How to Plan Your Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour in Sofia

Are you looking for an exciting way to explore Bulgaria’s rich history and sample some of the country’s best beer? Look no further than the Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour. This two-in-one full-day tour departs from Sofia and takes you to the ancient city of Plovdiv, where you’ll discover its Old Town, Roman-era ruins, and more. Following lunch and some free time to explore, you’ll visit Bulgaria’s oldest brewery for an in-depth tour and tasting. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour in Sofia.

What to Expect

The Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour is a full-day tour that includes Plovdiv sightseeing and beer tastings. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Sofia in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle at 9:00 AM and driven to Plovdiv. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share information about Bulgaria’s history and culture.When you arrive in Plovdiv, you’ll start your tour in the Old Town. The Old Town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, historic buildings, and charming cafes. You’ll see some of the best-known landmarks of the city, including the Roman Theatre, the Ancient Stadium, and the Roman Forum.After your walking tour of the Old Town, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. You can visit the Art District of Kapana and browse the galleries and artisan shops, or enjoy a coffee or beer at one of the trendy cafes that dot the area.Next, you’ll head to Bulgaria’s oldest brewery for the second part of the tour. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery and learn about the beer-making process. Then, you’ll enjoy tastings of six of Bulgaria’s best craft beers.After the brewery tour, you’ll head back to Sofia in the late afternoon. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, and your guide will bid you farewell.

What’s Included

The Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour includes:

• Round-trip transit from Sofia via comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
• Beer tasting of six Bulgarian craft beers
• Entrance fees to the scheduled sites
• Lunch

How to Book

The Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour can be booked online through Viator. Simply visit their website and search for “Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour.” You can select your desired date and time, and then complete your booking securely online. Book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Plovdiv History and Craft Beer Tour is the perfect way to explore Bulgaria’s rich history and sample some of the country’s best beer. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and an exciting itinerary, this tour is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Sofia. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Top Frequently Asked Questions About Sofia: Answered

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, offers an interesting mix of history, culture and modern life. The city is known for its Roman ruins, beautiful architecture, museums, and galleries. Every year, thousands of visitors from around the world come to Sofia to explore this beautiful city. However, before you plan your trip to Sofia, you might have some questions in your mind. This blog post aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Sofia.

1. Is Sofia Safe?

Yes, Sofia is a safe city, and you don’t need to worry about your safety as a tourist. As with any major city, there are some areas that travelers should avoid or be cautious in, but overall, Sofia is a safe and friendly city for tourists. Crime rates are relatively low, and the police are usually helpful and efficient. However, it is always a good idea to take basic precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended or walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.

2. What Language is Spoken in Sofia?

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian, and this is the most commonly spoken language in Sofia. However, you’ll find that many Bulgarians also speak English, especially in tourist areas. Russian is also widely spoken in Bulgaria, and in some areas, you might hear Turkish and Romani as well.

3. What is the Best Time to Visit Sofia?

Sofia has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, but the most popular time to visit Sofia is from May to September when the weather is mild and sunny. July and August can be quite hot, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or more. If you prefer cooler weather and winter sports, visit Sofia between December and March when the city’s nearby ski resorts are open.

4. What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Sofia?

Sofia is full of interesting things to see and do, and here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• The Old Town
• National Palace of Culture
• Vitosha Boulevard
• Banya Bashi Mosque
• National Museum of History
• Rila Monastery (about 2 hours from Sofia)

5. How Can I Get Around in Sofia?

Sofia has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro. The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to travel around the city, and it is also cheap. There are two metro lines in Sofia, and they run from around 5:00 am to midnight. Public transportation is also relatively cheap in Sofia, and you’ll find that taxis are affordable as well. However, make sure to use licensed taxis or an app-based ride-hailing service to avoid scams.

6. What is Bulgarian Cuisine?

Bulgarian cuisine is a blend of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Ottoman influences, with lots of fresh vegetables, grilled meats, and hearty soups. Some must-try Bulgarian dishes include:

• Shopska Salad – a fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and Bulgarian cheese
• Kebapche – grilled minced meat (usually pork or beef) seasoned with a blend of spices
• Banitsa – a savory pastry filled with cheese, eggs, and sometimes spinach
• Tarator – a cold yogurt and cucumber soup, perfect for hot summer days

7. What Currency is Used in Sofia?

The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev (BGN). Most businesses in Sofia accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or places that don’t accept cards. ATMs are widely available in Sofia, and you can also exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices.

8. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Sofia?

If you’re a citizen of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, you don’t need a visa to visit Bulgaria for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries might need a visa, so it’s always a good idea to check with the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in your country before you plan your trip.

Conclusion

Sofia is a beautiful and vibrant city that is definitely worth visiting. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to experience the local cuisine, Sofia has something for everyone. Hopefully, this blog post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Sofia and has helped you plan your trip to this magnificent city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sofia: A Comprehensive Guide

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a city that has a lot to offer. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, there are tons of things to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Sofia, here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in the city.

1. Explore Sofia’s Iconic Landmarks

Sofia has a rich history, and its landmarks reflect that. Here are some of the most iconic landmarks that you should not miss when in Sofia:

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sofia. It’s a stunning piece of architecture that features a golden dome and intricate details. The cathedral was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War.

Saint Sofia Church

The Saint Sofia Church is one of the oldest churches in Sofia. The church is named after the city’s patron saint, Saint Sofia. The church is known for its beautiful frescoes and ancient artifacts.

The Banya Bashi Mosque

The Banya Bashi Mosque is the only functioning mosque in Sofia. It was built-in 1566 during the Ottoman rule. It’s a beautiful piece of architecture that features a dome and minaret.

2. Visit Sofia’s Museums

Sofia has a rich history, and its museums are a testament to that. Here are some of the must-visit museums that you should check out when in Sofia:

National Museum of History

The National Museum of History is one of the largest museums in Bulgaria. It houses over 650,000 artifacts that showcase Bulgarian history. The museum is a great place to learn about the country’s past and present.

National Art Gallery

The National Art Gallery is home to Bulgaria’s largest collection of Bulgarian art. The gallery features paintings, sculptures, and other works of art that date back to the medieval times.

National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture is the largest multifunctional complex in Southeastern Europe. It hosts concerts, conferences, and exhibitions. The palace is also home to art galleries, museums, and theaters.

3. Indulge in Sofia’s Local Cuisine

Sofia has a diverse culinary scene that’s worth exploring. Here are some of the dishes that you should try when in Sofia:

Banitsa

Banitsa is a Bulgarian pastry that’s usually filled with feta cheese and eggs. It’s a popular breakfast food in Bulgaria.

Tarator

Tarator is a cold soup made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Kebapche

Kebapche is a Bulgarian version of grilled sausage. It’s made with ground beef, pork, and spices. It’s usually served with fries and salad.

4. Take a Day Trip from Sofia

If you have some extra time in Sofia, you can take a day trip to some of the nearby attractions. Here are some of the best day trips from Sofia:

Rila Monastery

The Rila Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Bulgaria. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 10th century.

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria. It’s known for its ancient ruins, museums, and colorful houses. It’s a great place to explore if you want to get a taste of Bulgaria’s culture.

Seven Rila Lakes

The Seven Rila Lakes are a group of glacial lakes located in the Rila Mountains. They are a popular hiking destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Conclusion

Sofia is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, there’s no shortage of things to do in the city. With this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your time in Sofia and experience everything that the city has to offer.