Planning a trip to Sofia, Bulgaria? You’ve come to the right place!
We’ve explored the best of Sofia, from its fascinating history to its vibrant modern culture. Now, we’re here to help you make the most of your visit as we go through the most exciting activities Sofia has to offer.
Whether you want to taste exquisite Bulgarian wine, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, explore the stunning Rila Monastery, or test your wits in a thrilling escape room, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to start planning an unforgettable Bulgarian adventure!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Sofia was this tour to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. It was a perfectly planned day trip to see two incredible places. Transport is taken care of and we had an amazing guide!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria
- 1. Learn about Sofia on a walking tour
- 2. Explore the Rila Monastery and UNESCO-listed Boyana Church
- 3. Try an escape room
- 4. Taste Bulgarian wineÂ
- 5. Escape the city and explore Lovech, Devetà shka Cave, and Krushuna Falls
- 6. Spend a day in the historic city of Plovdiv
- 7. Go hiking at the Seven Rila Lakes
- 8. Take a day trip to Skopje, North Macedonia
- Where to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Free ebook Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria
1. Learn about Sofia on a walking tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Tours available between 9 am – 6 pm
- Highlights: Rotunda of St. George, St. Sofia Basilica, Ivan Vazov National Theatre, Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Parliament
- Inclusions: Professional guide, small group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 125+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This small group walking tour was the perfect introduction to Sofia. It really brought the city’s rich history to life and helped us to get our bearings in the Bulgarian capital.
The tour began at the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. We loved seeing its golden domes gleaming in the sun as our guide, Peter, shared its fascinating history with us. From there, we went to the ancient St. Sofia Church, and later we visited the Russian Church of St. Nicholas. Its intricate architecture was just incredible!
Peter’s passion for history shone through as we visited sites like the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the Serdica Roman ruins. We also learned more about the Bulgarian political system when we visited the Presidency and Parliament, which was super interesting. The tour wrapped up with a visit to the Rotunda of St. George, which was built during the 4th century, making it one of the city’s oldest architectural sites.
We’re so glad that we booked this tour for our first day in Sofia. It was a great way to get our bearings here and discover the city’s unique character. Don’t miss it!
Book this tour here with FREE cancellation!
2. Explore the Rila Monastery and UNESCO-listed Boyana Church
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Visiting the Rila Monastery, browsing the exhibitions at the on-site museum, visiting Boyana Church
- Inclusions: Air-conditioned transport, English-speaking driver and guide, parking fees
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This day trip to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church was a fantastic deep dive into Bulgaria’s rich history and stunning landscapes. We left Sofia in the morning, and as our bus wound through the picturesque countryside our guide, Liubomir, shared fascinating insights into Bulgaria’s past.
Our first stop was Boyana Church, which is a true hidden gem on the outskirts of Sofia. From the outside, it looks pretty small and unassuming, but inside were some of the most remarkable medieval frescoes we’ve ever seen.
We loved learning about the artwork from Liubomir, especially since some of the frescoes date all the way back to 1259. There’s the option to go to St. Ivan’s Cave instead of Boyana, but we’re really glad that we opted to see the church.
Then, we ventured into the Rila Mountains to see the famous monastery. We were instantly impressed by the detailed, colorful facade. In fact, it almost looks like the building is made of candy! We also loved the vivid murals inside the church. There was the option to purchase an audio headset here, and we’re glad that we went for it, as we learned so much more this way.
This tour was definitely one of the coolest cultural experiences we’ve had in the city. We would definitely recommend it to anyone with an interest in history and religious sites!
Check availability and book this tour here!
3. Try an escape room
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Time: Times available between 11 am – 9 pm
- Highlights: Fast-paced escape room experience, skip-the-line entry, fun puzzles, adventure quest elements
- Inclusions: Escape room admission, all taxes and fees
- Rating: 5 stars (check 650+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We felt like taking a break from traditional sightseeing, so we booked this fun escape room experience! It turned out to be an adrenaline-packed adventure that got us to think outside the box and test our puzzling skills. In short, we loved it!
Since we booked in advance, we didn’t have to wait! The scenario hooked us straight away. It began with a bank robbery, and then we had to use our wits to prevent a further disaster. I don’t want to give too much away, but it was a great story!
Over the course of the game, we had to crack codes, disable security alarms, open locked safes, and find hidden clues. The puzzles were fun and intricate, but not so difficult that we kept getting stuck. In the end, we managed to crack the final code with just seconds to spare. It’s safe to say that our hearts were pounding.
The staff at the escape room were great, too. They made sure we understood everything and were on hand to help when we needed it. All in all, this escape room was hands down one of the most exciting activities that we did in Sofia. Whether you’re an escape room pro or a first-timer, this is definitely a must-try experience.
Book your escape room adventure here!
4. Taste Bulgarian wine
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 2 pm, 5 pm, or 7 pm
- Highlights: Learning about the rich history of Bulgarian winemaking, sampling five unique local wines, cheese pairings with artisan bread
- Inclusions: Sommelier guide, wine samples, cheese and bread
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 475+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
I’m a wine lover but I must confess that I didn’t know much at all about Bulgarian wine prior to this guided tasting session. Now, however, I’m officially a fan!
The wine tasting took place inside a cozy boutique wine shop. It was a private experience so Dan and I got to enjoy it just the two of us, which made it extra special!
Our host, Kalin, was incredibly knowledgeable and very passionate about wine. He not only guided us through local varietals, he also taught us a lot about Bulgaria’s 5,000-year winemaking history – that’s right, 5,000 years!
We began with Misket, which is a crisp, fragrant white wine with floral and citrus notes. Next up, we tried a Melnik, which is a light but slightly spicy red that’s only grown in southwestern Bulgaria. We also sampled bold, intense Mavrud and smooth, fruity Gamza, before finishing with a velvety Rubin. Basically, we got the full Bulgarian wine experience.
Each wine was expertly paired with artisanal cheeses and fresh bread, as all good wine should be! We were also really interested to learn how modern Bulgarian winemakers are reviving ancient techniques, and how Bulgarian wine is slowly but surely coming into its own on the world stage.
Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a serious enthusiast, this tasting is a must-do in Sofia. It’s a perfect blend of education, culture, and, of course, fantastic wine!
Book this guided wine tasting here with FREE cancellation!
5. Escape the city and explore Lovech, Devetà shka Cave, and Krushuna Falls
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Walking tour of Lovech, the Hirsarya Forest, the Varosha Quarter, lunch in a typical Bulgarian restaurant, Devetashka Hotel, Krushuna Waterfalls
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guide, local taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This full-day tour of Lovech, Devetà shka Cave, and Krushuna Falls was the perfect way to explore more of Bulgaria’s treasures. It was super convenient and we had plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
After a scenic two-hour drive through the Bulgarian countryside, we arrived in Lovech, a charming town steeped in history. Our guide, Daniel, led us through the cobbled streets of the old quarter, where we checked out the beautifully preserved old buildings and saw the famous Covered Bridge. We also explored the Hisarya Fortress, which offered breathtaking views and insight into Bulgaria’s medieval past.
Lunch was on our own account, but Daniel took us to a traditional Bulgarian restaurant and advised us on the best local dishes to order. Then, we continued onto the Devetà shka Cave which, as promised, was absolutely breathtaking. It came as no surprise when Daniel told us that this spot has been used by Hollywood to make movie magic!
Our final stop was the magical Krushuna Waterfalls. The lush greenery and cascading turquoise waters created a fairytale-like setting. We loved following the trails, taking in the beauty of it all. If you’re visiting Sofia, we highly recommend this trip because it showcases some of Bulgaria’s best scenery in one day.
You can book this tour here, with FREE cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Spend a day in the historic city of Plovdiv
- Duration: 8.5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, exploring Plovdiv Old Town, learning about the city’s Thracian, Roman and Bulgarian heritage, free time for lunch and shopping
- Inclusions: Return transport from Sofia, English-speaking driver, guide (if option selected), guided walking tour (if option selected), audio guide or smart guide (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 190+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This full-day tour to Plovdiv was an incredible journey through Bulgarian history, culture, and charm. We met behind the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the morning, and after a comfortable two-hour shuttle ride, we arrived in Bulgaria’s second-largest city.
Plovdiv instantly captivated us with its blend of ancient and modern influences. We opted for the guided option, so we enjoyed a walking tour through the Old Town, where we admired the cobbled streets and 19th-century Revival houses. The Roman Theatre was a real highlight, as it’s remarkably well-preserved.
After the tour, we had two hours of free time to explore independently. We wandered along the longest pedestrian street in Europe and enjoyed browsing the local shops. We even stumbled upon a 200-year-old Turkish coffee shop and topped up our energy levels with a cup of rich coffee.
We’re so glad that we booked a guided tour because our guide, Maria, was fantastic. The day wouldn’t have been the same without her fascinating stories and anecdotes, although there is an audio tour available too. But honestly, Maria’s passion for Plovdiv made our day extra special.
Plovdiv is a city that balances history and modern life beautifully, and this tour was the perfect way to discover its many charms. If you visit Bulgaria, don’t miss Plovdiv. It’s a must-see destination!
Check availability and book this tour here!
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7. Go hiking at the Seven Rila Lakes
- Duration: 13 hours
- Time: 7 am
- Highlights: Free time to hike at the Seven Rila Lakes, admiring the Rila Monastery
- Inclusions: Round trip shared transfer, driver
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
As keen hikers, we couldn’t pass up the chance to explore the Seven Rila Lakes! We booked this self-guided tour so that we could explore this gorgeous natural site without the hassle of planning transport.
Our driver, Phillip, was a huge help and even recommended a great route for us. And we’re not the only ones who loved it – you can check all the 5-star reviews here!
The shuttle picked us up from a central location in Sofia, and in no time, we arrived at Rila National Park. From there, we took the chairlift up to the start of the hiking trails, where the adventure truly began. The lakes were absolutely gorgeous, and the still water reflected the lush hills beautifully.
With no strict itinerary, we were free to take our time and soak in the scenery as we liked. In fact, we had six hours to enjoy the lakes at our leisure! We even brought a little picnic with us.
After hiking through some of Bulgaria’s most beautiful landscapes, the shuttle took us to the Rila Monastery. We loved the contrast between the wild, rugged beauty of the lakes to the serene, candy-striped courtyards of Europe’s largest orthodox monastery.
This tour was the perfect combination of adventure and convenience. If you love hiking but don’t want to deal with transport headaches, this is the ideal way to visit the Seven Rila Lakes and the Rila Monastery in one unforgettable day!
Book this tour here, with FREE cancellation and the option to buy now, pay later!
8. Take a day trip to Skopje, North Macedonia
- Duration: 12 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Skopje Fortress, Memorial House of Mother Teresa, Old Bazaar, the Stone Bridge, Macedonia Square
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, English-speaking Bulgarian guide, English-speaking Macedonian guide
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 340+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We didn’t have time for an overnight stay in North Macedonia while we were in Sofia, so we booked this full-day tour to Skopje instead.
The adventure began pretty early, and our guide, Kaiko, shared insights about Bulgaria and North Macedonia’s intertwined histories as we drove through the scenic Balkan countryside. The only thing to note about this tour is that it’s very popular and usually sells out, so don’t wait around to book!
After crossing the border, we arrived in Skopje and were greeted by our local Macedonian guide, Lena. Her deep knowledge of the city’s history really enriched our experience. We started at Skopje Fortress, where we enjoyed panoramic views of the city.
Next, we were transported back in time as we walked through the Old Bazaar. We loved seeing all of the Ottoman-era inns, mosques, and bustling market stalls. Then, we crossed over the Stone Bridge and explored the modern side of the city, including the striking Macedonia Square. One of the most interesting parts of the tour was visiting the Memorial House of Mother Teresa.
After the guided portion of the tour concluded, we had a further two hours to explore Skopje at our leisure. I highly recommend using this time to grab some traditional Macedonian cuisine, like shopska salad and grilled kebapi.
Book your spot on this tour here, before it sells out!
Where to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria
Now that you’ve discovered the best things to do in Sofia, it’s time to pick the perfect place to stay! Where you stay can make or break your trip, so to help you out, I’ve rounded up some of the best options in the city. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly stay or a luxurious escape, you’ll find a great pick below!
Luxury – $$$
For a luxurious stay in Sofia, the InterContinental Sofia is an unbeatable choice. This 5-star hotel offers elegant, modern rooms, many with stunning views of the city and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, a wellness area with a sauna, and two on-site restaurants serving gourmet cuisine. With its prime location in the city center, you’ll be just steps from Sofia’s top attractions, making it the perfect mix of comfort and convenience!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start between €170 – €220 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a comfortable and well-located stay in Sofia, Central Hotel Sofia is a fantastic choice. This modern hotel offers stylish rooms with all the essentials, plus extra perks like a wellness center with a sauna and hot tub. Guests can also enjoy an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and private parking. Best of all, it’s just a short walk from Sofia’s top attractions, shopping streets, and public transport, making it a convenient base for exploring the city!
Prices usually range between €110 – €130 per night depending on the time of year. You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For an affordable yet stylish stay in Sofia, 5 Vintage Guest House is a great pick. This cozy guesthouse offers charming, well-decorated rooms with a vintage flair, and you can choose between shared or private bathrooms. It’s centrally located within walking distance of key attractions, restaurants, and public transport, making it easy to explore the city without breaking the bank.
Rooms start as low as €50 per night and you can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Sofia here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
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Thanks for reading!
If you’re planning to visit Bulgaria, we definitely recommend stopping in Sofia. We were surprised by how much we enjoyed this city – from the history to the food and of course, the wine. Hopefully, our list of the best things to do in Sofia has you ready to plan your own stop here!
Wherever your travels are taking you, have a look at our full travel blog here. We’ve crisscrossed the globe and have tons of travel guides for cities and countries around the world to help you out!
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