Sofia Walking Private City Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Sofia City Tour is a great possibility to discover its rich history and to get acquainted with its present.
The city of Sofia offers beautiful buildings, Roman remains, old churches, extremely interesting archaeological complexes and of course thousands of bars and restaurants where you can taste traditional Bulgarian dishes.
Available options
Sofia Walking Private City Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Professional Tour Guide's service
Detailed itinerary
1
The second oldest building in Sofia dating to the 6th century. Remains of earlier churches can be seen under the ground level dating to the 4th and the 5th century. Together with the ancient churches one can admire more than 50 Roman tombs dating between the end of the 2nd and the 5th century.
2
Pass by the Bulgarian National Assembly
3
Stop 3
The most important and the most beautiful cathedral in Sofia, the biggest on the Balkan Peninsula and one of the biggest among all Orthodox churches in the world.
4
Stop 4
Admire the elegant guilted domes of teh Russian church.
5
Stop 5
The Natuional Art Galley is housed in the building that served as a Royal Palace to the former Royal families of Bulgaria.
6
Walk through the City garden and feel the aristocratic spirit of Sofia from the 19th century.
7
Stop 7
Admire one of the very few buildings that has been restored in its original architectural style after the WWII.
8
See the change of the guards at the Presidency Building
9
Visit the pearl of Sofia, the oldest building in the city, dating to the 4th century
10
Get acquainted with the communist architecture
11
Walk around original Roman Ruins dating to the 5th and the 6th century. Experience walking on a Roman street from the 6th century. Visit Roman houses, public buildings, Roman bath and a toilet :).
12
The Regional History Museum has been housed in the former public bath. Beautiful local architecture from the begining of the 20th century.
13
The only active mosque in Sofia, build in 1567.
14
Stop 14
The covered market built in 1911.
15
Stop 15
Absolutely beautiful, the Sofia Synagogue is a symbol of the peaceful cohabitation between Christians and Jews over the centuries.
16
The Statue of St Sofia is a symbol of the city, erected in 2001.
17
A beautiful church, famous in our history with the bloody accident in 1925 against the Bulgarian King.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
82 reviews
5★
79
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
45 reviews
5★
42
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
In front of the Saint Nedelya church
Important notes
There are not entrances in this tour.
About Sofia
Sofia is the vibrant capital of Bulgaria, nestled at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and Soviet-era landmarks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful natural surroundings.
Top Attractions
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
This iconic cathedral is one of Sofia's most famous landmarks. It was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for the museum and bell tower)
Vitosha Mountain
Vitosha Mountain offers a stunning backdrop to Sofia and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (lift tickets for skiing cost around €10-€20)
National History Museum
This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Bulgaria's rich history.
Museum
2-3 hours
€5
Boyana Church
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Boyana Church is known for its stunning frescoes dating back to the 13th century.
Historical
1 hour
€4
Sofia Central Mineral Baths
This historic building was once a public bathhouse and is now a popular spot for shopping and dining.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Banitsa
A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with layers of filo dough, cheese, and eggs. It's often served for breakfast with a side of yogurt.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Shopska Salad
A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It's a staple in Bulgarian cuisine and is often served as a side dish.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Kebapche
A grilled minced meat sausage made with a mix of pork and beef, seasoned with spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander. It's often served with french fries or lyutenitsa (a spicy pepper and tomato spread).
Main Course
Contains meat
Tarator
A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It's a refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with plant-based yogurt)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Vitosha Mountain
Skiing in Bansko or nearby resorts
Mountain biking and other outdoor activities
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Strolling through parks and gardens
Enjoying a meal or drink at a rooftop bar
Exploring museums and galleries
Attending concerts and performances
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Sofia for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.
15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Bulgarian
- Widely spoken: English, Russian, Romanian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places
Currency
Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sofia is generally a safe city for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. It's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Sofia Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center
By train
Central Railway Station
By bus
Central Bus Station, South Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around Sofia.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, OK Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Lozenets
Studentski Grad
Orlov Most
Day trips
Rila Monastery
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.
Plovdiv
150 km (93 miles) • Full day
Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
Bansko
160 km (100 miles) • Full day or overnight
Bansko is a popular ski resort in the winter and a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities in the summer. It's known for its stunning mountain scenery and traditional Bulgarian charm.
Festivals
Sofia Film Fest • March
Sofia Pride • June
Sofia International Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful light.
- Try traditional Bulgarian rakia and meze at a local bar for an authentic experience.
- Explore the underground caves and tunnels of Sofia for a unique and fascinating look at the city's history.
- Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery or Plovdiv for a taste of Bulgaria's rich history and culture.
- Visit the National Palace of Culture for concerts, performances, and other cultural events.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
