Sofia-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning

  • Arrive at Sofia Airport and take a taxi or bus (around 30-40 minutes) to your accommodation in the city center.
  • Check-in at Hotel Arena di Serdica or similar, a cozy hotel with a great location.

Afternoon

  • Start your exploration of Sofia at the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Walk through the adjacent Parliament Square and admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings.
  • Visit the National Art Gallery, which features an impressive collection of Bulgarian art from the 19th to 20th centuries.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian dinner at Mehana Cherna Kotka, a cozy restaurant with a rustic atmosphere.
  • Take a stroll through the lively Vitosha Boulevard, lined with cafes, shops, and street performers.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the National Historical Museum, which offers a comprehensive look at Bulgaria’s rich history.
  • Explore the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, a stunning example of Neo-Renaissance architecture.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Sofia Central Market Hall (also known as Zhenski Pazar), where you can find fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
  • Stop by the Banya Bashi Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Europe.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Pod Lipite, serving modern Bulgarian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Catch a performance or concert at the National Palace of Culture (NDK), a cultural hub with a diverse program.

Day 3: Mountain Escapade

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Vitosha Mountain, just outside Sofia, and enjoy a scenic hike with breathtaking views.
  • Visit the Boyana Church, a medieval Orthodox church and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon

  • Relax at one of Vitosha’s many ski resorts or thermal springs, such as Bankya.

Evening

  • Return to Sofia and enjoy dinner at Moma, a trendy restaurant serving international cuisine.
  • Explore the Rakovska Street, known for its lively nightlife and bars.

Day 4: Royal Palace and Gardens

Morning

  • Visit the stunning Royal Palace of Sofia, formerly the primary residence of the Bulgarian monarchs.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Borisova Gradina Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Afternoon

  • Stop by the National Museum of Natural History, featuring an impressive collection of natural wonders.
  • Visit the Sofia Synagogue, one of the largest Sephardic synagogues in Europe.

Evening

  • Dine at Tochka, a modern Bulgarian restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Take a leisurely walk through the charming Oborishte Street, lined with boutiques and cafes.

Day 5: Wine Tasting and Relaxation

Morning

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Doctor’s Garden, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Wine Bar, offering an extensive wine list and modern Bulgarian cuisine.
  • Catch a live music performance or comedy show at Cinema House.

Day 6: Day Trip to Rila Monastery

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Rila Monastery, a stunning Orthodox monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site (around 1.5 hours from Sofia).
  • Explore the monastery’s ornate architecture, frescoes, and tranquil surroundings.

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants near the monastery.
  • Return to Sofia in the evening.

Day 7: Last-Minute Exploration

Morning

  • Visit any last-minute attractions or museums you haven’t had a chance to see yet.
  • Explore the charming Narrow Street, lined with boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops.

Afternoon

  • Take some time to relax at your accommodation or explore a local market.
  • Depart for the airport and head back home.

Things to Know

  • Bulgaria is in the Eastern European Time (EET) zone.
  • The official language is Bulgarian, but many locals speak English, especially among the younger population.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency (BGN) for smaller purchases.

Transportation

  • Taxi: readily available and relatively affordable
  • Public Transportation: buses, trams, and metro lines cover most areas of the city
  • Walking: Sofia is a walkable city, and many attractions are within walking distance

Tips

  • Try traditional Bulgarian cuisine, such as shopska salad, banitsa, and kebapche.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, especially in the mountains.
  • Learn some basic Bulgarian phrases to show respect for the local culture.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Sofia!