutely stunning is the classicist architecture after the Viennese architects Hermann Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner the Younger. As a result, the gold decorated building together with the Sofia City Park became a real jewel of the city. In the square in front of it there is also a pretty fountain and numerous benches and a café invite you to linger.

National Archaeological Museum

One of the best museums in Sofia is the National Archaeological Museum . This fascinating museum was founded back in 1892, with the aim of documenting Bulgaria’s rich history. Today, visitors are amazed by the extensive collection of objects from the Stone and Bronze Ages , there are stunning ancient mosaics, pottery and sculptures, as well as valuable gold and silver treasures. Truly unique is also the location of this museum, which is housed in the former Great Mosque, the Büyük Mosque from the 14th century.

Saint Sofia Church (Sveta Sofia)

The Saint Sofia Church , also known as the Church of Sweta Sofija, is one of the most important attractions in Sofia, as even the city was named after it. It is one of the oldest church buildings in the whole Europe and the second-oldest church in the Bulgarian capital. Its history dates back to the 4th century, to the Roman times. From outside, pretty to look at, but especially the interior of this church is worth a visit. The mosaics on the floor, which date back to the early Christian era, are interesting. The graves under the church, which are about 1,500 years old, and the accompanying museum are also worth seeing.

National Art Gallery

A visit to the National Art Gallery is one of the best things to do in Sofia, especially if you love art. This gallery was founded in 1934 and is located in the former Royal Palace of Sofia. This extensive museum has over 50,000 art objects , including paintings, prints and sculptures. Contemporary art, a royal art collection and the largest collection of medieval art in Bulgaria, with more than 4000 icons, are exhibited here. In addition to the permanent exhibitions, there are always temporary exhibitions. The small park next to the museum is also pretty.

Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker

The Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker is a Russian Orthodox church in the center of the city and a highlight that should not be missed on any sightseeing tour of Sofia. It is located on what is now Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard and is surrounded by a pretty little park. Absolutely stunning is the typical Russian architecture, inspired from the 17th century. The 5 domes are gilded with gold leaf, essentially characterize the appearance of this building. However, this church is also worth seeing from the inside, where magnificent wall paintings amaze visitors from all over the world.

National Museum of Military History

The National Museum of Military History is an insider’s tip in Sofia and definitely not a place that everyone already knows about. Especially history buffs, and those interested in military equipment, will enjoy this museum. Founded in 1982, you can visit a huge outdoor area with tanks , airplanes , helicopters and even missiles are part of the collection. However, the museum complex is also worth seeing, where by means of archive photos, documents, uniforms and small arms of the most different epochs, the life of the soldiers, as well as the war history of Bulgaria is documented.

Boyana Church

The beautiful Boyana Church is one of the most important attractions in the area around Sofia. It is located about 10 kilometers outside the city center in the Boyana district of the same name, beneath the Witosha Mountain, and can be reached either by taxi or by bus. This medieval church has been on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1979. Especially worth seeing is the interior of the church, where you can see the famous frescoes dating back to 1259, which are still excellently preserved and are a fabulous example of medieval Eastern European art.

National Historical Museum

The National History Museum is one of the most interesting attractions in Sofia, and moreover, it is one of the largest museums in all of Bulgaria . The exhibition is very extensive, and so it is worth to plan enough time for a visit. Here you will find a fabulous overview of the history of Bulgaria, you will be amazed by the rich cultural heritage from prehistory, through ancient Thrace, Bulgarian Middle Ages, antiquity to modern times. The museum currently houses about 650,000 exhibits , with only 10% on permanent display.

Sofia: City Tours, Tickets & More

If you don’t necessarily want to explore the city of Sofia on your own, you have the option of joining a guided tour. On the online portal GetYourGuide you can find exciting city tours, cheap entrance tickets , wine tastings and unforgettable excursions in the surroundings of Sofia!

The reviews are also really great, and you can compare them before booking.

Where to Stay in Sofia

In Sofia, you’ll find a great range of fantastic places to stay . From cheap backpacker hostels to modern apartments, bed and breakfasts and fantastic hotels, you’ll find it all. If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Sofia, we can give you these tips along the way… It’s worth a look!

• 5-Star Hotel : The Grand Hotel Sofia is the perfect choice for a very special vacation in Sofia. This time-honored hotel delights with charm and pure luxury.
• Backpacker Hostel : The 5 Vintage Guest House is an insider tip for all those who like to stay cheap and good. The location in the city center and the beautiful furnishings are great!
• Chic Apartment : The Courthouse Apartments Slavi is one of the coolest apartments in Sofia. The furnishings and the great location in the old town are fantastic.
• Nice City Hotel : The Art ‘Otel is a lovely city hotel in Sofia. Guests love the central location, delicious breakfast, and spacious rooms.

Find the best accommodation in Sofia:

More beautiful city-trips:, 20 most amazing things to do in budapest, top 20 amazing things to do in rome, top 25 amazing things to do in athens, top 25 unique things to do in paris, top 25 amazing things to do in vienna, top 25 unique things to do in london.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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13 Best Things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria’s Capital (+ Map!)

Sofia is probably one of the most underrated European capitals but also such a nice jewel to add to your collection of visited cities. 

Nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, Sofia is a city brimming with stories waiting to be discovered. Bulgaria is situated on a crossroad between Europe and Asia which contributed greatly to its rich history, culture and traditions. 

I, Luba (one of the authors of this website), was born and raised in Sofia, and currently live here with my husband Sammy. So we definitely have the local’s insights and can’t wait to share it with you. 

As a starting point for many travelers exploring Bulgaria, spending around 2 days in Sofia is an ideal way to soak in its essence. 

We’ve put together this guide to the best things to do in Sofia to help travellers like you plan your trip the best way possible. So let’s get started. 

Table of Contents

Map of the best things to do in Sofia

Best Things to do in Sofia

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, is by taking a free walking tour. These guided tours offer an excellent introduction to the city’s top attractions and hidden gems while providing valuable insights from knowledgeable local guides.

You’ll have the opportunity to admire architectural marvels like the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the ancient Serdica complex, all while learning about the city’s fascinating past.

Plus, the free walking tours operate on a tip-based system, allowing you to decide how much you’d like to contribute based on your satisfaction with the experience. The free walking tour takes place multiple times every day, and its meeting point is in front of the Palace of Justice.

2. The Majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Sofia’s Iconic Landmark

No visit to Sofia would be complete without a stop at the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of Bulgaria’s most iconic landmarks.

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, known for its golden domes, was built in the early 20th century to honor 200,000 soldiers who died in a war. It’s one of the biggest churches in the world for Eastern Orthodox Christians. The main dome is 45 meters high, and the bell tower is even taller at 50.52 meters.

The cathedral is quite spacious, covering an area of 3,170 square meters and can hold up to 10,000 people. In the Balkan Peninsula, it’s the second largest cathedral after the Cathedral of Saint Sava in Belgrade.

Even though we live in Sofia, we still get mesmerised by the beauty of this church every time we pass by. Let us know in the comments what you felt once you saw it in person! 

3. The old St. Sofia Church (Sveta Sofia)

Right next to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, you’ll find the St. Sofia Church. It’s easy to miss, as the building is not as spectacular as the big cathedral, but it’s actually a much older church that holds a dear place in Sofia’s history.

Dating back over a millennium, this ancient basilica bears witness to the city’s Roman, Byzantine, and medieval past. Its red-brick exterior and simple yet elegant interior evoke a sense of timelessness and tranquility. 

The St. Sofia Church is a place where history whispers through its walls. It’s also where most weddings take place, so if you’re visiting over the weekend during the summer months, you’ll be sure to see a wedding here. 

We recommend visiting during the week, when it’s less busy, so you can actually go inside. 

You HAVE to know these 8 crucial things before visiting Bulgaria!

Our top tips are on their way. Just check your inbox!  P.S. Expect a few more emails in the upcoming days with even more tips!

4. Discover the Largo of Serdika – above and underground

Serdika metro station is one of the most central places in Sofia and it’s where remains from the old city of Serdika (Sofia’s previous name) have been found. 

Once you get here, stay underground for a bit and discover these ruins, which have recently been discovered. Don’t forget to also go into the “secret” entry right after the souvenir shops – here you’ll find the glass rooftop, which gives you a glimpse at the Largo square above.

After you’re done, go up and see the Largo square, also known as the “Triangle of power”, which is locked between the buildings of the Council of Ministers, the National Assembly and the Presidency. 

5. Admire the Church of St. Petka

St. Petka Church, nestled beneath the city streets, is a hidden treasure with its unique rock-carved interior. 

Before going up to the Largo square, I strongly advise you to have a look at this small church, built partly in the ground. It’s located right next to the metro entr  and it’s one of the oldest churches here in Sofia.

6. Fill up your water bottle at the Central Mineral Baths

The central part of Sofia is known for its mineral springs. This is why the city’s public bath was built exactly there and used to work as such till 1986. 

The building’s facade is covered with colourful ceramic mosaics and is one of the most picturesque places in Sofia. 

Right behind the building you will find the mineral fountains where you can fill up your water bottles for free! You’ll recognize it by the line of people with large water bottles. 

The water is known to be very helpful when it comes to gastrointestinal diseases, kidney stones, liver and gallbladder disorders.

Beware of the smell – hot mineral water smells like rotten eggs due to the hydrogen sulfide in it. Just wait some time and the smell will disappear. 

7. See the Banya Bashi Mosque

The Banya Bashi Mosque in Sofia is the last standing mosque out of 70 from the past. Designed by Mimar Sinan in 1576, a prominent Ottoman architect, it’s a splendid example of Ottoman style. 

The name “Banya Bashi” means ‘a lot of baths,’ reflecting its proximity to Central Baths. Inside, aquamarine tiles and calligraphy adorn the walls, while the dome, with a 15-meter diameter, is a highlight. 

The muezzin’s calls resonate five times a day from the minaret’s loudspeaker, adding vibrancy to the surroundings, especially on Fridays. 

While not an official tourist site, visitors are welcome outside prayer times, offering a glimpse into Sofia’s Ottoman heritage.

8. Take a stroll along Vitosha Boulevard

If you continue walking straight from Serdika station, in just a few minutes you’ll be at Vitosha boulevard – Sofia’s main shopping street. Don’t be fooled by the name – it’s called a boulevard but it’s actually a pedestrian zone, full of shops, cafes and restaurants.

This is the perfect place to go for an afternoon coffee or a dinner in the heart of the city. Especially in the summer months, Vitosha boulevard is buzzing with people, as it’s one of the main places for locals to meet up. 

You could literally spend hours on this street just enjoying the atmosphere – street musicians, occasional dance shows, countless cute little restaurants and a gorgeous view! 

The mountains are so close to Sofia that they can be seen very well even from street level where you’re surrounded by buildings! 

But don’t forget to turn around for another beautiful view of the St. Nedelya church on the other end of the street. 

9. See the National Palace of Culture

If you walk through the whole Vitosha boulevard, at the end you will enter the garden of the National Palace of Culture. If you continue straight on, you will reach the building itself. 

There’s nothing to see inside the building, as it’s a concert hall, but just take some time to walk around.

To be completely honest, this is nowhere near the most beautiful building in Sofia, but the whole area around it is quite nice – the fountains, the flowers, the skaters’ and bikers’ spot, street musicians if you’re lucky, the mountain in the distance behind the building… 

All of this gives off such a nice vibe – the vibe of Sofia.

10. Chill at the “Ivan Vazov” National Theatre

One of the best things to do in Sofia is to see the building of the National Theatre. 

This is the largest theatre in Bulgaria, and definitely one of the prettiest buildings in the city! 

The small park in front of it is a favourite hang-out spot for Sofia residents of all ages. There are a few benches there that turn into a chess battlefield every day, so if you are confident in that game – why not challenge a local? 😉

 Jokes aside, the theatre is one of the ‘must see’ places in Sofia, so do not miss it.

11. Discover the St. George Rotunda Church

The Rotunda church of St. George, an ancient architectural marvel dating back to the early 4th century AD, stands as a remarkably preserved monument in Sofia, potentially tracing its origins to Roman times. 

Situated in Sofia’s heart, it’s a captivating piece of history believed to be the city’s oldest building. 

Nestled within the courtyard of the Government Office, near the remnants of the ancient Serdika fortress, this cylindrical-domed wonder has witnessed various uses over centuries. 

From potentially serving as a public space to becoming a Christian baptistery, later transforming into a mosque during the Ottoman rule, it now holds its cultural and historical significance. 

Following Bulgaria’s liberation in 1878, the Rotunda was abandoned. After Knyaz Alexander Battenberg’s reign (1879 – 1886), it underwent a transformation into a mausoleum.

Nowadays, the temple is operational, conducting daily worship services with Eastern church singing, also recognized as Byzantine music.

12. See the beautiful St. Nedelya Church

The St. Nedelya Church has evolved from medieval-era smaller churches. Initially constructed with wood and stone foundations, the entire church transitioned to stone later on. 

Tragically, a bombing targeted Tsar Boris III in 1925, resulting in over 200 casualties and a complete destruction of the church. 

The present architecture, restored and renamed to Sveta Nedelya, dates back to 1950 under communist influence. Previously called “Holly King” (Sveti kral), the church held the remains of Serbian king Stephan Urosh II. 

Notably, the church features a remarkably preserved wood-carved iconostasis from 1865 and murals added as recently as 1976.

13. Visit the Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker

The Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker, also known as the Russian church, is an architectural marvel with a high central dome surrounded by four smaller golden domes. 

The roof, adorned with green majolica tiles, complements the overall aesthetic. Built from 1912 to 1914 by Russian architect Preobrajenski and Russian workers, it emulates the 16th-century Russian churches in a style known as Russian Revival. 

Donated by Russian King Nikolay II, the church’s bells and exterior have recently been renovated by the Moscow Patriarchate. While the interior is modest, the frescoes, painted in the style of the Novgorod icon school, are a notable highlight. 

The crypt is more popular than the church, housing the tomb of the former Bishop Serafin, a revered figure believed to grant prayers and wishes. 

Final thoughts

As we come to the end of our exploration, we hope that this list of things to do in Sofia was helpful. 

Your adventure is just beginning! Every part of this country has a unique story to tell—ancient history, beautiful nature, and warm people. 

Remember, your Bulgarian journey won’t be complete without stepping outside Sofia and discovering other incredible places. 

Discover even more content about Bulgaria:

21 Best Things to do in Plovdiv (+ Map!)

• 27 Best Things to Do in Veliko Tarnovo
• 12 Best Things to Do in Varna

Lyubomira is the creator and author behind WondersOfBulgaria. With a degree in Journalism and experience in the field of tourism and marketing, her mission with this website is to show travellers the beauty of her home country - Bulgaria.

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19 Amazing Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, is one of the places I like returning to. Even if at first it might seem that there are not too many things to do in Sofia, the city actually offers plenty of attractions and is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria and a great base for Sofia day trips .

It took me a while to notice how cool Sofia actually is but now it’s pretty high on my list of favorite destinations and I always try to include it in my Bulgaria itinerary .

A fellow blogger, Nina from Lemons and Luggage wrote this post about the best things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria and I agree with each and every one of the places she has mentioned. If you are planning a trip to Sofia, this Sofia guide might be useful for you!

Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, and although more people are beginning to take notice of the city it’s still a bit underrated. With all the amazing things to do in Sofia, you will definitely enjoy your time in the city and won’t get bored even for a second.

No matter your interests there are a ton of attractions in Sofia for every type of traveler. Whether you’re spending a weekend in Sofia or have more time there really are enough things to do in the city.

Sofia essentials

• Airport transfer: Pre-book the airport transfer from Sofia airport to your accommodation in Sofia here .
• Where to stay in Sofia: Design Hotel 36 (9.1/10) / Art ‘Otel (9.1/10)
• Best Sofia tour: Sofia Private City Tour
• Best day trip from Sofia: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Small Group Tour
• Get insured for your trip to Bulgaria with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Sofia

So let’s get into all the great things to do in Sofia, in no particular order.

Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

You won’t find a post on Sofia tourist attractions that doesn’t mention the city’s most popular building, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Built between 1882 and 1912 to honor the Russian participation in Bulgaria’s independence, this fascinating cathedral is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world!

The interior may not be as impressive as the exterior with its golden domes, but there’s no doubt that Alexander Nevsky Cathedral tops anyone’s list of things to see in Sofia. It certainly is one of the most instagrammable places in the whole city.

Underneath the cathedral itself, you will find the crypt which has been turned into a museum for Orthodox icons. If you’re interested in the history of Orthodox Christianity this might be worth a visit.

If you wander around the area you will see even more interesting places, such as Saint Sofia Church. This church is located right across Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and gave the city its current name. You can also find the Monument to the Unknown Soldier here.

Visit the Church of St. George

St. George Rotunda is another one of the Sofia must-see as it is the oldest building in the city. It was built in the 4th or 5th century AD and turned into a church in the 6th century, but the surrounding Roman ruins are even older than that.

The magnificent frescoes you can see on the walls inside were only uncovered in the 20th century as they had been painted over by the Ottomans who converted the building to a mosque.

See Vitosha Boulevard

Even if you’re not into shopping you have to make a stop at Vitosha Boulevard during your Sofia sightseeing. As a pedestrianized street, it provides relief from the busy traffic of Bulgaria’s capital.

Restaurants and cafés invite you to spend some time observing the comings and goings of the boulevard. And if you are into shopping you will appreciate the numerous shops, especially with souvenirs.

If you’re still looking for a gift from Bulgaria consider the world-renowned Bulgarian rose water.

Learn More About Bulgaria at the National History Museum

The largest museum in the whole country will take up some time in your Sofia itinerary. This is not surprising given that the thousands of items on display date back several centuries.

It’s the perfect place to learn about Bulgarian history from prehistoric to modern times. The reason the rooms are so enormous is that the National History Museum is located in Bulgarian dictator Todor Zhivkov’s former residence, adding an eeriness to your visit.

One of the most impressive things to see here is the Panagyurishte Treasure, one of the most famous Thracian treasures still around.

Visit the Ivan Vazov National Theater

One of Sofia’s most stunning pieces of architecture is the National Theater named for Bulgarian poet Ivan Vazov. Along with Hristo Botev, he is considered one of the fathers of Bulgarian revolutionary poetry making the honor of having the National Theater named after him well-deserved.

Even if you can’t actually watch a performance here due to your lack of Bulgarian language skills you will enjoy the gorgeous façade and the square in front of the theater which is bustling with life.

If you’re more curious about Ivan Vazov you can also find his grave next to Saint Sofia Church.

Have a Stroll Through the Serdika Excavations

Long before being named Sofia, the city was actually called Serdika in Roman times. There are impressive excavations to be found in and around the Serdika metro station. And the best part? There is no entrance fee!

Certainly one of the most amazing free things to do in Sofia whether you’re on a tight budget or not. How amazing to think that if the metro system had not been expanded these impressive ruins would have never been excavated!

They are very beautifully preserved, and if you walk around for some 15-20 minutes you can really imagine yourself being transported back in time.

Even if you’re not a huge archaeology buff you will definitely be amazed by the excavations.

Enjoy the Beauty of the Central Mineral Baths/Regional History Museum

Sofia is not lacking in breathtakingly beautiful architecture. The Central Mineral Baths are another looker even though they don’t function as the public mineral bath any longer. They have been converted into the Regional History Museum where you can find out all about Sofia’s history until the 1940s.

For the best shots of the stunning building position yourself in the Bath Park right in front of the Central Mineral Baths.

As you know by now, Sofia used to be part of the Roman Empire at which time thermal baths were set up. This was only natural as there are various hot springs underneath the city. In the Ottoman Empire, the thermal baths were a Hamam or Turkish bath.

Escape the Tourist Crowds at the Sofia Synagogue

The Sofia Synagogue is actually one of the biggest synagogues in Europe, but unfortunately, the Jewish community in the city is constantly shrinking. In order to support the upkeep of the synagogue, you can pay a small entrance fee of 5lv and enter the beautiful world of this lovely place of worship.

It’s not popular with tourists at all yet so you can definitely take a break from everything here.

Marvel at Banya Bashi Mosque

Banya Bashi Mosque was designed by Ottoman architect Sinan, considered to be one of the best architects in history. The Ottoman-era mosque is sadly the only mosque still standing in Sofia today.

While its exterior may not be very impressive, the interior is absolutely gorgeous making the mosque well worth a visit. The tiles are an excellent example of Islamic art.

The 16th-century place of worship is free for visitors, and even if you’re not dressed appropriately coverings are provided at the entrance.

Walk Around to Catch the Cool Street Art

Whether you join the Sofia Graffiti Tour or explore the city’s urban galleries on your own, you will be amazed by the beautiful works of artists like Nasimo, MAD, Arsek & Erase, and others.

In a city that still bears the signs of a communist past, the colorful murals bring life to some of the gray walls. If you have a lot of time in Sofia you may even want to venture out of the city center for more street art.

Stop by at St. Nicholas Church (Russian Church)

Although Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Bulgaria’s landmark you may fall even more in love with the quaint St. Nicholas Church. The Russian church features five golden domes and is located in a small green paradise that invites you to spend a little more time.

Like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral it’s more impressive on the outside than the inside, but it’s still well worth taking a look inside.

The little garden that surrounds it also makes for a great resting place in between all that exploring.

Drop by the National Palace of Culture

You can’t visit a city like Sofia and not have a detailed look at some of the Communist architecture. You can find many examples of it throughout the city, but one particularly notorious building is the National Palace of Culture, NDK. It’s doubtful that you would like the aesthetics, but it’s still important to have a look. It is also the top spot for young people in Sofia to meet.

The building still functions as an exhibition and conference center and is actually the largest such building in the Balkans.

Attend One of the Free Walking Tours

There’s probably no easier and cheaper way to get an overview of a new city than a free walking tour. The best part about them is that they can help you figure out which places you want to go back to for more info and which sights to skip. Most walking tours last about two hours and cover the most important sights so you will have a glimpse of some of the items from this overview of things to do in Sofia.

Whether you want to join a food tour, a street art tour, a history tour, or just an introductory tour of the most important sights in Sofia, these are all available in the Bulgarian capital. If you do a few different ones they should give you a pretty good feel for the city.

Try Some of the Local Food

Bulgarian cuisine may not be world-famous but is actually well worth a try. You may know some of the most popular dishes from Greek or Turkish cuisine because there are similarities between the food in many Balkan countries and even other countries that were part of the Ottoman Empire.

Because Sofia is such a cheap city even upper-scale restaurants are quite affordable compared to their counterparts in Western cities.

Vegetarians and vegans don’t have to worry. Although Bulgarian food tends to be very meat-centric, there are quite a few traditional dishes that are vegetarian or even vegan. There are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sofia , and you will be able to find traditional dishes that have been veganized at some of them. A great choice for an upscale vegan dining experience is Soul Kitchen Restaurant, but you can also have a quick bite at Sun Moon, a vegetarian bakery.

After your trip, you can also try to cook some vegan Balkan dishes on your own to have you feeling as if you were right back in Sofia.

Visit a Teahouse

Not many foreign tourists know how popular teahouses are in the cities of Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Why not spend some time relaxing at the super cozy Veda House which also offers several vegetarian and vegan dishes?

Be Amazed by the History of Saint Nedelya Church

You would not know this by simply looking at this rather unassuming church from the 10th century, but it has been through some important events in Bulgarian history. For example, it was here that the Bulgarian Communist Party launched an attack in 1925 with 134 immediate deaths plus additional deaths later on.

Saint Nedelya Church had to be rebuilt several times as a result of the destruction it faced.

The name literally means Saint Sunday or Holy Sunday.

Discover More About Bulgaria at the National Ethnographic Museum

Not everyone gets to travel through the entire country of Bulgaria, but if you’re only visiting Sofia you can still find out more about Bulgarian folklore at the Ethnographic Museum. Not a lot of people visit this museum making it one of the best things to do in Sofia without too many tourists.

The museum is located in the beautiful Royal Palace, built in 1873 as an Ottoman administrative building. After Bulgaria’s independence, the building was enhanced to make it a representative palace.

In 1879, Prince Battenberg moved into the palace. The building also houses the National Art Gallery.

Admire the Changing of the Guards in Front of the President’s Office

The changing of the guards may not be as elaborate as in some other European capitals, but it’s worth a stop nonetheless. The procedure takes place every hour 5 minutes before the hour meaning that you can easily combine your Sofia sightseeing with a quick stop at the President’s Office.

The President’s Office is part of an ensemble of three buildings collectively known as the Largo.

Wander Along the Yellow Pavement

When checking out all the incredible things to do in Sofia you can’t help but notice the yellow bricks that make up the pavement of some of the city’s streets, namely the beautiful area surrounding the Royal Palace. This is where you can admire many gorgeous neoclassical buildings.

The story about the yellow pavement is quite interesting as the bricks were made in Hungary and were supposed to make Sofia look like a proper European capital. However, due to their high cost, the Bulgarian government took out a huge loan from Germany. But they didn’t want to tell the population about this and lied about who had paid for the yellow bricks. The official story was that the Austro-Hungarian Empire had given them to Ferdinand I of Bulgaria as a wedding gift.

You really can’t miss the yellow pavement on your trip to Bulgaria, but enjoy it while it’s there. For years, there have been debates about removing the yellow pavement so who knows for how long this will remain one of the top things to do in Sofia.

Where to Stay in Sofia

To make the most of your stay and have easy access to the best things to do in Sofia, look for accommodation in the center of the city. Due to the affordability, you can absolutely find a place in one of Vitosha Boulevard’s side streets meaning you’ll be right at the heart of the part of the city that will be of interest to you as a tourist.

Whether you’re more into private apartments, hostels, or hotels, the modern center of Sofia has accommodation options for all kinds of travelers and all budgets.

Here are the recommended places to stay in Sofia:

• Budget: Hostel Mostel Sofia / 5 Vintage Guest House / Smart Hostel Sofia
• Mid-range: Sofia Place Hotel by HMG / St. George Hotel / Hotel Niky
• Luxury: Les Fleurs Boutique Hotel / Grand Hotel Sofia / InterContinental Sofia

About the author: Nina Ahmedow is a travel content creator who has traveled to more than 20 countries on three continents. Born and raised in Germany but currently living in Greece, she loves exploring the world through vegan food. She is the voice behind Lemons and Luggage , a travel blog dedicated to vegan and responsible travel. You can follow Nina on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , Pinterest , and YouTube .

Further reading

If you are planning a trip to Bulgaria I wrote a few more articles that you might find useful or interesting:

• Bulgaria itinerary – what to see in Bulgaria in 2 weeks
• Day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria
• Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria – is this the prettiest town in the country?
• Why you should visit Shumen, Bulgaria
• Day in Veliko Tarnovo – my highlight of Bulgaria
• Best reasons to visit Bansko, Bulgaria

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Evgenia Mladenova

I can’t believe you didn’t mention St Josef Catholic Cathedral! It’s part of so called Faith Triangle along with the Synagogue and the Mosque. And is surrounded by beautiful garden and more Roman excavations

This article was contributed by a fellow blogger, soon I will add to it a few more places that I think are worth visiting in Sofia too (including the Catholic Cathedral). But to be honest, I don’t think the cathedral is a major place to visit in Sofia, there are so many better places and most of them were included in the article.

Thank you ????

you’re welcome :)

Travelguy38

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The Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Days in Sofia Itinerary

Last Updated on February 1, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Mapping out the ideal Sofia itinerary is a highlight of visiting Bulgaria and spending 1, 2 or 3 days in Sofia is an unbeatable experience. Sofia is a city that is often overlooked, too frequently shunted and added to “skip it” lists without a second thought. And, to be honest, it might be understandable at first sight of Bulgaria’s capital city.

Sofia is not beautiful and the few architectural gems it does have are often hidden by functional communist-era housing blocks, connected by a drab, sometimes crumbling pavement. However, this does not mean that Sofia isn’t worth visiting.

Despite its dreary exterior lies a lively metropolis that is just as likely to charm its visitors as a more traditionally beautiful city, which is why planning a trip to Sofia is a choice you will not regret.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sofia?

The ideal length for a trip to Sofia is three days if you want to be able to see all of the main sites and still be able to dig a little bit deeper and get to know the city well.

In contrast, if you only plan to spend one day in Sofia, then you will only really be able to scratch the surface and leave with a list of things to do in Sofia the next time you visit.

1, 2 or 3-Day Sofia Itinerary

Sofia is a massive city with a lot of interesting things to see and do and one could easily spend more than a week in the city and not get bored. However, those embarking on a short Sofia city break or only have a weekend in Sofia still will be able to get a good feel for the city before they have to leave.

Day 1 – Central Sofia Sites

The first day of this Sofia itinerary sees you visiting some of Sofia’s main sites and monuments. Today will give you a great introduction to the city and is the ideal starting point.

Serdika Station

Begin your time in Sofia at Serdika Metro Station. While this may seem like an odd choice to begin sightseeing, it is worth noting the Serdika has a lot more to offer than just a metro line.

Serdika, which was the ancient name for Sofia, sits at the historical centre of the Bulgarian capital and in the metro station, you can see the ancient remains of the former city. Seeing these ruins truly puts into context just how old Sofia is and how long humans have been living in the city.

Another sight near the station would be the Church of St George Rotunda, which is a 4th-century church that sits among the ruins. It is still in operation today and, though it is certainly smaller than most of the other spectacular churches in Sofia, it is still worth a visit.

Sveta Nedelya Church

After marvelling at the ruins of Serdika, walk only about 100 metres to the Sveta Nedelya Church. This Eastern Orthodox church is one of the most important in Bulgaria and is defined by its incredible architecture.

The Church is located in Sveta Nedelya Square which is considered to be the geographical centre of Sofia and therefore has been a historical crossroads of the city for hundreds of years.

Though originally constructed in the 10th century, it has been reconstructed twice, once in 1867 where it took on the look it has today, and once more in 1933 after it was nearly destroyed in a bombing meant to assassinate the reigning tsar of Bulgaria.

The attack still remains the most deadly in Bulgarian history, with more than 150 innocent people killed.

Sofia History Museum & Central Mineral Baths

Close to the Sveta Nedelya Church is the Sofia History Museum. Located in what used to be the central bathhouse of the city, the building now houses relics and history from the city from its ancient past until 1944.

However, if you’re interested in visiting the Museum of Sofia because you want to learn more about the communist regime of Bulgaria, you will find that there is no information on that particular period here.

Outside of the museum, you will find a series of public fountains where you will notice locals filling up bottles and jugs of water, all giving off a faint smell of sulphur. This is because Sofia sits atop a bed of natural hot springs and these fountains spit out a never-ending stream of geothermally heated water.

It is safe to drink and the water is always around 35°C, so you will notice a distinct cloud of steam around the taps in the cooler months.

National Theatre Ivan Vazov

Around a 5 to 10-minute walk from the mineral baths and the Museum of Sofia lies the National Theatre. Named for who is arguably Bulgaria’s most famous author and playwright, the Ivan Vazov Theatre is one of the most famous and beautiful monuments in Sofia.

Opened in 1907, the theatre was considerably damaged during the WWII bombings in Sofia in 1943-44 and was reconstructed in 1945. It also sustained significant damage from a fire in 1923 but was reconstructed in 1929.

To this day, the theatre puts on some magnificent performances that are worth going to if you’re into theatre. Although the show will be in the Bulgarian language, it can still be worthwhile to see a lavish performance in such a historic building.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

End your tour of Sofia’s most famous monuments at perhaps the most iconic structure in the Bulgarian capital: the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

This beautiful Eastern Orthodox Cathedral was, up until the year 2000, considered to be the largest Orthodox cathedral in the world and some still claim it is the largest in the Balkans.

However, most reliable sources will say that the largest cathedral is the St Sava Church in nearby Belgrade, Serbia . Bulgarians say their claim is valid because the larger St Sava Church and another orthodox cathedral in Bucharest have yet to be fully completed.

Nevertheless, this grand cathedral is truly a stunning form of architecture and is the one monument you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Sofia. It is also free to enter if you choose not to take photos — which does cost an extra fee.

You can visit and learn about all of these monuments and more on a free walking tour run by Free Sofia Tour . While you won’t be able to enter any of the sites, the 2-3 hour walking tour will give you some excellent historic and cultural insight into Sofia and is a great starting point for enjoying the city.

There is no need to book in advance and, though the tour itself is free, it is good practice to tip your guide what you thought the tour was worth at the end. If you can, it is very much worth going on this tour as it will give you far more insight than visiting all of the places on your own.

Day 2 – Religious Sites & Sofia’s Culinary Scene

Day two of this itinerary sees you digging a bit deeper into the sites and history of Bulgaria’s capital. It also will introduce you to the thriving culinary scene in Bulgaria that will have you casting away any preconceived notions of heavy Eastern European food.

Sofia Synagogue

Make your first stop of your second day be the beautiful Sofia Synagogue. Sofia, and Bulgaria as a whole, has an incredibly interesting Jewish history that is different to many other European countries, especially countries allied with the former Axis Powers.

During WWII, Bulgaria was allied with the Axis Powers and received significant pressure from the Nazi government to deport its Jewish population to concentration camps. However, Bulgaria never did such a thing and is the only country that was allied with Nazi Germany to have saved its entire Jewish population — some 50,000 people.

Though the majority of the Jews in Bulgaria did eventually emigrate, there is still a presence in the capital, namely in the grand Sofia Synagogue. As the third-largest synagogue in Europe (the first is the Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest ), the building was first constructed in 1909 and is truly a beautiful work of architecture.

If you are interested in learning more about Sofia’s Jewish culture, then it can be worth taking the free Sofia Jewish Tour .

Banya Bashi Mosque

Though more than 80% of Bulgarians are of the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith (though most Bulgarians today are largely secular), there is a sizeable Muslim minority consisting mostly of those Bulgarians of ethnic Turkish descent. One of the best monuments to Bulgaria’s Islamic history and Ottoman past is the Banya Bashi Mosque.

This beautiful mosque is located only a couple hundred metres away from the Sofia Synagogue, it was originally constructed in the 16th century when Bulgaria was under Ottoman rule.

It is possible to visit the mosque free of charge outside of prayer hours, just remember that you must remove your shoes before entering and women must cover their hair.

The presence of the synagogue, mosque, and Sveta Nedelya Church all within a few hundred metres of each other is a testament to the religious tolerance that has shaped Bulgarian culture for centuries.

Sofia Central Market Hall

Across the street from the Banya Bashi Mosque lies Sofia’s central covered market. Though at one point, this was the central marketplace where locals would do their shopping, today it operates as more of a shopping centre with a few food stalls and a number of cafes and restaurants.

Regardless of whether you were expecting the hall to be a bustling bazaar or not, this is still a great place popular with locals to grab a quick bite to eat, do a bit of shopping, or to pick up some local specialities and it is very much worth stopping by.

Ladies Market

About 200 metres behind the synagogue and central market lies the open-air Ladies Market. The name of this marketplace is deceiving, as people of all genders are welcome and present.

The Ladies Market operates daily and has a massive selection of just about everything you could possibly need, however, it is mostly full of local fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

If you are looking to get some fresh fruit when you’re in Sofia, then you are sure to find a much better selection and quality available at the Ladies Market that you will in any supermarket. Buying here also helps you to support local farmers and vendors, rather than a multinational supermarket chain!

Free Food Tour

After you’ve spent your morning exploring some more of the history of Sofia, it is time to spend your afternoon learning about its thriving culinary scene!

Though Sofia is not a place that jumps to mind when most think of a “foodie destination,” the people at Balkan Bites are trying to change that! This innovative free food walking tour is one of the coolest things to happen to Sofia and it really would be a shame to visit the city without going on it.

The tour meets every day at 2PM in the Crystal Park in front of the head sculpture of Stefan Stambolov. The tour will last a couple of hours and will take you by some fantastic Sofia eateries, giving you a few samples to try, while also teaching you about both traditional Bulgarian cuisine and the new culinary movements in Sofia.

Though it is a food tour, don’t expect to get a lot of food on the walk (it’s mostly just small samples) as it is free. So it is definitely helpful to eat a decent lunch beforehand! Also, the guides work only for tips so make sure to tip your guide when the tour is through.

Day 3 – Explore Sofia’s Communist Past

If you have more than 2 days in Sofia, then spend your third day in Bulgaria’s capital learning more about the communist regime that Bulgaria lived under from the years of 1944-1989.

Though Bulgaria today is a proud member of the EU and NATO with a market economy and a democratically elected government, there are still noticeable remnants of its socialist past. Spend day three of this Sofia itinerary to learn more about what life was like only 30 years ago.

Museum of Art from the Socialist Period

One of the best places to see communist remnants in Sofia is at the Museum of Art from the Socialist Period . This museum, located a little bit outside of the city centre, has a large collection of former communist monuments, statues, and posters that is very worth browsing through.

The most interesting thing about the museum is its courtyard filled with communist statues that used to decorate the city streets of Sofia. Most notably, you can see the massive statue of Lenin that stood where the St Sofia Monument stands today and the Red Star that adorned the top of the Communist Party Headquarters — a Bulgarian flag flies in its place today.

The museum is located within easy walking distance from Georgi Dimitrov metro station and is easily reached by public transport. Don’t come here expecting to learn about the socialist regime in Bulgaria, this is solely an art museum with little to no historical context provided.

Former Communist Party Headquarters

Back in the city centre lies the former headquarters of the communist party in Bulgaria. This imposing building, close to Serdika Station, is a striking example of socialist architecture. It was here that the Red Star seen at the Museum of Socialist Art stood atop the spire.

As one of Sofia’s top landmarks, the building was completed in 1955 and serves as headquarters for the Party in Bulgaria until the collapse of the communist regime.

Today, it is used by the National Assembly of Sofia and there are talks of moving the parliament permanently back to the building. Of course, that decision meets its fair share of controversy in Bulgaria today.

Monument to the Soviet Army

Another of Sofia’s most famous, and controversial, landmarks is the Monument to the Soviet Army. Constructed as a testament to the Red Army that “liberated” Sofia in 1944, this is one of the most blatantly communist monuments still standing in Sofia today.

The monument is, however, perhaps best known for the street art it has attracted. The most famous is when the soldiers at the base were painted, overnight, to adorn the clothing of American superheroes.

National Palace of Culture

Another shining example of communist architecture is the National Palace of Culture, located close to the city centre. This building, opened in 1981, was constructed to commemorate Bulgaria’s 1,300th anniversary and was seen, though it is in socialist style, as an example of nationalism that was discouraged under such regimes.

The Palace today is surrounded by a lovely park that is fantastic to spend a few chilled-out hours in. There is also a monument to the victims of the communist regime and even a bit of the Berlin Wall on display.

If you want to learn more about communism in Bulgaria, then we strongly recommend going on the Sofia Communist Tour , run by the same people behind the Free Sofia Tour. Though this tour is paid, it is an absolutely excellent way to learn about this era of Bulgarian history and is presented with great educated nuance.

Have More Time?

If you plan to spend more than 3 days in Sofia, then this gives you an excellent option to embark on a few day trips from the city.

One of the most popular day trips is to the Rila Monastery. Though it can be difficult to reach the monastery by public transport, you can arrange an affordable organised day tour from the city. This guided tour is a great option and takes you to both the monastery and Boyana Church.

Another popular place to visit is Vitosha Mountain, which is easily reached by public transport from Sofia city centre. The mountain offers ample hiking opportunities in the warmer months and a place for some great, affordable skiing in the winter.

If you have four or more days and would rather spend more time in the city itself, it can be worth checking out the city’s alternative scene. There is, for instance, a fantastic street art culture in Sofia, however, it isn’t necessarily concentrated in one distinct area. A great way to learn more about the street art scene and of notable Bulgarian artists is to go on a free street art tour.

The Sofia Grafitti Tour is run by the same people who do Balkan Bites and is really worth it. There is no need to book in advance and it is free of charge, but like all free tours, make sure to tip your guide what you thought the tour was worth as that is how they make their living.

Where to Eat & Drink in Sofia

Though there are great restaurants throughout the city, some of the best eateries in Sofia are concentrated on or near Shishman Street.

This area can be something of a hipster mecca as it not only has some fantastic hip restaurants, but it also filled with a number of trendy shops and cool, chilled-out bars. If you want to spend your evenings exploring Sofia away from the major monuments, then this is the area to visit.

Sofia isn’t the first place to jump to mind when you think of foodie destinations, however, the city has a great up-and-coming restaurant scene and it is a far cry from the heavy Eastern European food that you may have expected to eat.

Casual Restaurants in Sofia

Sun & Moon — This vegetarian restaurant and bakery is a favourite in the city. They have four locations across Sofia and serve a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes at affordable prices. They are open for both lunch and dinner and also have daily specials along with a regular menu.

Made in Home — This cosy restaurant is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a hip and trendy place to eat in Sofia. They have an extensive menu with enough options to please both carnivores and vegetarians alike and use only seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. They also have seasonal daily specials.

Aubergine — If you’re looking for one of the best trendy eateries in Sofia, then look no further than Aubergine. This restaurant serves a range of “modern Bulgarian” cuisine that is incredibly healthy and seasonal. They also have an extensive craft beer menu and include a beer suggestion with every dish.

The Little Things — This hip restaurant located in a converted house on Shishman Street is one of the best restaurants in Sofia. They have a great, fresh menu and a number of daily specials that are all homemade and prepared to order. Keep in mind that this restaurant does get very popular, so it is advisable to book a table in advance.

Made in Blue — This is another of Sofia’s ultra-trendy eateries that is a very popular place to grab lunch or dinner. Located in a renovated house, Made in Blue offers modern versions of traditional Bulgarian food in a very cosy setting. They also have a number of vegetarian options available and serve some local craft beers.

Fast Food in Sofia

Supa Star — Soup bars are incredibly popular in Bulgaria and if you want to try some of the best soup in Sofia, then head to Supa Star. This restaurant serves a range of soups that rotate on a daily basis, though they are always delicious!

Street Chefs — If you like burgers, then you can’t miss Street Chefs in Sofia. This trendy food truck serves a range of burgers, including a delicious vegetarian version, at affordable prices. They also have seating available with outdoor heaters to take the edge off even the most chilly of days.

Fine Dining in Sofia

Secret by Chef Petrov — If you’re celebrating a special occasion in Sofia or are just interested in Michelin-style dining, make sure to head to Secret by Chef Petrov. This high-end restaurant serves an incredible 17-course tasting menu that puts an innovative twist on Bulgarian classics and the results are truly fantastic. It is a chef’s table style restaurant and truly an unforgettable dining experience in Sofia.

Bars in Sofia

Crafter — This is an excellent place to go if you want to have a craft beer or a glass of Bulgarian wine. This trendy bar has a range of both local and international beers available and several great Bulgarian wines. They also have a helpful staff who are there to assist you in making the difficult choice of what to drink.

The Apartment — This is one of the most interesting bars in Sofia, as it is located in an apartment building and it feels as if you are just visiting a friend’s home, hence its name. It is famous for its raspberry wine, however, there are drinks and some snacks available.

Where to Stay in Sofia

Art ‘Otel — This hotel is a great option if you are after a little bit more luxury on your trip to Sofia. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and breakfast is included in the rooms rate. It is also conveniently located within walking distance or an easy metro ride to all of Sofia’s main attractions.

Les Fleurs Boutique Hotel — Located on the thriving Vitosha Boulevard, this boutique hotel is ideal for those looking for a plush place to stay in the Bulgarian capital. They have a range of comfortable and stylish rooms to choose from, an unbeatable location and a great breakfast included in the room rate!

Hostel Mostel — If you’re travelling solo or on a budget, then you really can’t go wrong with Hostel Mostel. This is one of the best hostels in Sofia and is a great place to meet other travellers. They have a range of both dorm beds and private rooms available, and a massive breakfast and light dinner (with a beer!) is included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Sofia hotels!

Best Time to Visit Sofia

The Bulgarian capital has a continental climate and very much experiences all four seasons and there are definite pros and cons to whenever it is you choose to visit.

If you’re willing to brave the cold and visit Sofia between the months of November-February, then expect high temperatures to average somewhere around freezing, often dipping quite a bit below. The winters are cold and snowy, though most places are very well-heated inside.

Visiting Sofia in winter does give you the opportunity to partake in arguably some of the most affordable skiing in Europe within easy reach of the city centre. Sofia is blessed to be at the foot of the imposing Vitosha Mountain which has a ski centre that is easy to reach from the city and accessible at quite affordable prices.

Summers, by contrast, can get sweltering and humid, with temperatures soaring to well over 30°C (86°F). Many locals will use the summer months to flock to Bulgaria’s coastline as temperatures can get unbearable in the city, however, there are also numerous outdoor cafes and a great energy to be found in the summertime as well.

Like most of the Balkans , arguably the best time of year to visit Sofia would be in in the shoulder seasons between the months of March-May and September-November. While Spring can see a bit of rain and late autumn does start to get chilly, the majority of this time is blessed with mild temperatures that cling to summer warmth long after the season has passed.

Getting To & Around Sofia

Sofia is now a popular place for budget airlines Ryanair and Wizzair, connecting it to many other cities in Europe. It is easy to reach the centre of Sofia from the airport as it is directly connected to the easy-to-navigate Sofia metro. You can buy tickets at the machines in the stations for 1.60 lev, however, they often only take cash.

If you arrive by bus from other cities like Plovdiv , it is worth knowing that the central bus station lies a bit outside of the city centre, however, it is also conveniently linked to the metro system. This makes it easy to get from the bus station to your accommodation at an affordable price.

Taxis are also affordable in Sofia, but you do need to be wary of taxi scams, just as you do in every city around the world. This can be better avoided if you call a taxi directly or use the TaxiMe app rather than hailing one directly off the street.

Always make sure that the meter is running and your driver is taking the most direct route. If you have no data or just want to get a taxi from the bus station, the Yellow Taxi or Ok! Taxi are reputable companies. There is no Uber in Sofia, unfortunately.

Though not especially beautiful on the surface, Sofia has an undeniable charm and energy and it is sure to enchant visitors no matter how long your Sofia itinerary has you there.

Are you planning a trip to Sofia? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

What To Do in Plovdiv: A 1 or 2 Day Itinerary

Is Bulgaria Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Bulgaria

How to Get From Sofia to Thessaloniki by Bus, Train or Car

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Going to Sofia 2-6 April!!

Have a great time!

Tip from a local: the taxi company “Ok! Taxi” has a lot of fake duplicates that are hard to distinguish from the original so double-check the pricing before you get into of those

Thanks for the tip!

Thank you very much Maggie. Leaving tomorrow for few days. Looking forward to it!

Glad you found this helpful, Sebastien! Hope you have a great trip — Sofia is a fantastic city 🙂

Download the “Yellow” taxi app (search for yellow taxi sofia) , you can order the taxi there and it gives the price! Recommendable as taking taxis without this always ends with paying too much and/or discussions…

Thanks for providing information about Sofia, it is useful.

Thanks, Varun!

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• 8 Places To Visit In Sofia That You Must Not Miss When In Bulgaria

23 Mar 2023

Sofia is Bulgaria’s capital city. A stroll through the town manifests flashes into its colorful history. You can view Eastern-turned architecture of Turkish, Western-custom baroque constructions and communist squares all entangled in a vibrant European capital. Sofia is a pleasure not only for culture and past connoisseur, but it also offers various exciting outdoor activities for passionate as well as a broad range of places to visit in Sofia , Bulgaria. Aloof from forest areas and huge parks weaved in the town, it struts of a ski resort at the top the omnipotent Mount Vitosha, which is not much far away.

8 Best Places To Visit In Sofia

Sofia has an active and modern public transportation conformity consisting of subway, trams, trolleys, and buses. Though, pedaling a bicycle is an excellent idea to traverse the city center. Bicycles can be borrowed in various areas around the capital city at an affordable price.

• Metro Station Serdika
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Boris’ Garden
• Sofia University
• National Palace of Culture
• National Theater Ivan Vazov
• The Mineral Bath

1. Metro Station Serdika

Image Source

When the concern reaches to travel, exploration and tourism, the last spot which appears to the mind is a metro station, but in case of Sofia, things are unique than what you speculate from the rest of the globe.

The city has experienced a history of over 7000 years, and usually one will inadvertently trip upon it. While comprehending the metro system tunnels, development operators exposed remnant of Roman buildings. Now, when driving by the station, one can observe and feel the remnant of an antiquated legacy.

While expecting for the train to arrive, tourists can go through the artifacts which have been stored in glass receptacles, similarly as in a museum. The best thing about it is that the ticket here is much more affordable as compared to that of visiting a museum.

For those who do not favor the concealed wisdom of the metro, there is a solution too. The entire region across the Serdika metro station is packed with ancient architecture remnant fording from the residence of President to the St.Nedelia mosque.

Must Read: 10 Villas In Bulgaria That’ll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay

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2. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

After the war for the liberation between Russian-Turkish ends, this memorial was built in remembrance of all those who have died in the battle of freedom. It is the largest church on the Balkans and a covenant to iconographic and architectural mastery.

Every single thing from the great portraitures of saints, the huge wooden door, and the picture of Providence pulled upon the roof, and the tzar’s throne is the must-view for all the tourists, no matter of what religion and culture they are from.

3. Boris’ Garden

Those who favor a more tranquil recreation can visit Boris’ garden, which grants a broad assortment of monuments, plants, and even its private observatory. It is a place to get mesmerized in nature’s serene embrace are everyone would be perpetually honored to arrive at tBori’s garden, which is among the best place to visit in Sofia.

For the ones who are looking for an entire wild and untamed endeavor of natural beauty, Vitosha mountain range is a great place to visit which is close by from this place.

Suggested Read: 8 Water Parks In Bulgaria That Will Make Your Vacation More Fun

4. Sofia University

It is the first educational institution to promote higher education and was brought into the existence during the 3rd Bulgarian tzardom. The rectorate architecture is both a Bulgarian cultural monument and an educational facility.

A single glance at it grants spectators the hypothesis of a building with the fascinating history. The standard late 19th-century building, consolidated with the massive statues of the brothers Evlogi and Hristo Georgiev who backed the construction of the building, is an extraordinary artwork. The mystery does not end here only; it is among the best places to go in Sofia Bulgaria, its beauty from the inside of the building is just as majestic as suspected. Incredible paintings, monstrous marble stairways, and the creaky wooden gates all exhibit a fantasy, which is value hearing too.

5. National Palace of Culture

It is among the places to visit near Sofia Bulgaria that makes the tourists experience the typical buildings. It was constructed in the year 1981 as a portion of Bulgaria’s ceremony for 1300 years of the history of Bulgaria; it continues to be the greatest congress center in South-Eastern Europe.

It possesses thirteen halls in which several cultural exhibitions are organized — art exhibitions, The Day of the Book, music concerts, folklore performances, art performances, and much more notice their home below the ceiling of this infrastructure. The construction holds an area of 123000 square meters, has three underground levels, and eight floors. The first hall individual can possess around 3400 persons, which indicates that each visitor can get something unique that fits their taste within the walls, roof, and flooring of this cultural mastodon.

Suggested Read: 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience

6. The Largo

The very well known Sofia Largo is the great Independence Square in between the office of President, the Council of Ministry, and various other administration buildings. It’s been lately rehabilitated, and since the town of the ancient Roman town of Serdica was placed adjacent to it, you can now these days trek underground and watch the archaeological verdicts, maximum of them in situ. Amongst the fascinating places to visit in Sofia is from the underground archaeological level, where a unique transparent roof displays the entire street above.

Suggested Read: 21 Spectacular Places To Visit In Bulgaria That Are A Treat To Your Eyes

7. National Theater Ivan Vazov

During the summertime, youths mostly live in the elegant garden enduring in front of the National Theater Ivan Vazov, the period after the sun sets down becomes the busiest time for beers, laughs, and chatting. Here you will find two varieties of people at all times – senior citizens playing chess and street musicians. In wintertime, it’s the place where the primary market of Christmas takes place. The fountains and decorative lighting at the theater front boosts the cozy surrounding.

Suggested Read: 12 Things To Do In Bulgaria That Will Keep You Engaged Throughout The Trip

8. The Mineral Bath

It is among the most magnificent buildings in Sofia was supposed to be the Core Mineral Bath, where as of now it holds the Sofia History Museum. Experience the pleasure of the sheltered stalls across the fountain at the front phase of the golden yellow architecture, and don’t forget to have a look at its inner beauty. You’ll become familiar with Sofia much better only if you go through its past (including centuries-old relics, last-century photos, a king’s carriage, and a retro tram in which you can sit also).

Further Read: Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable

Unlike various other European capital cities, Sofia does not have a historical hub with curvy cobblestone alleys and old buildings. The grayish and soothing Communist-era building still overshadows the Bulgarian capital city with some modern and vibrantly colorful infrastructures all around. Sofia is a wonderful town, but its spectacular places are spread all across and not so apparent. We have discussed all the top 10 places to visit in Sofia Bulgaria that will undoubtedly bring immense pleasure and satisfaction when on a visit to Bulgaria .

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The Top Things To See And Do In Sofia, Bulgaria

With a past rooted in Ottoman tradition and Socialist struggle, the narrative of Bulgaria tells a colorful story of conflict, fortitude and perseverance, where the capital city Sofia emerges as a sparkling center of energy and cultural richness. Offering a plethora of compelling galleries, museums, parks and night spots, there has never been a better time to visit the city, which today stands as the second oldest settlement in Europe . An interesting and atmospheric destination, here’s our list of the 10 best things to see and do in Sofia. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

The national palace of culture.

Established in 1981 as part of the state of Bulgaria’s 1300th birthday celebrations, the National Palace of Culture in the heart of the city center is a striking sight to behold in itself. The sprawling hexagonal building is made primarily of grass and concrete, and was designed by eminent Bulgarian architect Alexander Georgiev Barov, an artist whose work was prolific during communist-era Bulgaria. Nowadays the building and the surrounding gardens act as an interesting example of the socialist architecture of the past, with its sleek and minimalistic aesthetic, harsh geometric lines and imposing size all contributing to its historical artistic significance. As Europe’s largest conference center the palace plays host to a number of compelling events, from art exhibitions to musical concerts, meaning that visitors can be sure to catch something interesting during their visit. Thousands of exhibitions and shows are showcased here all year round.

Borislova Gradina Park

Pod Lipite Tavern

One of the oldest restaurants and bars in Sofia, the Pod Lipite Tavern is a rustic pub dating back to 1926, once the favorite haunt of such notable Bulgarian figures as actress Elena Snezhina and writer Angel Karaliychev. Creating hearty, home made Bulgarian dishes with ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s own meat and dairy farm, Pod Lipite is a real taste of authentic Bulgarian cuisine, and uses traditional recipes and cooking methods. Entering into the restaurant itself feels like stepping back into the past, with the stone walls, brick fireplace and wooden beams evoking a homely, countryside charm which erases all traces of busy modernity. Truly a top spot in Sofia, a meal at Pod Lipite is one to remember, not only for its original flavors but also for its unique atmosphere, history and style.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Once one of the largest Eastern Orthodox churches in the world, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is constructed in a beautiful and intricate Neo-Byzantine style, and is one of Sofia’s most visited landmarks. Built in honor of St Alexander Nevsky, the prince famed for 13th century military victories over Germany and Sweden, the cathedral is seeped in history and is an important symbol of Bulgaria’s past. Today it is the official Church of the Neophyte of Bulgaria, Simeon Nikolov Dimitrov, the head of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. It is a peaceful and magnificent place in which to spend a few quiet moments in the city. Spacious, tranquil and luxuriously ornamented on the inside, visitors can spend hours exploring the majestic interior and prolific ancestry that make this cathedral so symbolic.

Bitaka Flea Market

Those wishing to find some weird and wonderful Sofia souvenirs will not be disappointed at Bitaka Flea Market , the largest bazaar in the region. Offering a range of merchandise, from cameras and technology, toys and watches, to jewellery, clothes and old photographs, Bitaka is a treasure trove of fascinating finds. Situated next to the Aleksander Nevski Cathedral in the center of town, the market is home to a variety of sellers, from experienced stall vendors offering cutlery and kitchenware, to locals bartering over miscellaneous trinkets arranged on bed sheets in the street. A truly eccentric, eclectic and diverse market, Bitaka is open every weekend from the early morning until late afternoon. It is an excellent place in which to experience Sofia’s unique culture, to meet local people and to bag yourself some bargains.

Raketa Rakia Bar

Rakia is the celebrated national beverage of Bulgaria, with homemade bottles often being proudly presented after every evening meal. A national treasure, this strong, smooth liquor is a must taste whilst in the country, and there is no better place to take a sip than in the thriving capital city. Centrally located Raketa Rakia Bar is not only a popular restaurant serving a variety of local and international cuisines, but is also a lively bar offering the best collection of rakias in the city. With its quirky decoration and assorted memorabilia dotted around on shelves, Raketa has a quirky, trendy vibe, whilst being bright, airy and decidedly laid back. Visitors are advised to line their stomachs with some of the restaurant’s tasty plates before becoming acquainted with rakia; some varieties of the spirit are 65% alcohol.

The Museum Of Socialist Art

A Sofian institution proving immensely popular amongst locals, Swingin’ Hall is a live music club and bar, boasting a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. A top spot for music loving visitors, guests have the chance to listen to a range of musical performances by talented local bands. The establishment is dedicated to promoting local talent and providing a lively night out for its customers. Remaining true to its name, Swingin’ hall hosts regular swing nights for dancers of all abilities, where groovers can practice their moves, meet new people and enjoy Sofia’s nightlife. Relaxed and unpretentious with a quirky interior design, Swingin’ Hall is a dynamic dance and music venue serving a number of international beers, wines and spirits. There is also an array of soft drinks and mocktails for thirsty non-drinkers.

The National History Museum

Exhibiting a number of antique items from over 8,000 years ago, visitors at The National History Museum can spend hours learning the stories of Bulgaria’s people, and discovering the relics they left behind. Separated into five halls, each of which represent a different historical era, guests can marvel at the pottery of the Middle Ages before wandering next door and observing the various ornamental burial gifts of the second Bulgarian Empire. With Bulgaria’s history including such notable events as the Ottoman dominion (1396 – 1878) and the Bulgarian National Revival in the 18th century, there is no shortage of fascinating information to be discovered at the museum. A trip here makes for one of the most cultural and interesting days out in Sofia.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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25 Best Places to See in Sofia, Bulgaria

The capital of Bulgaria has so many stories to share with us! It is unfair for Sofia to be at the bottom of the “places to visit” list alongside other European cities. If you are ready to take a trip to an encyclopedia, you shouldn’t wait for your Sofia visit.   

Various communities had lived throughout the years, and all left a mark in Sofia. Undoubtedly, these traces, which turned into attraction points, will bring you a new perspective. Churchs functioned as mosques for centuries, dominant Soviet architecture, and blended with the modern city yet still not fully revealed Roman ruins are some of them.   

I can see some history lovers smiling. What about people with different interests? Don’t worry; Sofia is shaped with every traveler in mind. Best food, the most active places, the most beautiful streets and roads, the greenest parks… 

Don’t be intimated by Sofia being the capital! You can’t beat your steps score by walking in Sofia. All of the places are waiting for you as if they are holding hands. You can put a tick to every place in your Sofia list either in one day or one weekend; it is up to you.   

Thanks to the things to do in Sofia, the city that more travelers acknowledge every other day, you will definitely enjoy your time and won’t get bored. Let’s look at the list of the 25 best places to see in Sofia!

Special thanks to Melih Daşgın for this comprehensive Sofia, Bulgaria list and also you can check the Turkish version of this post from Turizm Günlüğü.

1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

You can’t find an article that doesn’t mention the Cathedral of Saint Aleksandar Nevski, the popular building of the city, as one of the must-visit places in Sofia. The mesmerizing cathedral, built between 1882-1912is one of the biggest Orthodox churches! It’s also the biggest cathedral in the Balkans after the Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade. Even if its interior is not as fascinating as its golden dome outside, the Cathedral of Saint Aleksandar Nevski is still is on top of Sofia’s places to see list. Under the cathedral, you will find the cellar converted into a museum for Orthodox icons. If you are interested in the history of Orthodox Christianity, this might be worth a visit. 

2. St. Sophia’s Cathedral and Monument of the Unknown Soldier

The name Sofia comes from this church. The history of the building, whose red bricks stand out at first glance, dates back to the Byzantine period. When you visit the church, which was used as a mosque during the Ottoman period, you can see the ruins of the ancient church and tombs that are more than 1500 years old. The monument you will see right next to the church is the Monument of the Unknown Soldier. The monument is a piece made to be a symbolic cemetery of all known and unknown Bulgarian soldiers who lost their lives in the National Liberation, unification and defense of Bulgaria.

3. St. Cyril and Methodius National Library

Did you know that the Cyrillic alphabet originates from Bulgaria, not Russia? St. Cyril and Methodius National Library and its garden are worth seeing. In front of the library, you can see the monument of Cyril and Methodius brothers, founders of the alphabet.

4. St. Nicholas Church

Considered one of the landmarks of Sofia, the church is located at the intersection of Rakovska and Tsar Osvoboditel streets. Sveti Nikolay Mirlikiyski Russian Church was built with typical Russian architecture and having a magnificent exterior. Its five gold-plated domes and hidden garden are worth seeing.

5. The Ivan Vazov National Theatre

It would be great if you could catch a play in this theater, which was built in 1906. The Ivan Vazov National Theatre was burned down during the play in 1923 and was renovated in 1924.

6. Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex

Serdica, one of the old names of Sofia, was the name given to the city during the Roman period. You can travel back in time while walking among the ruins from that period. It is entirely free if you ask us the best part.

7. Church St. George Rotunda

Being the oldest building of Sofia makes the Church St. George Rotunda one of the must-visit places. It was built in 4-5th century AD and turned into a church in the 6th century. Alongside the glamor of the red bricks surrounding the exterior, you should add going inside to your visit to see the frescoes painted during the conversion in the Ottoman period.

8. St. Nedelya Church

Definitely, it is famous as the other churches in the city, but St. Nedelya Church differs from them with being the place where the assassination of the Bulgarian Tsar Boris III in 1925 was held here, and it hosted a tragic event such as the loss of more than 200 people’s lives.

9. Banya Bashi Mosque

Banya Bashi Mosque, dated back from the 1500s and was designed by Mimar Sinan, is the only mosque open to worship in the city, and it is an important place you should not miss.

10. Sofia History Museum and the Central Mineral Baths

Sofia History Museum was built by transforming the thermal spa building, the Central Mineral Baths, into a museum and it has a more fancy interior. You can relax in the park right in front of the museum and sip the thermal water flowing from the fountain in the corner.

11. Central Sofia Market Hall

You can find everything if you are looking for food and drink in “Central Sofia Market Hall” opposite the Banyabaşı Mosque. In the 2-story building, many markets and kiosks are lined up side by side, selling affordable products. Vegetables, fruits, meat, cheese, bakery products, and various foods stand out the most.

12. Vitosha Boulevard

Let’s have a walk and do some shopping. Without a doubt, Vitosha Boulevard is the most famous shopping and walking street in the city. On the boulevard, which is closed to vehicle traffic, you can find something that attracts you at any time of the day. You can watch the performances of street performers on the street while buying local products and shopping from chain brands. Do not forget to take a coffee break in Vitosha. The boulevard is very beautiful both day and night.

13. National Museum of History, Sofia

If you are a museum lover, the National Museum of History should be the first museum you should visit in Sofia. It is a wonderful place that is located at the foot of Mount Vitosha. The museum contains 650 thousand artifacts from the beginning of the country’s history to the present. Especially the magnificent main hall on the first floor is marvelous!

14. Boyana Church

Remaining from the 10th century, Boyana Church has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. It is waiting for you at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, 20 minutes from the city center.

15. Borisova Garden

Borisova Garden is Sofia’s oldest and best-known park. If you love nature, here is the paradise in Sofia! A break between your trip will be nice in Borisova Garden, which is full of people playing sports, cycling and outdoor activities all day long.

16. Monument to the Soviet Army

Perhaps the Monument to the Soviet Army is the most dominant Soviet monument in Sofia. It is the most eventful monument in the country, built in 1954 to commemorate the rescue of the Soviet Army, who saved Bulgaria from the alarming situation in the 2nd World War. Soviet Army soldier figures in front of the monument painted into American popular culture heroes overnight. The monument has often been the center of various actions, but this is the most well-known one. Since removing is always on the agenda, I recommend visiting the monument before it is removed.

17. Sarmadzhiev House

The Sarmadzhiev House on Tsar Osvoboditel street is where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s office was located during his military attaché years in Sofia. You should visit it, at least from outside. It is such a highly spiritual building!

18. Central Military Club

Another spiritual building on the list. This is the same building where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk wore the janissary arm-master outfit that amazed the whole world at the masquerade ball held on May 11, 1914.

19. Old Parliament House

It is just one of the buildings that will make you feel the dominant Soviet architecture the most. It is quite enjoyable to sit on the steps of the Bulgarian National Bank at sunset and watch the Bulgarian Flag wave on the Old Parliament House. You can try to picture the years when there was a big red Communism star at the top of the pole, where the flag was.

20. Saint Sofia Monument

After the statue of Lenin was removed in 2000, Saint Sofia Monument was built in the exact same place in 2001. The word Sofia, which we are familiar with from Hagia Sophia, means wisdom. When you look at the monument, it is possible to see objects representing the elements of wisdom. The owl and laurel crown she holds in her hands are symbols of it. I recommend you visit the monument after which the city of Sofia is named and depicts Saint Sofia, especially at sunset.

21. Church of St. Petka of the Saddlers

As of its location, this small church seems like it stands in the middle of everything. The Church of St. Petka is very small, while it is expected to be grandiose. Do not ignore this tiny but dating back 11th-century house of worship.

22. Bulgarian Archeological Museum

Bulgarian Archeological Museum is another building that was previously a mosque and later turned into a museum. You can find numerous artifacts belonging to the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, Slavs, and Bulgarians here, and you can learn a lot about the history of Bulgaria.

23. Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church

Another Mimar Sinan structure in Sofia. Black Mosque was built in 1528 by order of Suleiman the Magnificent and then converted into a church in 1903. In Bulgaria, it is known today as the Church of Sveti Sedmochislenitsi. Can you see the black granites on the minaret, which gave the Black Mosque name to the building?

24. Sofia Synagogue

Bulgaria is a country where freedom of belief is experienced to the fullest. It is possible to see worship places belonging to each religion in the city. One of them is the Sofia Synagogue. The synagogue is one of the largest synagogues in Europe. Don’t forget to go inside to see the permanent exhibition on the history of Bulgaria’s Jewish communities.

25. National Palace of Culture

You can’t leave without taking a detailed look at some of the dominant Soviet architecture when visiting a city like Sofia. You can find many examples of Soviet architecture throughout the city, but you can never miss this one. National Palace of Culture, built in 1981 in honor of the 1300th anniversary of Bulgaria, is today the center of a wide variety of art activities.

What do you think about Bulgaria and the best places to see in Sofia? What are the best places to see in Sofia that you can suggest to us? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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Written by Melih

An ordinary person who did something extraordinary. Just kidding! Wonder, discover and be a storyteller… That’s all

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14 Top Things To Do In Sofia Bulgaria

Nestled in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

As one of Europe’s oldest cities, Sofia is a unique blend of ancient and modern, offering visitors an unparalleled journey through time.

From its awe-inspiring architecture to its bustling marketplaces, there’s a reason why Sofia is quickly becoming a must-visit destination on every globetrotter’s list.

Why is Sofia worth the journey?

For starters, it’s a city that has witnessed over 2,000 years of history, resulting in a delightful mosaic of Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Communist influences.

This is evident in its plethora of historical sites, ranging from ancient Roman ruins to ornate Eastern Orthodox churches.

Every corner of the city has a story to tell, with each era leaving its indelible mark on Sofia’s streets and squares.

In this travel guide, we’ll delve deep into Sofia’s treasures, exploring the top places that make this city truly special.

Expect to be enchanted by the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral’s golden domes, to lose yourself in the bustling alleys of the Ladies’ Market, and to travel back in time at the ancient Roman city ruins of Serdika.

We’ll also journey to the foot of the majestic Vitosha Mountain, a natural paradise that offers breathtaking views of the city and a refreshing escape from urban life.

So pack your bags and lace up your walking shoes; Sofia’s myriad of attractions await.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or someone seeking an authentic European experience, Sofia promises an unforgettable adventure.

1. Walking Sofia: A First Step to Truly Knowing The City

One of the most enlightening ways to immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich tapestry is by embarking on one of the walking tours early in your itinerary.

Strolling through the streets, guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll quickly gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s layout and its main attractions.

The stories behind every landmark, the city’s vibrant rhythm, and even the lesser-known nooks and crannies come to life, setting the stage for the entirety of your visit.

This preliminary exploration allows you to pinpoint areas of personal interest, so you can delve deeper into specific sites and neighborhoods in the days that follow.

Speaking from personal experience, taking a free walking tour was nothing short of transformative.

We embarked on one towards the tail end of our Sofia trip and instantly regretted not doing it sooner. We were walking around the city completely clueless for a couple of weeks!

The passion and insights of our guide provided such a profound, nuanced perspective of the city, reshaping our understanding of Sofia’s rich past and dynamic present.

We covered most of the top places that will be listed in this guide, from the grandeur of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the historical depth of the Serdika ruins.

It was an eye-opener and made us wish we had this foundation of knowledge from the beginning, to enrich our independent explorations.

So, if there’s one recommendation to prioritize, it’s this: Begin your Sofia adventure with a walking tour, and let the city reveal itself to you in ways you’d never anticipate.

2. St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Sofia’s Crowning Jewel

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is not just an iconic landmark of Sofia; it stands as one of the grandest and most emblematic structures in the entirety of Bulgaria.

Its majestic gold-domed silhouette is recognizable from various parts of the city, acting as a beacon of Bulgarian spirit and Orthodox Christianity.

Located in the heart of Sofia, the cathedral is easily accessible from almost any part of the city. Situated on Alexander Nevsky Square, it’s a focal point that’s hard to miss.

To truly appreciate its  architectural  beauty and the tranquility it offers, try visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

These times typically see fewer visitors, offering a more serene experience. If possible, avoid large tour groups, as the cathedral’s vast interiors resonate best in quieter moments.

@togethertowhereve Top Places to see in Sofia, Bulgaria:St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral*Vitosha Boulevard *The Rotunda Church of St George *Catedral de Sveta-Nedelya *Ivan Vazov National Theater *Zhenski Pazar Women’s Market *Sofia History Museum *Banya Bashi Mosque *Sofia Synagogue #sofiabulgaria #bulgariatravel #visitsofiabulgaria #sofiabulgaria #easterneuropetravel #balkanstravel #familtravelwithkids #summerineasterneurope @togethertowherever ♬ original sound – togethertowherever

The cathedral was constructed in the early 20th century as a tribute to the Russian soldiers who perished during the Russo-Turkish War, aiding Bulgaria in its quest for liberation from Ottoman rule .

Its name, however, is dedicated to the 13th-century Russian prince, Alexander Nevsky, a key figure in Russian history.

As you step inside, prepare to be captivated by the intricate frescoes, mosaics, and the cavernous, hallowed atmosphere that echoes with history and devotion.

Besides the main cathedral, the surrounding complex also houses a fascinating crypt.

This underground museum is home to one of the world’s most extensive collections of Orthodox Christian icons and religious art.

A small entrance fee applies for the crypt, but it’s a worthy expenditure for art aficionados and history enthusiasts.

Out of all the attractions in Sofia, this is the one you just can’t miss! It’s one of the most beautiful orthodox churches you’ll ever see!

3. Vitosha Boulevard: Sofia’s Vibrant Promenade

Vitosha Boulevard, often referred to simply as “Vitosha”, stands out as Sofia’s most illustrious and lively street.

Stretching in the shadow of the magnificent Vitosha Mountain, from which it borrows its name, this pedestrian promenade is the heartbeat of modern Sofia.

It’s where the city’s past meets its present, all under the watchful gaze of nature.

For visitors, a leisurely stroll down Vitosha Boulevard is a delightful experience and an absolute must.

The boulevard is flanked by an array of ornate buildings that echo Sofia’s rich architectural heritage, while their ground floors play host to a medley of contemporary boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

The blend of global brands with local artisanal stores ensures a shopping experience that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Dining on Vitosha Boulevard is nothing short of a gastronomic adventure. The restaurants here offer a culinary journey that spans from traditional Bulgarian fare to international cuisines.

As you wander, the aroma of freshly baked pastries mingles with the savory scent of Bulgarian grills, inviting you to pause and indulge.

Moreover, many establishments boast terraces, making them ideal spots to people-watch or simply soak in the boulevard’s energetic atmosphere, especially during the warmer months.

We had most of our meals at various restaurants on this street or somewhere very close by. We also used this avenue to go on our daily walks.

For us, it was a perfect central location to just hang out near our apartment during our month-long stay in Sofia. We even took our daughter to a ballet class near this street!

Here are some of our restaurant recommendations on and near Vistosha Blvd.:

• Social Cafe – Modern Cuisine
• Ресторант Щастливеца Витошка – Great seafood
• Osteria Tartufo – Italian
• Hadjidraganov’s Cellars – Traditional Bulgarian cuisine

As day transitions to night, Vitosha Boulevard doesn’t miss a beat.

The street lamps cast a golden hue, and the vibe shifts from the bustle of daily life to a more relaxed, yet still vibrant, evening ambiance.

Live music emanates from various corners, as street performers and musicians add an extra layer of charm to the boulevard.

4. The Roman Legacy In Sofia: A Glimpse Into The Depths Of History

Sofia, renowned as one of the oldest capital cities in Europe, boasts a history spanning over 6,000 years.

The city’s rich tapestry of past civilizations is palpably felt, especially from the period when the Romans ruled these lands.

In its nascent years, Sofia was known as Serdika, a thriving Roman settlement named after the local Thracian tribe that initially inhabited the region.

The Romans, known for their expansive empire and city-building prowess, left an indelible mark on the city, remnants of which are still evident today.

The Roman ruins in Sofia’s city center stand as silent witnesses to this bygone era.

These ancient vestiges are sprinkled throughout modern Sofia, often harmoniously integrated into the city’s present-day infrastructure.

A notable example is the city’s metro stations, where daily commuters and visitors alike can witness history beneath their feet.

Some of the metro stations have been designed around preserved Roman ruins, offering a surreal juxtaposition of ancient history and modern-day living.

There are various gates and locations within Sofia where one can delve into its Roman past.

Among the most significant are the Eastern and Western gates, remnants of the fortifications that once guarded Serdika.

Exploring these sites offers a tangible connection to the Roman era, where the city was a vital hub connecting the East and West of the vast Roman Empire.

The Roman influence in Sofia underwent a shift in the 7th century when the Bulgars, a nomadic tribe from Central Asia, arrived in the region.

They united with the local Slavic tribes, adopting much of their language and culture.

The city’s strategic location, situated in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, earned it the epithet “middle.”

However, the name “Sofia” didn’t stem from this geographical centrality. Instead, it was derived from the Church of St. Sophia, an ancient Roman church in the city.

This name, signifying “wisdom”, eventually became synonymous with the city itself.

Sofia’s layered history, with its Roman roots interwoven with later influences, provides a fascinating narrative for visitors.

Every corner of the city is steeped in stories, and the Roman ruins serve as poignant reminders of a time when Sofia, or Serdika, was a significant player on the world stage.

5. The Former Bath House Of Sofia: A Blend Of History And Modern Utility

In the heart of Sofia, the former Public Bath House stands as an emblematic testament to the city’s rich history and its enduring relationship with thermal waters.

An architectural marvel, this neo-Byzantine edifice was erected during the early twentieth century and functioned as the city’s main public central mineral baths until the late 1980s.

Its very existence was rooted in the city’s abundant natural thermal springs, which have been prized since ancient Thracian and Roman times for their therapeutic properties.

Today, while the bathing functions of the building have ceased, its significance to Sofia has not waned.

The former Bath House has been transformed into the Regional History Museum of Sofia, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the city’s intriguing past.

As you wander through the museum, the historical narratives of Sofia unfurl, from its earliest settlements to its contemporary evolution.

Yet, the legacy of the thermal springs hasn’t been forgotten. Adjacent to the museum, several water fountains continue to gush with the geothermal waters that once fed the bathhouse.

Among these, a special drinking fountain stands out, allowing both locals and tourists to partake in the mineral-rich waters that have flowed beneath Sofia for millennia.

Many residents swear by the health benefits of this natural resource, and it’s not uncommon to see people filling bottles to take home.

This confluence of historical reverence and modern utility exemplifies Sofia’s ability to honor its past while looking forward to its future.

6. Tolerance Square: Sofia’s Testament To Religious Harmony

In the heart of Sofia, a unique confluence of religious edifices silently speaks volumes about the city’s history of religious diversity and coexistence.

Aptly named “Tolerance Square”, this area is a powerful testament to Sofia’s enduring spirit of acceptance and mutual respect.

Several notable religious structures are clustered within close proximity here, each representing a different faith tradition, yet all standing in harmonious juxtaposition:

• St. Nedelya Church:  An Eastern Orthodox church, St. Nedelya is an iconic structure with a history that dates back to the 10th century. Over the centuries, it has witnessed multiple reconstructions, with the present building established in the 19th century. Its domed architecture and intricate frescoes draw both worshippers and tourists.
• Banya Bashi Mosque:  A remnant of the Ottoman Empire era, this mosque is characterized by its large dome and tall minaret. Built in the 16th century by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, the Banya Bashi Mosque is still operational today and serves Sofia’s Muslim community.
• St. Joseph Roman Catholic Cathedral: This cathedral stands as a representation of the Roman Catholic faith in Sofia. While the original edifice was heavily damaged during World War II, the reconstructed cathedral, completed in the 21st century, is a beacon of resilience and faith.
• Sofia Synagogue: Just a short walk from the square, the Sofia Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Southeastern Europe. Its grand Moorish Revival architecture, replete with ornate decorations, serves as a focal point of the Jewish community in Sofia.

Tolerance Square and its surrounding area underscore a vital facet of Sofia’s identity.

In a world where religious differences often lead to division, this compact space in Sofia is a living example of how diverse faiths can coexist peacefully, each contributing to the rich tapestry of a city’s cultural and spiritual life.

Additional Churches To See In Sofia Bulgaria

Sofia boasts a wealth of religious edifices, each steeped in history and artistic significance.

In addition to the religious structures around Tolerance Square, here are more churches in Sofia that are worth a visit:

• Church of St. Nicholas (Russian Orthodox Church): Recognizable by its golden onion domes and lush green surroundings, the Church of St. Nicholas, often referred to as the “Russian Church”, is an exemplary representation of Russian Revival architecture.
• Church of St. George Rotunda:  A true testament to Sofia’s ancient roots, the St. George Rotunda is believed to be the oldest building in Sofia, dating back to the 4th century. Originally a Roman bathhouse, it was later transformed into a church. Its cylindrical red-brick structure and ancient frescoes are a must-see for history enthusiasts.
• St. Petka Church:  Often referred to as the Church of St. Petka of the Saddlers, this medieval church is built into the very heart of the city. It stands partly underground, a nod to the many layers of Sofia’s history. Named after St. Petka, an 11th-century Bulgarian saint, the church boasts impressive murals that vividly depict biblical scenes.

7. The Presidential Building Of Sofia: A Blend Of Ceremony And Splendor

Positioned elegantly in the heart of Sofia, the Presidential Building is more than just an administrative edifice; it’s a captivating blend of history, architecture, and ceremony that offers visitors a unique perspective on Bulgarian traditions and statehood.

One of the immediate attractions of the Presidential Building is the ceremonial changing of the guards.

Much like similar ceremonies in other capitals worldwide, Sofia’s changing of the guards is an event steeped in tradition, discipline, and precision.

Visitors gather to watch the guards, adorned in their crisp ceremonial uniforms, as they perform this ritualistic exchange with a level of synchronization and grace that is both captivating and photo-worthy.

The ceremony serves as a symbol of the nation’s respect for its institutions and is a poignant reminder of Bulgaria’s rich military traditions.

Beyond the guards, the Presidential Building itself is an architectural gem. Its regal façade and grand design reflect the importance of the institution it houses.

Adjacent to the building, there’s an upscale hotel and casino, adding a touch of modern luxury to the area.

These establishments provide visitors with a chance to indulge in some leisure after soaking in the ceremonial splendors outside.

However, one of the most intriguing aspects of the Presidential Building is its unexpected “backyard” surprise: a quaint church nestled behind it.

This juxtaposition of the religious and the administrative, the ancient and the contemporary, perfectly encapsulates Sofia’s multifaceted identity.

The church offers a serene counterpoint to the building’s formality, serving as a spiritual oasis amidst the urban landscape.

8. Sofia’s Bustling Markets: A Dive Into Authentic Bulgarian Culture

Amidst the historical landmarks and architectural marvels that define Sofia, the city’s vibrant markets emerge as pulsating centers of culture, commerce, and local color.

They are the places where the real heartbeat of Sofia can be felt, echoing with the buzz of traders, the rustling of fresh produce, and the animated conversations of its residents.

The “Zhenski Pazar” or “Women’s Market” is perhaps the most iconic of these bustling bazaars.

Established over a century ago, this market is steeped in history, having served countless generations of Sofia’s inhabitants.

But don’t let the name mislead you; the Women’s Market is not solely for women nor about women’s products.

Instead, it’s a sprawling expanse of stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, cheeses, meats, and local delicacies.

As you wander its aisles, the scents of fresh produce mingle with the rich aroma of Bulgarian spices, drawing you into a sensory experience like no other.

Apart from food, the market also offers an array of textiles, handicrafts, and other trinkets, making it a perfect spot for tourists looking to bag a unique souvenir.

9. The Former Seat Of The Communist Regime In Sofia

A stark reminder of Bulgaria’s recent past, the former seat of the Communist regime in Sofia stands as an emblematic structure, echoing the country’s history under socialist rule.

During the latter half of the 20th century, this building was the epicenter of political power and decision-making in Bulgaria.

Its imposing architectural style, characterized by its grandiosity and brutalist features, is a testament to the aesthetics and ideologies of the time.

Visiting this site provides a window into a significant chapter of Bulgaria’s history, allowing one to reflect on the political, social, and cultural shifts the nation underwent during the Communist era .

While the regime has long since fallen, the structure remains, serving both as a monument to a bygone era and a point of contemplation regarding the complexities of Bulgaria’s journey through the 20th century.

For history enthusiasts and those curious about Bulgaria’s socialist past, a visit to this former seat offers profound insights and a deeper understanding of the nation’s tapestry of experiences.

10. Family Fun In Sofia: Exploring The City With Kids

Sofia is not just a city of historical landmarks and architectural marvels; it’s also a delightful destination for families with kids.

The city offers an array of activities and attractions tailored to captivate the younger audience while ensuring that the adults have just as much fun.

• Parks : Sofia is dotted with beautiful parks, providing ample green spaces for kids to run, play, and enjoy the outdoors. The South Park (Yuzhen Park) is one such green haven, with vast open spaces, playgrounds, and even a small lake where families can rent paddle boats. Another notable mention is the Borisova Gradina Park , the oldest and most renowned park in the city. With its fountains, meandering paths, and occasional puppet theaters, it’s an ideal spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll.
• Muzeiko Children’s Interactive Museum : No family trip to Sofia would be complete without a visit to Muzeiko. Touted as the largest children’s science center in the Balkans , Muzeiko offers a hands-on learning experience that’s both educational and utterly fun. The museum is spread over three floors and is packed with interactive exhibits covering a wide range of subjects from archaeology to space exploration. Whether your child wants to simulate a spacewalk, learn about renewable energy, or excavate ancient artifacts, Muzeiko offers an immersive experience that sparks curiosity and wonder.
• Vitosha Mountain : Just a short drive from the city center, Vitosha Mountain is a nature lover’s paradise and a fantastic spot for families. In the summer, it offers hiking trails suitable for all ages, with breathtaking views of Sofia and the surrounding landscapes. Come winter, it transforms into a snowy playground, ideal for skiing or sledding.
• Sofia Zoo : Located near Vitosha Mountain, the Sofia Zoo is a place where kids can come face-to-face with a variety of animals, from lions and tigers to more regional species. The zoo is continually improving its facilities and focuses on providing educational insights about the animal kingdom.

11. Exploring Sofia’s Treasures: A Guide To The City’s Renowned Museums And Cultural Landmarks

Sofia, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, is home to an impressive array of museums and cultural landmarks.

These establishments not only preserve the nation’s heritage but also showcase the multifaceted evolution of Bulgarian art, culture, and history.

National Palace of Culture

Often abbreviated as NDK, the National Palace of Culture stands as a significant emblem of Sofia’s post-war architecture.

Originally built in 1981 to commemorate Bulgaria’s 1,300th anniversary, this multifunctional complex serves as a hub for concerts, exhibitions, conventions, and other major events.

Its modern design juxtaposes the city’s older architectural landmarks, making it a noteworthy spot for visitors.

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

A correction is necessary here. Ivan Vazov is not associated with a palace of culture, but rather the most eminent theater in Bulgaria—the Ivan Vazov National Theater.

Nestled in the heart of Sofia, this Neo-Baroque building, with its ornate façade and lush city garden in front, is a testament to the country’s theatrical and artistic prowess.

Named after the famous Bulgarian writer Ivan Vazov , the theater regularly hosts plays that range from classic Bulgarian to international repertoire.

National History Museum

Located on the outskirts of Sofia, the Sofia History Museum is the largest museum in Bulgaria and one of the largest in the Balkan Peninsula.

Housed in a former governmental residence, it showcases over 650,000 exhibits tracing Bulgaria’s history from prehistoric times to the modern era.

From ancient Thracian gold treasures to artifacts from the medieval period, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the annals of Bulgarian history.

National Art Gallery

Situated in the former royal palace, the National Art Gallery is a sanctuary for art enthusiasts.

The gallery boasts an extensive collection of Bulgarian art, with works spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces.

The former royal palace’s regal ambiance adds to the allure, making a visit here a delightful blend of art and architecture.

Former Royal Palace

Apart from housing the National Art Gallery, the former Royal Palace is an architectural gem in its own right.

Serving as the royal residence until the abolition of the monarchy in 1946, the palace is a beautiful representation of Neo-Renaissance architecture.

Its central location, combined with its historical and architectural significance, makes it a must-visit for anyone touring Sofia. You can’t miss the yellow-brick road there!

12. Savoring Sofia: A Culinary Journey Through Bulgarian Traditions

One of the unmissable experiences when visiting Sofia is diving into the rich and diverse world of Bulgarian cuisine.

Rooted deeply in the country’s history and influenced by its diverse geography, Bulgarian food is a delightful mosaic of flavors that promises to tantalize the palate.

Start your culinary exploration with the comforting taste of “banitsa”, a savory pastry filled with cheese or a combination of cheese and spinach.

Venture further with “kavarma”, a slow-cooked stew, brimming with tender meat and vegetables.

Don’t miss the “sarmi”, which are grape or cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice and minced meat.

And for those seeking a hearty dish, “kufte” and “kebapche” – the Bulgarian meatballs and sausages – are a must-try, often served alongside a fresh salad drenched in local cheese. 

Finish your meal with “tikvenik”, a pumpkin-filled pastry, for a sweet conclusion to your Bulgarian feast.

Whether enjoyed in a traditional “mehana” or a contemporary restaurant in Sofia, these dishes offer a mouthwatering journey through Bulgaria’s culinary heritage, making it an essential part of your Sofia experience.

13. A Two-Day Adventure: Sofia To North Macedonia And Kosovo

Our Balkan escapade began in Sofia, but soon, the promise of exploring two neighboring countries beckoned.

Eager to experience more of this diverse region, we booked a two-day tour that would take us to North Macedonia and Kosovo, two nations rich in culture and history.

Early in the morning, our tour vehicle collected us from Sofia, and as we drove through the scenic Balkan landscapes, the anticipation grew.

The cross-border journey was surprisingly smooth, and before we knew it, we were in North  Macedonia’s vibrant capital, Skopje .

Here, we were greeted by our local guide , whose intimate knowledge of the city was evident from the onset.

Skopje, with its blend of ancient and modern, dazzled us. Monumental statues and neoclassical buildings juxtaposed against the historic charm of the Old Bazaar.

Wandering its cobbled streets, we were immersed in a world of colorful stalls, aromatic spices, and the hum of lively trade.

We didn’t miss the chance to savor the local cuisine, indulging in dishes that spoke of the city’s rich culinary tapestry.

As day turned to night, our journey continued to Kosovo. We arrived and checked into our accommodations, ready to recharge for the next day’s adventures.

The morning sun found us in Prizren, a city renowned for its Ottoman-era architecture and the shimmering Bistrica river that snakes through it.

Another local guide awaited us, keen to share the city’s tales.

Our exploration took us to the Prizren Fortress. Perched atop a hill, this historic stronghold provided panoramic views of the city below, the terracotta rooftops contrasting against the verdant landscapes.

It was a sight to behold, and as we stood there, we felt the weight of the region’s rich history.

The trip, though brief, was intense and enlightening. As our driver steered us back to Sofia on the second day, we reflected on the two nations we’d just visited.

Their stories, cultures, and landscapes had left an indelible mark, making our two-day detour from Sofia a highlight of our Balkan journey.

Traveler Tip: Visiting Novi Sad, Serbia is also a great added destination in this area if you have the time for it! Or, you could take a day trip to Nis, Serbia .

14. Venturing Beyond Sofia: Day Trips Into Bulgaria’s Natural And Spiritual Heartland

While Sofia stands as a beacon of Bulgaria’s rich history and dynamic modernity, just a short drive away lie some of the country’s most iconic treasures.

These sites, steeped in natural beauty and spiritual significance, offer a chance to delve deeper into Bulgaria’s multifaceted identity.

Rila Monastery

About two hours south of Sofia, nestled in the heart of the Rila Mountains, lies the Rila Monastery, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bulgaria.

As one of Bulgaria’s most important spiritual and cultural centers, this monastery dates back to the 10th century and stands as a testament to the country’s Orthodox traditions.

The striking architecture, characterized by vibrant frescoes and intricate woodwork, is set against the backdrop of verdant forests and mountain peaks, creating an almost ethereal ambiance.

This is probably one of the best trips you could take from Sofia!

While you can easily spend hours wandering the monastery grounds, also consider exploring the surrounding natural landscapes, home to scenic trails and cascading waterfalls.

Here is a great tour to get you there!

Pirin National Park

Further to the south, spread across the Pirin Mountains, is the majestic Pirin National Park.

A paradise for nature enthusiasts, this park offers a diverse range of ecosystems, from alpine meadows to dense forests and glacial lakes .

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its biodiversity, the park is home to various endemic species.

Hikers and trekkers will find a plethora of trails, catering to both novices and seasoned explorers.

The crown jewel of the park is undoubtedly the Vihren Peak, the third-highest in the Balkans, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Beyond hiking, the park is also popular for winter sports, especially in the town of Bansko, located on its outskirts.

Both Rila Monastery and Pirin National Park offer a profound contrast to Sofia’s urban rhythm.

They remind visitors of Bulgaria’s enduring bond with nature and spirituality, making them essential inclusions for those keen on experiencing the country’s soul beyond its capital.

Tips For Visiting Sofia

Here’s a short list of things to keep in mind for your visit to Sofia Bulgaria:

• Currency & Payments : While many places accept credit cards, it’s good to have some Bulgarian lev (BGN) on hand for smaller establishments or street vendors.
• Dress Modestly : When visiting religious sites, such as monasteries or churches, wear modest clothing. This typically means covering your shoulders and wearing longer skirts or pants.
• Stay Central : Accommodations in the city center will give you easy access to most of Sofia’s major attractions, many of which are within walking distance of each other.
• Public Transportation : Sofia’s public transport system is reliable and inexpensive. Consider purchasing a daily or multiple-day pass if you plan on using it frequently. The best and cheapest way to get into town from the Sofia airport is by taking the metro!
• Tipping : In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10%. For small services, rounding up the bill is usually sufficient.
• Safety : Sofia is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Language : While Bulgarian is the official language, many young people and those in the tourism industry speak English. Learning a few basic Bulgarian phrases can be appreciated by locals.
• Day Trips : Don’t limit yourself to just Sofia. The city’s location makes it ideal for trips to places like Rila Monastery and Pirin National Park.
• Local Cuisine : Make sure to try traditional Bulgarian dishes. Sofia has numerous restaurants and eateries offering local delicacies.
• Weather : Sofia has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Dress accordingly and check the forecast before your visit.

We highly recommend using Sofia as a base to visit other destinations in Europe because it is quiet and affordable during the summer.

Going on a 3 day trip to Budapest would be one suggestion!

In Conclusion: Embracing Sofia’s Multifaceted Allure

Is Sofia, Bulgaria worth visiting? Without a shadow of a doubt, yes.

Sofia, a city where millennia-old traditions merge seamlessly with modern dynamism, is a hidden gem in the heart of the Balkans.

The capital is best known for its rich tapestry of history and culture, from Roman ruins and ornate churches to vibrant markets and contemporary museums. It stands as a testament to Bulgaria’s enduring spirit and resilience.

In Sofia, there’s no shortage of activities and sights.

Whether you’re strolling along Vitosha Boulevard, admiring the awe-inspiring architecture of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, or delving into the city’s Roman past, Sofia promises a diverse array of experiences.

Furthermore, its proximity to natural wonders like Rila Monastery and Pirin National Park makes it a perfect base for those eager to explore beyond the urban confines.

As for the duration of your stay, while you can get a glimpse of Sofia’s highlights in a couple of days, to truly immerse yourself in all the city—and its surrounding regions—has to offer, consider allocating at least four to five days.

This will allow you to not only explore the city’s myriad attractions but also embark on day trips from Sofia Bulgaria that showcase the country’s natural beauty and spiritual depth.

In essence, Sofia is more than just a stop on a traveler’s itinerary; it’s a vibrant city that beckons with tales of past glories, present endeavors, and a future full of promise.

Where To Stay In Sofia, Bulgaria

We stayed almost two months in Sofia so our place was an apartment located near the Serdika metro station.

There is a walking street there but it is much quieter than the Vitosha Blvd. area. It was a 5 minute walk to Vitosha Blvd so it was the perfect location.

Here are some of our recommendations in that general area:

• Cool Central Apartment
• Sofia Palace Hotel

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Taiss Nowrouzi

Hi! I’m just a California girl addicted to travel and adventure with a passion for art and dance on the side. Born in Iran, but I consider myself a citizen of Earth, adhering to the belief that “The world is but one country and mankind its citizen.” I strive to make a positive impact on everyone I meet and learn as much as possible from them. My degree out of college is in Marketing. However, I entered the hospitality business at an early age and worked my way up to hotel management. After about 13 years in that industry (5 of which I was a hotel assistant manager), I made the decision to move to Thailand and leave the 9 to 5 grind behind. My husband and I set off for a life of living abroad and hopes to continue traveling the world, just 3 months after our wedding. It all started with the two of us, along with our cat, together in Thailand. Can’t wait to see where life takes us next!

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• 39 Things to Do in Sofia Bulgaria

This is post 1 of 5 in the series “Bulgaria”

• A Sofia Food Guide + Best Restaurants in Sofia
• Rila Monastery from Sofia: a day trip guide
• Rila Seven Lakes day trip from Sofia + tips
• Boyana Waterfall Hike + Boyana Church: a Sofia Day Trip

If you tell me there are plenty of things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria, before my trip, I probably wouldn’t believe you. The capital of Bulgaria is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to antiquity. While it’s not as compact as Belgrade or as Art nouveau as Zagreb, it is a city that is lived in with passionate citizens who are excited to show the city off to visitors.

> See all my Bulgaria posts here

Essential information for Sofia

A short history of sofia.

Sofia is one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities dating back to the 5th century BC, possibly due to its hot mineral spring. Its first name was Serdica or Serdika, and it came under Roman rules in 29 BC.

The modern-day nation of Bulgaria slowly took shape as the Slavic tribes arrived in the 5th and 6th centuries. This was the first historical layer of the city. It was invaded various times by Huns and other tribes and was taken by Khan Krum into the Bulgarian Empire in the early 9th century.

It fell under Byzantine rules from the early 11th century until the late 12th century, before coming back under the new Bulgarian Empire. Like many cities around Balkan, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, who ruled it from 1530 to 1836.

Sofia (and Bulgaria) as we know it slowly came into shape during the 19th century and Sofia officially become the capital

It eventually became known as Sofia as the Saint Sofia Church was what most travelers see when approaching the city. The name became the preferred way to call the city and it was made official in the 19th century.

After that, it was under the Iron Curtain until the fall of the Berlin Wall, and you can still learn a lot about how communism affected the city and country through its museums and monuments.

How do you get around Sofia?

There is a good network of public transport in Sofia, but it’s also a very walkable city. I stayed on the eastern edge of the city center and I can walk to most places in half an hour.

Trams crisscrossed the city center and there are many buses circling the historic center as well.

There are also a few metro lines which are useful if you’re taking day trips. The main station is Serdika in the city center, which is connected to M2.

If you are taking a day trip, you can go to the metro station and pay 4 lv for a day ticket. Since one journey costs 1.6 lv, it makes sense to get it if you’re taking more than 3 trips.

Taxi in Sofia

Taxi is very affordable in Sofia and you can TaxiMe is a good taxi app that works like Uber and Grab. You can select pick up and drop off points on the app with an estimate of the price by booking, and it can connect to your credit card.

How many days in Sofia is enough?

To see the highlight, you can do Sofia in 2 days, but I recommend at least 3 days to see it probably. If you want to do a day trip as well, you’ll definitely need an extra day or two. I spent around 5 days in Sofia with 2-day trips and it was perfect.

Is Sofia a cheap city?

You can use your credit card in most places in Sofia, from restaurants to public transport. But it’s good to have around 20 to 50 lv on your depending on how long you are staying. A couple of museums I went to only accept cash, as well as some snack stores.

How much does a meal cost in Sofia?

For a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Sofia, the prices tend to be around 15-25 lv (7.6 – 13 euros). The most I spent on a meal was 44 lv, which was 22.5 euros at a nicer restaurant with wine and water.

Free Things to do in Sofia Bulgaria

If you are looking for the best things to do in Sofia – you can’t go wrong with free ways to check off all the must-see in Sofia. Sofia surprised me with how many free tours they have and also generally how cheap most things are. Here are my top free things to do in Sofia:

Note: although not required, it’s good to tip the tour guide at the end. Depending on the size of the group, I tipped 10-20 lv.

Take a Free Sofia Tours

A free walking tour is one of the best ways to get to know a city. Sofia’s one is called Free Sofia Tours which also runs a Communist Tour and a Pub Crawl. The tours run daily at 11 am and 2 pm in front of the Palace of Justice and last for 2-2.5 hours, but it’s best to check their calendar there to be sure.

There tend to be a lot of people so they often split the group into two. There is also a Spanish tour as well.

Our guide Chris was very informative, and he gave us a good historic overview of the city as well as various interesting stories.

Balkan Bites Food Tour

That’s right, Sofia has a food tour that is free to join! It’s run by a company called Balkan Bites, which is the first company to run a free food tour in the world in 2013.

While the tour is free, you need to make a reservation online to secure a spot. A lady on my tour did it in the morning of the day in August and managed to get on the tour.

The tour meets at Crystal Garden in front of the Monument of Stefan Stambolov at 2 pm and lasts around 2 hours. It covers the history of Sofia as well as the typical Bulgarian food. But since Bulgarian food is heavily influenced by the history of the region, the company is called Balkan Bites instead of Bulgarian Bites.

Free Sofia Graffiti Tour

I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy the Sofia graffiti tour , but I ended up loving it. Our guide Toto was great and very informative. I realised that I had passed by quite a few of these graffiti already with only a passing thought of them being pretty. But Toto could tell us so much more about the graffiti’s meaning and the artists.

Because street art is always changing, it was great to have a guide who knew where everything is. The tour was started in 2016 by locals and most of the ones we saw were hidden around the city center.

The tour meets under the Sofia Statue at 6 pm and lasts around 2 hours! 

Things to see in Sofia: monuments and historic sites

A lot of the major sites will be covered by the free tours I’ve mentioned above, but here is a list of all the monuments that you shouldn’t miss. I have a separate one for religious buildings!

Statue of Saint Sofia 

Sofia, or Sophia, is the Greek goddess of wisdom and also in Christian theology. She’s often depicted carrying an owl and the statue was commissioned in 2000 to replace a statue of Lenin in the center of the city.

However, the design by sculptor Georgi Chapkanov is considered too pagan and provocative to be connected to the Christian Saint Sofia. She was a martyr in the 2nd century with 3 daughters – Hope, Faith, and Love as they won’t give up their Christian religion.

The statue now overlooks Independence Square standing atop a pillow with a combined height of 22m.

Ruinas Romanas Serdica

To go back to the roots of the city – quite literally – you’d need to visit the metro station Serdika. It is the name of the ancient Roman city and also where the ruins of the city are.

This part of the ruins is centered around the ancient Roman main road that goes from west to east gate in Roman times. It extends below the Independence Square and parts of it is protected by glass covering from the elements. You can also see part of the ancient city walls.

Square of Tolerance

The Square of Tolerance lies between the Banya Bashi Mosque all the way down to Serdika metro station. The name comes the proximity of various churches, mosques, and synagogues are from the square.

They were all built in different historical periods despite the predominant religion without a problem. And the name of the square is a reminder of all the religions coexisting in peace in Sofia. There’s even a McDoanlds to represent capitalism!

Independence Square

Perpendicular to the Square of Tolerance is the Independence Square, which was once the Lenin Square. It was renamed to this after independence. The eastern end is the triangular building of power, where the state government office is. On either side of the square are twin buildings were built in the 50s in the new Stalin architecture style.

The galleries are a great place to hide from the sun!

“Ivan Vazov” National Theater

Ivan Vazov was the father of literature in Bulgaria, and many things are named after him. The National Theater is the oldest in the country, built in 1906 and built in the Neoclassical style by a Viennese architect.

It’s on the eastern edge of the City Garden and still hosts many productions with a capacity of 750 seats in its main stage.

Lions’ Bridge

The Lions’ Bridge is on the northern edge of the town center in Sofia, spanning over the Vladaya River. Lion is the national animal of Bulgaria and the bridge was erected in the late 19th century.

There are four bronze lion statues, designed by a family of Czech architects and sculptors. 

Eagles’ Bridge

On the eastern edge of town is the Eagles’ Bridge, and the two of them are set to mark the boundary of Sofia’s city center.

This side of town is far more urbanised and you can hardly see the river as the bridge has expanded on either side of it. 

Monument of the Soviet Army

This is arguably the most controversial monument in the city. The monument itself stands at 37m tall in the center of a park, with a Soviet soldier surrounded by a Bulgarian family. It was erected in the 50s and there has been many movements for the monuments to be removed or destroyed.

There has been many cases of vandalism and graffiti. Most notably in 17th June, 2011, when one of the facades was painted to represent American comic book heroes.

What to See in Sofia: Church edition

The majority of Sofia’s population are Orthodox Christians, so naturally, there are a lot of churches in Sofia. A large number of them had been converted into mosques under the Ottoman rules, making the switch back after gaining independence.

There are many churches in Sofia, so I’ll over cover the ones that are more famous I visited and thought it’s interesting to atheists.

Do remember that you need to dress modestly to enter churches – covering your shoulders and knees. Most churches in Bulgaria also don’t allow photos inside but are free to enter.

St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is the largest and most iconic church in Sofia. It was built in the 1920s after Bulgarian was liberated in the Neo-Byzantine style and serves as the Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral.

It is one of the largest churches in the world, being able to hold 5,000 worshipers. It’s named after the Russian Prince Alexander Nevsky to commemorate the Russian soldiers who died in the Ruosso-Turkish war that liberated Bulgaria from the Ottoman at the end of the 19th century.

It’s free to enter but photos are not allowed. The dome is 46.3m high with detailed fresco that’s worth a visit.

St. Sophia Church

The less ornate St Sophia Church is located near St Alexnader Nevsky and is where the city get its name from. The church dates back to the 4th century under the Byzantine empire on a site that has always been a place of worship.

The emperor Justinian I built many churches across the Byzantine kingdom and was built around the same time as Hagia Sofia in Istanbul. 

For a long time, the church lies outside the city limit on a slight hill, and it’s the first thing people see when they approach the city, which is why it became the name of the city in the 14th century.

Sveta Nedelya Church

The Saint Nedelya Church is a 10th century church south of the Serdika ruins. It started out as a wooden church that became a cathedral. While it is an important church in its own rights as the Holy Sunday Church, it’s most famous for the many times it had been destroyed.

The most recent attempt was in 1925 during an assassination attempt on the Tsar. As the cathedral is where important funerals were hosted, the left party activist at the time first assassinated a general, then blew up the church. Luckily, Boris III was late as he attended a funeral of a soldier who had saved his life earlier that month. Over 200 people were killed and 500 injured. The cathedral was rebuilt in the 30s.

The current church we see was built in 1933 in the Byzantine Revival style by architect Ivan Vasilyov. It’s free to visit the church.

Saint Petka Church of the Saddlers

The small church between the Serdika metro station and the ruins are sat slightly higher than the ruins, marking its medieval origin. It was built in the 11th century for – as the name gave it away – the saddlers.

This is because churches built at the time were financed by locals under the rule of the Ottoman, and this church was mostly financed by the saddlers.

It’s a church that you would definitely pass through in the heart of Sofia!

St George Rotunda

The red brick rotunda is surrounded by more Roman ruins from the age of Serdica and has seem many religions passing under its roof. It is the oldest still functioning church in Bulgaria built in the 4th century.

It was a bathhouse until Christianity came then turned into a church for mass baptisms. At the end of the 14th century, the Ottoman came and it was one of the few churches that were converted into a mosque.

After liberation of Ottoman rules, this was turned back into a church and restored. It was almost demolished under communist rules as they wanted to turn this into a parking lot, but a young archeology student convinced them to preserve it.

It’s free to enter and the small round church has a beautiful fresco and mosaic on the ceiling.

St Joseph Cathedral 

The more modern looking Cathedral of St Joseph is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church that was rebuilt after WWII. It’s located next to the western gate of Roman city and the ruins are in a part next to the church.

It’s also very close to the Square of Tolerance and distinctive with the white walls.

Seven Saints Church

The Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church means the seven saints church and it is a mosque turned church in Sofia.

The brick building we see now was built in the early 20th century, but before that it was the Black Mosque built in 16th century by the Ottoman. It was named after the dark granite that used to build it but part of it collapsed during an earthquake in the 19th century.

It was used as a military warehouse and prison after that before it was rebuilt and converted into a church in the early 1900s. 

The seven saints can be seen in the mosaic above the door. They are all Bulgarian saints that were teachers and educators.

Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker

Adjacent to the City Garden is the Russian church St Nichalos the Miracle-Maker. Its architectural style sets it apart from the other churches in Sofia. It was built as the official church of the Russian Embassy next door on the site that once stood a mosque, which was destroyed in the late 19th century.

The style is inspired by the Russian Revival reminiscent of the 17th century with the white-green colour palette and golden dome. The domes are much smaller and narrower than other churches in Sofia and the fresco inside the church are with a bright teal background.

Sofia Synagogue

The Sofia Synangogue is the biggest Synagogue in Sofia and southeastern Europe. It is also near the Square of Tolerance but hidden in plain sight on a residential street. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century in Morrish Revival style with the capacity to hold 1,170.

The interior is equally as beautiful with the largest chandelier in the city.

Note: you have to go through a security check to go on but they’re fairly friendly 

Admission fee: 5 lv

Opening times: Sun – Fri 9:00 – 17:00

Address: Exarch Joseph Street 18, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria

Banya Bashi Mosque

The Banya Bashi Mosque stands on the northern end of the ancient Serdika complex and was built in the 16th century. It is the only functioning mosque in Sofia with a 15m diameter dome and a tower.

It was designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, who built over 300 major structures including Stari Most in Mostar. The name Banya Bashi means many baths, and it is built atop natural thermal spas.

Other Cool Places to visit in Sofia

If you are all history-out and want to find other cool places to visit in Sofia, here are a few spots that is perfect for a sit and read or just some down time:

Vitosha Boulevard 

Vitosha Boulevard is named after the mountain not far from Sofia which can be seen from the boulevard. It is the main boulevard of Sofia that stretches between the Palace of Justice and the National Palace of Culture Park. The boulevard is 2.7km (1.7 miles) long and a great place to do some shopping.

It is paved with the famous yellow brick that was imported at the beginning of the 20th century and is still holding strong today.

Crystal Garden

Crystal Garden is one of the many parks in Sofia and it’s a popular meeting place for tours as well as home to the Monument of Stefan Stambolov.

He was a politician who was assassinated and died from a head ax wound in 1895 right by the garden. There are a few bars near the garden and it’s a popular drinking spot for locals in the evening and night.

Women’s Market (Zhenski Pazar)

The Women’s Market is just south of the Lion’s Bridge and an open-air market that sells everything, but mostly fruits and produce. It was established after the liberation from the Ottoman in 1878, and it’s a lovely place to explore and see the local life.

Unlike the Ladies Market in Hong Kong, the name of this market stems from the fact that women weren’t allowed to go shopping anywhere besides this market on Fridays.

National Palace of Culture (and Park)

At the end of the Vitosha Boulevard is the National Palace of Culture with a long fountain in front of it. It is a multi-purpose building for conferences and concerts built in the communist era in 1979.

The leafy park is also popular with people especially with the water fountain that keeps the summer temperature lower.

Things to do in Sofia: museums edition

One of the best things to do in Sofia when it’s too hot or too cold is to visit a museum. Or if you’re a history fan!

The Red Flat

The Red Flat is an audio-guided tour of an apartment set up to reflect the life of a family in the communist era in the 80s in Sofia. Visitors should first head to The Gift for tickets, then walk to the flat around the corner to visit the flat.

The audio guide has 46 stories spread over 5 rooms telling the story of typical life during that time and it was a great insight. It is a must-do if you enjoy museums, and stories, and want to see a glimpse of life during the communist regime.

Address:  GIFTED urban culture hub, 24 Ivan Denkoglu st, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria

Opening times: 10:30 – 18:00

Admission fee: 18 lv, can pay by card

National Ethnology Museum

For those interested in culture, the National Ethnology Museum is a good place to visit. It is housed in the building was once the town hall for ottoman administration in the 19th century. It was then used as the royal family residence, prime minister cabinet, and then become the national gallery and ethnographic museum in 1944.

While the museum is not centered around the history of the building, you can still see one of the oldest elevator in Europe and also the architecture of the building.

The museum starts on the upper floor and while it’s not the best laid out, there are interesting tidbit about wedding and customs. I also had a lovely chat with the old old lady who’s there to do her weaving which is a UNESCO World Heritage trade. Downstairs are better exhibits of daily life from farming to cooking through the ages.

Note: it shares the same building with the National Gallery.

Address: Av. da Ilha da Madeira, 1400-203 Lisboa, Portugal

Openint times: Weds – Sun 10:00 – 18:00; Tues 14:00 – 18:00

Admission fee: 6 lv, cash only

Unique Things to do in Sofia

For something even more off-beat, here are some unique things you can do in Sofia:

Drink some Hot Springs water

Not too far from the Sofia History Museum, aka the former Mineral Baths, there are a series of taps next to a tram stop where citizens and tourists alike can get access to the hot spring water for free.

The water is 40 degrees and is probably nicer to drink if you visit in the winter.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road: Boulevard Tsar Osvoboditel

While walking around Sofia, one might notice that there are yellow bricks here and there. These special bricks were brought to Sofia in 1911 and said to be a gift for the Tsar’s second marriage from the Austro-Hungarian.

But actually, the administration wanted to get something special and took credit from a German bank to buy them. And this was a cover story for the general public.

While the yellow bricks get slippery in rain, they have lasted for a century plus!

Look out for Martenitsa on trees

Bulgarians take spring very seriously and one of their traditions involves Martenitsa. Martenitsa is white and red rope bracelets made, given, and worn by everyone during springtime and are left on the first tree that blooms when spring actually arrives.

So if you look around Sofia, you might find trees dangling with bracelets!

Best Bars in Sofia Bulgaria

Looking for the best bars in Sofia? The nightlife in Sofia is the most active on Fridays and Saturdays, but most places are open every night. Here are some recommendations for your nightlife in Sofia:

Note: most bars and clubs allow smoking indoors in Sofia, so be aware if this would bother you!

New Sofia Pub Crawl

A pub crawl is a great way to make new friends, and the New Sofia Pub Crawl runs daily from the Crystal Palace. You can simply show up at 9pm and join the group off for a night of bar hopping. They’ll take you to five locations with a drink at each, and the venues are different every night!

This is a great way for solo travellers to enjoy a night out and make new friends. I went on a Sunday night and it was a lot quieter, but I had a lovely chat with the other people in the group.

You can also book online and pay on spot or pay online .

Note: remember to bring your ID card and some cash for the evening!

Meeting time: 9pm

Meeting place: Crystal Garden

Cost: 30 lv – includes one drink at each location, usually a beer or a shot

Hambara Bar is set back in an alleyway on a quiet street that you won’t notice at all if someone hasn’t told you. The bar is lit by candlelight only, giving it a unique atmosphere. It was almost like you travelled back in time if it isn’t for the bar and how everyone is dressed!

Note: people are allowed to smoke inside

Address: ul. “6-ti septemvri” 22, 1142 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria

Opening times: 21:00 – 4:00

Day Trips from Sofia

If you have extra time after doing everything I’ve listed for Sofia or simply want a change of sceneries, there are easy day trips to do from Sofia:

Vitosha Mountain

The Vitosha Mountain is the backdrop of Sofia standing at 2,292m high. It is accessible by public transport and only a 20 minutes drive. There are many hiking trails on Mount Vitosha and it’s popular for locals on the weekend as well. 

Note: in the summer months, the cable car to Aleko only runs during the weekend.

Boyana Church and Boyana Waterfall

The easiest day trip and value for time is the Boyana Church and Boyana Waterfalls. The Boyana Church is one of the most famous churches in the area known for its fresco. And the start of the hiking trail up to Boyana Waterfall is only 5-10 minutes walk away.

Together, the two make for a perfect half-day or day trip, depending on how fast or slow you want to take the trek!

More information in a blog post coming soon.

Rila Monastery and Rila Lakes

Although not quite as close, the Rila Monastery and Rila Seven Lakes are two other popular day trip destinations. It can be combined as a day trip or done separately, as although they are both in Rila, they are not close together.

The Rila Monastery is the largest monastery in Bulgaria and dates back to the 10th century. The Seven Rila Lakes are glacial lakes known for their beauty and is actually not too difficult a hike.

The best option for people who are not looking to rent a car and drive is to book a self-guided tour to both.

Where to Stay in Sofia

It’s easy to walk around Sofia’s town center and the best place for visitors to stay. That said, its comprehensive transport system means that you can definitely stay further out and still be within easy reach of the city. Here are some of my top picks for Sofia:

(with air conditioning because the summer can be very hot)

Budget & Midrange

• Visito Aparthouse is a value of money apartment near the train station and with good public transport.
• Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel is slightly south of the old town, with great reviews near shopping and restaurants.
• Sofia Place Hotel by HMG is slightly dated but overall, with great amenities.
• Central Hotel Sofia is a choice for those who want a more modern and sustainable choice.
• Grand Hotel Sofia is smack at the heart of the city with spacious rooms and friendly staff. While there is an elevator, it is a little dated. 
• Rosslyn Thracia Hotel Sofia is a stone’s throw away from the Vitosha Boulevard with helpful staff.
• InterContinental Sofia , an IHG Hotel and Hyatt Regency Sofia are solid choices near the Cathedral Saint Alexandar Nevski.

Hi, my name is Nam. I am 24 and spent half my life in Hong Kong and the other half in UK. I believe there's endless experience and beauty in the world and this is me chronicling how to experience the best at the best price.

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The 17 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

I can’t believe our website is just over one year old and we’ve yet to write a comprehensive post about all of the best places to visit in Bulgaria! After all, Stephanie and I both know this country extremely well, having called it home since 2017 and 2018 respectively.

We’ve taken dozens (literally) of road trips within Bulgaria and we’ve explored many nooks and crannies of this beautiful country. Here are our favorite places to visit in Bulgaria – from our adopted home city of Sofia to some lesser-known hidden gem towns in Bulgaria.

Want to reference this post later? Pin it!

Here are the best places to visit in Bulgaria that we’ve gathered from our years of living here!

Obviously, on a blog called Sofia Adventures, we’ve got to give space for our eponymous city! We both call Sofia home because it’s quite simply our favorite city in Bulgaria. From the multi-story murals spanning across city walls to the Roman ruins in the subways, Sofia is always finding new ways to surprise and delight.

A few of the most crucial sights to see in Sofia are as follows. Obviously, you can’t miss seeing the beautiful golden domes and teal accents of the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the symbol of our city. Head inside for a truly mesmerizing experience and observe the beautiful traditions of the Orthodox faith, and don’t miss the crypt icon museum which most tourists overlook. Don’t miss the stunning Russian Church either, just a block away from Alexander Nevsky and much smaller in scale but equally lovely in an entirely different architectural style.

Some other crucial sights to see are the beautiful burgundy Neoclassical Ivan Vazov National Theater in the heart of one of Sofia’s most loved parks, the City Garden. Find the oldest church in Sofia, the Rotunda of St. George, hidden from invaders and occupiers throughout the centuries and preserved in beautiful condition despite dating back to the 4th century.

See the ruins of the ancient city of Serdica hidden in the subway and in the Arena di Serdica lobby, visit the beautiful Sveta Nedelya Church and the Banya Bashi Mosque on the so-called “Square of Religious Tolerance,” and peep the beautiful Sofia Synagogue and the Central Market Hall nearby. You won’t want to miss the unique Vienna Secession architecture of the Sofia Central Mineral Baths (now, unfortunately, a museum and not a bathhouse, but you can fill up on some free water on Ekzahr Yosif street on the side of the building).

I think of Sofia as the Goldilocks of cities: not too big, not too small. It’s big enough that it has all the things you need, like an international food scene and great public transportation. But you can also walk a loop through all the most important city center sights in less than a day and still have the better part of an afternoon to chill out in one of Sofia’s coolest bars or its best restaurants and understand why even Rick Steves admits that Sofia is Bulgaria’s most livable city.

Mount Vitosha

It’s basically part of Sofia, really, but Mount Vitosha is so unique and beautiful that it deserves an entry of its own. What is so incredible about Sofia and one of the main reasons I ended up moving there is that there is a gorgeous 2,290 meter mountain quite literally in our backyard, in the backdrop of our beautiful cityscape.

There are countless ways to enjoy Mount Vitosha: a sunset hike, a quiet sunrise meditation, the viewpoint at Kopitoto , a hike to the summit of Cherni Vrah, a tasty but simple meal in one of the mountain’s many small restaurants, or skiing or snowboarding down the slopes in winter.

It’s so easy to get to Vitosha. A number of cable cars run on weekends, bringing you up to the summit with beautiful views such as the Simeonovo-Aleko lift. Just check to make sure it’s running first (you can check her e but the site is in Bulgarian) – I’ve gotten all the way to Simeonovo, saw it wasn’t running due to “strong winds,” and had to scrap my plans. But I ended up eating meatballs at IKEA instead, so it wasn’t a total loss.

There is also the 66 bus that will bring you to Aleko, the most developed mountain hut and start of many hikes in the area, or the free weekend bus that runs in the summer.

Bulgaria’s second city, Plovdiv is starting to compete with Sofia for popularity, especially now that it has been designated the European Capital of Culture for 2019. While I love living in Sofia, I will begrudgingly admit that Plovdiv is a little more tourist-friendly as the things to do there are quite easily defined.

The Old Town in Plovdiv is a photographer’s dream, and architecture and design enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to step inside these Bulgarian National Revival architecture homes and see back into the life of wealthy 19th and 20th-century Bulgarian families.

The Hindilyan House is particularly exquisite, as is the Balabanov House. One of my favorite buildings is the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed in one of the most beautiful buildings in the Old Town. It’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Plovdiv , but it’s also an extremely interesting peek into Bulgarian culture and tradition.

But the real gem of the UNESCO site that makes up Plovdiv’s Old Town is the stunning Roman Amphitheater of Philippopolis, one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world.

It is two millennia old and still in incredible condition, even used for shows and events to date. It’s incredible and every single time I see it I am even more in awe.

Besides that, you need to check out the area around the Dzhumaya Mosque and the Roman Stadium (different than the amphitheater), where several art installations including a funky painted car and several other pieces of interactive art have cropped up to celebrate Plovdiv’s 2019 Capital of Culture title.

Lastly, finish up your splendid walks around Plovdiv with a coffee or craft beer at one of the bars and cafés that line the magical streets of Kapana, Plovdiv’s artsy district that is beloved by hipsters, digital nomads, and local Plovdivians alike. I love the Monkey House (coffee and craft beer) and Cat & Mouse (craft beer) the best. There’s also lots of street art here to discover so don’t forget your camera!

Veliko Tarnovo

Sometimes bestowed titles as grand as the prettiest town in Europe or the best kept secret of Europe, Veliko Tarnovo is a tiny town that seemingly everyone falls in love with it.

Built atop the steep banks of the Yantra River which snakes like a horseshoe through much of the town, the beautiful architecture of the traditional houses of the city is simply jaw-dropping. The people who live in Veliko Tarnovo truly love their tiny, historical town and its visible in all of the little details that make this town look so well-loved and cared for.

Veliko Tarnovo is nicknamed the “City of the Tsars” as it was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Veliko Tarnovo was built on three hills, the tallest and most important of which is Tsaravets.

On Tsaravets, you can still see the beautiful remains of the historic fortress (and the weirdest church I’ve ever seen). The fortress has definitely seen finer days and is in a bit of disrepair, but it is still absolutely gorgeous and offers some stunning views over the whole of Veliko Tarnovo city.

But there are other reasons to visit Veliko Tarnovo – the lively and surprising street art scene, where a seemingly mundane staircase to nowhere gets turned into a work of heart. It is the origin of one of my favorite Bulgarian restaurants, Shtastliveca, which has become a small chain of a few restaurants spread throughout Bulgaria now. There’s a big handmade movement in Veliko Tarnovo where artisans are preserving local crafts and producing beautiful, authentic Bulgarian souvenirs and saying no to generic crap bought en masse from China.

And there are some surprisingly fun nightlife options in this sleepy little town. Trust me, you want to end your night at Tequila Bar!

An easy day trip from Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi is a cute village that it feels like time forgot.

Best known for its monasteries and churches, Arbanasi may seem like a quiet place to visit in Bulgaria but you’d be surprised that there is actually a wealth of things to do in Arbanasi that are worth your time!

Koprivshtitsa

One of the cutest towns in Bulgaria, Koprivshtitsa is often referred to as a “museum city” for its picturesque architecture that has kept much of its 19th-century style in tact. It’s one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria for architecture and just all-around charm, and you won’t find many foreign tourists here.

You’ll find a handful of museum houses that preserve a slice of life from days past that are well worth paying a few leva to enter. Its stunning mountain surroundings are really breathtaking, bonus points if you see some majestic as hell Bulgarian horses eating grass casually on the way out of town.

Often nicknamed Bulgaria’s UFO, Buzludzha is a mountain in Bulgaria that also houses the Monument House of the Bulgarian Communist Party. Unfortunately, in the wake of the fall of communism, Buzludzha has been abandoned and not well taken care of over the years. Intrepid explorers would trespass into Buzludzha, snapping beautiful photos of the decaying interior. Since May 2018, a security guard has been stationed there 24/7 to prevent break-ins, so while it was never legal to enter Buzludzha it’s now virtually impossible.

Luckily, the inaccessible interior of Buzludzha may eventually become open to all again, with the promising Buzludzha Monument project aiming to preserve the space and use it to educate future generations.

We’ve been to Buzludzha four times between the two of us, so we’ve written the most comprehensive guide to visiting Buzludzha out there!

Seven Rila Lakes

One of my favorite hikes in all of Bulgaria, there’s no place more beautiful than this series of seven glacial lakes. The Rila Lakes are less than 100 kilometers away from Sofia so it’s a popular day trip for locals and tourists alike.

Hiking around the Seven Rila Lakes will take about 3-5 hours depending on your speed and the route you choose, although that does not include the wait times for the ultra-slow chair lift. Alternately, you can walk from the lift station to where it drops you off, but you’ll need to add a few more hours to your hike, and it’s not a particularly beautiful hike to be honest, mostly just trees obscuring your view.

The Rila Lakes are simply absolutely incredible (check out our full guide on how to visit the 7 Rila Lakes here). It’s a must-do on any trip to Bulgaria in the summer season, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just interested in a short walk (you can skip the hard uphill portion up to the last two lakes if you want an easier walk).

Rila Monastery

One of the most popular tourist sights in Bulgaria, you won’t want to miss a visit to Rila Monastery during your time in Bulgaria. I don’t know what’s more beautiful: the vibrantly painted church itself, or the open terraced monastery where the monks live that forms a walled community encasing the church itself.

The Rila Monastery is a symbol of Bulgaria and one of its most popular sights, so you’ll often have to contend with some crowds, but it’s truly the most spectacular Orthodox monastery I’ve ever seen so it’s well worth it.

Best known for Shipka Memorial Church, this is just a small detour from Buzludzha and we think it’s an essential place to visit in Bulgaria if you’re road tripping around the interior.

Shipka Memorial Church is an Instagrammers dream, yet it’s blissfully maxi-dress-free, for now!

You’ll also find a beautiful lavender and sunflower field just by the turn-off for Buzludzha on the outskirts of Shipka if you’re traveling in the right season (we were there at the very end of June and it was gorgeous)

Belogradchik Fortress

Belogradchik Rocks are a distinctive rock formation that can be found in the upper northwest corner of Bulgaria, a patch of odd rock formations that span 30 kilometers long, with stones as much as 200 meters high. The rocks look somewhat similar to what you’d find in Meteora, Greece.

But the coolest thing about Belogradchik is the fortress you’ll find nestled in the rocks, which looks like it could be a set piece out of Game of Thrones (but luckily it isn’t, because it means you can enjoy it basically all to yourself!). We’ve written a guide to visiting Belogradchik Fortress if you are keen to check out this little-known gem in Northern Bulgaria.

Burgas Salterns

Burgas is an important city on the Black Sea coast, but its coolest draw is its pink salt lakes !

The pink color of the Salterns is entirely natural, derived from the microscopic brine shrimp who live in the super saline water. A small portion of the lake is essentially a free mud spa, a much larger part is a functioning salt factory. It produces 40,000 tons of salt annually, making it the largest salt producer in Bulgaria.

Get in your bathing suit, dunk yourself in the pink waters, cover yourself in mud, dry off in the sun, then walk 100 meters to the Black Sea to wash yourself off – this is a spa day the Bulgarian way, and it won’t cost you a dime!

The largest city on the Bulgarian Riviera , Varna is home to some beautiful beaches of its own but it also has a vibrant city culture! The streets remind me of Odessa: a classically beautiful beachside city with a ton of culture and heritage.

While we love wasting away the day at a Varna beach bar, there are plenty of more active things to do in Varna. You can explore the Varna Necropolis and Roman baths, admire the Dormition of Mother of God Cathedral, or check out the interesting Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship Memorial that is a reminder of a bygone era.

Alternately, staying in Varna is a great base for exploring the unique landscapes around the city, including the desolate north coast of Bulgaria where some of the prettiest beaches can be found or the impressive Pobiti Kamani, one of the only ‘deserts’ in Europe and full of strange stone formations.

Saeva Dupka

There are a number of caves in Bulgaria and this one is especially beautiful. It has many large atria that make it quite spacious and not at all claustrophobic, although those who are afraid of heights may want to avoid the ladder to climb up to see some of the stalagmites and stalactite formations up close.

The Saeva Dupka cave is really beautiful, with glittering mineral formations from calcification and several elaborate structures that have silly names given to them by the local guides.

Devil’s Bridge

Dyavolski Most is better known as Devil’s Bridge and it’s located outside of the small village of Ardino in Southern Bulgaria. It was built during the Ottoman era, which is why it may resemble another famous Balkan bridge, the lovely Stari Most in Mostar.

Getting here is not easy as you’ll need to rent a car and it’s nearly three hours from the nearest big city, Plovdiv, but it’s well worth it if you’re a lover of photography and off the beaten path destinations. It’s the only place on this list we’ve yet to visit personally but we hope to rectify that soon!

Krushuna Waterfalls

The beautiful Krushuna waterfalls are not particularly high or awe-inspiring, but they have such a beautiful color and cascade pattern that they are definitely worth a visit.

These waterfalls were formed by calcium travertines – a fancy word for calcium deposits, meaning these waterfalls formed in a similar fashion to other places you may have seen photos of like Semuc Champey of Pamukkale in Turkey.

It’s easy to combine a visit to Krushuna with other gems like Troyan Monastery or Saeva Dupka Cave.

One of the best-kept secrets about Bulgaria is just how delicious the wine is! But word is starting to leak in Melnik, which is becoming well-known for its potential for wine tourism, as the region keeps on winning awards for its high-quality and innovative wines.

Besides its wine route, Melnik is known for its unique sand pyramids, its gorgeous typical Ottoman style homes including the traditional museum house of Kordopulov, and the nearby Rozhen Monastery which is worth a side trip.

Bulgaria Travel Resources

We’ve included all the links we have about the destinations listed in this article, so go back through this post if you’re looking for information on a specific location.

If this will be your first time in Bulgaria, we have some resources to help make your first trip here a breeze. Check out our guide on how to plan your trip to Bulgaria , which goes over everything from visas to ground transportation to budgeting your trip.

You should start with our guides on what to do in Sofia ,  Plovdiv , and  Veliko Tarnovo , which are the most popular destinations in Bulgaria you are likely to visit.

You may also want to check out our overview of  Balkan currency , which describes Bulgarian leva (easy – it’s pegged at 2:1 to the euro!) and what to tip in Bulgaria.

Finally, Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

No trip preparation is complete until you have a valid  travel insurance  policy. Bulgaria is a safe place to travel, but unexpected things can happen anywhere. You want to be able to get your stuff replaced if it’s lost or stolen, or if you get injured you while you’re enjoying hiking or taking a scenic drive throughout the region.

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.

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

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Home » Travel Guides » Bulgaria » 15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

Rolling down from the pine-clad massifs of the Balkan Mountains and the Rhodope ranges to meet the sparkling blues of the Black Sea, Bulgaria offers everything from sun-kissed beaches to enthralling historical narratives, buzzing party towns to snow-shrouded ski resorts between its borders.

In this guide to the 15 best places to visit in the country, we take a look at all the major hotspots that should be on anyone’s Bulgarian bucket list this year.

The sun-splashed favourite of local Bulgarians heading out of Sofia and Plovdiv for the summer, Varna is much more than just your run-of-the-mill resort town on the edge of the Black Sea. Yes sir, with a long and enthralling history, oodles of crumbling Roman bathhouses and elaborate Orthodox architecture (like the almost unpronounceable Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral), the city appeals to history buffs and culture vultures as well as sun seekers.

Of course, the beaches are still a big factor, and one bustling sand-side promenade beckons travelers with oodles of seafood restaurants and cocktail bars, while lively clubs erupt right on the edge of the shore after dark.

2. Veliko Tarnovo

The legendary City of the Tsars stands aloft on the edge of the rising foothills of Bulgaria’s northern mountains. Bisected by the S-shaped meanders of the Yantra River, the town’s setting is nothing short of breathtaking, with terraces of terracotta-coloured roofs looming over the waterways below.

The pretty cobblestone lanes and half-timbered homes of this one’s old town are prime examples of what’s now known as the Tarnovo school, which developed as the Second Bulgarian Empire boomed in the Middle Ages.

That means travelers here experience a mixture of natural beauty – courtesy of the wild coniferous woods that blanket the landscapes all around – and unbridled culture and history, oozing from the Tsarevets capitol and the clutch of gorgeous Byzantine churches.

The sprawling capital of Bulgaria is something of a patchwork of its own past. Around its edges rise the great brutalist monuments to Soviet rule; endless streams of cookie cutting high-rises.

Closer to the centre and the ancient remains of the Serdica Fort and the Roman-Byzantine Church of St George sit in the shadow of Stalinist municipal buildings.

And then there are the iconic Orthodox domes and gilded edifices of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which glisten under the snow-packed tops of Vitosha Mountain in the distance.

It’s all very eclectic, and rarely fails to impress travelers that opt to linger here a little while.

4. Zheravna

A showcase in all things Bulgarian National Revival, Zheravna is a rustic and raw picture of one of the country’s most iconic architectural styles of old.

The town itself sits nestled at the base of the mighty Balkan Mountains, between dense thickets of Bosnian pines and white elms, where it seems almost organically formed in its timber-clad, stony appearance.

The cottages that pepper the cobbled streets all come beautifully restored, with more than 150 examples of the typical hardwood facades on display.

Amidst the buildings, sites like the Yordan Yovkov House and the icon-packed St Nicholas Church draw the biggest crowds, while others will head for the August Dobromiritsa Rural Park nearby, where festivals celebrating Bulgarian folk costumes and music erupt throughout the year.

Burgas is one of the favoured gateways to the southern stretches of the Black Sea Coast. A far cry from the ancient and historic centres that pepper the country elsewhere, it’s a largely modern affair of Art Deco rises and manicured parks on the edge of the sea.

It’s also home to some of the most lively music festivals in Bulgaria, like the rollicking Spirit of Burgas that erupts each year in the summer.

North Beach is the most popular stretch of sand in the town, while Burgas also has another trick up its sleeve: the majestically beautiful trio of lakes that range from the bird-spotting paradise of Vaya to the west to the saline waters of Atanasovsko to the north.

6. Rila Monastery

Perhaps the most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in the world, Rila has risen and risen to become a veritable symbol of the Bulgarian nation.

It entered the UNESCO World Heritage List way back in 1983, hailed for its curious intermingling of Mamluk, arabesque, Byzantine and Romanesque styles, and resplendent iconostases walls, carved meticulously and inlaid with shimmering gold leaf.

An on-site museums helps travelers unravel the more than 1,000 years of history that coalesce at the site, while endless courtyards and peristyles decorated in murals and medieval scenes mean there’s plenty of art and architecture to draw the eye.

Prep the salopettes and wax the skis, because Bansko is Bulgaria’s most prized winter sports resort. With countless expansions and new lift projects at its back, the dual ski fields of the Chalin Valog and Shiligarnika that make their home between the fir forests here have become some of the most lauded in all of Eastern Europe.

And even if you won’t be hitting the 70 kilometers of groomed runs on offer, Bansko’s rugged setting in the Pirin ranges and wealth of luxury hotels, hedonistic bars, jazz joints, cross-country trails and Bulgarian tavernas is sure to hit the spot!

8. Pamporovo

Encompassed by endless seas of pine trees that oscillate between verdant green and ice-caked white with the turning of summer and winter, the popular mountain resort town of Pamporovo makes its home amidst the undulating ridges of the southern Rhodope Mountains, just a short jaunt away from the borderlands with Greece.

And while the warmer months here do mean fantastic hiking opportunities along the trails of Smolyan, it’s the snows that really draw the crowds, when the slopes (all 36 kilometers of them) open and chairlifts creak and rattle to the tips of Rhodope with skiers in tow.

Pamporovo is expanding rapidly too, which means it’s certainly one to watch on Eastern Europe’s line-up of budding mountain resorts!

9. Pirin National Park

UNESCO-tagged and rising like a great Balkan bulwark against the borders of Macedonia and Greece , the Pirin National Park is a hinterland like no other in Europe.

Up on high, its snow-spotted summits gather caps of mist, while alpine valleys below are dashed with avalanches of forest-green pine and fir trees, and speckled with the occasional bed of edelweiss.

Meanwhile, deer and bears stalk the woodlands to this day, and wild goats clamber atop the craggy precipices to find shelter in the rocky crevices and caves.

It’s hardly a wonder that this one is hailed as a paradise for hikers and outdoorsy types, with trails soaring to the top of Vihren (the highest peak) and weaving around the whopping 186 mountain lakes!

10. Belogradchik

The otherworldly geological wonders that lurk on the edge of Belogradchik town rarely fail to impress travelers who make their way to this far-flung corner of Bulgaria on the northward slopes of the Balkan Mountains.

Known simply as the Belogradchik Rocks, they offer a sprawling display of hoodoos and anthropomorphic monoliths that’s inspired folk legends and local myths aplenty.

But Belogradchik’s draws don’t end there. No sir, not with that colossal Belogradchik Fortress complex dating back to Roman times on the menu, the citadel of nearby Baba Vida and the mysterious pre-historic wall art of the Magura Cave to boot!

11. Plovdiv

Draped over seven hills along the courses of the beautiful Maritsa River, Plovdiv runs the gamut of historical sights, encompassing Roman amphitheatres, Thracian fortresses, honorific monuments to Bulgaria’s own Krum the Fearsome, National Revival churches and even the occasional Soviet tenement between city limits.

The piece de resistance has to be the old world historic centre though; a Game of Thrones-esque pallet of stone-clad keeps and winding alleyways, Byzantine arches and hidden squares.

Oh, and Plovdiv’s nightlife beckons partiers after hours, as the coffee culture haunts turn hedonist, fuelling nights with indie, jazz and oodles of Balkan beers!

12. Sunny Beach

Throw off the inhibitions and delve into the sun-splashed party town that is Sunny Beach . Bulgaria’s answer to Malia, Ayia Napa and Ibiza, it’s packed with thumping clubs and pubs, chatty promoters offering buckets (literally) of booze for next to nothing, flashing neon, funky ravers, booze cruises and tanned, bikini-clad, Hawaiian-shirt-wearing partiers.

As well as its sleepless edge, Sunny Beach is also home to one gorgeous stretch of sand, which sits lapped over by the Black Sea and backed by the lively Boulevard, where English all-day breakfasts meet Italian pizzas in the international eateries and hotels rise in bursts of brilliant white.

13. Koprivshtitsa

Perfectly-preserved Koprivshtitsa pops up from between the spruces and pines that cover the valleys of the Sredna Gora Mountains like a beautifully adorned gingerbread carving of a town.

In fact, the whole settlement is a protected national monument, supposed to reflect and define the achievements of the Bulgarian National Revival movement in its wealth of painted facades, realist stone sculptures and shuttered homes.

Visitors who head to the spot today can spy out honorific memorial exhibitions dedicated to heroes of the April Uprising of 1876, while other institutions chronicle the life and works of iconic revivalist writers and artists alike.

14. Perperikon

With traces of human settlement dating back more than seven millennia and what’s been hailed as the most awesome monolithic structure in the entire Balkan Peninsula crowning its hilltops, Perperikon is a real must for any history buffs and culture vultures making their way through Bulgaria.

Before it was built up and fortified by the Thracian tribespeople, it’s thought that Copper Age priests used the hill for rituals and soothsaying, which legend has it foretold the rise of both Alexander the Great and Imperial Rome under Augustus.

Today, visitors can come and wander the off-the-beaten-track dig site, while relics and findings are best viewed at the local archaeology museum in Kardzhali.

15. Nessebar

Jutting out and sparkling like a Medieval Byzantine pearl between the rollers of the Black Sea, Nessebar is certainly one of the most enchanting and unforgettable cities on Bulgaria’s coast.

It’s famed for an enthralling UNESCO centre where layers of Thracian ruins mix with eye-watering churches built between the 5th and 10th centuries.

There are formidable fortifications too, famed for fighting off both Ottoman Turk and Crusading counts alike, not to mention rows of pretty seaside villas that cascade down neatly to meet the shore, shimmering in whitewash and red-tile as they go. Put simply – this one’s not to be missed!

15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria:

• Veliko Tarnovo
• Rila Monastery
• Pirin National Park
• Belogradchik
• Sunny Beach
• Koprivshtitsa

25 Gorgeous Places to Visit in Bulgaria (Apart From Sofia)

When thinking about Bulgaria, I am sure that most of you are only familiar with one place, and that is Sofia. And even though the capital is worth visiting, I can’t emphasize enough how many other gorgeous places there are to see in this country.

Don’t get me wrong, Sofia is definitely one of the must-sees here. However, if you only decide to visit the capital, you won’t get a true idea of what Bulgaria is really like. This place has so much more to offer – from pristine sandy beaches, to high mountainous peaks and endless valleys. Not only that, but Bulgaria is also among the oldest countries in Europe. History and culture has played a huge role in the development of the country. And Bulgarians love preserving their culture and talking about their history.

If you’re still not getting the picture of what’s expecting you here, then keep reading. I have compiled a list of 25 gorgeous places to visit in Bulgaria, apart from Sofia. May the inspiration for your next trip start flowing… now!

Make sure to join the Discover Bulgaria Facebook group for even more ideas and helpful information about travelling in Bulgaria!

Table of Contents

Best cities and towns to visit in Bulgaria

Plovdiv has been claimed as one of the oldest cities in the world and the oldest city in Europe , even older than Athens. This can mean only one thing – incredibly rich history, roman ruins, beautiful old architecture and unreplicable ‘old-town’ vibes. 

This is the number one must-see place in Bulgaria (at least according to me and many others), and I’d even recommend spending more days in Plovdiv than in Sofia. The reason is simple – it has more to offer. 

Reaching Plovdiv is easy, even if you don’t have a car. No matter whether you land in Sofia or Varna, you can take a bus from the central bus station of the city, which will take you directly here. Communing by train is also an option, though bus is usually faster. 

Check out my detailed guide about the best things to do in Plovdiv! 

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2. Veliko Tarnovo

Along with Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo is one of my most favourite cities in all of Bulgaria. Being a former capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom between 12th and 14th century, this place has quite a bit to offer as well. 

The city is located on the beautiful Yantra river, and it also lies on three hilld, the tallest one being Tsarevets. Tsarevets is also the main attraction of Veliko Tarnovo – you can visit the remains of a massive medieval fortress with a beautiful view over the city.

Check out my detailed guide about the best things to do in Veliko Tarnovo!

Welcome to the sea capital of Bulgaria ! This is the third largest city of the country and the biggest seaside resort, attracting many tourists during the summer season thanks to its beautiful coastline and city vibes.

Fun fact – the oldest gold treasure in the world , dating back to 4200 – 4600 BC, was found in Varna . The artifacts can be seen at the Varna Archeological Museum, as well as at the National History Museum in Sofia. 

Varna offers something for anyone’s taste – sandy beaches, lively bars and clubs, beautiful gardens, lots of restaurants and shops and fun activities to do. Nowadays low-cost flights with Wizz Air and Ryanair make reaching Varna easier than ever, but you could also catch a bus/train from Sofia, or any other city in the country for that matter. 

Here is a detailed list of the best things to do in Varna in a weekend .

4. Koprivshtitsa  

Photo credit: Andrey Andreev

Koprivshtitsa is known for its old authentic Bulgarian architecture , folk festivals and important historical sights. It’s certainly a favourite among locals, but quite underrated when it comes to foreign tourists.

Along with the Old Town of Plovdiv, Koprivshtitsa is one of the best preserved and most characteristic Bulgarian towns, still holding the atmosphere from the Bulgarian National Revival period. The history of this place has a lot to do with the uprising against the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century, hence why it holds a special place in the hearts of many Bulgarians. 

Ever since 1965 the National Festival of Bulgarian Folklore is being held every 5 years in Koprivshtitsa and gathers musicians, dancers and artists from all around the country.

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Otherwise called “the Little Vienna”, Ruse lies on the Danube river, bordering the Romanian city of Giurgiu. Its architecture is strongly influenced by the Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo style, which gives it a unique Middle-European touch, which can’t be seen anywhere else in the country.

There are many things to see around the city as well – the Natural Park Rusenski Lom, the Rock Churches of Ivanovo, which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the medieval town of Cherven and more.

Best seaside r esorts to visit in Bulgaria

Are you visiting in the midst of a cold winter or beautiful sunny summer and you’re looking for a place to enjoy your holiday? Here are a few suggestions for each of these seasons!

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I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Sozopol is one of my most favourite seaside resorts in Bulgaria . If you’re looking for a chill holiday in a beautiful place with a historical touch – this is for you. Sozopol has a lot to offer to its visitors – there is a wide choice of sandy beaches, numerous restaurants with delicious traditional food, as well as a historical Old Town, which gives you a good feeling of what Bulgaria used to look like in the past. Be sure to also  check out my blog post about the best beach resorts in Bulgaria (as well as which to avoid).

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Another great choice on the Black Sea coast is Nesebar. I know you’ve all heard of Sunny Beach… Well, Nessebar is located extremely close to it (less than 10km) and, unless you’re looking for crazy party nights, it’s a much better alternative. Just like Sozopol, Nesebar has a beautiful Old Town. Are you looking for a place where you can do some sightseeing in the morning and enjoy the sun rays at the beach in the afternoon? Consider Nesebar for your next vacation!

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Famous for its beautiful botanical gardens, Balchik is another beautiful coastal town that is worth visiting. Surprisingly, Balchik is not amongst the most popular seaside resorts, which makes it a perfect getaway from other busy places. Don’t miss the palace with its gorgeous gardens, located a couple of kilometers west along the promenade.

Best mountain resorts to visit in Bulgaria

Moving on to the perfect vacation spots for winter and ski lovers, Bansko surely takes the top place. In fact, Bansko has the longest ski runs in the country. The place offers excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding, and if you’re not really into that, there are also a few other things you can do. Walk around the Old Town, pamper yourself at a spa, or just indulge in all the delicious food at the local traditional restaurants. 

10. Pamporovo

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Pamporovo is another very popular ski resort, which is told to be very suitable for families with children, as well as complete beginners at skiing. The winters in Pamporovo tend to be mild and sunny, while the snowfall lasts for a long time, which makes it a perfect winter getaway.  

Beautiful natural wonders and historical sights to visit in Bulgaria

11. the seven rila lakes.

The Seven Rila Lakes is one of the most iconic places in Bulgaria and a definite must-see for all nature lovers. Even if you’re not much of a hiker, you should still go see it! This beautiful area consists of seven glacier lakes high in the mountains – between 2,100 and 2,500 meters above sea level. 

Locals are obsessed with these lakes and most of them have hiked to the very top at least a few times in their lives. No wonder – the view is absolutely stunning. The main walking route takes approximately 2.5 – 3 hours to get the last and highest lake, and the level of difficulty is not considered high. You can either sign up for an organised tour from Sofia or get your own vehicle and drive to the Rila Mountains yourself. Whichever way you choose – you won’t regret it. 

12. The Rila Monastery

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Another gem located in the Rila mountains is the Rila Monastery – one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural, archeological and historical monuments. It is also one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. The monastery dates back to the 10th century and, as impressive as it is on the outside, it is even more impressive inside. Beautiful frescos, rich collection of icons and wood carvings, many preserved cultural items are some of the things that can be seen. 

Shared shuttles run every day from Sofia and the drive there takes about 2 hours. You can also reach the Rila Monastery with your own vehicle – the roads are well maintained and there is parking in close proximity. 

13. Belogradchik Rocks

The Belogradchik Rocks is a group of impressive rock formations, located in the Western part of the Balkan Mountains, near the town of Belogradchik. Many foreigners I’ve talked to, who have visited this site, admitted that it is one of their absolute favourite places in the whole country. Getting to the top and observing the view from above can be a very humbling, yet extraordinary experience – endless mountain peaks, lush forests and almost no people around. 

The formation of the rocks started about 230 million years ago, during the Permian period, and has been developing ever since. Belogradchik was named as one of twenty finalists by the European Commission as a “European Destination of Excellence” in 2008. The Belogradchik Rocks were even named as Bulgaria’s nomination in the campaign for the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2009. They are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

14. Arbanasi

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Arbanasi is small village, known for its many historical monuments and rich history. It is located in very close proximity to Veliko Tarnovo (only about 4km), which makes it a perfect day trip location if you’re in the surroundings. The town is representative of old Bulgarian National Revival architecture, which makes it a popular tourist destination, especially among locals. 

15. Pobiti Kamani

Another rock phenomenon on the Bulgarian territory is so-called Stone Desert. Located close to Varna , Pobiti Kamani is one of the few deserts found in Europe. Not only that, but it is also one of the few places where desert type plants, such as cactus, are growing, and desert animals are found. The place consists of dunes and natural rock formations, mostly in the shape of columns.  

16. Cape Kaliakra

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Cape Kaliakra is a historical place at the Black Sea Coast, a narrow piece of land going into the water, offering a mesmerizing view of the seemingly endless sea, remnants of fortified walls and dolphins swimming around. The place is associated with an old famous legend about 40 Bulgarian girls, who decided to tie their long hair together and jump into the Black Sea, instead of being captured by the Ottomans during the Ottoman rule back in the days. 

17. Kazanlak

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Nowadays Kazanlak is a small industrial centre, but what sets it apart from other places in the country are a few interesting facts. For one, it is located on lands, which were previously ruled by the Thracians! You get what that means? You can find Thracian remnants here, and more specifically – the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak. Secondly, the city is the centre of rose oil extraction in Bulgaria, as it is located very closely to the Rose Valley. In Kazanlak you can find the only museum in the world, dedicated to roses. There is also a Rose Festival being thrown during the last week of May – beginning of June. People parade and dance around with roses, a Rose queen is being crowned, and you can actually observe the process of rose picking. Needless to say, Kazanlak has been attracting quite a few tourists, especially at the time of the festival. 

The Architectural-Ethnographic Complex Etar, or the so-called “Etara”, is essentially neighborhood which serves as an open-air museum. It is located in Northern Bulgaria in the city of Gabrovo. The complex aims at illustrating the architecture, economy and way of living in the region during the Bulgarian National Revival period in the 18th and 19th century. You can see typical Bulgarian revival houses and learn about old Bulgarian culture, customs and craftsmanship. 

Caves, caves and more caves to visit in Bulgaria

Yes, Bulgaria is a very ‘cave-y’ place. So let’s look at some of the most beautiful and visit-worthy places that fit into this category.  

19. Magura cave

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The Magura cave is home to over 700 drawings from different ages, dating back to the Stone age. You can see drawings of humans, animals, cult rituals and even one of the first calendars from the Neolithic age with 366 days in a year.

If you’re visiting the Belogradchik Rocks mentioned above, put this cave on your itinerary as well, as both places are located in close proximity to each other. 

20. Devetashka Cave

In my opinion, this is one of the most impressive and beautiful caves in all of Bulgaria. It is not a typical cave, and it’s probably something you’ve never seen before. The place is massive and it makes you feel kind of insignificant.. But in a good way. The Devetashka cave is actually so awesome that it was shown in the action movie The Expendables 2. 

21. Prohodna cave

Kind of similar to the Devetashka cave, but yet also very different, Prohodna cave is famous for the Eyes of God formation. The name of the cave literally means “the Passage cave”, and that’s what it actually is – a passage underneath the mountains. There is no fee to enter. It can also be considered a rock climbers’ paradise, as rock climbing is allowed and it’s perfect both on a nice day and for when it’s raining outside. 

22. Dyavolski Most

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Dating back to the 16th century, the bridge was built by a local man during the time of the Ottoman occupation. Getting there requires some walking, but the views on the way and once you get there are unbeatable. Pack some food and drinks and have a picnic in the surroundings while enjoying this historical place. 

23. Perperikon

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Perperikon is an ancient Thracian city, where human activity dates back to 5000 BC. Even though only discovered a couple of decades ago, Perperikon embodies history that covers several eras. It can easily be said that this is one of the most valuable archeological discoveries on Bulgarian territory – Thracians, Romans, Byzantines and Bulgarians have left their marks here.

With its 12 square km, Perperikon is also the largest megalithic complex in the Balkans. 

24. Krushuna Falls

The Krushuna Falls is a series of waterfalls located in Northern Bulgaria. The hike there is known as the shortest eco-trail in the country, so wandering around is not physically demanding and quite pleasurable. The colour of the water in the lakes varies and it can get so crystal blue, that at some point you might think you’re on an exotic island somewhere in Asia. 

If you’re visiting the Devetashka cave, make sure to stop by the Krushuna Falls, as they’re only 15 km away. 

25. Eagle’s Eye Viewpoint (Yagodina)

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If you’re not afraid of heights and you love mountainous views, the Eagle’s Eye viewpoint is for you. It’s a platform, built at the edge of a cliff, with an altitude of 1563 metres. The views of the surrounding area are incredible, to say the least.

This article is also available in Bulgarian .

You may also enjoy:

The ABC of why you should visit Bulgaria

25 Best Things to do in Veliko Tarnovo – Tips from a Local

The 5 Best Ski Resorts in Bulgaria for Your Winter Vacation

7 Top Things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria

Hand-picked city guide: 27 Awesome Things to do in Plovdiv

22 Unmissable Things to do in Tryavna, Bulgaria

How weird are Bulgarians? – 21 Unusual Things Bulgarians Do

The Best Things to do in Tsarevo, Bulgaria – A Weekend at the Seaside

12 Things to do in Borovets for non-skiers

28 Delightful Things to do in Bansko for all seasons

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Lyubomira is the creator and author behind Bulgarian On The Go. With a background in journalism and experience in the field of tourism and marketing, her mission is to show travellers many beautiful places they might have never thought of visiting or even knew existed.

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This was super helpful and informative! There are so many beautiful lookouts, can’t wait to explore!

Gracias Lyubomira.

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