Sofia 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Sofia

Day 1: Explore the City Center

Morning

  • Start your day at Nikol Vaptsarov Square, a lively public space surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
  • Visit the Central Mineral Baths (entry fee: 5 BGN / 2.50 EUR), an impressive example of Bulgarian architecture from the late 19th century.

Afternoon

  • Explore the National Historical Museum (entry fee: 10 BGN / 5 EUR), which showcases Bulgaria’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Stroll through the nearby Patriarch Evtimiy Square, a charming area with beautiful gardens, fountains, and historic buildings.

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at Dafina or Kavarna, both highly-recommended restaurants in the city center.
  • For a drink, head to She She Bar, which offers a wide selection of cocktails and has a cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Visit Ancient Ruins

Morning

  • Start your day at Ancient Serdica (entry fee: 10 BGN / 5 EUR), the ancient Roman city where Sofia is built on top of.
  • Explore the ruins, which include a forum, basilicas, and other historic buildings.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Saint Sophia Church (free entry), one of the oldest churches in Sofia, with impressive architecture and beautiful frescoes.
  • Explore the nearby St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an iconic landmark with stunning architecture and intricate details.

Evening

  • Enjoy a drink at Kino 21, which offers a wide selection of cocktails and has a cozy atmosphere.
  • For dinner, head to Havana Cafe, which serves delicious Cuban food in a lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Visit Parks and Monuments

Morning

  • Start your day at Vitosha Park (free entry), one of the largest parks in Sofia, with beautiful gardens, fountains, and walking trails.
  • Take a hike up to Aleko, which offers stunning views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Pantheon (entry fee: 5 BGN / 2.50 EUR), which honors Bulgaria’s most notable citizens.
  • Explore the nearby Russian Church, which has beautiful architecture and intricate details.

Evening

  • Enjoy a drink at The Roof, which offers stunning views of the city.
  • For dinner, head to La Vino, which serves delicious Italian food in a cozy atmosphere.

Transportation

  • Sofia has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trams.
  • You can also use taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak season (June-August) if possible.
  • Learn some basic Bulgarian phrases, such as “hello” (zdrave), “thank you” (hvala), and “excuse me” (izvinite).

Accommodation

  • Hotel Bulgaria is a highly-recommended hotel in the city center.
  • Hostel Sofia is a great option for backpackers or budget travelers.

Things to Know

  • Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian lev (BGN) as its currency, although euros are widely accepted.
  • The official language is Bulgarian, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, and relaxation, and can be adjusted based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Sofia!