Sofia Bulgaria 3 Day Itinerary

Sofia, Bulgaria 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: History and Culture

Morning

  • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Start your day with a visit to this stunning Orthodox cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
  • National Museum of History: Explore Bulgaria’s rich history at this museum, located in a beautiful historic building.

Afternoon

  • Ivan Vazov National Theatre: Take a stroll through the beautiful park surrounding the theatre and enjoy the street performers.
  • Vitosha Boulevard: Walk along this lively pedestrian street lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Evening

  • Restaurant: Pod Lipite: Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at this cozy restaurant located in a historic house.
  • Live Music: Bar 12: End your day with live music and a drink at this popular bar.

Day 2: Nature and Views

Morning

  • Vitosha Mountain: Take a cable car ride to the top of Vitosha Mountain for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Boyana Church: Visit this medieval church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located at the foot of Vitosha Mountain.

Afternoon

  • Borisova Gradina Park: Relax in this beautiful park with lakes, walking trails, and plenty of green space.
  • Sofia Central Market Hall: Explore the stalls selling fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

Evening

  • Restaurant: Moma: Savor modern Bulgarian cuisine at this trendy restaurant.
  • Nightlife: Yalta Club: Dance the night away at this popular club in the heart of Sofia.

Day 3: Alternative Scene and Markets

Morning

  • Theatre Workshop Sfumato: Explore this unique theatre and art space, offering a glimpse into Sofia’s alternative scene.
  • Rakovski Street: Wander along this charming street lined with antique shops, cafes, and boutiques.

Afternoon

  • Zhenski Pazar Market: Visit this bustling market selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
  • Serdika II Shopping Center: Shop for local brands and international labels at this modern mall.

Evening

  • Restaurant: Tochka 19: Enjoy a meal at this restaurant serving innovative Bulgarian cuisine.
  • Drinks: Barrio: End your day with a drink at this trendy bar in the heart of Sofia.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Anel: A stylish hotel located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Hostel Mostel: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, featuring a lively common area.

Transportation

  • Metro: Sofia’s metro system is efficient and easy to navigate, with three lines covering most areas of the city.
  • Bus/Trolleybus: An extensive network of buses and trolleybuses connects the city, with tickets available at kiosks or online.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to use a licensed company like OK Supertrans.

Things to Know

  • Language: Bulgarian is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially among the younger population.
  • Currency: The Bulgarian lev (BGN) is the local currency, although euros and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Safety: Sofia is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Tips

  • Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour to explore Sofia’s hidden gems and get insider tips from locals.
  • Learn Some Bulgarian: Show respect for the local culture by learning a few basic phrases in Bulgarian, such as “Здравей” (hello) and “Благодаря” (thank you).
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular tourist spots can get crowded, so plan ahead and consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.

Other Things of Interest

  • Thermae Sofia: Relax at this luxurious spa center, offering massages, saunas, and hot tubs.
  • Sofia Zoo: Visit the oldest zoo in Bulgaria, home to over 1,300 animals from around the world.
  • Mount Vitosha Hiking Trails: Take a hike on one of the many trails surrounding Sofia, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.