Sofia

Bulgaria, Europe

Sofia, Bulgaria's vibrant capital, is a blend of ancient history and modern charm. Known for its stunning architecture like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture, it offers engaging museums, lively street art, and a thriving café culture. The nearby Vitosha Mountain provides a quick escape for outdoor enthusiasts, while cultural events and nightlife satisfy diverse tastes. With a rich combination of history, culture, and nature, Sofia is an appealing destination for all travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Sofia

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Sofia

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

A stunning Orthodox cathedral adorned with golden domes.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Vitosha Boulevard

Sofia’s main shopping and dining street buzzing with life.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the National Palace of Culture

A cultural hub hosting exhibitions and performances year-round.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in Borisova Gradina Park

A beautiful park ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Discover the Museum of Socialist Art

Explore Bulgaria's communist past through unique artifacts.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Climb Vitosha Mountain

Hike for breathtaking views over Sofia and nature.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Catch a show in Sofia's iconic theatrical venue.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Archaeological Museum

See ancient artifacts from Bulgaria's rich history.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Savor Bulgarian Cuisine at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy traditional dishes like banitsa and shopska salad.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Boyana Church

Visit a UNESCO site with stunning medieval frescoes.

No booking required
11

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sofia Synagogue

Discover the largest synagogue in the Balkans.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Festival or Event

Experience local culture through various seasonal festivities.

No booking required
13

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the National History Museum

Learn about Bulgaria's past through engaging exhibits.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Bulgarian Lev

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Bulgarian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Shopska Salad

V

Fresh salad with tomatoes and cheese (National dish)

Banitsa

V

Pastry filled with cheese and eggs

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat sausages

Tarator

V

Cold yogurt and cucumber soup

Musaka

Baked dish with meat and potatoes

Phrases to learn

English

Bulgarian

Hello

Zdraveite

(Zdrah-vay-tee)

Yes/No

Da / Ne

(Dah / Neh)

Thank you

Blagodarya

(Bla-go-dah-rya)

Excuse me

Izvinete

(Eez-vee-neh-teh)

How much?

Kolko?

(Kohl-koh)