Are you planning a trip to Sofia and looking for exciting things to do outside of the city? You are in luck because Sofia and its surroundings can offer unforgettable day trip experiences. From hiking in the mountains, exploring ancient ruins, to visiting charming towns – this city has it all. In this post, we’ll take you through some of the best day trip options around Sofia, so you can make the most of your time in Bulgaria’s capital. Get ready to add some adventure and excitement to your Sofia itinerary!

The 5 Best Days Out in Sofia

1. Boyana Church and Rila Monastery Full Day Private Tour from Sofia
2. Communist Day Tour Land Marks of the Iron Curtains
3. Private Day Trip to Plovdiv
4. Koprivshtica Day Tour from Sofia
5. Borovets and Thermae Full Day Tour from Sofia

The 5 Best Days Out in Sofia

1. Boyana Church and Rila Monastery Full Day Private Tour from Sofia

On this full-day private tour, visitors can see two UNESCO World Heritage sites in just one day. The tour includes transportation by private car and a driver/guide who will provide personal attention and flexibility. The first stop is the Boyana Church, a 10th-century church with well-preserved medieval frescoes. After that, visitors will head to the Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest monastery, which features a 14th-century tower. Entrance tickets for the Boyana Church (5 euro per person) and the Rila Monastery museum and monk room (4 euro per person) are not included in the tour price. The tour begins at 9:30 AM with pick up from the visitor’s hotel. Food and personal expenses are not included.

2. Communist Day Tour Land Marks of the Iron Curtains

Travel back in time and explore the Communist era of Bulgaria with a full-day tour of the country’s historic landmarks. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Sofia before heading to the Museum of Socialist Art, where you’ll learn about the country’s history from 1946 to 1989. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a scenic country drive to the Buzludzha monument while your knowledgeable guide provides in-depth commentary. All entrance fees are included in the tour, making it easy to see everything you want without any extra costs. This is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the country’s rich history.

3. Private Day Trip to Plovdiv

Explore one of the oldest cities in Europe with a private day trip to Plovdiv. Enjoy hotel pick up and drop off in an air-conditioned car with free Wi-Fi and take a stroll through the Plovdiv Old Town while learning about its rich history from a professional guide. Entrance fees to museums are included in the package (2-5 euro). After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch and indulge in personal expenses. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and note that this experience is not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats are available and most travelers can participate. This is a private tour, so only your group will take part. If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 24 hours before the experience’s start time for a full refund.

4. Koprivshtica Day Tour from Sofia

Explore Bulgaria’s Revolutionary capital of Koprivshtica on a full-day tour from Sofia. Stroll the cobblestone streets and hear about the April Uprising with your guide and small-group. The tour includes visits to Oslekov’s House, Todor Kableshkov House Museum, and more. On the return to Sofia, stop at Chavdar, a reconstruction of a neolithic village. All entrance fees are included, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off in Sofia. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned minibus and also includes lunch. The pickup time is at 09:00 AM from your accommodation or hotel in Sofia. Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Infant seats are available, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress accordingly.

5. Borovets and Thermae Full Day Tour from Sofia

Looking for an exciting day trip from Sofia? Look no further than the Borovets and Thermae Full Day Tour! This full-day tour will take you to some of the most interesting places in the area, all while giving you a taste of Bulgarian history and culture.

The tour starts with a visit to Thermae, where you’ll have the chance to experience the beautiful thermal baths that Bulgaria is known for. Entrance fees are included, so you can relax and enjoy yourself without any additional costs. After Thermae, the tour will continue on to Borovets, a beautiful ski resort nestled in the Rila mountains. You’ll have the chance to take a gondola lift ride and marvel at the stunning scenery that surrounds you.

The tour will then take you to the medieval fortress of Krakra, where you can immerse yourself in Bulgarian history and culture. The fortress is home to a number of fascinating exhibits, including traditional Bulgarian costumes and artifacts from the country’s coal mining history. You’ll also have the chance to sample authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Magdalena’s House, a local restaurant that showcases the best of Bulgarian food.

This great-value tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and food tasting, so all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience. With a small-group tour limited to just 14 people, you’re sure to get a personalized experience that you won’t soon forget. Book your Borovets and Thermae Full Day Tour today and discover the best day trips in Sofia!

Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Sofia

Are you planning a trip to Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia? Are you curious about what to expect and what to do there? Sofia is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture to explore. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Sofia to help you plan your trip to this beautiful city.

1. What is the best time to visit Sofia?

The best time to visit Sofia is from March to May, and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. If you don’t mind the cold, you can also visit Sofia in winter, between December and February, when the city is beautifully covered in snow. The peak tourist season is from June to August, but the weather can be hot and humid.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Sofia?

If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Sofia. However, if you are a non-EU citizen, you may need a visa. You should check with the Bulgarian embassy in your country to find out the visa requirements.

3. How do I get to Sofia?

Sofia has an excellent transportation system, and there are many ways to get to the city. You can fly to Sofia International Airport, which is 10 km from the city center. From there, you can take a taxi or the metro to the city center. You can also arrive in Sofia by bus or train from other cities in Bulgaria or neighboring countries.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Sofia?

Sofia offers a lot to see and experience, and there are many tourist attractions to explore. Some of the top tourist attractions in Sofia include:

• The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• The National Museum of History
• The Boyana Church
• The National Palace of Culture
• The Vitosha Mountain
• The Sofia Zoo
• The Ivan Vazov National Theater
• The Archaeological Museum

5. Where can I find the best food in Sofia?

Sofia has a rich culinary scene, and you can find many excellent restaurants and cafes serving traditional Bulgarian cuisine as well as international dishes. Some of the best places to eat in Sofia are:

• The Shtastlivetsa Restaurant
• The Made in Home Restaurant
• The Niko’las Restaurant
• The Soul Kitchen
• The Niko’las Bakery

6. What are the top shopping destinations in Sofia?

Sofia offers many shopping destinations, and you can find everything from high-end fashion to local souvenirs. Some of the top shopping destinations in Sofia are:

• The Vitosha Boulevard
• The Central Market Hall
• The Serdika Center
• The Paradise Center
• The Mall of Sofia

7. What is the currency used in Sofia?

The currency used in Sofia is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). You can easily exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices or withdraw cash from ATM machines. Most places in Sofia accept credit and debit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on you.

8. Is Sofia a safe city for tourists?

Sofia is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any big city, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid walking alone late at night and in poorly lit areas
• Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport
• Do not leave your valuables unattended
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi and avoid logging into sensitive accounts

9. What is the best way to get around Sofia?

Sofia has an excellent transportation system, and you can easily get around the city by metro, bus, tram, or trolleybus. You can buy tickets at the kiosks or ticket machines at the stations. If you plan to use public transport frequently, it’s best to buy a daily or weekly pass.

10. What should I pack for my trip to Sofia?

The items you should pack for your trip to Sofia depend on the season you plan to visit. If you visit Sofia in winter, make sure to pack warm clothes, boots, and a jacket. If you visit Sofia in summer, pack light clothes, comfortable shoes, and a hat. Don’t forget to pack a travel adapter if you plan to charge your electronics.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a beautiful city rich in history and culture. It is a mix of old and new, with ancient buildings standing alongside modern developments. There are plenty of things to do and see in Sofia, whether you are interested in art, history, food, or just want to explore the city. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sofia.

1. Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

One of the most iconic landmarks in Sofia is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This incredible building was constructed in the early 20th century and is the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the world. The cathedral is stunning both inside and out and is definitely worth a visit.

Directions:

From the centre of Sofia, head east on Aleksander Stamboliyski Blvd. Turn left on Georgi S. Rakovski St. and then take a right onto Knyaz Aleksandar Dondukov Blvd. The cathedral will be on your left-hand side.

2. Explore the National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture (NDK) is a cultural and congress centre in Sofia with an area of 123,000 square meters. It is located in the heart of the city and is a great place to explore art exhibitions, concerts, and other events.

Directions:

The National Palace of Culture is located in the centre of Sofia, just off Vitosha Boulevard. You can easily reach it by public transport or on foot from most parts of the city.

3. Visit the Vitosha Mountain

Sofia is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and Vitosha is the closest one. It is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, skiing, and picnicking.

Directions:

To get to Vitosha, you can take bus 69 from Sofia University metro station. The bus will take you up to the Aleko ski resort, where you can start your hiking or skiing trip.

4. Enjoy Bulgarian Cuisine

Bulgarian cuisine is a blend of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Ottoman influences. The food is delicious, hearty, and often includes fresh vegetables, meat, cheese, and yogurt. There are many traditional restaurants in Sofia where you can try authentic Bulgarian food.

Recommendations:

– Made in Home – a cozy restaurant with a variety of Bulgarian dishes.

– Niko’las – a traditional Bulgarian restaurant with live music on the weekends.

– Manastirska Magernitsa – a chain of Bulgarian restaurants with an extensive menu.

5. Visit the National Museum of History

The National Museum of History is located in Boyana, a suburb of Sofia. It houses more than 650,000 exhibits that showcase the history of Bulgaria, from ancient times to the present day.

Directions:

To get to the National Museum of History, you can take bus 113 or 260 from the city centre.

6. Walk in Sofia’s City Garden

The City Garden is a public park in the centre of Sofia, close to the National Palace of Culture. It is a lovely place to take a walk or have a picnic.

Directions:

The City Garden is located in the centre of Sofia, just off Vitosha Boulevard. You can easily reach it by public transport or on foot from most parts of the city.

7. Visit Boyana Church

Boyana Church is a medieval church located in the Boyana neighbourhood of Sofia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its beautiful frescoes.

Directions:

To get to Boyana Church, you can take bus 64 from the city centre. The church is located at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain.

8. Walk on Vitosha Boulevard

Vitosha Boulevard is the main shopping street in Sofia. It is a pedestrian walkway lined with shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. It is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and people-watch.

Directions:

Vitosha Boulevard is located in the centre of Sofia, close to the National Palace of Culture. You can easily reach it by public transport or on foot from most parts of the city.

Conclusion

Sofia is a beautiful city with plenty to do and see. With this guide, you can be sure to make the most of your time in the city. From exploring historic landmarks and museums to enjoying traditional Bulgarian cuisine and walking in the city’s parks, Sofia has something to offer everyone.