The 5 Best Fun Things to Do in Sofia

Welcome to Sofia, the vibrant capital of Bulgaria! The city has a fascinating history that dates back to more than 7,000 years ago, and it’s now a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and influences. Sofia boasts an incredible array of attractions and things to do, from ancient Roman ruins to vibrant nightlife, from stunning architecture to natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone here. In this post, we’ll guide you through the best attractions and things to do in Sofia, so you can make the most of your visit and experience the city like a local. Let’s get started!

The 5 Best Fun Things to Do in Sofia

1. Private Selfguided Tour Rila Monastery

Check out Private Selfguided Tour Rila Monastery

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rila Monastery, a historic location with over 1000 years of fascinating history. Book your tickets in advance to streamline your logistics and save travel time. With a pre-booked Rila Monastery ticket, you’ll enjoy the convenience of arriving at any time of day without being restricted by a tour schedule.

This self-guided tour allows you the freedom to explore the monastery at your own pace. Your ticket includes entry to the entire site, including Hrelio Tower, the ethnographic museum, guest rooms, and the monastery farm. You can choose between paper and mobile ticket options for your convenience.

When you arrive at the site, you’ll receive an E-guide for the Monastery, which will provide you with all the necessary information to explore the monastery thoroughly. You can also purchase souvenir photos for lasting memories. Additional entrance fees for other sights inside the monastery cost approximately 8 EUR.

The opening hours for the Rila Monastery are from Monday to Sunday, 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM, from 31 December 2020 until 23 March 2024. Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking but wheelchair accessibility is not available. Enjoy exploring this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace with this fantastic self-guided tour.

2. Rose Valley Shuttle Group Daytrip

Check out Rose Valley Shuttle Group Daytrip

Commence your day trip at 8:00 AM departing from the center of Sofia with a scenic 3-hour drive through the Balkan mountains. You will then reach the Bulgarian Rose Valley where you will visit a traditional rosary during its peak season. Learn about rose oil production and discover why Bulgaria is the world’s biggest rose oil producer.

Next, you will explore the unique Kazanlak Thracian Tomb, a UNESCO heritage site with an interesting history. Afterwards, see the beautiful memorial church “The Birth of Christ” before heading back to Sofia. This Rose Valley Shuttle Group Daytrip is an ideal opportunity to experience the unique Bulgarian culture and scenic landscape all in one day.

3. Plovdiv Fullday Small Group Excursion

Check out Plovdiv Fullday Small Group Excursion

This full-day excursion from Sofia takes you to the historic town of Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest settlements. Walk along the cobbled streets of the Old Town and explore its museums, historical monuments and revival period houses. With an English-speaking guide by your side, learn about the ancient Roman Byzantine Ottoman and Bulgarian civilizations that have settled in this 8000-year-old city. Admire the Ethnographical Museum and the impressive Roman Theater, as your guide points out the most interesting architectural and cultural treasures of the region. Come and experience the rich history and culture of Plovdiv on this unforgettable small group tour.

4. Rila Monastery Boyana Church Small

Check out Rila Monastery Boyana Church Small

This tour takes you on a journey through Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Departing promptly at 09:00 AM, you’ll be taken on a comfortable 2-hour drive to the Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains. Explore the largest and most important Orthodox cloister in Bulgaria before grabbing lunch at one of the nearby restaurants and tasting the delicious local organic food.

After lunch, there’s an optional 1.5-hour guided tour of Boyana Church where you’ll marvel at the pre-Renaissance frescoes. The tour ends with a 30-minute stop at the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral before arriving back at the meeting point.

Included in the tour are transportation by modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver/guide and entrance fees to Rila Monastery Museum and Boyana Church. Food, drinks, and other personal expenses aren’t included in the tour. This 2-4 hour tour is ideal for those who want to explore Bulgaria’s countryside and its two most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day.

5. Days Historical Natural Wonders Bulgarias

Check out Days Historical Natural Wonders Bulgarias

This tour offers a chance to explore Bulgaria’s history and natural wonders. The package includes a four-night stay in 3-star hotels in prime locations along with entrance fees, professional guides, gratuities, and lunch and dinner. The tour starts at 9:00 AM with pickup from select points. Travelers can expect an itinerary that offers a moderate physical workout. The tour can accommodate up to eight people and offers a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Please note that this tour requires favorable weather conditions to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sofia – Your Ultimate Guide

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, is a hidden gem that sees endless inquiries from tourists worldwide. There are plenty of things to see and experience in this intriguing city, and it all starts with getting to know what it’s all about. Therefore, in this guide, we aim to answer the most frequently asked questions about Sofia. Let’s dive right in.

1. What language do they speak in Sofia?

The official language spoken in Sofia is Bulgarian. However, many locals are well-versed in English and can communicate in the language fluently. Therefore, you can navigate the city without knowing Bulgarian.

2. What is the currency used in Sofia?

The currency used in Sofia and the rest of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev. It’s always a good idea to carry some Bulgarian lev with you, especially when traveling to rural areas, where there might not be as many ATMs or card machines.

3. When is the best time to visit Sofia?

Sofia is the perfect tourist destination all year round. The city has diverse climates and offers unique experiences during different seasons. During summer, the weather is lovely, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, exploring natural parks, and going to the beach. Winter in Sofia, on the other hand, is always filled with snow, and you can head to the Vitosha mountain to ski or snowboard.

4. What are the must-visit attractions in Sofia?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Sofia. Some of the top attractions include:

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral:

This fascinating Orthodox cathedral is one of the largest churches in Eastern Europe and features impressive gold domes.

National Palace of Culture:

The National Palace of Culture is the congress center of Bulgaria and has a distinctive architecture that makes it a must-visit attraction.

Vitosha mountain:

Vitosha mountain borders the city of Sofia, offering incredible scenic views, forests, and hiking trails.

Boyana Church:

This medieval church is a UNESCO World Heritage site and showcases impressive 13th-century frescoes.

5. What is the cost of living in Sofia?

Sofia is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe. You can manage to get by with a modest budget without sacrificing any essential experiences. For instance, a meal at a local restaurant could cost around €5-10, while transportation costs around €0.50. Hotel prices can range between €20 to €100 per night.

6. What is the transportation system like in Sofia?

Sofia has an excellent transportation system that allows you to explore the city efficiently. The system consists of a subway, buses, trolleybuses, trams, and taxis. The subway is the newest way to get around the city, and it’s the fastest and cheapest way to travel.

7. What should I know about Bulgarian food?

Bulgarian cuisine comprises of hearty, flavorful dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the local Bulgarian dishes include banitsa, kebabcheta, sirene po shopski, and tarator. You should also ensure that you try the popular Bulgarian drink, rakia, and soft drink called “ayryan.”

8. How safe is Sofia?

Sofia is a relatively safe city, and you shouldn’t worry about your safety when visiting. However, you should be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping your valuables safe.

9. What is the nightlife like in Sofia?

Sofia is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to everyone’s taste, and the party often goes on until the early hours of the morning. The city center is a popular nightlife district, so make sure to check that out during your visit.

10. Are there any day trips that I can take from Sofia?

Yes, there are plenty of fantastic day trips that you can take from Sofia. Some of the popular locations to visit include the iconic Rila Monastery, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and the Belogradchik Rocks. All of these locations are incredibly scenic and will add some diversity to your Sofia trip.

In Conclusion

Sofia is an incredible city that is worth exploring. Whether it’s the vibrant culture, delicious food, or impressive architecture, there’s always something to see and do in Sofia. As long as you follow the useful information provided above, you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring this intriguing Bulgarian capital.

Sofia, the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, is a vibrant and fascinating destination filled with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient Roman ruins and medieval churches to lively markets and bustling squares, the city offers an impressive range of attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re seeking to discover the city’s history, savor delicious food, immerse yourself in local traditions, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, there is something for everyone in Sofia. In this blog post, we’ll share our top picks for the best attractions and things to do in Sofia to help you make the most of your visit to this exciting city.

The 5 Best Fun Things to Do in Sofia

1. Days Historical Natural Wonders Bulgarias

Check out Days Historical Natural Wonders Bulgarias

Explore Bulgaria’s historical and natural treasures on this 4-night tour staying in excellent 3* hotels with a great location. With entrance fees, professional guide services, gratuities, lunches and dinners all included, you can simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of Bulgaria.

Starting at 9:00 AM from select pickup points, you will uncover the best of Bulgaria’s attractions, from the mountainous landscapes and the ancient Roman ruins to the country’s rural settlements where traditions and customs have remained unchanged for centuries.

Please note that this tour will have a maximum of 8 travelers and is not wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seats are available. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time. This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

2. American Sniper Rifle Package

Check out American Sniper Rifle Package

Experience the thrill of shooting with the American Sniper Rifle Package. This tour includes all fees and taxes, range and weapon rental, as well as instruction. Enjoy lunch, snacks, and bottled water during the experience. The meeting point is located in Łozen, Bulgaria, where you will receive a safety brief and draw weapons from the armoury. The time of the experience will be confirmed in advance with the local provider. The activity ends back at the meeting point. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and it is important to note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, not recommended for pregnant travelers, and not suitable for those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. Most travelers can participate. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance of the experience’s start time for a full refund. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for an unforgettable shooting experience.

3. John Wick Pistol Package

Check out John Wick Pistol Package

If you’re a fan of John Wick and have always wanted to experience the same adrenaline rush, then the Pistol Package tour is perfect for you. This tour is a complete package that provides all the necessary safety equipment and instruction needed for this thrilling experience. You’ll be picked up by private transportation and taken to the training centre car park where you’ll receive a safety brief and draw weapons from the armoury. The experience includes lunch and snacks, and all fees and taxes are already included in the package price. After completion of the tour, you’ll be dropped back at the meeting point. Do note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Additionally, the tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. If you’re ready to feel like John Wick for a day, this tour is definitely worth booking in advance.

4. Private Selfguided tour Rila Monastery

Check out Private Selfguided tour Rila Monastery

Explore the Rila Monastery at your own pace with pre-booked tickets that offer the convenience of advance planning and the flexibility to arrive at any time without being limited to a fixed tour schedule. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1000 years of history, the Rila Monastery offers guests the opportunity to explore the Hrelio Tower, ethnographic museum guestrooms, and monastery farm. Your Rila Monastery ticket includes access to the entire site and you can choose between paper and mobile ticket options for added convenience. During your visit, you’ll also receive an E-guide for the Monastery, and souvenir photos are available for purchase. Transportation to and from the attraction is also included in the cost of your ticket, with additional entrance fees for other sights inside the Monastery costing approximately 8 EUR. Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking and restrictions may apply.

5. Rila Monastery Boyana Church Small

Check out Rila Monastery Boyana Church Small

Explore two of Bulgaria’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this full-day tour. Travel in comfort through the Bulgarian countryside to the Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains, the largest and most important Orthodox cloister in Bulgaria. Spend time admiring its beautiful architecture and religious significance with the help of an expert guide. You’ll also get the chance to taste some of the local organic cuisine at nearby restaurants. Afterwards, head to Boyana Church to marvel at its pre-Renaissance frescoes, also with the guidance of a knowledgeable guide. This tour includes transportation by modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver/guide, and entrance fees to both Rila Monastery Museum and Boyana Church. Personal expenses such as food and drinks are not included.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sofia

Sofia is the capital city of Bulgaria, known for its historical landmarks, intricate architecture, mild weather and vibrant culture. If you are planning to visit Sofia, you may have some questions about what to expect from the city. In this post, we answer the most common questions that visitors have about Sofia.

What’s the weather like in Sofia?

Sofia has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm to hot with average temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. Winters (December to February) can be cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging between -4°C to 3°C. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild with some rainfall.

How do I get around Sofia?

Sofia has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro system. You can purchase a single ticket or a pass that is valid for multiple trips. Taxis are also readily available in Sofia, just ensure that you use a licensed taxi service, and agree on the fare before getting in.

Is Sofia a safe city?

Sofia is generally considered safe for visitors. However, as with any city, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not displaying expensive items in public places.

What are the top tourist attractions in Sofia?

Sofia is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are several must-visit spots in the city. These include:

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

National Palace of Culture

Sofia University

Vitosha Boulevard

National Museum of History

Central Sofia Market Hall

What’s the local currency in Bulgaria, and can I use credit cards?

Bulgaria’s official currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit cards are widely accepted in Sofia, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are also readily available, so withdrawing cash should not be an issue.

What is the local language in Sofia?

The official language of Sofia is Bulgarian. However, you will find that many people in the city speak English. Signs, menus, and other tourist information are usually provided in both Bulgarian and English as well.

What are the traditional dishes in Sofia?

Bulgarian cuisine is a fusion of Eastern European and Middle Eastern flavors, and Sofia offers some of the best traditional food in Bulgaria. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Banitsa – A savory pastry filled with cheese or spinach

Kebapche – Grilled minced meat

Tarator – A cold soup made of yogurt, cucumber, and garlic

Shopska Salad – A refreshing salad containing tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and feta cheese

Kavarma – A stew made with pork, peppers, and onions

What’s the best time to visit Sofia?

The best time to visit Sofia is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor events and festivals are in full swing. If you visit during the winter months, you can enjoy winter sports in the nearby Vitosha Mountains

How do I travel to Sofia?

Sofia is well-connected to major European cities through its international airport – Sofia Airport. Most major airlines offer flights to and from Sofia, making it easy to get to the city from any part of the world.

Conclusion

Sofia is a beautiful city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Planning your trip to Sofia should now be easier with these answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.

Welcome to Sofia, the charming capital city of Bulgaria. Sofia is a city where history and modernity meet, where ancient ruins are just steps away from modern skyscrapers. The city is full of life, with plenty of cultural and entertainment options available for locals and visitors alike. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best attractions and things to do in Sofia so that you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful city. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Sofia. So, let’s begin exploring the best that Sofia has to offer!

The 5 Best Fun Things to Do in Sofia

1. Days Historical Natural Wonders Bulgarias

Check out Days Historical Natural Wonders Bulgarias

Discover the natural and historical wonders of Bulgaria on this 4-night guided tour. Stay in comfortable 3* hotels with great locations, and explore the stunning nature that Bulgaria has to offer. Your highly educated guide will take you to some of Bulgaria’s best kept secrets, including historical landmarks and natural sights. Entrance fees and gratuities are included, as well as lunches and dinners. Pickup is available starting at 9:00 AM from various points. Please note that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats are available upon request. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will receive a full refund, while cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be refunded. Don’t miss out on this chance to explore the best of Bulgaria’s natural and historical treasures!