SOFIA Exclusive Day Tour with Vitosha Mountain & Panoramic Drive

Sofia , Bulgaria

SOFIA Exclusive Day Tour with Vitosha Mountain & Panoramic Drive

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About this experience

This Sofia Full Day guided tour is a brilliant way to get an overview of the city and experience the local atmosphere for a day.
Start the day with a walking tour around the beautiful centre of this 7,000-year-old capital. Your tour leader will reveal the area's main sites and Sofia’s well-kept secrets and places. Some of the highlights of your walking tour:
- Bulgarian Parliament
- Russian Church
- National Gallery
- National Theatre
- The Presidency
- St. Nedelya Church
- St. George’s Rotunda
- Largo Complex
- Roman ruins of Serdica
- Banya Bashi Mosque
- Central Market Hall
- Central Baths
- The Synagogue
- St. Sofia Church
- St. Aleksander Nevski Cathedral
- Sofia University
- National Library
- Vasil Levski monument
- Shipka and Oborishte streets
- Eagle’s Bridge
- Visit of all major landmarks in Sofia
The tour continues through less known places which we will explore by vehicle. Time for lunch on the foot of Vitosha and the Boyana Church will be the last stops for the day.

Available options

SOFIA Exclusive Day Tour with Vitosha Mountain & Panoramic Drive

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Visit of all major landmarks in Sofia

Professional Guide Services

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Your tour will start from the pearl of Sofia, the beautiful Russian Church, easily recognizable by its notorious golden domes. Immersing yourself into the ancient history of the city, you will pass through Roman ruins and Medieval settlements only to reach the unique amalgamation of cultures and religions that emerged during Ottoman times. Strolling around the historical city center, you will learn to recognize the different architectural styles that are embedded in the buildings around you – from gorgeous royal palaces to Stalin’s monumental ensembles. Get lost in one of the oldest streets in Sofia still teeming with local stories, nostalgy, and romanticism. Take a glimpse inside most of the landmarks, including the oldest still functioning Christian temple in Europe where your guide, who is an art historian, will explain in detail the meaning and symbolism behind the unique wall-paintings inside.

Stop 2

Following such an enchanting journey back in time, a driver will meet us in front of St. Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, our last stop for the walking tour. We will continue exploring the beauties of the city by vehicle. Gain better insight and understanding of the metropolis and the way it functions today. Making our way through different neighborhoods, each one accompanied by a gripping tale, we reach the towering Vitosha Mountain. Sit down and relax in the charming garden of our hosts, who will prepare one of the best traditional dishes in Sofia. Enjoy your lunch and indulge in the soothing whiff of the surrounding forest.

Stop 3

When you shake off this feeling of calmness and pleasure, provoked by such a delicious culinary endeavor, we head towards one of the hidden gems of Sofia – the historical Boyana Church - a UNESCO heritage site which will take us back in the 11th- century Medieval Bulgaria. Your leader promises to reveal the story of the unique frescoes hidden in the church and tell you more about their peculiar characteristics. The tour ends with a panoramic view of the whole city and a coffee/tea break at a place where only locals go.

What's not included

Traditional Lunch

Coffee/Тea break

Personal Expenses

Gratuities

Entrance fees

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR NL

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.