Full-day Nis and Serbian History Tour from Sofia
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Located only 163 kilometers from Sofia, Nis is a fantastic option to add a Serbian stamp in your passport, without checking out from your hotel in Bulgaria. Nis is the third largest city in Serbia and the birthplace of Constantine the Great, one of the most important emperors in the Roman history. Explore the intriguing history of former Yugoslavia, while having delicious authentic Serbian roshtil (grill) either in a traditional restaurant where you can pay with a card (plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available) or try the Serbian street food.
Available options
Nis pick up/drop off
Nis Day Tour with pick up: This is a small group tour to Nis and includes pick up/drop off from your hotel, transportation, English speaking live guide
Day Tour to Nis (Small Group)
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Driver/guide in English
Detailed itinerary
1
This Roman estate exhibits the remains of a granary, craft centre, villas , thermae, and the remains of ancient villa with rich mosaics. Most mosaics exhibit geometrical or floral motifs, while two mosaics presenting figures - the head of the Medusa and a semi-prostrate figure of a river deity (probably Neptune). The museum contains sculptures and portraits of Roman gods and goddesses, utensils for daily use (bowls, pitchers, lamps) and remnants of lead pipes used to provide healing hot water from the nearby Niska Banja (Nis Spa).
2
Upon our arrival in Niš we will first visit the famous Cele Kula (Skull Tower NIS) where you will learn about the atrocities of the Turks against the Serbs and you will see a unique in the world monument for the sacrifice of Serbian revolutionaries.
3
At 15:00h we will drive to Niš Concentration Camp - a small but very authentic concentration camp set by the Germans during World War 2 to imprison and kill Jews, Romas and other minorities. We leave back to Sofia around 16:00h and expect to arrive around 18:30h.
4
Visit city sites including Nis fortress with several excavated areas from Roman times, get familiar with findings fron Nis area dated back to 6000 bc in the Archeological hall in town, including more recent findings, discovered in the Royal Villa of Konstantine The Great, Mediana (currently closed for restorations).
What's not included
Food and drinks
Entrance fees (10 € per person) cash or card
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
55 reviews
5★
44
4★
6
3★
2
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.2
32 reviews
5★
19
4★
7
3★
3
2★
0
1★
3
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Balkan boarders are busy during July and August. To avoid delays, alternative routes might be taken, adding a few hours to the trip.
Cash (10 € per person) or credit/debit card needed for entrance fees.
On 07 January and 14 January the sites and the museums will not be open.
Meeting point
8:30 Departure from Serdika Meeeting Point (2, Maria Luiza boulevard across McDonalds on the main street). Please show up at least 10 minutes earlier and look for a V Travel branded vehicle (car, minivan, van, minibus).
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Valid passport or ID card for cross-border check in Serbia. Visa may be required, please check before you book
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
Instant confirmation
