With the variety and quality, the challenge will be deciding how many extra days youll need and where you want to start. To avoid worrying about getting about, its best to visit with a guided tour which can handle that for you. Dont want to drive or deal with the hassle of public transport? On the way back to Sofia, first, you can visit the Devetashka Cave which is 16 km from the Krushuna waterfalls. When the concern reaches to travel, exploration and tourism, the last spot which appears to the mind is a metro station, but in case of Sofia, things are unique than what you speculate from the rest of the globe. var cloned = el.clone(); Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Small Group Tour. Vitosha Mountain (Sofia) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Getting there: To reach Plovdiv from Sofia you have a choice of train and bus. For an insight into Bulgarias decades behind the Iron Curtain, visit the Museum of Socialist Artto check out its quirky collection of statues, paintings and propaganda movies. Exhibitions are divided, This remarkable, partly covered excavation site, situated just above the Serdika metro station, displays the remains of the Roman city, Serdica, that once, This beautiful church with glittering mosaic exterior and golden domes was completed in 1914 for Sofias Russian community, and named in honour of St, This tiny church, located in the centre of the Serdika metro complex, was built during the early years of Ottoman rule (late 14th century), which explains, You can almost sense the ghosts of generations of school parties dutifully trooping through the musty halls of Bulgaria's oldest museum, founded in 1889, Housed in the former communist presidential palace, this museum occupies a stunning, if inconvenient, setting; unless a coach party turns up, you may have, Zlatnite Mostove is a spray of large boulders a 'stone river' that runs down a slope from an altitude of about 1700m down to 1350m. A stroll through the town manifests flashes into its colorful history. A vibrant arts scene, heartwarming food, fascinating history and a chilled-out vibe - here's Lonely Planet's guide to the best things to do in Sofia. You do get a ton of amazing views along the entire trek. If you would like to combine your trip to Sofia with visiting another country you can hop across the border to North Macedonia and see Skopje. You can see them all in the Destinations page. The main reason to visit Rila Monastery is the stunning external frescoes, some of the most impressive you will ever see. Unlike visiting the Seven Rila Lakes, youll find that climbing to the summit of Musala at 2,925 meters is a serious challenge. easing:"linear", animation:'slide', When going on a day trip to Belogradchik you can also stop at the nearby Magura Cave with the valuable prehistoric wall paintings. $(this).css('display', 'block'); Revolut bank card is the best way to save money when traveling. It needs a basic winter and snow equipment, but the views are fantastic from the top :) Total trip for about 5h. If you prefer searching for Thracian gold and Roman artefacts, definitely spend a day at the National Museum of History. 20 Best things to do in Sofia Bulgaria alone Planning a solo trip to Sofia? b) Churches & monumental buildings The city is great to discover by walking as it is not too big. Breathtakingly accessible from Sofia City Centre, diverse range of forest hikes, waterfalls, jaw dropping views. There's, The history of Sofia is presented on two floors of the magnificent former Turkish Mineral Baths, just behind the mosque. I adore discovering off the beaten path places (especially in Central Europe) and exploring alternative spots, street art scene and local cafe culture. I walked from my hotel to the Dragalevtski Monastery, a 30 minutes walk up into the VItosha Mountain. To start the day like a local, have a bite of a freshly baked banitsa. It is a great outing for half a day to climb up. Explore different ways to experience this place. You can find the best accommodation options at Booking. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. orig_width: 300 Children under two are free. Read more. A subterranean museum houses an ancient necropolis, with 56 tombs and the, Tiny 13th-century Boyana Church is included on Unescos World Heritage list and its 90 murals are among the very finest examples of Bulgarian medieval, Housed in a former mosque built in 1496, this museum displays a wealth of Thracian, Roman and medieval artefacts. The Kaleto fortress dates back to the times of the Roman Empire and was built in the 3rd century. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. Sofia is blessed to have this mountain of 2290 meters at mere 10 km from the center. It's home to the National. Although you can make many of these day trips with public transport, consider renting a car for the day to give yourself more flexibility and independence. more. When European city-hopping is mentioned, most travellers imagine the alluring charms of Paris, Rome or London. Some of the best ancient monuments include the impressive Roman Amphitheater from the 1st century AD or the Roman Stadium from the 2nd century AD, discovered only in 1923. . Only 10 km from the city centre and you are in a different world. Most of the main landmarks in Sofia are located in the center of the city which is quite easy to explore on foot. The first hall individual can possess around 3400 persons, which indicates that each visitor can get something unique that fits their taste within the walls, roof, and flooring of this cultural mastodon. Here I will share the best things to see and do in Sofia, as well as where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around. Even if today you can only see remnants of the former glory this was actually the center of the Bulgarian rule back in the days. The Sofia zoo is the largest and oldest zoo in Southeastern Europe. }); Mall of Sofia. It is among the places to visit near Sofia Bulgaria that makes the tourists experience the typical buildings. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Once you are done with the sightseeing just sit down in the courtyard and enjoy the beauty and the atmosphere of the place. And of course, crazy statues in bulk amounts that are scattered all over the place. Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour, From Sofia: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Small Group Tour, From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery Self-Guided Trip, The Seven Rila Lakes: Full-Day Tour from Sofia, Seven Rila Lakes Hiking Day-Tour from Sofia, From Sofia: Seven Rila Lakes & Rila Monastery Full-Day Tour, Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria is this the prettiest town in the country?, From Sofia: Koprivshtitsa Full-Day Trip with Optional Lunch, Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa Day Trip from Sofia, From Sofia: Full-Day Old Town Plovdiv Trip, Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa Full-Day Tour from Sofia, From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Bachkovo Monastery, From Sofia: Full-Day Tour of Plovdiv with Lunch, Day in Veliko Tarnovo my highlight of Bulgaria, Sofia: Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi Day Trip, From Sofia: Belogradchik Rocks Full-Day Tour, Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress from Sofia, Sofia: Full-Day Hiking to Rozhen Monastery & Melnik, Full-Day Tour to Rila Monastery and Melnik, Sofia: Lovech, Devetaki Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls Tour, From Sofia: Full-Day Krushuna Waterfalls & Devetashka Cave, brutalist architecture that Skopje is known for. Popular things to do Bus Tours Day Trips Churches & Cathedrals Historical Tours Walking Tours Sacred & Religious Sites Full-day Tours Half-day Tours Points of Interest & Landmarks City Tours Private Day Trips Cultural Tours Mountain Bike Tours Culinary Tour Beer & Brewery Tours Hiking Tours 4WD Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours Winter Sports These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Sofia. Bulgarias second city, Plovdiv is a spot worth visiting. Whether you want to marvel at historic sights, trek on mountain slopes or enjoy a glass of world-class wine, Sofia offers experiences that are both authentic and affordable. Typical for Bansko are the tavern-type restaurants in traditional style with live music, where you can try the local dishes: kapama, chomlek, or babek. That would mean so much to me! Kids love it. minItems:1, The mountain is an impressive and constant backdrop as you are moving around Sofia. Plus: How long to spend in Sofia, and whether you should even bother! Save the evening for a glass of locally produced wine (the red varietymavrud, in particular, is excellent), juicy steaks and a heavenly Turkish-influenced dessert. I always use the free app Maps.Me. Melnik is officially the smallest town in Bulgaria, with fewer than 400 residents. Local Street Art. Inside the church youll find frescoes and a gilded iconostasis with intricate wood carvings. downscale_only: false, If you don't want to miss new posts please submit your email in the field below, Copyright 2023 - Kami and the Rest of the World / Privacy Policy. What restaurants are near Vitosha Mountain? Many of them can be easily doable by public transport, other places are in a bit remote locations and a tour is the best option. Sofia may not be one of the most famous cities for street art in Europe, but there's actually quite a lot to see. TravelTriangle.com 2023. }); Monument to the Deity All-Holy Sofia. This trip is recommended by car. What's the best way to see Vitosha Mountain? I was lucky to visit Sofia on a few occasions and each time I also went for at least one of Sofia day trips. The large market area is packed with beautiful 19th-century houses (built in the Bulgarian Revival period) and wandering around is a pure pleasure. Weve listed the best tour for each day trip (where available). The construction holds an area of 123000 square meters, has three underground levels, and eight floors. Veliko Tarnovo is located a bit over 200 km away from Sofia so you can expect a long day trip but its definitely worth all the efforts. Sofia Sofia Tourism: Best of Sofia About Sofia Surrounded by sprawling parkland, Sofia, the capital and largest city of the Republic of Bulgaria, lies at the foot of popular ski mountain, Vitosha. var metaslider_50011 = function($) { Its been lately rehabilitated, and since the town of the ancient Roman town of Serdica was placed adjacent to it, you can now these days trek underground and watch the archaeological verdicts, maximum of them in situ. The very well known Sofia Largo is the great Independence Square in between the office of President, the Council of Ministry, and various other administration buildings. Read our Privacy Policy. window.setTimeout(timer_metaslider_50011, 1) : metaslider_50011(window.jQuery); They are bright, colorful, very decorative, and packed with various motives, including some weird and disturbing images like the devil walking with a man on a chain. The most beautiful one is the red trail along which you can admire several sparkling cascades. It is among the most magnificent buildings in Sofia was supposed to be the Core Mineral Bath, where as of now it holds the Sofia History Museum. The Krushuna waterfalls are located about 185 meters from Sofia and it takes nearly three hours to get there. Be the first to review this attraction. The entrance fee is ridiculously cheap. Koprivshtitsa, picturesquely located in a valley surrounded by green mountains, is a real gem. During the summertime, youths mostly live in the elegant garden enduring in front of the National Theater Ivan Vazov, the period after the sun sets down becomes the busiest time for beers, laughs, and chatting. Easily seen from the center of Sofia, Vitosha offers both natural scenery and several major cultural landmarks. Inside the monastery complex, you can visit the Nativity of the Virgin church, the tower of Hrelja from the 14th century (the oldest of all the buildings), and the History Museum. Back over in the Old Town, youll want to take a walk down pretty Gurko Street and find a viewpoint to look across the row of Bulgarian Revival Houses that cling to the hillside over the Yantra River. Another art venue worth popping into is the Sofia City Art Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions of Bulgarian paintings and sculpture. Visiting Rila Monastery will take you around 2 hours. This place is one of the highlights of Bulgaria. The mystery does not end here only; it is among the best places to go in Sofia Bulgaria, its beauty from the inside of the building is just as majestic as suspected. I'm working full time and balancing my job with extensive travels all over the world. Sofia is a wonderful town, but its spectacular places are spread all across and not so apparent. Away from the buildings and boulevards, vast parks and manicured gardens offer a welcome respite, and the ski slopes and hiking trails of mighty Mt Vitosha are just a short bus ride from the centre. One or two days in Sofia is plenty to experience all of the citys major sights, after which you might want to shift your gaze to all the other remarkable destinations in Bulgaria. Every single thing from the great portraitures of saints, the huge wooden door, and the picture of Providence pulled upon the roof, and the tzars throne is the must-view for all the tourists, no matter of what religion and culture they are from. For a look at what parts of Bulgaria looked like in the 19th century, head to the town of Koprivshtitsa. 8 Places To Visit In Sofia That You Must Not Miss When In Bulgaria, 10 Villas In Bulgaria Thatll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay, 8 Water Parks In Bulgaria That Will Make Your Vacation More Fun, 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience, 21 Spectacular Places To Visit In Bulgaria That Are A Treat To Your Eyes, 12 Things To Do In Bulgaria That Will Keep You Engaged Throughout The Trip, Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable. 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A leisurely stroll around the city centre lets the visitor uncover Bulgarias diverse layers of history, mixing up Roman ruins and Soviet architecture, as well as Ottoman and Byzantine religious and cultural influences. There are many amazing places nearby that you can visit as day trips from Sofia and you should definitely consider them when planning your Bulgaria itinerary. For those who do not favor the concealed wisdom of the metro, there is a solution too. Top Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria: See Tripadvisor's 177,190 traveller reviews and photos of Sofia tourist attractions. }); Come prepared for a serious hike. The other big attraction here is the Belogradchik Fortress, a stronghold that dates back to Roman times. So, to give you an idea of what is possible with your extra time, here are some of the best day trips from Sofia. Even if you cant see the old remnants at first, they are there, just well hidden under the layer of the new town. 15. The town, located around 110 km east of Sofia, can be reached by train (and then a bus from the train station to the town itself but its pretty straightforward) or with a tour. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Ayasofya Camii. Back in the Rila Mountains yet again is Musala Peak, the highest peak in Bulgaria and all of the Balkans. Its an extraordinary geological phenomenon that looks like a stone riverrunning down a slope from around 1700m to 1350m. . In 2019 Plovdiv held the title of the European Capital of Culture and it is indeed the main cultural hub of Bulgaria. The Rila Lakes are numbered from top to bottom & named after the shapes they most closely represent. Trains run every hour or two and are scheduled to take around 2 hour 45 minutes, though they are known for delays. Getting there: With trains taking too long, a 3 hour 15 minute bus ride is your only public transport option for visiting Veliko Tarnovo from Sofia. You can view Eastern-turned architecture of Turkish, Western-custom baroque constructions and communist squares all entangled in a vibrant European capital. Explore historic treasures Every history buff will be happy to land in Sofia. There are cobbled streets and beautiful houses in the Bulgarian Revival style, but you can also find the remnants of the medieval fortress or the edgy and alternative area. Day 1 - Central Sofia Sites The first day of this Sofia itinerary sees you visiting some of Sofia's main sites and monuments. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in May. All rights reserved. All of these places are neatly mixed in the UNESCO-listed old part of Plovdiv. Get to the heart of Sofia with one of our in-depth, Depending on how many people are in your group, renting a car might even work out to be cheaper than other forms of transportation. I want emails from Road Affair with travel updates and marketing. Here you will find two varieties of people at all times senior citizens playing chess and street musicians. See all things to do. All rights reserved. It is a place to get mesmerized in natures serene embrace are everyone would be perpetually honored to arrive at tBoris garden, which is among the best place to visit in Sofia. When European city-hopping is mentioned, most travellers imagine the alluring charms of Paris, Rome or London. Sofia Bulgaria's pleasingly laid-back capital is often overlooked by visitors heading to the coast or the ski resorts, but they're missing something special. Relax in its spacious gardens, while taking a photo with the Russian MiG fighters statues that are erected there. , Today you can visit numerous monuments from the golden old times, with the most important one Tsarevets Fortress located at the edge of the town. Get to the heart of Bulgarian art by browsing the National Gallery Quadrat 500. While expecting for the train to arrive, tourists can go through the artifacts which have been stored in glass receptacles, similarly as in a museum. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit, not only to see this architectonic wonder but also to admire the beautiful landscape of the Central Balkan Mountains. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { Lovely walk with great views over Sofia. You can read more about Koprivshtitsa in the article I wrote Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria is this the prettiest town in the country?. For the slow traveler, it's a great place to be. Finally, finish up at Nebet Hill where youll be treated to stunning city views. nextText:">", All around the town visitors can admire authentic and well-preserved architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries, with 388 architectural, historical, and ethnographic monuments. You can read more about Skopje in the article I wrote What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia. You will be climbing up and over rocks, sometimes on your hands and knees. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Vitosha Mountain: Vitosha Mountain, Sofia: Address, Phone Number, Vitosha Mountain Reviews: 4.5/5. Home to the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, theres plenty of history to explore in Veliko Tarnovo. Bulgarias capital usually brings to mind associations with hearty Balkan cuisine that is best washed down with an invigorating glass of rakia (local, After enjoying Sofias eclectic cultural scene, laid-back atmosphere and many restaurants and clubs, many travellers head straight to Bulgarias Black Sea, Lonely Planet Local Yoana Hristova has had her share of roaming around the world, but she has returned to her home in Sofia only to fall in love with the, One of Europes youngest capitals, Sofia also happens to be amongits oldest settlements, stretching back several millennia from ancient Thracian and, One of the Balkans' larger countries, Bulgaria makes an excellent place for road tripping. Click here to learn more and order your Revolut card. Culinary Experience Around Sofia: Adventure To The Fungi Kingdom. Read our Privacy Policy. Be sure to try the fruit flavored ones! Incredible paintings, monstrous marble stairways, and the creaky wooden gates all exhibit a fantasy, which is value hearing too. Of course, the best views are reserved for the peak, if the weather is agreeable. You can compare car rental deals and find the lowest prices at Rentalcars.com, an aggregation site that searches and displays prices and availability from hundreds of car rental companies, helping you find the best possible car for your budget. When planning your trip to the capital of Bulgaria give yourself some time to see the surroundings of the city too, I bet you will enjoy them too! Visitors can take home authentic pieces of the countrys spirit everything from organic rose-oil cosmetics (Bulgaria is the worlds leading producer of rose oil) and Bulgarian raspberry wines to white cheese and spices. Getting there: Its possible to take a local bus and reach Boyana Church or Dragalevtsi Monastery from the city center in around 30 minutes. Definitely the best place for karting in Sofia. The small town in the north-west part of the country, near the border with Serbia and some 170 km from the capital, is worth visiting for the unique rock formations and a fortress neatly incorporated into them. Rila Monastery Visiting Rila Monastery is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia. Famous for its gold-laden domes, the church commemorates the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died for Bulgarias independence during the Russo-Turkish War (187778). 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape! If youre looking for a short trip from Sofia then theres really nowhere closer than Vitosha Mountain on the edge of the city. Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa. Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay .layer[data-link], #metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay[data-link]').each(function() { As you head towards the summit, youll pass several mountain huts as well as loads of gorgeous mountain scenery including lakes and waterfalls. Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! A simpler option is to just go with a guided tour who will take care of transportation for you. Unlike various other European capital cities, Sofia does not have a historical hub with curvy cobblestone alleys and old buildings. One of the symbols not just of Sofia but of Bulgaria itself, this massive, awe-inspiring church was built between 1882 and 1912 in memory of the 200,000, Sveta Sofia is one of the capital's oldest churches, and gave the city its name. var slider = !window.jQuery ? You can explore the area to find all the great reminders of the past but the other reason to visit Tsarevets Fortress is the wonderful view of Veliko Tarnovo and the surrounding that you can admire from there. A fine example of this architecture is the Velyans House, which is open for visitors. Start by visiting one of the worlds biggest Orthodox churches and a major Bulgarian symbol the stunningneo-ByzantineAleksander Nevski Cathedral. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. 1,229 reviews #4 of 294 things to do in Sofia. But wine isnt the only reason why you should visit Melnik. Suggested Read: 8 Water Parks In Bulgaria That Will Make Your Vacation More Fun. Sofia is a fantastically affordable city to get to thanks to it's highly accessible location and the many budget travel options that exist. Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions . Things to do near Hyatt Regency Sofia Things to do near Best Western Terminus Hotel Things to do near Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia Things to do near Kitchen59 Things to do near Hotel Moreni & Spa Things to do near Visito . before: function(slider) { 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Today will give you a great introduction to the city and is the ideal starting point if you only have one day to spend or 2, 3 or more. At the top are a few rather shabby buildings which are used mainly in skiing season. A little cafeteria on the top, although with a very limited selection of meals. Getting there: Thanks to their remote location, your only real transport option is to visit the Seven Rila Lakes with a guided tour. Sofia's public transportation consists of buses, trams, and the metro. Was kostet ein Taxi vom Center ins Gebirge? 631. We will also call you back in 24 hrs. Saeva Dupka has naturally formed corridors and halls which allow you to go in 400 meters past countless stalactites and stalagmites. Sofia can be also a great base to explore some of the best places to visit in Bulgaria and even beyond. Plovdiv, with its picturesque location on seven hills, is such a charming and vibrant place. Krasna Polyana Karting Track. There's plenty more to see with the rest of your 48 hours in Sofia, including the many attractions around Vitosha. We asked advice at the tourist information office and followed it. When in Bansko, stroll along the cobbled streets of the lovely Old Town and enjoy the typical architecture in National Revival Style. February 7, 2022 If you are spending any amount of time in Sofia Bulgaria, Vitosha Boulevard (Vitoshka in Bulgarian) is the best place to settle in and live like a local. To ensure you have enough time, youll want to consider taking the chair lift or gondola. Highlights include a mosaic floor from, Built in the 4th century AD, this tiny red-brick church is Sofia's oldest preserved building. This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 120 km away from the capital of Bulgaria and getting there takes around 2 hours. It might be a long day trip since the capitals are located around 250 km away from each other, but it would give you a taste of North Macedonia. } orig_width: 300 Belogradchik is yet another good option for a day trip from Sofia that is still not widely popular. You can combine your visit to Veliko Tarnovo with the picturesque Arbanasi village, located only a few kilometers away from the city, where you can see a few beautiful churches (mostly from the 17th century). Even if the place is rather small, it is full of attractions. In the winter Bansko is a famous ski resort and in the summer a doorway to Pirin National Park, popular with hikers and day-trippers. A UNESCO world heritage site, this 10th century church boasts layers and layers of splendid frescoes from different eras. Your email address will not be published. Fantastic getaway from the city. The town also has ties with many esteemed Bulgarian writers and revolutionaries, who often have exhibits dedicated to their work and efforts. Bansko can be easily visited on a day trip from Sofia even if you are not traveling around by car. Excavation work carried out during construction of the metro unveiled a treasure trove of Roman ruins from nearly 2000 years ago, when the city was called 'Serdica'. The caves near the site were inhabited already in the 10th century by hermit Ivan of Rila (eventually the monastery was named after him). There are three incredible caves reachable from Sofia; Saeva Dupka, Devetashka, and Prohodna cave. controlNav:false, The murals inside were painted between the 10th and 14th, If you wondered where all those unwanted statues of Lenin ended up, you'll find some here, along with the red star from atop Sofia's Party House. Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. Built to accommodate up to 1170, Kid-friendly science and technology museum with plenty of interactive exhibits and gadgetry to delight children from 6 to 16 years of age. }, Very attractive nice fresh snow. The list of things to do in Skopje is long but even if you only have a few hours there you still can enjoy the city and its main highlights. On last Saturday when the sun came out we went up to a specific place called Momina Skala that was recommended by a collega of mine in Bulgaria. Gluten-Free London: A Travel Guide for Celiacs, 10 Things You Need to Do Before Your Next International Trip. By bus, the trip takes about 3 hours. If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin! The striped design of the arcade pillars create quite a stunning effect around the courtyard, while the arcades are also decorated with mosaic tiles. Places To Visit In Bulgaria Places To Visit In Albania Places To Visit In Pula. The Krushuna Falls are a series of stunning waterfalls situated in the northern part of Bulgaria near the village of Krushuna in the Krushuna National Park. It is not so big, but it is a perfect place for a walk and. Shtastliveca is ideal for an affordable traditional dinner with a modern twist (vegetarian and vegan options included), Fabrika Dagais famous for its excellent brunches, whileSoul Kitchenoffers mainly vegan and raw food options. Some of the lakes are named after the shapes they resemble, like The Eye and The Kidney, while The Tear is named after its crystal clear water. There's, The history of Sofia is presented on two floors of the magnificent former Turkish Mineral Baths, just behind the mosque. The city is also a great nature getaway as just at the outskirts you can find stunning Matka Canyon or Mount Vodno with some hiking trails. The best way to reach Belogradchik is by car or with the tour, the use of public transport on this route takes too much time and makes this day trip a bit too difficult to organize. $('li:not(".flex-active-slide") .animated', slider).not('.disabled').each(function(index) { One of the oldest winemaking, Who needs a DeLorean when youve got Bulgaria? You can also book a full-day hiking tour from Sofia. We didn't quite know what we were getting into when we decided to go for a little hike on the mountain. Plovdiv is known as the oldest continually inhabited city in Europe, with traces dating back to the 6th century BC. Another religious landmark worth your time is the ancient Dragalevtsi Monastery which has remained active since the mid-15th century. Check out my post on the 20 best things to do in Sofia and learn how you can see the Sofia as a first time solo traveller. Recommended to take the cable car as there is not a lot of parking places up there and in the snow can be very difficult. Sofia is a pleasure not only for culture and past connoisseur, but it also offers various exciting outdoor activities for passionate as well as a broad range of places to visit in Sofia, Bulgaria. var layer = $(this); Open now. Sofia may be the modern capital of Bulgaria, but there was a time when that title went to the city of Veliko Tarnovo in central Bulgaria. There are chair lifts that you can then take to the top, when theyre running. Throughout town are quite a few museums, including the Todor Kableshkov House and Museum, Koprivshtitsas first museum. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); So far Ive been lucky to visit 77 countries on 6 continents. The greenery, fountains, and happy people relaxing are a refreshing view whether you need a nice backdrop for your Instagram photos or just some time for contemplation. Visit website Write a review. Try to go there during the week as its a very busy travel destination on the weekend. The name, which, Sofias Moorish-style synagogue was designed by Austrian architect Friedrich Gruenanger, and was consecrated in 1909. var el = $(this); Many of the historical houses were turned into the museums of well-known Bulgarians even if you are not familiar with the people it is still worth visiting them to see the original interiors from the times the houses were built in. I'm Kami, a solo female frugal traveler from Poland! You can check the insurance policy for Bulgaria here. Now, when driving by the station, one can observe and feel the remnant of an antiquated legacy. Required fields are marked *. Fans of classical music can also opt for a night out at the excellentSofia Philharmonic Orchestra. }); Here are the best things to do in Sofia. Visiting this beautiful monastery, which was built in 927 AD, youll first see the arcades and balconies around the inner cloister. 10 Best Day Trips from Sofia, Bulgaria David JohnstonDecember 11, 2022 Share TwitterPinterestFacebookFlipboardEmail Road Affair is reader-supported and may earn commission from purchases made through links in this article. THE TOP 10 Sofia Tours & Excursions in 2023 Home Things to do in Bulgaria Things to do in Sofia Sofia Tours Questions? Food is deeply ingrained in Bulgarian culture its a way to enjoy life and connect with others. Sofia is no grand metropolis, but it's a modern, youthful city, with a scattering of onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and stubborn Red Army monuments that lend an eclectic, exotic feel. Youll become familiar with Sofia much better only if you go through its past (including centuries-old relics, last-century photos, a kings carriage, and a retro tram in which you can sit also). Do you need to book in advance to visit Vitosha Mountain? 61.27. Easily one of the most popular Sofia day trips is the magnificent Rila Monastery. $('#metaslider_50011').metaslider_scale_layers({ This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 120 km away from the capital of Bulgaria and getting there takes around 2 hours. Among them, you have the most famous Babreka (the Kidney), Okoto (the Eye), and Salzata (the Teardrop). Sampling Sofia: best new food and drink spots. Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox. Serdika Station Begin your Sofia itinerary at Serdika Metro Station. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The best thing about it is that the ticket here is much more affordable as compared to that of visiting a museum. New food trends arrive on the scene every year, whether youre ready for them, Forget the evocative skylines and merry nightlife: beyond Eastern Europe's classic sights you can walk with witches, hear the ocean sing and step straight. Of course, where theres a mountain theres a view, and near the top of Vitosha is a viewpoint with a panorama of Sofia. You can combine visiting the town with the nearby Rozhen Monastery famous for its 16th-century frescoes. The best places to visit from Sofia highlight other aspects of Bulgarias history and culture, as well as its jaw-dropping landscapes. The town has a beautiful location in the shadow of the Pirin Mountains, just under the so-called Melnik Earth Pyramids unique rock formations. From Selimica hut (to be reached by car) to Kumata hut where we had tasty lunch, passing Koniarnika area and going back through Zvezdica hut back to Selimica. Must Read: 10 Villas In Bulgaria Thatll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay. Experiences from $109. A single glance at it grants spectators the hypothesis of a building with the fascinating history. Bicycles can be borrowed in various areas around the capital city at an affordable price. It was constructed in the year 1981 as a portion of Bulgarias ceremony for 1300 years of the history of Bulgaria; it continues to be the greatest congress center in South-Eastern Europe. The monastery also hosts a museum with artifacts from its history, most notably Rafails Cross, whittled from a single piece of wood. What attractions are near Vitosha Mountain? Vitosha Mountain. The best place to stock up on fresh and cheap local foods is theLadies Market(beware of pickpockets). The center is a mix of weird buildings that dont really fit into each other there are ancient-looking yet modern pieces, some gems of brutalist architecture that Skopje is known for, or random blocks of flats. By parvizghadamli. This is where you can admire the countrys largest collection of medieval paintings as well as impressive examples of contemporary art. window.open(layer.attr('data-link'), layer.attr('data-target')); 23 Aug This is post 1 of 5 in the series "Bulgaria" 39 Things to Do in Sofia Bulgaria A Sofia Food Guide + Best Restaurants in Sofia Rila Monastery from Sofia: a day trip guide Rila Seven Lakes day trip from Sofia + tips Boyana Waterfall Hike + Boyana Church: a Sofia Day Trip Melnik is the smallest town in Bulgaria, having a population of only around 400 inhabitants. Learn how your comment data is processed. Its a pre-paid service that offers very good exchange rates and no fees for ATMs use. Youll find a good selection of products atRose of Bulgaria andVino Orenda stores. Ive included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Sofia too. With a history that stretches over seven millennia, ruin-rich Sofia is one of Europe's oldest cities. downscale_only: false, Your email address will not be published. While comprehending the metro system tunnels, development operators exposed remnant of Roman buildings. Hagia Sophia Mosque. You can find many beautiful traditional houses in Melnik as well as the 12-the century Byzantine House one of the oldest remaining civilian buildings in the Balkans. It feels like the time has stopped there and its impossible not to fall under its charm. Today we did a hiking from the South part of Vitosha. 1) Sights & Things to do in Sofia a) Streetart can be found everywhere in the city - checkout the Tsar Ivan Shishman Street to see cool graffitis, paste-ups and most important: the colorful transformer boxes! Prohodna cave is a karst cave best known for the two holes in its ceiling that look remarkably like eyes gazing down. . Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria, deserves more time than just a few hours but if you are short on time a day trip from Sofia to Plovdiv can be a good way to see this interesting place. Walk around one of Sofia's many public parks. itemWidth:300, When winters are snowy, Mt Vitosha offers accessible and cheap ski rides, but bear in mind that the facilities here are basic in comparison to big Bulgarian resorts like Bansko. Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective. Every history buff will be happy to land in Sofia. Sofia is no grand metropolis, but it's a modern, youthful city, with a scattering of onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and stubborn Red Army monuments that lend an eclectic, exotic feel. This central neighbourhood with it's wide pedestrian area is the perfect blend of culture and convenience. You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. 1. walking tours in Sofia 2 - Spend the day at the markets of Sofia Check out the incredible markets that dot the downtown area, and make it a true joy to experience local everyday life in Sofia. Those who find exploring caves fascinating are spoilt for choice in Bulgaria. Why? Sveta Sofia Church Sveta Sofia is one of the capital's oldest churches, and gave the city its name. 5. Amongst the fascinating places to visit in Sofia is from the underground archaeological level, where a unique transparent roof displays the entire street above. While you can walk from the bottom, its also possible to take a chair lift or gondola to start your hike much further up the mountain. Thank you. You can easily get there by train, the journey takes around 2,5 hours one way. Getting there: With no buses or trains reaching its remote location, youll want to do what everyone does and visit as part of an organized tour. Sofia is very green, with huge parks in all parts of the city. Vitosha Mountain can be accessed from many points. The best way to organize visiting the Krushuna Falls is connecting it with visiting the karst cave called Devetashka Cave and one of the oldest villages of Bulgaria, Lovech. April 13, 2022 Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria, but is it worth adding to your bucket list? Sampling Sofia: best new food and drink spots, Tracing ancient Serdica: two days in Sofia, Bulgarian road trip: Sofia to the city of the tsars, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Suggested Read: 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience. But go off the beaten track and explore, The best value cities in Europe for a break from the UK this autumn, Meet a traveller: Lucas Peterson, budget travel guru, Tracing ancient Serdica: two days in Sofia, Bulgarias UFO: the spell of the abandoned Buzludzha monument, Wine-tasting in the Balkans: a guide to Bulgarias wineries, Bulgarias historic highlights: adventure through the ages, The next food trends predicted by travel writers, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Head to Ivan Vazov National Theatre for Bulgarian drama. Over the years it expanded and today this is one of the most unique fortresses you can find in Europe, where nature and the work of humans are combined into a real masterpiece. Article first published February 2018, and last updated October 2019, A report has outlined the best value cities in Europe for a break from the UK this autumn, If wine needs a story, then the story of Balkan wine is a dog-eared, multi-volume series. You can opt to walk to the top & back (which takes 4 hours) or do a circular full-day hike. Read our Privacy Policy. Things to Do in Sofia Popular things to do Bus Tours Day Trips Architectural Buildings Historical Tours Walking Tours Churches & Cathedrals Full-day Tours City Tours Art Galleries Private Day Trips Cultural Tours Sacred & Religious Sites Mountain Bike Tours Culinary Tour Parks Beer & Brewery Tours Hiking Tours Historic Sites 4WD Tours This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States.
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