Sofia 3 Day Itinerary

Sofia: A 3-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on exploring the historical, cultural, and culinary highlights of Sofia. It’s designed for a moderate pace, allowing time for relaxation and spontaneous discoveries.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostel Mostel (modern, social atmosphere), Hostel Sofia (central location)
  • Mid-range: Sense Hotel Sofia (stylish design, rooftop bar), Grand Hotel Sofia (historic building, excellent service)
  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel Zografski (spa, fine dining), Hyatt Regency Sofia (city views, modern amenities)

Transportation

  • Sofia Metro: Efficient and affordable. Single tickets cost around 1 leva.
  • Buses & Trams: Extensive network covering the entire city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or from drivers.
  • Taxis: Use reputable companies like OK Supertrans or Taxi Me. Agree on the fare beforehand.
  • Walking: Sofia is a walkable city, especially the central area.

Things to Know

  • Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN). 1 Euro ≈ 1.96 BGN. ATMs are widely available.
  • Language: Bulgarian. English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

Day 1: Historical Sofia

  • Morning: Start at the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning Neo-Byzantine masterpiece with intricate mosaics. Afterward, explore the Archaeological Complex of Serdica, uncovering ancient Roman ruins beneath modern Sofia.
  • Lunch: Sample traditional Bulgarian cuisine at Hadjidraganov’s Cellars, renowned for its authentic dishes and cozy atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National History Museum to delve into Bulgaria’s rich past from antiquity to the present day. Take a leisurely stroll through the serene Borisova Gradina park, enjoying the green spaces and monuments.

Dinner: Indulge in a delicious Bulgarian dinner at Supa Star, known for its creative soups and hearty meals.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Panoramic Views

  • Morning: Explore the Sofia History Museum, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building. Discover the city’s evolution through exhibitions on archaeology, art, and everyday life.

  • Lunch: Grab a quick and tasty bite at Mekitsa & Coffee, specializing in traditional Bulgarian fried dough pastries.

  • Afternoon: Ascend Mount Vitosha via cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of Sofia. Enjoy a hike through the mountain trails or relax at one of the scenic restaurants.

Dinner: Experience modern Bulgarian cuisine with a twist at the contemporary restaurant Cosmos, known for its innovative dishes and stylish setting.

Day 3: Art & Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the National Gallery, showcasing a comprehensive collection of Bulgarian art from various periods. Afterward, explore the quirky and colorful street art scene in Sofia’s hip neighborhoods like Studentski grad or Lozenets.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Little Things Cafe, a charming spot known for its healthy options and cozy ambiance.

Afternoon: Relax and rejuvenate at one of Sofia’s many thermal baths, such as the Roman Baths or the Central Mineral Baths. Indulge in a massage or soak in the healing mineral waters.

  • Dinner: Celebrate your last night in Sofia with a fine dining experience at Restaurant 1901, offering contemporary European cuisine and an elegant atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Bargaining: Not customary in shops but may be possible in markets.
  • Tipping: Around 10% in restaurants is appreciated.
  • Safety: Sofia is generally safe, but exercise caution as with any city.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Sofia!