Sofia 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Sofia, Bulgaria

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning

  • Arrive at Sofia Airport (SOF)
  • Take a taxi or bus (line 183) to your hotel
  • Check-in at Hotel Favorit or similar, located in the heart of Sofia

Afternoon

  • Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a beautiful and iconic Orthodox church
  • Explore the nearby Central Market Hall ( Zhenski Pazar), where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs

Evening

  • Head to the National Historical Museum for an introduction to Bulgaria’s rich history
  • Enjoy dinner at Bistro Tamara, serving traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere

Day 2: Ancient History and Architecture

Morning

  • Visit the Ancient Roman Ruins, a well-preserved archaeological site featuring baths, temples, and more
  • Explore the nearby St. George’s Rotunda (Sveti Georgi), one of the oldest churches in Sofia

Afternoon

  • Head to the National Archaeological Museum to learn about Bulgaria’s ancient history
  • Visit the Vitosha Mountain, a popular hiking destination with stunning views of the city

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Fiasco, a modern Bulgarian restaurant with a focus on local ingredients
  • Take a stroll through the lively Lunch Street (Sedem Adesa), where you can find plenty of bars and restaurants

Day 3: Parks, Gardens, and Green Spaces

Morning

  • Visit the beautiful Borisova Gradina, one of Sofia’s largest parks and gardens
  • Explore the nearby Central Park (Park Pobeda), a peaceful oasis in the city center

Afternoon

  • Head to the National Botanical Garden, featuring over 3,000 plant species
  • Visit the Vitosha Nature Park, where you can hike or take a leisurely walk

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Moma, a stylish restaurant serving international cuisine
  • Relax with a drink in the nearby Park Pobeda

Day 4: Museums and Art Galleries

Morning

  • Visit the National Gallery, featuring Bulgarian and European art from the Middle Ages to the present day
  • Explore the nearby The National Museum of Fine Arts (Narodna galeria), showcasing Bulgarian art and culture

Afternoon

  • Head to the Museum of Socialist Art, a unique museum exploring Bulgaria’s socialist past
  • Visit the Sofia Gallery (Galilea Sofia), featuring contemporary art exhibitions

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Tzigane, a restaurant serving traditional Bulgarian cuisine in an atmospheric setting
  • Take a stroll through the lively Tsaritsa Elena Street, lined with bars, restaurants, and shops

Day 5: Shopping and Markets

Morning

  • Visit the Central Market Hall ( Zhenski Pazar) for a wide range of local goods and handicrafts
  • Explore the nearby Elena’s Alley (Ulitsa Tzaritza Elena), where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts

Afternoon

  • Head to the Sofia Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Bulgaria
  • Visit the Tsarigrad Street Market, selling everything from food to clothing

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Havana Club, a stylish restaurant serving international cuisine and cocktails
  • Relax with a drink in the nearby Park Pobeda

Day 6: Day Trip to Rila Monastery

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the stunning Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour’s drive from Sofia
  • Explore the beautiful monastery complex and its rich history

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby Melnik Village, known for its picturesque streets, charming houses, and traditional architecture
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants in Melnik

Evening

  • Return to Sofia and enjoy dinner at Dafina, serving delicious Bulgarian cuisine
  • Relax with a drink or take a stroll through the city center

Day 7: Last Day in Sofia

Morning

  • Visit any last-minute attractions or do some souvenir shopping
  • Enjoy brunch at Bistro Fiasco, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Bulgarian cuisine

Afternoon

  • Head to the airport and depart from Bulgaria
  • Take one last look back at Sofia, hoping to return soon!

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Get familiar with local customs and traditions
  • Be prepared for variable weather (summer can be hot, while winters can be cold)
  • Learn some basic Bulgarian phrases to interact with locals
  • Don’t forget to try the delicious Bulgarian cuisine!
  • Respect local rules and regulations when exploring historical sites or museums

Transportation:

  • Sofia has a well-developed public transportation system (buses, trams, and trolleybuses) that can take you to most areas of the city.
  • You can also use taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience.

Accommodation:

  • Consider staying in a hotel or apartment located in the city center for easy access to attractions and amenities.

Currency:

  • The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). You can exchange your money at local banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.

Language:

  • Bulgarian is the primary language spoken in Sofia. Many locals also speak English, especially among younger generations and those working in tourism.

Safety:

  • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
  • Take necessary precautions when walking at night.

Have a wonderful time exploring Sofia!