Sofia, Bulgaria 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Sofia Itinerary: Exploring the Bulgarian Capital

This itinerary balances historical exploration with modern experiences and some delicious local cuisine.

Day 1: Stepping into History

  • Morning: Explore the historic city center. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Afterward, stroll through the Alexander Nevsky Square, admiring the statues and monuments that pay tribute to Bulgaria’s history.
  • Afternoon: Delve into Sofia’s Roman past at the Serdica Archaeological Complex. This open-air museum showcases the well-preserved ruins of the ancient city of Serdica, which was buried beneath Sofia for centuries.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian dinner at Hadjidraganov’s Cellar, known for its delicious local dishes and charming atmosphere. Try the “Shopska salad,” “banitsa” (a savory pastry), and “kavarma” (a flavorful stew).

Day 2: Ancient Ruins & Modern Art

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in history at the National Archaeological Museum. Discover artifacts from ancient Thracian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations.
  • Lunch: Grab a quick and tasty bite at Supa Star, known for its traditional Bulgarian soups and stews.
  • Afternoon: Explore the National Historical Museum to learn about Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Evening: Experience Sofia’s vibrant nightlife. Enjoy live music at Jazz Bistro, where you can find both local and international acts, or indulge in a craft beer at Fabrika Daga.

Day 3: A Day Trip to the Mountains

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Vitosha Mountain, a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.

  • Lunch: Have a picnic at one of the picturesque meadows on Mount Vitosha.

  • Afternoon: Visit the National Park Vitosha for breathtaking views and explore its trails.

  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at The Wooden House, known for its traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 4: Sofia’s Ancient History & Communist Past

  • Morning: Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Serdica, which are now open to the public.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Church of St. George Rotunda, a 4th-century Roman church with impressive Byzantine mosaics.
    • Experience Vitosha Mountain’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

Accommodation: Consider staying in the heart of Sofia at a charming hotel like the Sense Hotel Sofia for its convenient location and modern amenities.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian meal at Moma Restaurant, a renowned eatery known for its authentic dishes.

  • Dinner: Indulge in a delicious meal at Restaurant “The Old Town”

Day 5: Departure & Last Bites of Bulgaria

  • Morning: Explore the Sofia History Museum, showcasing artifacts from the city’s history, including its time under Ottoman rule and the communist era.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Clock Bar, a popular spot for locals with a charming retro atmosphere.

  • Things to Do:

    • Visit The National Archaeological Museum again, this time focusing on exhibits that pique your interest.
    • Stroll through the National Palace of Culture, a massive cultural complex built during the communist era.

  • Enjoy the Sofia History Museum’s impressive collection of artifacts from Bulgaria’s past, including archaeological finds and ethnographic collections.

Food & Drink:

Things to Eat:

  • Banitsa: This flaky pastry is filled with cheese, spinach, or pumpkin and can be found in most bakeries.
  • Shopska Salad: A classic Bulgarian salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, feta cheese, and parsley.
  • Kyufte: These are spiced meatballs, a staple in Bulgarian cuisine.

Things to Drink:

  • Rakia: A traditional fruit brandy (often plum or grape) that is a must-try for visitors.
  • Boza: A fermented beverage made from wheat, millet, or corn, with a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
  • Ayran: This yogurt-based drink is a refreshing way to enjoy Bulgarian cuisine

Things to Note:

  • Currency: The currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).

  • Language: Bulgarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  • Food & Drink:

    • Bulgarian Cuisine:

      • Banitsa: Enjoy this traditional food at a local bakery or cafe.
      • Shopska Salad: A popular option for a refreshing and affordable meal.

    • Safety: Bulgaria is generally a safe country, but it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.

    • Transportation:

  • Getting Around: The best way to get around the city is by walking.

      * **Public Transport:**

      * **Metro:** Efficient and affordable, with lines connecting most areas of Sofia.
      * **Buses & Trams:** Extensive network covering even the furthest corners of the city.

  • Transportation Tips:

    • Purchase a travel card for the metro or bus/tram tickets in advance.
    • Be prepared to pay for individual rides on buses and trams, rather than relying on a single ticket system.

  • Things to Consider:

    • Walking: The city center is easily walkable, but be aware of uneven sidewalks and traffic.

    • Walking & Public Transport: A great way to explore the city while enjoying its charming ambiance. Public Transport in Sofia:

    • Get a “Sofia Card” for unlimited travel on public transport during your stay.

  • Bus/Tram: Purchase a ticket before boarding from a kiosk, metro station, or from the tram driver.

    • Trolley Bus: Travel on a trolley bus for a unique experience and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

  • Walking Tours: Discover the hidden gems of Sofia with a guided tour.

Things to See & Do:

  • Sofia City:

  • The city offers a blend of historical and modern landmarks, making it perfect for exploring on foot.

  • Free Walking Tours: Explore the city’s history through the free walking tours offered by various organizations.

  • The National History Museum:

    • A great place to learn about Bulgaria’s past.

  • Things to Do in Sofia:

  • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral:

This iconic cathedral is a must-see for its stunning architecture and intricate mosaics.

  • National Palace of Culture: This cultural landmark hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other events.
  • Sofia History Museum: Learn about the city’s rich history through archaeological artifacts and historical artifacts.
  • Vitosha Mountain: Explore the breathtaking views and hiking trails of this majestic mountain.
  • Vitosha Mountain:

Experience the beauty of the natural world with a visit to Vitosha Mountain, a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

  • Vitosha Boulevard: The main pedestrian street in Sofia, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and historical buildings.

  • National Palace of Culture:

This impressive building houses museums, theatres, and other cultural venues.

  • Serdica Amphitheatre: Explore this ancient Roman theatre located in the heart of the city.
  • Vitosha History Museum:

Learn about the history of Vitosha Mountain, from its archaeological past to its use as a cultural destination.

  • Sofia’s Historic Neighborhoods:

Explore the charming and historic neighborhoods of Sofia like Sveta Nedelya for a taste of local history, or visit the Sofia Zoo for an afternoon with the animals.

  • National Archaeological Museum:

Discover ancient artifacts from Bulgaria’s past, including Thracian treasures.

  • Enjoy the city’s vibrant cultural scene:

    • Bulgaria’s History:
      • Museums:

Visit the National Gallery of Art, where you can see works by Bulgarian artists and learn about the country’s artistic heritage.

  • Vitosha Boulevard:

Enjoy a variety of attractions, including museums, theaters, and historical buildings.

Food & Drink in Sofia:

  • National History Museum: A fantastic place to learn about the history of Bulgaria, including its Thracian roots.
  • The Clock Bar:

Many visitors enjoy this traditional Bulgarian restaurant.

  • National Archaeological Museum:

This is a great option for those who want to experience a more modern and upscale dining experience.

  • Buses & Trams:

    • The Sofia metro system connects the city’s major attractions, making it easy to get around.

  • Historic Sites:

Many historical sites are accessible by public transport.

  • Vitosha:
    • Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian meal at the “The Clock Bar” restaurant, which is known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere.