Bulgaria. Vast, impressive, and beautiful. Incredible nature and diverse experiences. Although Bulgaria is not one of the most trending and Read more
10 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Sofia | Exploring the Unique Things in Bulgaria’s Capital City
Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city, is the largest city in Bulgaria in terms of population. It is also the second oldest city in Europe, and a wonderful place to explore, relax, and enjoy delicious food and historical sites. Whether you are looking to promenade and people watch, enjoy delicious food and coffee, see historical sites and museums, or do some VERY affordable shopping (second hand too), Sofia has a little bit of everything. Don’t forget to also enjoy the historic churches and cathedrals in the city.
Things to Do in Sofia
Most people, when they arrive to Bulgaria, land in the capital city of Sofia. Sofia is the largest city in Bulgaria in terms of population, the second oldest city in Europe, and a wonderful place to explore, relax, and enjoy delicious food and historical sites. Whether you are looking to promenade, resting every now and then for a coffee, or to visit museums and learn about Bulgarian’s history, there is something for everyone.
1. Stroll Down Vitosha Boulevard
Vitosha Boulevard is the place to be in Sofia. Lined with cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs, and bookshops, there is a little bit of everything. This pedestrian street certainly has its fair share of tourist traps. But you can also find many gems and fun places to people watch and enjoy delicious food. And don’t forget to take in the lovely city views of the mountains while you are strolling around.
2. Check out the Sofia History Museum
What used to be Sofia’s central bathhouse was recently turned into the Sofia History Museum. We happened upon this museum quite by accident and were attracted by the beautiful and stunning architecture. Upon a closer look, we found out that it was a history museum that cost just a few Euros for entry. You can learn about the ancient history and more modern history of Bulgaria in the wonderfully organized museum. You can also check out the Royal Palace if you are looking for more cultural places to see. It hosts the Ethnographic museum and the National Art Gallery.
3. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Just walking through the streets of Sofia, you can find beautiful and historical cathedrals like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral which is one of the top tourist attraction in Sofia. Don’t be distracted by just this church though. The city has many other smaller churches and beautiful architecture that dates back hundreds of years.
Although we certainly were not expecting it, as Bulgaria is not particularly famous for their coffee, there were many coffee shops throughout the city serving some high quality coffee. Relax and enjoy the visually appealing cafes and coffee shops while sipping on some espresso or a cappuccino. We were also very impressed with the delicious food that the city had to offer. They have a wide variety of different cuisines and of course lots of delicious Bulgarian dishes as well.
If you are a lover of shopping, Sofia is a great place for you, especially if you love second hand! The prices are very low compared to other European cities and you can find lots of goodies. Humana is a chain that offer great deals and is something like the US version of Goodwill. Be sure to check out some of the very affordable vintage shops that the city has to offer as well!
6. Take a Day Trip to the Countryside
Whether you are looking for a short city escape or respite into nature, Sofia is luckily very close to mountains and lakes. You can visit Pancharevo Lake or Vitosha Mountain for a small hike. Or you can go even farther into the mountains and small farming villages of Bulgaria.
7. Relax at a Spa
In the suburbs of Sofia, you will find many options for thermal spas. Just about a 20-minutes drive from Sofia, we found a quaint little spa with a beautiful view of Pancharevo Lake, Infinity Spa. For just around $25 you can spend half the day at the spa, receiving drinks, access to multiple saunas, and of course the mineral-rich waters that come from the ground in the surrounding area. Smoothies and snacks are included in the price. But there are not full dishes offered, so consider eating before or after.
8. Day Trip to 7 Rila Lakes
The Seven Rila Lakes is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful things to see in Bulgaria. Located just under two hours outside of Sofia, it is easily done on a day trip from the city. Hence the name, there are seven lakes within the Rila mountain range that require a small hike to see them in all of their glory. You start the trip driving up the mountain (enjoying the incredible view in the process). Then you take a cable car to the start of the hike (or you can hike it if you have the time). And start your loop-trail to see all seven of the lakes.
9. Stroll Through the City’s Many Parks
If there’s one thing that Sofia has plenty of, it’s parks and gardens. Whether you are looking to take a nice, peaceful stroll and people watch as the locals go about their lives or just looking for something relaxing to do, you are set. Borisova Garden is one of the most beloved where you will see countless dog walkers, playgrounds, cyclists, and sports players. The City Garden is the oldest in the city and is home to The National Theater. South Park, National Palace of Culture, and The Crystal Garden are some other great ones to check out if you have some extra time on your hands.
10. Visit Boyana Church
Just a short distance from center city in Sofia, you will find the 900 year old Boyana Church. Located at the foot of the Vitosha mountains, this church from the Middle Ages is also a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site. It boasts beautiful architecture, impressive paintings, and stunning frescoes.
We stayed at a very cute Airbnb in a wonderful and very central (yet still quiet) location right near Vitosha Boulevard! We stayed there for all of the nights we spent in Sofia. Two nights in the beginning of the trip and one night at the end of the trip. It was clean and spacious, beautifully decorated, and the host was helpful and kind. It was on the 5th floor, with no elevator, so be prepared to get some extra steps in!
There are many affordably priced Airbnb’s hotels, and hostels throughout the city. It just depends on what sort of travel you are looking for!
Getting Around in Sofia
Transportation – Although Bulgaria has a solid public transportation system (busses, trains, etc), they can be difficult to maneuver and understand without speaking Bulgarian. Within Sofia and other major cities, they do have a very reliable metro system. However, if you are planning to travel around the country, intercity buses to small towns are less frequent and less reliable.
Parking – We had a rental car for the entirety of our trip, however, there were some difficulties paying for street parking in Sofia without a Bulgaria SIM card and phone number. As a result, we were stuck using only parking lots while in the city. We were also warned that if you illegally park or overpark, you don’t just get a ticket, but your car will be blocked in by the police. We asked many locals for help with buying a parking ticket from a kiosk (which is supposed to be possible, but they were unfamiliar with the process and we were never able to figure out how to do it)
Taxis – Although most of the best places to visit in Sofia are within walking distance, you can also take a taxi within the city. The taxis are very inexpensive to other cities and the drives are usually pretty short and traffic free. If you do want to take a taxi, be aware. There are plenty of scammers out there (as in any country). Two reputable taxi companies include Yellow! taxi or O.K. taxi. If you want to use an app to order a taxi (like Uber), Yellow is the one for you.
Tips for Visiting Sofia
Language – Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria and is what is spoken by the majority of the country’s 6.8 million citizens. While in Sofia, you will notice that most people speak basic English due to the presence of tourists, but downloading Google Translate will still be very helpful.
Time to Visit – Bulgaria, like many other Balkan countries can get quite cold in the winter. If you’re looking for the best time to visit, it would probably be from May to October, unless you want extreme cold!
Safety – In general, Sofia is a pretty safe city, especially in the central, touristic areas. As there is not much to do or visit in the less-safe parts of town, you would likely not venture there accidentally.
Top 10 Incredible and Unique Things to Do in Bulgaria | Sights & Attractions
If you are planning a visit to Bulgaria or you are currently in the country and looking for fun things to do, we have you covered! Bulgaria is a large country that spans a few different geographical locations. There are the big cities that are home to the culture and incredible food. But there are also small towns that offer the true experience and give you an authentic Bulgarian vibe. Whether you are looking to relax in a spa, sunbathe on the beach, or explore the mountains, Bulgaria has a little bit of everything.
1. Seven Rila Lakes
The Seven Rila Lakes is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful things to see in Bulgaria. Located just under two hours outside of the capital city of Sofia, this beautiful location cannot be missed. Hence the name, there are seven lakes within the Rila mountain range that require a small hike to see them in all of their glory. You start the trip driving up the mountain (enjoying the incredible view in the process). Then you take a cable car to the start of the hike (or you can hike it if you have the time). And start your loop-trail to see all seven of the lakes.
Each of the lakes are named after their appearance and are known as The Tear (2,535 meters high), The Eye, The Kidney, The Twin, The Trefoil, The Fish Lake, and The Lower Lake. You can do the entire almost 10 kilometer loop trail or just parts of it if you’re alright with seeing just a few of the lakes and don’t have time for a whole day hike.
For more details about visiting this amazing location check out our post: (Coming soon)
2. Explore the Capital City of Sofia
Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city, is the largest city in Bulgaria in terms of population. It is also the second oldest city in Europe, and a wonderful place to explore, relax, and enjoy delicious food and historical sites. Whether you are looking to promenade and people watch, enjoy delicious food and coffee, see historical sites and museums, or do some VERY affordable shopping (second hand too), Sofia has a little bit of everything. Don’t forget to also enjoy the historic churches and cathedrals in the city.
We were incredibly impressed by the standard o food, restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops in the city. Not only was just about all the food in the Sofia amazing, but the places were also beautifully designed and decorated, and all very affordable.
Who doesn’t love a good spa day? Especially when it is very affordable and the pools’ waters are sourced from natural thermal springs in the area. There are a few different options for thermal spas across the country, but some of the easiest ones to visit are located just outside of Sofia near Pancharevo Lake. We discovered the Infinity Spa when our hiking plans were halted due to an unexpected storm. We ended up having one of the best experiences ever spending the day at Infinity Spa overlooking Pancharevo Lake. Being able to stay at the spa and in the pools even as the thunderstorms came made for a very memorable experience.
4. Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in any country is generally an incredible experience. Combine the natural amazingness of horseback riding with the mountain scenery of Bulgaria and you have memories for a lifetime. We visited Rusaliite Adventure House in Bachevo village for our horseback riding adventures. We went on a two day horseback riding trek, staying at their lodge in between. The horses were beautiful, the small farm was quaint and lovely, and the overall experience defined the epic feeling of our trip. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of galloping through the mountains, drinking fresh mountain water from a spring, and having a picnic lunch in the forest. 100% recommended.
5. Roses of Bulgaria
If you were to ask people what Bulgaria is most famous for, they would most likely tell you “Roses”. The Bulgarian Rose industry creates and exports incredibly high quality roses and perfumes. Bulgarian roses are world famous for their quality and for good reason! The soil and climate in the area has made for the perfect conditions for some of the finest roses in the world. If you want a truly unique experience you can go to Rose Valley or Kazalnak region in the early summer. In the first week of June you can and participate in the Rose Festival. Rose picking rituals, parades, and so much more await you!
If you aren’t able to make it to the Rose Festival itself, you should at least try some of the perfumes and rose infused beverages or delicacies that are offered throughout the country.
6. Explore the Countryside
If you want to get the true, authentic experience when visiting a new country, you can’t just stay in the big cities. If you want toto understand the full vibe of the country, you need to venture out. It would also be a shame to miss some of the stunning views that the mountains have to offer. Bulgaria has a full plethora of incredible small towns to visit in the mountains and villages, some even quite close to Sofia and other big cities. We visited Bachevo village when we went horseback riding. It was lovely to see the slow and quaint village life and talk with the locals (as much as possible with our limited Bulgarian).
One note about the countryside. While the food in Sofia far exceeded our expectations, food in the countryside had the opposite effect. We were in very small villages so the restaurants were featuring local foods with a very limited selection of dishes (mostly meat dishes). But that is the authentic culture, so it was very interesting to learn about it and understand it more!
7. Eat Local Cuisine
You can’t visit Bulgaria without trying some of their most famous dishes. Within Sofia and the other major cities, you can find countless restaurants serving local cuisine. In the countryside they usually only offer local and traditional cuisine. Here are some of the dishes you can’t miss out on:
Banitsa – a traditional pastry with eggs, cheese, and filo pastry
Shopska salad – a simple salad with cucumbers, tomato, peppers, and cheese
Mekitsa – donut-like pastry that is deep fried and served with cheese and jam or honey. This is a typical breakfast for locals in the mountain villages.
There are countless other dishes to try out, so be on the lookout at traditional restaurants for some of their famous goodies.
Plovdiv is arguably the most beautiful and picturesque city in Bulgaria. It is also the second largest city in Bulgaria and is known as the heart of Bulgaria’s cultural experience. Opera houses and music events combine with art in this quaint and memorable city. It is located only an hour and a half outside of Sofia which makes it an easy place to visit just for a day if you don’t have enough time to stay overnight.
Although most people think of mountains and lakes when Bulgaria comes to mind, there is also a very large and beautiful cost along the Black Sea. Cities like Varna and Burgas offer seaside vacations with a resort like atmosphere of relaxing and enjoying the beach. Obviously, the summer makes for the best time to visit this part of Bulgaria as you want to enjoy swimming while you relax at the beach.
10. Explore the Churches, and Cathedrals, and Ancient Monasteries
No trip to Bulgaria would be complete without visiting the countless churches, cathedrals, and ancient monasteries that are speckled throughout the country. Bulgaria boasts over 3,500 churches, over 200 monasteries, and countless cathedrals. St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral in Sofia which is one of the most famous. But there are also countless others scattered throughout the country such as Sveta Nedelya Cathedral Church and Cathedral of Saint Joseph (also in Sofia). Church of Saint Vissarion of Smolyan, which is located in Southern Bulgaria is also quite impressive.
Overall, Bulgaria was a lovely trip. We enjoyed fully our five days there and are sure that you will too!
Where to Eat in Sofia | 11 Best Cafes and Restaurants
The capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia, is known for many things (being the second oldest city in Europe per say), but delicious food is usually not the first thing that comes to people’s minds. However, I think it’s about time that Sofia starts to become famous for its food and coffee. Honestly, we could not have been more delighted and surprised by the array and tastiness of all the food that we tried in Sofia. And be prepared for very reasonable prices compared to other European countries! We were quite shocked by the high quality of food in some of the restaurants and the very low prices.
So whether you are looking for a little snack, a delicious coffee to start your day, or a fancy place to have dinner, these cafes and restaurants in Sofia are sure to get your appetite started and your stomach growling.
Cafes in Sofia
Who doesn’t love a good coffee shop? There is nothing quite like finding the perfect cup of coffee and a little treat to have on the side. Whether you are looking for artisan coffee or just a place to work with your computer, these cafes in Sofia are perfect for you.
1. Rainbow Factory
Hands down, Rainbow Factory was our favorite cafe in Sofia. Not only did it have very cute vibes, but the food was absolutely DELICIOUS. This was the first place that we ate when we arrived in Sofia and it really started our trip out on the right foot. They have sandwiches, soups, and salads…all of which are delicious. But the star of the show is their bread, which is a homemade focaccia that will leave you wanting more. We came here multiple times on our trip as the food was just so addicting and the sandwiches were great to bring along for road trips. Don’t forget to try the beet sandwich, we still dream about it!
Keep in mind that the name Rainbow Factory is listed only in Bulgarian on the shop sign. It was a bit difficult for us to find as first. It is very centrally located, however, so it’s a nice place to stop as you are sight seeing.
If you are looking for the best vibes and the best coffee in the city, this is the place for you. Even from a quick glance at the aesthetic on the outside, you can tell that it’s going to be good. But when you walk in, it just gets so much better. Incredible décor in an old-fashioned and hipster style Bulgarian building, you will find Coffee Lab. The owner of the shop is friendly and talkative and will put real effort into the creation of a delicious cup of coffee or matcha. You can walk upstairs to find upholstered sofas and chairs, private rooms to work or have a meeting, and chess boards to play while you enjoy your coffee. It is relaxed, chic, and
Coffee Lab was located right next door to the Airbnb where we stayed for the majority of our trip, which was quite convenient for us. It is open late in the evening and even offers wine in the evening.
Who doesn’t love a café and restaurant that is decorated nicely and has delicious food? Boho is the perfect place to go if you are looking for the perfect brunch. With the perfect combination of local food and classic international favorites, you are sure to find something that you’ll love on the menu. Everything was fresh and delicious and the place was packed full of tourists and locals.
From our experience, the only downside to this café/restaurant is that they claimed to open at 10:30am, and although we arrived promptly at that time, they did not open for more than a half hour to forty five minutes later. If you are in a hurry, this isn’t the place for you. But if you have a little time to spare, it is definitely worth the experience. Don’t leave without trying the Bulgarian Mekitsi, a doughy fried donut that is topped with yogurt and honey.
In case you are already in the area of Boho and you don’t have the time to wait for a full meal, you can stop by Chucky’s Coffee House. They have delicious coffees, located in a quaint back alley. You can relax and people watch on the small back roads as you sip some of Bulgaria’s finest.
If you are health conscious and looking for the perfect place to eat, Sofia offers Furna. It is a café and bakery that has some of the most delicious and fresh baked goods and health food products. Ever heard of Einkorn, the original wheat? This bakery has fresh bread made from it. It is also a great place to stop if you have any allergies, like gluten intolerance as they have many alternative health options.
As their signs say, all you need to do is Keep Calm and Eat Bulgarian Banitsa. Try it here at Furna!
Cafes and coffee shops are lovely, but sometimes you are looking for something a little more substantial. Whether you are looking for a hefty lunch or the perfect place for a date night, these are the restaurants in Sofia that you just can’t miss. Although the food will all be tempting, don’t forget to try all the delicious drinks that they offer in most restaurants. They have tasty iced tea variations and mocktail-like drinks. Be sure to take advantage of the rose or elderflower flavoring as Bulgaria is famous for it.
6. Shtastlivetsa
If you only have time to have one meal in Bulgaria, you must go to Shtastlivetsa. There is no debate. We went here on our first night in Sofia and couldn’t have been more delighted with the meal, the service, the atmosphere, and the prices. The menu was extensive, offering local delicacies and also more moderate and average alternatives. There were meat dishes to die for and a dessert menu that you couldn’t resist despite the excessive amount of food that you consumed.
They have a lovely seating section outside that allows you to have a view of the busy boulevard as you eat, or you can venture inside to the beautifully decorated indoor seating. Whichever you choose, you will surely not be disappointed. There’s a reason this is one of the top restaurants in Sofia.
Looking for a traditional Bulgarian meal? No need to look any further, you have come to the right place. From the moment that you walk into the Hadjidragana Tavern you know that this is a unique place. You can see the traditional tapestries, decorations, and stone walls of the cave-like cellar décor. The menu is complete with very traditional Bulgaria dishes and they offer live, Bulgaria music almost every day of the week (except Mondays).
Although the experience was unique and worth it (in our opinion), we did find the food to be mediocre at best and the service was not up to standard. It was interesting experience, but the prices were also more expensive than other places due to the touristic nature of the restaurant. Despite this, it was a fun experience to feel a little bit of historical and traditional Bulgarian culture.
Don’t forget to read about the history of the place while you lean back, enjoy your food, and revel in the festivities and live music that they offer.
If you are looking for something quick to eat and a reliable and yummy place to do it, Mangia Station is for you. Just in case you are craving a little bit of Mexico while you are in Sofia, Mangia Station has you covered with some yummy tacos, nachos, and burritos. We went here a few times to grab some snacks and even for dinner. It is quick, convenient, centrally located, delicious, and full of friendly staff.
Be warned…if you ask for spicy food, it will be very spicy! We love a good spice and were very happy with the spicy level that they offered.
Concerned to travel to Sofia or Bulgaria as a vegetarian? Don’t be! Although a lot of the local and traditional dishes do focus on meat, there are always nice vegetarian options such as Sun and Moon. This restaurant came highly recommended from our Airbnb host. It is located very centrally, has a cute aesthetic, and offers a fully vegetarian menu with many vegan options. There is also a nice health food store right across the street in case you are in the mood to check out the local health food market!
After journeying a bit far from our Airbnb, which was located in the more central, touristic part of Sofia, we made it to Mediterraneo Restaurant. It was located in a hipster neighborhood that was filled with bookshops, vinyl’s shops, art galleries, and unique bars. The entire areas was adorable, but this restaurant was the crème de la crème. Tucked away in a little nook that is covered by trees and fairy lights, you’ll find The Mediterraneo.
Unfortunately, we did not make a reservation and the place was fully packed (we couldn’t even wait for a table it was so full), so we were not able to eat there, but it looked amazing! Go visit there for us and enjoy the vibes and the highly acclaimed food!
Another restaurant that came highly recommended from our host (and plenty of people on the internet) is The Little Things. Our trip to Sofia was too short for us to find the time to eat here, so we were only able to dream about it. However, the quaint vibes and tempting menu is almost enough to book another trip back to the city just to give it a try.
5 Days in Bulgaria – Ultimate Itinerary for an Unforgettable Trip
Bulgaria. Vast, impressive, and beautiful. Incredible nature and diverse experiences. Although Bulgaria is not one of the most trending and popular tourist destinations, this undiscovered gem of a country has a lot to offer. From stunning mountain views to delicious coffee shops and restaurants, you are sure to have a memorable (and budget friendly) visit to this Balkan country with this unforgettable Bulgaria itinerary.
Is this Bulgaria Itinerary Right For You?
The ideal travel itinerary varies from person to person. Some people love adventure and crazy experiences while others love to relax and forget all of their troubles. Our trips tend to be very memorable, but also fairly busy. This Bulgaria itinerary is for you if you want….
A memorable trip that is diverse and enables you to see a lot of the country in a short period of time
The perfect combination of adventure and relaxation (everything is about balance)
Lots of nature, while also dappling in Bulgaria’s cities.
Some traveling around the country and long(ish) drives
Fully packed days in order to see as much as you can on a somewhat short schedule
LOTS of amazing memories
Things to Know Before You Travel to Bulgaria
Safety – In general Bulgaria is a very safe country with a low rime rate. Although there is always a risk for typical petty crimes such as pickpocketing or theft (is there any place in the world that you don’t have to worry about this?), Bulgaria is overall a very safe destination for tourists.
Attire – Bulgaria is a European country with typical Eastern European and Balkan countries’ style. There is no particular need for any special type of clothing while visiting Bulgaria.
Getting Around – Although Bulgaria does have a solid system of public transportation (busses, trains, etc), they can be difficult to maneuver and understand without speaking Bulgarian. Within Sofia and other major cities, they do have a very reliable metro system. However, if you are planning to travel around the country, intercity buses to small towns are less frequent and less reliable.
Costs – Bulgaria is overall a very affordable travel destination. Food, transportation, and hotel costs are very low in comparison to many other places. It is often listed as the most inexpensive travel destination in Europe. Although Bulgaria is a part of the European Union, they do not accept the Euro as a form of payment. The local currency is the Bulgarian Lev.
Language – Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria and is what is spoken by the majority of the country’s 6.8 million citizens. While you will most likely find locals who speak English in some of the bigger tourist destinations and restaurants (especially in the big cities), outside of the city and the touristy places, they usually do not understand more than a few words of English. I would strongly suggest downloading Bulgarian on Google Translate. It was needed many times for parking, transportation, directions, and bookings. And the locals are always excited to hear tourists trying to speak a little bit of the local language! Many of the countries road signs are also written only in Bulgaria (even at big tourist destinations like Seven Rila Lakes), so Google Translate with the camera feature is very handy!
Shaking the Head – Now this is a very random tip, but one of the most confusing things that we found on our trip to Bulgaria was that the sign of shaking your head from left to right, which typically means no in most countries, means the opposite in Bulgaria. If someone shakes their head from side to side that means yes!
5 Day Bulgaria Itinerary
Even though we only had a few days in Bulgaria, we packed the trip with exciting adventures in the cities and the countryside. We experienced some of the authentic culture in the smaller countryside towns while exploring the trending Sofia with its endless restaurant and café options. We managed to experience a little bit of everything in our fun 5 day Bulgaria itinerary.
One of the most exciting things about Bulgaria is that it is one of the cheapest travel destinations in Europe. Excluding our tickets, we spent about $500 per person for the entire trip (including food, accommodations, car rental, fun activities, etc). And keep in mind that we weren’t focused on budget-travel. If you choose to take public transport instead of renting a car and choosing hostels over Airbnb’s, you could keep the cost down much lower!
Day 1: Explore the Capital City of Sofia
Most people, when they arrive to Bulgaria, land in the capital city of Sofia. Sofia is the largest city in Bulgaria in terms of population, the second oldest city in Europe, and a wonderful place to explore, relax, and enjoy delicious food and historical sites. Whether you are looking to promenade, resting every now and then for a coffee, or to visit museums and learn about Bulgarian’s history, there is something for everyone.
We spent our first day exploring some of the fun things that the city has to offer. After grabbing something to eat from the delicious Rainbow Factory café, we walked down the main promenade – Vitosha Boulevard and enjoyed tea while people watching. Consider exploring some of the side roads as well to find very affordable second hand shops!
Top 3 Things To Do in Sofia City
1. Stroll Down Vitosha Boulevard – Vitosha Boulevard is the place to be. Lined with cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs, and bookshops, there is a little bit of something for everyone. This pedestrian street certainly has its fair share of tourist traps, but you can also find many gems and fun places to people watch and enjoy delicious food. And don’t forget to take in the lovely city views.
2. Check out the Sofia History Museum – What used to be Sofia’s bathhouse was turned into the Sofia History Museum. We happened upon this museum quite by accident and were attracted by the beautiful and stunning architecture. Upon a closer look, we found out that it was a history museum that cost just a few Euros for entry. You can learn about the ancient history and more modern history of Bulgaria in the wonderfully organized museum.
3. Enjoy the Historical Cathedralsand Gothic Architecture – Just walking through the streets of Sofia, you can find beautiful and historical cathedrals like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral which is the top tourist attraction in Sofia. But even just walking down the streets, you can find smaller churches and beautiful architecture that dates back many years.
On our first day in Sofia, we were very impressed by the level of food. Everything we had was delicious (and of course very inexpensive). We ate at Rainbow Factory café and the beautiful and delicious Shtastlivetsa that is right on the main boulevard.
Although most of the best places to visit in Sofia are within walking distance, you can also take a taxi within the city. The taxis are very inexpensive to other cities and the drives are usually pretty short and traffic free. We had a rental car for the entirety of our trip, however, there were some difficulties paying for street parking without a Bulgaria SIM card and phone number. As a result, we were stuck using only parking lots while in the city. We were also warned that if you illegally park or overpark, you don’t just get a ticket, but your car will be blocked in by the police.
If you do want to take a taxi, be aware that there are plenty of scammers out there (as in any country). Two reputable taxi companies include Yellow! taxi or O.K. taxi. If you want to use an app to order a taxi (like Uber), Yellow is the one for you.
Where to Stay in Sofia
We stayed at a very cute Airbnb in a wonderful and very central (yet still quiet) location! We stayed there for all of the nights we spent in Sofia. Two nights in the beginning of the trip and one night at the end of the trip. It was clean and spacious, beautifully decorated, and the host was helpful and kind. It was on the 5th floor, with no elevator, so be prepared to get some extra steps in!
Day 2: Sofia and Surrounding Areas
On our second day in Bulgaria, we originally had planned to go for a hike to the Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria’s top tourist destination. However, the weather was not on our side and it appeared that there was a full day of rain ahead. We changed our plans slightly and looked for something fun to do in the area, switching our Bulgaria itinerary a bit. When in doubt, why not spend the day at a spa?
Infinity Spa
After a little bit of research we found that there was a lovely spa nearby with mineral-rich waters. Located in Pancharevo, just about a 20-minutes drive from Sofia, you will find a quaint little spa with a beautiful view of Pancharevo Lake, Infinity Spa. For just around $25 you can spend half the day at the spa, receiving drinks, access to multiple saunas, and of course the mineral-rich waters that come from the ground in the surrounding area.
Although it did start to thunder and rain while we were there, you could still stay in the covered section of the pool or venture to the uncovered area and feel the cold raindrops combined with the hot water. Smoothies and snacks are included in the price, but there are not full dishes offered, so consider eating before or after.
After our relaxing spa trip, we headed back to Sofia for some dinner and relaxation. We were waking up very early the nex day to continue our adventures. To get the full traditional Bulgarian experience, we went to The Hadjidragana Tavern which was complete with live music and performances.
Day 3 – Explore the Countryside
Although Sofia was fun, every trip needs to be balanced. We woke up early in the morning to start our adventure to the countryside. We found a small farm about two hours south of Sofia where we could go on long horseback riding treks in the mountains – Rusaliite Adventure House in Bachevo village. Before departing the city, we stopped back at Rainbow Factory café to grab some sandwiches for the drive. The scenery immediately changed to stunning landscapes and tall mountains. Small villages dotted the distances.
Horseback Riding in Bulgaria
The farm itself was beautiful. There were friendly dogs wandering all around with chickens and bunnies in the yard. And most importantly for us…there were dozens of beautiful horses and a stable. We checked in for the night, put our bags in our rooms, and started immediately on our first horse trek for the trip. They packed us all a small lunch, assigned us each a horse according to our experience, and we headed up the mountain.
Our guide was a local of a nearby village. Although he did not speak any English, he was extremely friendly and kind. He picked wild berries for us to eat and took us to beautiful viewpoints that overlooked mountains and incredible scenery. After about an hour and a half we took a break amongst the trees to have lunch. There was a water fountain with the coolest, most delicious water that we have ever tasted. It came right from the mountains…the purest purification process. Using Google Translate, we asked the guide what kind of animals were in the forest. We were shocked by some of his stories of bear encounters in the same spots we were riding. As we are experienced riders, we also got to gallop through the small paths. The experience was incredible and memorable and the views unforgettable.
Stay Overnight at the Farm
We slept one night at the farm itself. It was quiet and relaxing and we got to pet the horses and enjoy archery before heading to our rooms as it became dark and cold. The food at the farm was not the best and not very diverse and there is not much else in the area, as it is quite remote. So if you have food allergies or sensitivities, speak with the hosts before arriving.
Day 4 – Hiking 7 Rila Lakes
No trip to Bulgaria is complete without hiking the 7 Rila Lakes. Luckily for us, the lakes were more or less on the way back to Sofia, so we were able to fit in a trip to this awesome hike. Because we like to fill our trips to the fullest, we also went on a few hour horse trek at 6:00am. This was before driving to 7 Rila Lakes. It was a few hours of pure bliss as we saw incredible mountain views and ate more berries and fruit from the trees. Don’t worry, all approved by our local guide before consuming! We ate breakfast of local donuts with jam and cheese and omelets before beginning our journey to the lakes.
Hiking 7 Rila Lakes
If you are planning a trip to the Seven Rila Lakes, we would really recommend allowing for an entire day as it is an incredible experience. After driving a few hours from the farm, we approached some ominously tall mountains, which hid the seven lakes. It was a beautifully sunny day. As we drove through the town, we were surprised to see how few signs were written in English. Even though this is one of Bulgaria’s top tourist attractions, they were mostly written in Bulgarian only.
We followed the stream of cars that were also heading to the tourist attraction and asked some locals for help. In very broken English they happily showed us the way. The temperature dropped rapidly as we drove up the windy roads to the entrance of the park. Stunned by the views and the expanses around us, we were so happy that we did not skip this experience.
When we finally reached the entryway and the parking lot, we were greeted by a small line of vendors selling local goods and snacks as we approached the lift that would take you to the beginning of the hike. The lift was actually quite expensive for Bulgarian standards, costing about $12 per person. You can skip the lift all together, however, it will add hours to your hiking trip. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the top on the lift.
Tips for Hiking 7 Rila Lakes
BRING RAIN GEAR – No matter how sunny the day looks and how warm it is…bring a rain coat! I promise you, you will regret it if you don’t. We started our hiking trip and it was beautifully sunny and warm. By the time we reached the first lake, although the weather forecast was clear, it had already started raining. We reached the second lake and it was downpouring. Lighting and thunder as if all the gods were angry at mankind raged through the sky. It felt like doomsday. It would have been much more bearable if we had even a raincoat or an umbrella.
We ended up spending most of our visit to the lakes huddled with hundreds of other people in the small building at the top of the mountain, waiting for the rain to end. The worst part is that you have to wait in line, in the cold for the lift. It was another 20 minute journey back down the mountain in the cold rain, with no protection. A very simply solution is to bring proper rain gear.
Bring Food – Although there is a cafeteria at the top of the lift, the food is very army style and served as a sort of buffet. We would highly recommend bringing sandwiches or snacks.
Transportation and Where to Stay
We highly recommend renting a car if you want to visit the 7 Rila Lakes. It is not so easily accessible via public transport. Additionally, you want to be flexible with your timing and account for potential rain or inclement weather. After we finished the hike, we headed back to Sofia to our original AirBnb to dry off and have some edible food! We ate dinner at a delicious Mexican restaurant Mangia Station right near our place. After grabbing some snacks at the grocery store for our flight out the next day, we went home for a few hours of sleep.
Day 5 – Explore Other Towns
Unfortunately, we had an early morning flight out the next day, so that was essentially the end of our Bulgaria trip. We managed to dry most of our clothes by blasting the heat in our AirBnb so that we wouldn’t weight down on bags on the flight. However, all of us had semi wet shoes the next morning.
If you do have a little extra time, it is definitely worth visiting the nearby town of Plovdiv. It is the second largest city in Bulgaria and is known as the heart of Bulgaria’s cultural experience. Opera houses and music events combine with art in this quaint and memorable city. It is located only an hour and a half outside of Sofia. So, if you have a flight later in the day, you can still manage to visit this historic place!
Looking for a Longer Trip? Additional Amazing Things to Do in Bulgaria
1. Explore the Coast -Varna and Burgas
Although this Bulgaria itinerary stayed mostly in the western part of Bulgaria, it is a pretty large country that also offers a beautiful coast along the Black Sea. Varna and Burgas are lovely destinations if you are looking to have more of a seaside vacation… However, keep in mind that they are quite far from the area of Sofia (about a 4 hour drive). If you have the time or are willing to take a short flight, it is definitely worth the trip and diversity of landscapes!
2. Rose Festival
If you were to ask people what Bulgaria is most famous for, they would most likely tell you “Roses”. The Bulgarian Rose industry creates and exports incredibly high quality roses and perfumes. Bulgarian roses are world famous for their quality and for good reason! The soil and climate in the area has made for the perfect conditions for some of the finest roses in the world. If you want a truly unique experiene you can go to Rose Valley or Kazalnak region in the early summer. In the first week of June you can and participate in the Rose Festival. Rose picking rituals, parades, and so much more await you!
Explore the countryside outside Sofia and find some of the incredible wineries that Bulgaria has to offer. Set to the backdrop of beautiful nature and stunning views, you can taste the uniqueness of Bulgarian wine.
