Full-day Vitosha Mountain Snowshoe Hiking Tour from Sofia

Sofia , Bulgaria

Full-day Vitosha Mountain Snowshoe Hiking Tour from Sofia

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(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Escape the crowds and winter smog in the city and enjoy the fresh mountain air of Vitosha Mountain – the oldest national park of the Balkans. Climb Cherni Vruh (2290 m a.s.l.) – the highest peak of the mountain, admiring breathtaking panoramas. Whether you are a summer hill walker or a non-skier visiting Bulgaria, you will be surprised and delighted by how easily you can dive into the tranquility of a winter wonderland, within a day trip from Sofia led by an expert.

Available options

Full-day Vitosha Mountain Snowshoe Hiking Tour from Sofia

Pickup included

What's included

All transfers with private car or minivan as per itinerary

English-speaking licensed mountain guide throughout the tour

Pick-up / drop-off at your hotel or address within the city of Sofia

Hire of snowshoes and walking poles

All local taxes.

What's not included

Food and drinks (except hot tea provided by the guide)

Other personal expenses

Personal mountain / travel insurance

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

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Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

All passenger heights and weights MUST be advised at time of booking

Recommended equipment: Comfortable winter boots (at least 3 season waterproof hiking boots with ankle support), warm fleece, warm jacket (water and windproof if possible), winter pants (ski pants), warm gloves, winter hat, sunglasses with high UV protection, ski goggles (recommended in case of strong wind), sunscreen lotion (high factor), thermos bottle (to prevent your water freezing), lunch pack, comfortable day pack for your personal belongings.

Important notes

• Recommended equipment: Comfortable winter boots (at least 3 season waterproof hiking boots with ankle support), warm fleece, warm jacket (water and windproof if possible), winter pants (ski pants), warm gloves, winter hat, sunglasses with high UV protection, ski goggles (recommended in case of strong wind), sunscreen lotion (high factor), thermos bottle (to prevent freezing of your water), lunch pack, comfortable day pack for your personal belongings.

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.