Sofia Highlights 2 Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour

Sofia , Bulgaria

Sofia Highlights 2 Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour

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About this experience

Want to explore Sofia's main landmarks in just 2 hours? Then this walking tour is for you! You will get to see 20 of the city's most famous spots, learn about Sofia's and Bulgaria's history in a fun and interactive way, and learn more about local habits and traditions. All this while being accompanied by an enthusiastic professional local guide.

We meet right in front of Sofia's most famous building - the St Alexander Nevski Cathedral, which you will also be able to enter as part of the tour.

Available options

Sofia Highlights 2 Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour

What's included

Official Licensed Local Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

You will meet your guide right in front of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The tour will start with an overview of the history of Sofia and Bulgaria. You will then learn about the cathedral's fascinating history. As part of this guided tour, you will also be able to enter the building.

The lion statue and a memorial complex are dedicated to all Bulgarian heroes. You will also learn about the significance of the lion.

Learn the story behind the church that gave the city its name.

Stop 4

The place that makes all your wishes come true. How come? Come and join us! We'll explain.

Stop 5

Bulgaria's former Royal Palace today houses the National Art Gallery and National Ethnographic Museum. We'll also share the story of the yellow cobblestones surrounding it.

A favorite of a lot of locals. You can really feel the youthfull spirit of Sofia when passing through this park.

Stop 7

Arguably one of Sofia's most beautiful buildings, dedicated to Bulgaria's most beloved author Ivan Vazov.

Stop 8

Sofia's oldest building is well hidden. Another gem dating back to Sofia's glorious Roman past.

Stop 9

Once a mosque - now Sofia's oldest museum.

The Bulgarian National Guards are always right in front of the building. Learn about the symbolism surrounding this unusual job. You can even take a picture with them.

Out of the ruins of WW2, the Largo of Sofia was constructed by the new communist power, symbolizing the strength of the regime. You will see the Council of Ministers, the National Assembly, and the Presidency.

The building that once housed Sofia's Central Mineral Baths now houses the Sofia Museum.

Sofia existed from such an early age because of its mineral waters. During this tour, you will be able to try them—do not hesitate—they have healing powers!

Stop 14

Sofia's beautiful Synagogue is the biggest on the Balkan peninsula. We'll share the extraordinary history of the Bulgarian Jewish community.

Today, this is Sofia's only functioning mosque. Learn about the story of the Bulgarian Muslim community.

Below Sofia's modern-day center lies the ancient city of Serdika. We'll jump back in time and walk around the impressive excavations.

The beautiful statue of Sofia and the controversy surrounding it.

Sofia's biggest catholic church and the story of the small catholic community in Bulgaria.

You will learn the tragic story of the biggest terrorist attack that ever took place in Bulgaria.

Stop 20 Pass by

The tour finishes right next to the beginning of Sofia's main pedestrian street - Vitosha Boulevard. A perfect stop to continue your day by having some lunch at one of the numerous restaurants you will find nearby.

What's not included

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

377 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you on the stairs right in front of the main entrance of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

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.