Location: Sofia
Top Things to do in Sofia
Top Restaurants in Sofia
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The 10 Best Tours in Sofia, Sofia Region
Surrounded by sprawling parkland, Sofia, the capital and largest city of the Republic of Bulgaria, lies at the foot of popular ski mountain, Vitosha. With a history that stretches over seven millennia, ruin-rich Sofia is one of Europe's oldest cities. The National Historical Museum is one of Eastern Europe's most extensive. Wide, cobblestone boulevards, charming boutiques and truly electrifying nightlife star in this city of 1.3 million. Trolleys, trams and buses traverse the dynamic city.
Restaurants in Sofia
1. Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi Tour from Sofia
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
The tour includes a visit of the Bulgarian medieval capital Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi. Step back in time and see the town from the national revival period.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By Thienpont
We had a marvelous time on this tour with Lachezar Gudev as our guide. He guided us through a personal route on the mountain right to Kemendall viewpoint in witch he took our sense for adventure, our fysical condition and our disabilities into account. This way he made the road to the viewpoint at least even interesting as the viewpoint itself, which is really something you can not miss when you visit Sofia. We also learned much about Bulgarian daily life and the bulgarian filmindustry from our guide that also seemed to know a lot about other touristic places in Bulgary. In short we couldn't be in better hands during this trip that was a great succes with many thanks to this wonderfull man. We advise this tour to anyone who wants to discover Sofia and likes to be in the nature as well, as we also would advise you to turn to Lachezar Gudev if you want a good guide or some good tips for a trip in Bulgary
2. Private City Tour of Sofia
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
This is a highly individualized, specially attended service with the top local guide in Sofia. You will have the chance of seeing the most fascinating landmarks of Sofia along with professional guiding service showing you the hidden gems.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation, Visit to the Cathedral Alexander Nevski, Professional guide services in English, Start anytime you want
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Travel insurance, Gratuities
Reviewed By atharyn7
All local our guides were very friendly and very kind. The manager Hristo made everything easy for us. Definitely recommend booking with them.
3. Small Group Tour to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
During this full-day tour you will visit Rila Monastery and Boyana Church –both of which are part of UNESCO world heritage list.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: Food and drinks
Reviewed By christS4874QK
I was picked up at my hotel in the morning and taken to where the bikes and gear are kept. Adrian greeted me with a warm welcome and I was quickly outfitted with very nice riding gear. Adrian completed an overview of the trip, a safety brief, and we were on our way. After a short ride through town, we were soon on the highway heading south from Sofia for about an hour. The traffic was light and this was a nice ride. We stopped at a rest stop and Adrian made sure that I was comfortable and that everything was well. After a quick snack and rest, we were back on the highway. After a short ride, we quickly exited the highway and the real fun began! The ride up the mountain was spectacular! Adrian kept a nice pace and checked on me often (as I had not ridden in a few years). After a 45-minute winding ride up the gorgeous hillside, we arrived at the Rila Monastery. What a beautiful place with a rich history set with high mountain tops in the background. Adrian, who had a tourism degree, provided a detailed account of the amazing story of the monastery from it's beginnings to modern-day. After a few hours strolling around the grounds, we got back on the bikes and went a short way back down the mountain and enjoyed an incredible lunch at a very nice restaurant and sat right next to a beautiful river. The fresh trout was delicious! The tour then took a detour to a very nice winery and I purchased four bottles of wine to enjoy with my wife back in the States. This was a beautiful place, set in the vineyards, surrounded by flowers, with the majestic mountains off in the distance. The last leg was very nice back roads returning to Sofia. Adrian stopped a number of times to point out very interesting aspects from the Soviet era, including an enormous metals factory (miles long), and a portion of the road we were on that, was actually part of an old military runway. The tour ended nearly 10 hours after it began, back at my hotel. I left the bike and front and Adrian returned later to retrieve it. This was a very professional operation and Adrian could not have been a better guide and riding partner. What an amazing day we had! I can not wait to return to beautiful Sofia and it's amazing people and take another tour with this tremendous outfit! Adrian, as promised, provided a really cool video of our day from his 360 degree HD camera so I may revisit the wonderful experience. Well done!
4. Small group tour to Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
During this day tour, you will be able to visit one of the must-see places in Bulgaria, not surprisingly elected European Capital of Culture for 2019, as well as two of the highlights in the region - Asen's fortress and Bachkovo Monastery
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle, Professional guide, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Food and drinks
Reviewed By christS4874QK
I was picked up at my hotel in the morning and taken to where the bikes and gear are kept. Adrian greeted me with a warm welcome and I was quickly outfitted with very nice riding gear. Adrian completed an overview of the trip, a safety brief, and we were on our way. After a short ride through town, we were soon on the highway heading south from Sofia for about an hour. The traffic was light and this was a nice ride. We stopped at a rest stop and Adrian made sure that I was comfortable and that everything was well. After a quick snack and rest, we were back on the highway. After a short ride, we quickly exited the highway and the real fun began! The ride up the mountain was spectacular! Adrian kept a nice pace and checked on me often (as I had not ridden in a few years). After a 45-minute winding ride up the gorgeous hillside, we arrived at the Rila Monastery. What a beautiful place with a rich history set with high mountain tops in the background. Adrian, who had a tourism degree, provided a detailed account of the amazing story of the monastery from it's beginnings to modern-day. After a few hours strolling around the grounds, we got back on the bikes and went a short way back down the mountain and enjoyed an incredible lunch at a very nice restaurant and sat right next to a beautiful river. The fresh trout was delicious! The tour then took a detour to a very nice winery and I purchased four bottles of wine to enjoy with my wife back in the States. This was a beautiful place, set in the vineyards, surrounded by flowers, with the majestic mountains off in the distance. The last leg was very nice back roads returning to Sofia. Adrian stopped a number of times to point out very interesting aspects from the Soviet era, including an enormous metals factory (miles long), and a portion of the road we were on that, was actually part of an old military runway. The tour ended nearly 10 hours after it began, back at my hotel. I left the bike and front and Adrian returned later to retrieve it. This was a very professional operation and Adrian could not have been a better guide and riding partner. What an amazing day we had! I can not wait to return to beautiful Sofia and it's amazing people and take another tour with this tremendous outfit! Adrian, as promised, provided a really cool video of our day from his 360 degree HD camera so I may revisit the wonderful experience. Well done!
5. The Ski and Snowboard Day Trip from Sofia to Borovets. We Provide All You Need!
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
It's time to enjoy the magnificent Bulgarian outdoors! Take a full-day trip from Sofia to Borovets and have a great time on the slopes. We will provide you with everything you need for an exciting day in the snow! Our professional guides will make your day easy and enjoyable. Highlights of the tour: * Discover the largest ski resort in Bulgaria, nestled in the gorgeous Rila mountain just 70 km from Sofia. * Great way to explore the Bulgarian nature. * Admire the views to the 2925 m Musala peak, the highest on the Balkans * Take your first ever ski or snowboard lessons * Enjoy a scenic road trip along the Iskar reservoir, the largest in Bulgaria * Small group tour - maximum 8 participants per vehicle
Inclusions: Full gear - ski or snowboard, boots, jacket, pants, goggles, gloves, helmet., All mountain lift pass, Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, Local support, Map of Borovets resort + bottled water, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Personal expenses, Hotel pick-up and drop-off (6 EUR), Ski and snowboard lessons (25 EUR): available upon request, please let us know in advance
Reviewed By sallybunnell
Wow wow wow! What an amazing experience and accommodating team! Nik drove my friend and I from Sofia to Skopje for an overnight and the to two cities in Kosovo and a beautiful scenic route back to Skopje. Things went without a hitch and it was such a great trio and experience with Nikolai! He is so easy going, knowledgeable, punctual, you name it. And great music, driving and clean vehicle. Had a blast and would do it all over again! Sally - NYC Gretta - Austraila
6. Private Sofia Sightseeing
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17 reviews
Dive into millennia of history exploring Sofia’s top historical, cultural and architectural landmarks! Only within 2-3 hours you will have the unique opportunity to enter in the oldest building in Sofia, walk over ancient Roman necropolis and visit the second biggest orthodox cathedral on the Balkans! And to make things even sweeter we invite you to admire the most amazing view over downtown Sofia while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee! Enjoy the company of professional city guides and share their passion and love for history, architecture and culture! Spend informative and friendly time, with high quality service and personal attention in a compact group. In case you would like a private tour please make sure to contact us in advance!
Inclusions: Coffee break, Entrance to 3 Orthodox temples - St. George Rotunda, St. Alexander Nevsky & St.Sophia Basilica , Professional live guide, Amazing rooftop panorama view of central Sofia
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By Michelle22223
I really didn't know what to expect on this tour because Bulgaria is not a popular beer destination. Stella definitely surprised me! It seems that there are cool beer places and hidden breweries that I would not find by myself. Thanks Stella for the unexpected experience!
7. Wine Tasting in Heart of Sofia
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 55 reviews
During your personal tasting experience I will guide you through the distinctive world of Bulgarian wines. Although Bulgaria has been producing wine for 5000 years it is still relatively unknown to the rest of the world. Now a rising new generation of Bulgarian boutique winemakers are devoted to the craft and bringing new attention to our country. You will taste 5 wine varieties of local grapes unique to Bulgaria, that can not be found anywhere else: Miskets, Melnik, Mavrud, Gumza and Rubin. Plus, local cheeses, artisanal bread and mineral water. The tasting is held in one of the best boutique wine shops in Sofia – Tempus Vini, which is located on an artsy street in the city center, known for its fine restaurants and boutiques. And just a few streets away from Sofia’s main pedestrian boulevard. During the tasting I can tell you about the wine regions of Bulgaria including the history and the wine culture of my beautiful country. All tastings are held in English or Bulgarian
Inclusions: Tasting of unique Bulgarian grapes
Exclusions: Private transportation
Reviewed By Companion18244041163
The shop offers a great selection of Bulgarian and Macedonian wines - especially the ones that are highly acclaimed in the region. The owner is very friendly and helps to select the best wine suiting your taste and needs. I have bought couple of wines and rakijas, and I have been very happy with the products.
8. Admission Ticket to the Museum of Illusions in Sofia
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 66 reviews
Museum exhibition is a 400 m2 space where illusions meet scientific inventions and arts: physics and optics are displayed together with mysterious artworks and classical riddles. The exceptional educational experience is enriched by interactive entertainment — drawing with a light, creating shadows and unforgettable moments in the world upside down.
Inclusions: Admission fee to the Museum of illusions
Exclusions:
Reviewed By atanaskai2021
Very helpful team - thanks to all the girls and boys there - you are amazing!!! It was so inspiring to see the "miracles" and to learn how the miracle happened.
9. Tour to Lovech, Devetaki cave & Krushuna waterfalls
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 22 reviews
During this day tour you will have the chance to visit one of the oldest Bulgarian cities, which has flourished continuously throughout history, as well as two of the must-see Bulgarian natural wonders.
Inclusions: Local taxes, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by modern vehicle
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By christS4874QK
I was picked up at my hotel in the morning and taken to where the bikes and gear are kept. Adrian greeted me with a warm welcome and I was quickly outfitted with very nice riding gear. Adrian completed an overview of the trip, a safety brief, and we were on our way. After a short ride through town, we were soon on the highway heading south from Sofia for about an hour. The traffic was light and this was a nice ride. We stopped at a rest stop and Adrian made sure that I was comfortable and that everything was well. After a quick snack and rest, we were back on the highway. After a short ride, we quickly exited the highway and the real fun began! The ride up the mountain was spectacular! Adrian kept a nice pace and checked on me often (as I had not ridden in a few years). After a 45-minute winding ride up the gorgeous hillside, we arrived at the Rila Monastery. What a beautiful place with a rich history set with high mountain tops in the background. Adrian, who had a tourism degree, provided a detailed account of the amazing story of the monastery from it's beginnings to modern-day. After a few hours strolling around the grounds, we got back on the bikes and went a short way back down the mountain and enjoyed an incredible lunch at a very nice restaurant and sat right next to a beautiful river. The fresh trout was delicious! The tour then took a detour to a very nice winery and I purchased four bottles of wine to enjoy with my wife back in the States. This was a beautiful place, set in the vineyards, surrounded by flowers, with the majestic mountains off in the distance. The last leg was very nice back roads returning to Sofia. Adrian stopped a number of times to point out very interesting aspects from the Soviet era, including an enormous metals factory (miles long), and a portion of the road we were on that, was actually part of an old military runway. The tour ended nearly 10 hours after it began, back at my hotel. I left the bike and front and Adrian returned later to retrieve it. This was a very professional operation and Adrian could not have been a better guide and riding partner. What an amazing day we had! I can not wait to return to beautiful Sofia and it's amazing people and take another tour with this tremendous outfit! Adrian, as promised, provided a really cool video of our day from his 360 degree HD camera so I may revisit the wonderful experience. Well done!
10. Communist Walking Tour of Sofia
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 226 reviews
Find out what it was like on the eastern side of the Iron Curtain by joining our Communist tour. A 45-year-long period compressed in about 3-3.5 hours, including factors that led to it and its aftermath. The main goal is to present this controversial period of history in an objective and informative way.
Inclusions: Local guide, Professional guide
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By maesa2020
Thanks to the passion and dedication of our tour guide Dessi we had an incredible walking tour around the street of Sofia. We learned a lot about the history of the city and she gave us really good recommendations and tips. Thanks again Dessi !
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