places to visit near sofia

One or two days in Sofia is plenty to experience all of the citys major sights, after which you might want to shift your gaze to all the other remarkable destinations in Bulgaria. Shtastliveca is ideal for an affordable traditional dinner with a modern twist (vegetarian and vegan options included), Fabrika Dagais famous for its excellent brunches, whileSoul Kitchenoffers mainly vegan and raw food options. Beautiful snow-capped mountains fringed by lush green mixed woodland and forest draws you in immediately. It was certainly a workout. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. Lovers of opera and ballet can indulge in beloved classics atthe Sofia Opera and Ballet. We have discussed all the top 10 places to visit in Sofia Bulgaria that will undoubtedly bring immense pleasure and satisfaction when on a visit to Bulgaria. You can compare car rental deals and find the lowest prices at Rentalcars.com, an aggregation site that searches and displays prices and availability from hundreds of car rental companies, helping you find the best possible car for your budget. Monument to the Deity All-Holy Sofia. Bonjour je ne sais pas rpondre votre question car nous avons lou une voiture et y sommes monts avec. Sofia is Bulgarias capital city. slideshowSpeed:3000, Today will give you a great introduction to the city and is the ideal starting point if you only have one day to spend or 2, 3 or more. By desimgm. The New York Times Frugal, One of Europes youngest capitals, Sofia also happens to be amongits oldest settlements, stretching back several millennia from ancient Thracian and, In Shipka Pass, its hard to shake the sensation that youre being watched. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Every single thing from the great portraitures of saints, the huge wooden door, and the picture of Providence pulled upon the roof, and the tzars throne is the must-view for all the tourists, no matter of what religion and culture they are from. Off-Road & ATV Trails. Much of the fortress was designed to blend in with the unusual landscape, while the fortress walls surrounding it are all more than 2 meters thick. The city has experienced a history of over 7000 years, and usually one will inadvertently trip upon it. Excavation work carried out during construction of the metro unveiled a treasure trove of Roman ruins from nearly 2000 years ago, when the city was called 'Serdica'. The first hall individual can possess around 3400 persons, which indicates that each visitor can get something unique that fits their taste within the walls, roof, and flooring of this cultural mastodon. guidance. slideshow:false, We weren't quite prepared for the 2+ hour trek to the Boyana Waterfall in the snow. Suggested Read: 21 Spectacular Places To Visit In Bulgaria That Are A Treat To Your Eyes. This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 120 km away from the capital of Bulgaria and getting there takes around 2 hours. The buildings have sleek, distinctive shapes with vivid colors and rich decorations. The town has a beautiful location in the shadow of the Pirin Mountains, just under the so-called Melnik Earth Pyramids unique rock formations. Despite its size, the tiny town of Melnik near Bulgarias Pirin Mountains is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria. One of the symbols not just of Sofia but of Bulgaria itself, this massive, awe-inspiring church was built between 1882 and 1912 in memory of the 200,000, Sveta Sofia is one of the capital's oldest churches, and gave the city its name. For an insight into Bulgarias decades behind the Iron Curtain, visit the Museum of Socialist Artto check out its quirky collection of statues, paintings and propaganda movies. And Skopje is actually one of the most underrated capitals in Europe, even if at first it looks a bit weird. By bus, the trip takes about 3 hours. This is because Koprivshtitsa was leveled by a series of fires and was rebuilt in the Revival style. orig_width: 300 There are buses leaving to Bansko from two bus stations in Sofia: Central Bus Station and Bus Station Ovcha Kupel (for the early birds). When it comes to things to see in Bulgaria outside of Sofia, two of the more curious are the Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress. Back in the Rila Mountains yet again is Musala Peak, the highest peak in Bulgaria and all of the Balkans. Get to the heart of Sofia with one of our in-depth, Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. With the variety and quality, the challenge will be deciding how many extra days youll need and where you want to start. Another attraction to visit in Bansko is the St. Trinity Church, which is one of the most remarkable churches in Bulgaria. See all things to do. Once you reach the peak, the effort is well worth it for the magnificent view across the valley with the lakes laid out before you. You can find many beautiful traditional houses in Melnik as well as the 12-the century Byzantine House one of the oldest remaining civilian buildings in the Balkans. Exhibitions are divided, This remarkable, partly covered excavation site, situated just above the Serdika metro station, displays the remains of the Roman city, Serdica, that once, This beautiful church with glittering mosaic exterior and golden domes was completed in 1914 for Sofias Russian community, and named in honour of St. The Seven Rila Lakes are located 100 km from the centre of Sofia & take less than 2 hours to get to. Getting there: With no buses or trains reaching its remote location, youll want to do what everyone does and visit as part of an organized tour. Even if today you can only see remnants of the former glory this was actually the center of the Bulgarian rule back in the days. walking tours in Sofia 2 - Spend the day at the markets of Sofia Check out the incredible markets that dot the downtown area, and make it a true joy to experience local everyday life in Sofia. If you want to see things like the National Museum of History or Boyana Church Museum, you will definitely want to use public transportation. Once you are done with sightseeing you can sit down in the local cafe and enjoy the vibe of the town before heading back to Sofia. Its an extraordinary geological phenomenon that looks like a stone riverrunning down a slope from around 1700m to 1350m. Mall of Sofia. The list of things to do in Skopje is long but even if you only have a few hours there you still can enjoy the city and its main highlights. Je pense que vous pouvez prendre un Uber plutt qu un taxi ce sera toujours moins cher , 2 16 Dont stick only to the main streets but go to some backstreets too as you can find some gems there, not to mention even more great views of the city and beyond. A fine example of this architecture is the Velyans House, which is open for visitors. The place has a very nice and short hiking trails with a great view which leads to a local hut that serves drinks and food including alcohol and warm soups for cold weather. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or landscape you can find it all near Sofia. }); Grab a coffee and take a deep dive with me, into Sofia Bulgaria. I always use the free app Maps.Me. Sofia is no grand metropolis, but it's a modern, youthful city, with a scattering of onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and stubborn Red Army monuments that lend an eclectic, exotic feel. Unlike various other European capital cities, Sofia does not have a historical hub with curvy cobblestone alleys and old buildings. Walk around one of Sofia's many public parks. One of the symbols not just of Sofia but of Bulgaria itself, this massive, awe-inspiring church was built between 1882 and 1912 in memory of the 200,000, Sveta Sofia is one of the capital's oldest churches, and gave the city its name. It was constructed in the year 1981 as a portion of Bulgarias ceremony for 1300 years of the history of Bulgaria; it continues to be the greatest congress center in South-Eastern Europe. directionNav:true, What restaurants are near Vitosha Mountain? Getting there: Thanks to their remote location, your only real transport option is to visit the Seven Rila Lakes with a guided tour. Und stehen oben auch Taxen um wieder zurck zu kommen? A single glance at it grants spectators the hypothesis of a building with the fascinating history. Sofia's public transportation consists of buses, trams, and the metro. By Lutrixxx. 2023 Road Affair, LLC. Getting there: To reach Plovdiv from Sofia you have a choice of train and bus. This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 120 km away from the capital of Bulgaria and getting there takes around 2 hours. It's hard to far without stumbling into one of the parks. Click here to learn more and order your Revolut card. Metro Station Serdika Image Source When the concern reaches to travel, exploration and tourism, the last spot which appears to the mind is a metro station, but in case of Sofia, things are unique than what you speculate from the rest of the globe. }); . Here you will find two varieties of people at all times senior citizens playing chess and street musicians. Recommended tour: Sofia Communist Landmarks Day Tour. You can easily get there by train, the journey takes around 2,5 hours one way. Prohodna cave is a karst cave best known for the two holes in its ceiling that look remarkably like eyes gazing down. Nestled in the foothills of the sprawlingVitoshaNature Park, Sofia is just a 10km drive from the pleasant shades of its pine and oak forests. Where? minItems:1, Dont want to drive or deal with the hassle of public transport? Get to the heart of Bulgarian art by browsing the National Gallery Quadrat 500. The southeastern European peninsula may not immediately spring, If budget travel makes you think of noisydorm rooms and slogging across countries in cramped overnight buses then think again. Lovely walk with great views over Sofia. The town, located around 110 km east of Sofia, can be reached by train (and then a bus from the train station to the town itself but its pretty straightforward) or with a tour. A subterranean museum houses an ancient necropolis, with 56 tombs and the Boyana Church Tiny 13th-century Boyana Church is included on Unesco's World Heritage list and its 90 murals are among the very finest examples of Bulgarian medieval Built to accommodate up to 1170, Kid-friendly science and technology museum with plenty of interactive exhibits and gadgetry to delight children from 6 to 16 years of age. The best parks to visit are Borisova Gradina Park, South Park (Yuzhen Park), North Park (Severen Park), and Zaimov . Amongst the fascinating places to visit in Sofia is from the underground archaeological level, where a unique transparent roof displays the entire street above. You can also book a full-day hiking tour from Sofia. And keep in mind this is a holy place and still a working monastery (around 60 monks live there) so visit the site with the respect. Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa. There are chair lifts that you can then take to the top, when theyre running. Top Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria: See Tripadvisor's 177,190 traveller reviews and photos of Sofia tourist attractions. Mountains Ski & Snowboard Areas. For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you: If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? Inside St. Alexander Nevski has room for 10,000 people and it's the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region. }, Due to its importance in history (it was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire in the Middle Ages) it is known as the City of the Tsars. Inside the monastery complex, you can visit the Nativity of the Virgin church, the tower of Hrelja from the 14th century (the oldest of all the buildings), and the History Museum. 1. Suggested Read: 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience. You can explore the area to find all the great reminders of the past but the other reason to visit Tsarevets Fortress is the wonderful view of Veliko Tarnovo and the surrounding that you can admire from there. Sofia City Breaks: Best of Sofia About Sofia Surrounded by sprawling parkland, Sofia, the capital and largest city of the Republic of Bulgaria, lies at the foot of popular ski mountain, Vitosha. Sofia Sofia Tourism: Best of Sofia About Sofia Surrounded by sprawling parkland, Sofia, the capital and largest city of the Republic of Bulgaria, lies at the foot of popular ski mountain, Vitosha. Head to Ivan Vazov National Theatre for Bulgarian drama. Tripadvisor gives a Travelers Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor. The Kaleto fortress dates back to the times of the Roman Empire and was built in the 3rd century. You can opt to walk to the top & back (which takes 4 hours) or do a circular full-day hike. However, it was an amazing experience. Away from the buildings and boulevards, vast parks and manicured gardens offer a welcome respite, and the ski slopes and hiking trails of mighty Mt Vitosha are just a short bus ride from the centre. 631. Home to the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, theres plenty of history to explore in Veliko Tarnovo. Hi! Further Read: Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable. 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape! The Krushuna waterfalls are located about 185 meters from Sofia and it takes nearly three hours to get there. Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. I'm working full time and balancing my job with extensive travels all over the world. You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. var el = $(this); Ive included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Sofia too. Nature lovers may also enjoy trekking to the 25m-high Boyana waterfall that lures with its crystal-clear waters. Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydan No:1, Istanbul 34122 Trkiye. As you head towards the summit, youll pass several mountain huts as well as loads of gorgeous mountain scenery including lakes and waterfalls. if( ! }); 21. Non-skiers can catch the Simeonovo gondola (accessible via bus lines 111, 122 and 123) and enjoy a refreshing walk in the woods. There are many amazing places nearby that you can visit as day trips from Sofia and you should definitely consider them when planning your Bulgaria itinerary. The local wine is so good it used to be a favorite wine of Winston Churchill! Here I will share the best things to see and do in Sofia, as well as where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around. The National Palace Of Culture National Palace of Culture in Sofia | Andrey Shevchenko / Alamy Stock Photo Established in 1981 as part of the state of Bulgaria's 1300th birthday celebrations, the National Palace of Culture in the heart of the city center is a striking sight to behold in itself. window.setTimeout(timer_metaslider_50011, 1) : metaslider_50011(window.jQuery); Find what to do today, this weekend, or in May. While expecting for the train to arrive, tourists can go through the artifacts which have been stored in glass receptacles, similarly as in a museum. Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour, From Sofia: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Small Group Tour, From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery Self-Guided Trip, The Seven Rila Lakes: Full-Day Tour from Sofia, Seven Rila Lakes Hiking Day-Tour from Sofia, From Sofia: Seven Rila Lakes & Rila Monastery Full-Day Tour, Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria is this the prettiest town in the country?, From Sofia: Koprivshtitsa Full-Day Trip with Optional Lunch, Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa Day Trip from Sofia, From Sofia: Full-Day Old Town Plovdiv Trip, Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa Full-Day Tour from Sofia, From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Bachkovo Monastery, From Sofia: Full-Day Tour of Plovdiv with Lunch, Day in Veliko Tarnovo my highlight of Bulgaria, Sofia: Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi Day Trip, From Sofia: Belogradchik Rocks Full-Day Tour, Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress from Sofia, Sofia: Full-Day Hiking to Rozhen Monastery & Melnik, Full-Day Tour to Rila Monastery and Melnik, Sofia: Lovech, Devetaki Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls Tour, From Sofia: Full-Day Krushuna Waterfalls & Devetashka Cave, brutalist architecture that Skopje is known for. Your email address will not be published. }); Recommended to take the cable car as there is not a lot of parking places up there and in the snow can be very difficult. April 13, 2022 Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria, but is it worth adding to your bucket list? After exploring the cave, drive another 20 km and you will find the village of Lovech. With your own four wheels, you control your time and schedule. Do the accept creditcard at the liftstations? As with a great deal of Sofia's grand architecture, the city's cathedral dates to the 1880s. Sofia has an active and modern public transportation conformity consisting of subway, trams, trolleys, and buses. Read more. more. Every history buff will be happy to land in Sofia. It is a place to get mesmerized in natures serene embrace are everyone would be perpetually honored to arrive at tBoris garden, which is among the best place to visit in Sofia. Trains run every hour or two and are scheduled to take around 2 hour 45 minutes, though they are known for delays. Popular things to do Bus Tours Day Trips Churches & Cathedrals Historical Tours Walking Tours Sacred & Religious Sites Full-day Tours Half-day Tours Points of Interest & Landmarks City Tours Private Day Trips Cultural Tours Mountain Bike Tours Culinary Tour Beer & Brewery Tours Hiking Tours 4WD Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours Winter Sports Visitors can take home authentic pieces of the countrys spirit everything from organic rose-oil cosmetics (Bulgaria is the worlds leading producer of rose oil) and Bulgarian raspberry wines to white cheese and spices. 10 Best Day Trips from Sofia, Bulgaria David JohnstonDecember 11, 2022 Share TwitterPinterestFacebookFlipboardEmail Road Affair is reader-supported and may earn commission from purchases made through links in this article. 61.27. . Belogradchik is yet another good option for a day trip from Sofia that is still not widely popular. Next head to The Trap, a fun and vibrant neighborhood full of cafes and bars. They have many discounts and excellent customer service. But its safe to say that shopping in Sofia stretches far beyond the famous brands. Serdika Station Begin your Sofia itinerary at Serdika Metro Station. Krasna Polyana Karting Track. Even if the place is rather small, it is full of attractions. Bicycles can be borrowed in various areas around the capital city at an affordable price. The entrance fee is ridiculously cheap. Devetashka Cave also has natural openings through its 60-meter-high domed ceiling and plenty of striking cave formations. 15. You can find the best accommodation options at Booking. }); $(window).resize(function(){ See all 40 Vitosha Mountain tours on Tripadvisor, See all Vitosha Mountain experiences on Tripadvisor, View all hotels near Vitosha Mountain on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Vitosha Mountain on Tripadvisor, View all attractions near Vitosha Mountain on Tripadvisor, Hotels near St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Hotels near Saint Nikolas Russian Church (Tsurkva Sveta Nikolai), Hotels near The Rotunda Church of St George, Hotels near St.Kliment Ohridski University, Hotels near University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy, Hotels near University of National and World Economy, Hotels near National Sports Academy Sofia, Hotels near University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Serdica, St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral: Tickets & Tours, Saint Nikolas Russian Church (Tsurkva Sveta Nikolai): Tickets & Tours, Catedral de Sveta-Nedelya: Tickets & Tours, National Museum of Military History: Tickets & Tours, Ivan Vazov National Theater: Tickets & Tours, National Institute of Archaeology with Museum: Tickets & Tours, The Rotunda Church of St George: Tickets & Tours, National Museum of History: Tickets & Tours, National Palace of Culture (NDK): Tickets & Tours, City Sightseeing Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour, Thundering Streams and Falls of the Smokies Guided Hiking Tour, The MAXIMUM MAGIC Show Starring Noah & Heather Wells, Organic Wine and cheese tasting - Mozzarella workshop, Private Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour, Single Kayak Rental to Explore the Waters of Tampa Bay, Pirate Sea Cave Tide Pool Walk at Dana Point. It is not so big, but it is a perfect place for a walk and. Those who find exploring caves fascinating are spoilt for choice in Bulgaria. The Monument House of the Bulgarian Communist Party (as thats the official name of it) was finished in 1981 to commemorate the assembly of the socialist movement in the area 90 years earlier that eventually led to the foundation of the Bulgarian Social Democratic Party. $('#metaslider_50011').flexslider({ The main reason to visit Rila Monastery is the stunning external frescoes, some of the most impressive you will ever see. Melnik is the smallest town in Bulgaria, having a population of only around 400 inhabitants. 1. Following the loop trail youll have the chance to see each of the lakes, plus plenty of epic mountain views. After the collapse of communism in Europe the building was left abandoned and felt do disrepair which makes it even more interesting (although it is said the renovations will start soon). Quite a bit of snow from December to May, so be prepared and equiped. There are, Lions, tigers, elephants and bears are among the animals at Sofia's small zoo, situated in a park about 2km south of the city centre. But wine isnt the only reason why you should visit Melnik. }; Visiting this beautiful monastery, which was built in 927 AD, youll first see the arcades and balconies around the inner cloister. , Read our Privacy Policy. Although you can make many of these day trips with public transport, consider renting a car for the day to give yourself more flexibility and independence. Was kostet ein Taxi vom Center ins Gebirge? We have reviews of the best places to see in Sofia Region. Experience the pleasure of the sheltered stalls across the fountain at the front phase of the golden yellow architecture, and dont forget to have a look at its inner beauty. It needs a basic winter and snow equipment, but the views are fantastic from the top :) Total trip for about 5h. Even if you dont have time to visit for longer, its still one of the best side trips from Sofia. I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. layer.css('cursor', 'pointer').on('click', function(e) { Some of the best ancient monuments include the impressive Roman Amphitheater from the 1st century AD or the Roman Stadium from the 2nd century AD, discovered only in 1923. It is the largest church on the Balkans and a covenant to iconographic and architectural mastery. To see Plovdivs main historic attractions, head over to the citys Old Town where youll find the impressive Roman Theatre. Bulgaria's pleasingly laid-back capital is often overlooked by visitors heading to the coast or the ski resorts, but they're missing something special. One of the spots to begin your hike is Zlatnite Mostove (meaning "Golden Bridges"). Revolut bank card is the best way to save money when traveling. Thinking of your next shopping trip, youre more likely to plan a weekend in Italy than in Bulgaria. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { It's not a gentle walk. While its true that Sofia is no big fashion capital, it has its fair share of small boutiques and designer clothing that come at more affordable prices than in western Europe. Why? The monastery also hosts a museum with artifacts from its history, most notably Rafails Cross, whittled from a single piece of wood. We found 2,408 things to do for you near Hagia Sophia Mosque. But go off the beaten track and explore, The best value cities in Europe for a break from the UK this autumn, Meet a traveller: Lucas Peterson, budget travel guru, Tracing ancient Serdica: two days in Sofia, Bulgarias UFO: the spell of the abandoned Buzludzha monument, Wine-tasting in the Balkans: a guide to Bulgarias wineries, Bulgarias historic highlights: adventure through the ages, The next food trends predicted by travel writers, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The caves near the site were inhabited already in the 10th century by hermit Ivan of Rila (eventually the monastery was named after him). The standard late 19th-century building, consolidated with the massive statues of the brothers Evlogi and Hristo Georgiev who backed the construction of the building, is an extraordinary artwork. A leisurely stroll around the city centre lets the visitor uncover Bulgaria's diverse layers of history, mixing up Roman ruins and Soviet architecture, as well as Ottoman and Byzantine religious and cultural influences. Below you can see the selection of my favorite day trips from Sofia as well as a few recommendations from fellow bloggers. The most beautiful one is the red trail along which you can admire several sparkling cascades. Relax in its spacious gardens, while taking a photo with the Russian MiG fighters statues that are erected there. Things to Do in Sofia Popular things to do Bus Tours Day Trips Architectural Buildings Historical Tours Walking Tours Churches & Cathedrals Full-day Tours City Tours Art Galleries Private Day Trips Cultural Tours Sacred & Religious Sites Mountain Bike Tours Culinary Tour Parks Beer & Brewery Tours Hiking Tours Historic Sites 4WD Tours It is among the most magnificent buildings in Sofia was supposed to be the Core Mineral Bath, where as of now it holds the Sofia History Museum. The fountains and decorative lighting at the theater front boosts the cozy surrounding. Experiences from $109. Private Day Trip to the Vitosha Mountain and Pancharevo Lake, Private Vitosha Mountains Hiking with Black peak & Dragalevtsi Monastery, Private Day Trip to the Vitosha Mountain for Winter Sports and SPA, SOFIA Exclusive Full Day Tour with Vitosha Mountain & Panoramic Drive, Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa, Mt. Definitely the best place for karting in Sofia. Finally, its time to walk to the edge of town and find a vantage point that allows you to properly take in the sandstone ridges known here as Sand Pyramids. With a history that stretches over seven millennia, ruin-rich Sofia is one of Europe's oldest cities. Then walked on a 4 km path from there to the Boyana church, most of it in the forest in the mountain. To avoid worrying about getting about, its best to visit with a guided tour which can handle that for you. Getting Around Sofia. For those who do not favor the concealed wisdom of the metro, there is a solution too. It feels like the time has stopped there and its impossible not to fall under its charm. To see them all clearly though youll need to wander down to the The Monument of Asenevci, which is itself quite a sight. The large market area is packed with beautiful 19th-century houses (built in the Bulgarian Revival period) and wandering around is a pure pleasure. Getting there: You can get from Sofia to Koprivshtitsa by bus or train, with a select few connections a day. Getting there: Public transport is not going to work to get to Belogradchik from Sofia, so youll need to visit as part of a guided tour. Weve listed the best tour for each day trip (where available). Culinary Experience Around Sofia: Adventure To The Fungi Kingdom. I adore discovering off the beaten path places (especially in Central Europe) and exploring alternative spots, street art scene and local cafe culture. At the top are a few rather shabby buildings which are used mainly in skiing season. The center is a mix of weird buildings that dont really fit into each other there are ancient-looking yet modern pieces, some gems of brutalist architecture that Skopje is known for, or random blocks of flats. var metaslider_50011 = function($) { Visit website Write a review. Found near the town of Belogradchik on different parts of the slopes of the Balkan Mountains, both of these attractions feature the regions fascinating rock formations. Aloof from forest areas and huge parks weaved in the town, it struts of a ski resort at the top the omnipotent Mount Vitosha, which is not much far away. When winters are snowy, Mt Vitosha offers accessible and cheap ski rides, but bear in mind that the facilities here are basic in comparison to big Bulgarian resorts like Bansko. The Belogradchik Rocks are a collection of vibrantly colored rocks that have been eroded over time into strange shapes, many of which have names and legends surrounding them. Vitosha Mountain (Sofia) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. }, and buses are around USD $15-20 depending on your European city of origin. All Rights Reserved. Banitsa can be found pretty much everywhere, but some of the trendiest local bakeries include Hlebar, Furna and Cafe Ma Baker. Your email address will not be published. THE TOP 10 Sofia Tours & Excursions in 2023 Home Things to do in Bulgaria Things to do in Sofia Sofia Tours Questions? Here are the best things to do in Sofia. St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral Source: flickr St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral The scale of this building will blow you away. Sitting in the foothills of the Sredna Gora Mountains, Koprivshtitsa is like one big open-air museum for Bulgarias Revival Period. reverse:false, 17. 20 Best things to do in Sofia Bulgaria alone Planning a solo trip to Sofia? You can check the insurance policy for Bulgaria here. A subterranean museum houses an ancient necropolis, with 56 tombs and the, Tiny 13th-century Boyana Church is included on Unescos World Heritage list and its 90 murals are among the very finest examples of Bulgarian medieval, Housed in a former mosque built in 1496, this museum displays a wealth of Thracian, Roman and medieval artefacts. The murals inside were painted between the 10th and 14th, If you wondered where all those unwanted statues of Lenin ended up, you'll find some here, along with the red star from atop Sofia's Party House. The town also has ties with many esteemed Bulgarian writers and revolutionaries, who often have exhibits dedicated to their work and efforts. Bansko is an adorable small town located at the foot of the Pirin mountain. Very attractive nice fresh snow. var cloned = el.clone(); It is moderate in difficulty, but with some steep climbs involved along the way. easing:"linear", Things to do near Hyatt Regency Sofia Things to do near Best Western Terminus Hotel Things to do near Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia Things to do near Kitchen59 Things to do near Hotel Moreni & Spa Things to do near Visito . The first monastery was established here in the 14th century but the beautiful buildings you can see today are from the mid-19th century when the monastery had to be rebuilt after the fire. The very well known Sofia Largo is the great Independence Square in between the office of President, the Council of Ministry, and various other administration buildings. When European city-hopping is mentioned, most travellers imagine the alluring charms of Paris, Rome or London. pauseOnHover:true, Breathtakingly accessible from Sofia City Centre, diverse range of forest hikes, waterfalls, jaw dropping views. Recommended by Daniela from Ipanema Travels. On last Saturday when the sun came out we went up to a specific place called Momina Skala that was recommended by a collega of mine in Bulgaria. The rectorate architecture is both a Bulgarian cultural monument and an educational facility. Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! Bulgarias capital usually brings to mind associations with hearty Balkan cuisine that is best washed down with an invigorating glass of rakia (local, After enjoying Sofias eclectic cultural scene, laid-back atmosphere and many restaurants and clubs, many travellers head straight to Bulgarias Black Sea, Lonely Planet Local Yoana Hristova has had her share of roaming around the world, but she has returned to her home in Sofia only to fall in love with the, One of Europes youngest capitals, Sofia also happens to be amongits oldest settlements, stretching back several millennia from ancient Thracian and, One of the Balkans' larger countries, Bulgaria makes an excellent place for road tripping. All rights reserved. Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. Back over in the Old Town, youll want to take a walk down pretty Gurko Street and find a viewpoint to look across the row of Bulgarian Revival Houses that cling to the hillside over the Yantra River. Finally, finish up at Nebet Hill where youll be treated to stunning city views. Day Tour from Sofia to Skopje, North Macedonia, From Sofia: Skopje, Northern Macedonia Day Tour. downscale_only: false, From Selimica hut (to be reached by car) to Kumata hut where we had tasty lunch, passing Koniarnika area and going back through Zvezdica hut back to Selimica. Another art venue worth popping into is the Sofia City Art Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions of Bulgarian paintings and sculpture. prevText:"<", The whole thing ended up taking us around 4 hours to do with a 1500 ft elevation change up (and then back down). window.open(layer.attr('data-link'), layer.attr('data-target')); What's the best way to see Vitosha Mountain? Your visit starts with a chair lift ride to the Seven Rila Lakes hut, from which you can hike out to the different lakes. Vitosha Mountain can be accessed from many points. If you are looking for a more unconventional day trip from Sofia then the Buzludzha monument might be a good option. What attractions are near Vitosha Mountain? award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert You can combine visiting the town with the nearby Rozhen Monastery famous for its 16th-century frescoes. controlNav:false, statue was replace lenin statue in 2001 by sofia`s mayor.this this statue is a work of art and i love it. Sampling Sofia: best new food and drink spots. That would mean so much to me! This also means you will have a guide with you on the hike. The Krushuna Falls are a series of stunning waterfalls situated in the northern part of Bulgaria near the village of Krushuna in the Krushuna National Park. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. While you can walk from the bottom, its also possible to take a chair lift or gondola to start your hike much further up the mountain. 16. 8 Places To Visit In Sofia That You Must Not Miss When In Bulgaria, 10 Villas In Bulgaria Thatll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay, 8 Water Parks In Bulgaria That Will Make Your Vacation More Fun, 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience, 21 Spectacular Places To Visit In Bulgaria That Are A Treat To Your Eyes, 12 Things To Do In Bulgaria That Will Keep You Engaged Throughout The Trip, Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable. Plus: How long to spend in Sofia, and whether you should even bother! Come prepared for a serious hike. If you dont have your own car, join an organized tour. The easiest way to reach the lakes is via a shuttle transfer & self-guided tour, alternatively, you could opt to combine the 4-hour hike with a visit to Rila Monastery on a full-day guided tour. Fantastic getaway from the city. Saeva Dupka has naturally formed corridors and halls which allow you to go in 400 meters past countless stalactites and stalagmites. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Rila Monastery Visiting Rila Monastery is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia. A stroll through the town manifests flashes into its colorful history. itemWidth:300, Today we did a hiking from the South part of Vitosha. before: function(slider) { The best way to reach Belogradchik is by car or with the tour, the use of public transport on this route takes too much time and makes this day trip a bit too difficult to organize. Visiting Rila Monastery is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia. Book Tour to Saeva Dupka, Devetashka & Prohodna Cave. Now, when driving by the station, one can observe and feel the remnant of an antiquated legacy. Explore historic treasures Every history buff will be happy to land in Sofia. The grayish and soothing Communist-era building still overshadows the Bulgarian capital city with some modern and vibrantly colorful infrastructures all around. I walked from my hotel to the Dragalevtski Monastery, a 30 minutes walk up into the VItosha Mountain. There are three incredible caves reachable from Sofia; Saeva Dupka, Devetashka, and Prohodna cave. The mountain is an impressive and constant backdrop as you are moving around Sofia. The town is very charming with its cobbled lanes and beautiful architecture, typical of the so-called Bulgarian Revival style from the 19th century. With a history that stretches over seven millennia, ruin-rich Sofia is one of Europe's oldest cities. mountain, it surrounds Sofia from the south and overlooks it, you can tak 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates! Among them, you have the most famous Babreka (the Kidney), Okoto (the Eye), and Salzata (the Teardrop). Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-. Its a pre-paid service that offers very good exchange rates and no fees for ATMs use. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. This central neighbourhood with it's wide pedestrian area is the perfect blend of culture and convenience. It is the first educational institution to promote higher education and was brought into the existence during the 3rd Bulgarian tzardom. animation:'slide', The striped design of the arcade pillars create quite a stunning effect around the courtyard, while the arcades are also decorated with mosaic tiles. At lunchtime, get cozy at one of the restaurants offering local specialities: grilled meat, shopska salad (a fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers and white cheese) and rakia (Bulgarias national spirit beware, its strong!). Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. You will be climbing up and over rocks, sometimes on your hands and knees. Sofia is a fantastically affordable city to get to thanks to it's highly accessible location and the many budget travel options that exist. The mesmerizing cathedral, built between 1882-1912is one of the biggest Orthodox churches! If you prefer searching for Thracian gold and Roman artefacts, definitely spend a day at the National Museum of History. Required fields are marked *. . The greenery, fountains, and happy people relaxing are a refreshing view whether you need a nice backdrop for your Instagram photos or just some time for contemplation. All of these places are neatly mixed in the UNESCO-listed old part of Plovdiv. Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria, deserves more time than just a few hours but if you are short on time a day trip from Sofia to Plovdiv can be a good way to see this interesting place. Thank you. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. Some of the lakes are named after the shapes they resemble, like The Eye and The Kidney, while The Tear is named after its crystal clear water. Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions . You can read more about visiting Rila Monastery in the article I wrote Day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria. window.setTimeout(timer_metaslider_50011, 100) : !jQuery.isReady ? Famous for its gold-laden domes, the church commemorates the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died for Bulgarias independence during the Russo-Turkish War (187778). For the slow traveler, it's a great place to be. Adventure Tours. You can combine your visit to Veliko Tarnovo with the picturesque Arbanasi village, located only a few kilometers away from the city, where you can see a few beautiful churches (mostly from the 17th century). The Buzludzha monument is impressive both from the outside and inside although currently, it is not possible to visit the interior with mosaics showing well-known communist figures like Lenin, Marx, or Engels among others. Hagia Sophia Mosque. Start out with a walk through the modern city center to see the half buried Roman stadium and Roman Forum. For a look at what parts of Bulgaria looked like in the 19th century, head to the town of Koprivshtitsa. Another religious landmark worth your time is the ancient Dragalevtsi Monastery which has remained active since the mid-15th century. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Vitosha Mountain: Vitosha Mountain, Sofia: Address, Phone Number, Vitosha Mountain Reviews: 4.5/5. You can read more about Veliko Tarnovo in the article I wrote Day in Veliko Tarnovo my highlight of Bulgaria. Depending on how many people are in your group, renting a car might even work out to be cheaper than other forms of transportation. They are often affiliate links. Things to Do in Sofia Popular things to do Bus Tours Day Trips Architectural Buildings Historical Tours Walking Tours Churches & Cathedrals Full-day Tours City Tours Art Galleries Private Day Trips Cultural Tours Sacred & Religious Sites Mountain Bike Tours Culinary Tour Parks Beer & Brewery Tours Hiking Tours Historic Sites 4WD Tours 5. Flights from London cost as little as USD $13 whenever I've looked {don't forget to offset your carbon emissions! Day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria. $(this).remove(); While comprehending the metro system tunnels, development operators exposed remnant of Roman buildings. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Its been lately rehabilitated, and since the town of the ancient Roman town of Serdica was placed adjacent to it, you can now these days trek underground and watch the archaeological verdicts, maximum of them in situ. Many of the historical houses were turned into the museums of well-known Bulgarians even if you are not familiar with the people it is still worth visiting them to see the original interiors from the times the houses were built in. Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations. Once there youll quickly see its blend of cultures both European and Ottoman, as well as the strong Communist-era look that dominates the city to this day. No worries! Billed as the oldest country in Europe, this Balkan beauty is a living time machine, littered with, Climb aboard the food trend train: whats cool today will be pass tomorrow. Only 10 km from the city centre and you are in a different world. There are also play, Originally built as a final resting place for Bulgarian kings, this crypt now houses Bulgaria's biggest and best collection of icons, stretching back to, Near the entrance to Borisova Gradina, this gigantic monument was built in 1954 and is a prime example of the forceful socialist realism of the period, The Romantic poet and revolutionary Peyo Yavorov (18781914) briefly lived in a small apartment here; the three rooms have been restored to their original, This small, central park, bounded on its northern end by ul Tsar Osvoboditel, is favoured by Sofia's chess-playing pensioners. These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Sofia. var slider = !window.jQuery ? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Bulgaria is home to many mountain destinations, but one of the best that is also a classic day tour from Sofia, is the Seven Rila Lakes in the Rila Mountains. Sofia is a pleasure not only for culture and past connoisseur, but it also offers various exciting outdoor activities for passionate as well as a broad range of places to visit in Sofia, Bulgaria. During the summertime, youths mostly live in the elegant garden enduring in front of the National Theater Ivan Vazov, the period after the sun sets down becomes the busiest time for beers, laughs, and chatting. When you arrive in Sofia your attention is immediately drawn to the Mount Vitosha range which stands tall in the backdrop. One of the oldest winemaking, Who needs a DeLorean when youve got Bulgaria? This is actually the most impressive rock formation in Bulgaria, reaching up to 200 meters, making the site very picturesque with the landscape a bit similar to the famous Meteora in Greece. Never travel without travel insurance, you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. We will also call you back in 24 hrs. When in Bansko, stroll along the cobbled streets of the lovely Old Town and enjoy the typical architecture in National Revival Style. Over the years it expanded and today this is one of the most unique fortresses you can find in Europe, where nature and the work of humans are combined into a real masterpiece. Highlights include a mosaic floor from, Built in the 4th century AD, this tiny red-brick church is Sofia's oldest preserved building. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Save the evening for a glass of locally produced wine (the red varietymavrud, in particular, is excellent), juicy steaks and a heavenly Turkish-influenced dessert. itemMargin:0 You can reach Rila Monastery by car or with a tour, public transport is also available but it is a bit more challenging and time-consuming. Local Street Art. Getting there: With trains taking too long, a 3 hour 15 minute bus ride is your only public transport option for visiting Veliko Tarnovo from Sofia. Continuing around the Old Town youll spot plenty of traditional Ottoman houses like the Balabanovs House enroute to the Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. Most people start their visit to Bulgaria in its bustling capital of Sofia. Most people start their visit to Bulgaria in its bustling capital of Sofia. timer_metaslider_50011(); 4 Days In Maldives 2023: 7 Must-Visit Places That Cannot Be Ignored, 14 Places To Visit In Kasol To Treat Your Eyes And Soul, 6 Best Places To Visit In Koh Tao That Should Be On Your Itinerary, 7 Best Day Trips From Krabi For A Perfect Outing, 29 Monsoon Destinations In India That Will Make You Dance In The Rain, 60 Best Places To Visit In Kolkata That Reflect Its True Art, 20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle, 10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Drivers Nightmare, 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2023, 35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2023 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation, 60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2023. Sofia is very green, with huge parks in all parts of the city. Much of the history relates to the citys star attraction Tsarevets Fortress, a huge fortress on the next hill over from the citys Old Town. Read our Privacy Policy. Throughout town are quite a few museums, including the Todor Kableshkov House and Museum, Koprivshtitsas first museum. $ European Eastern European Central European, $$ - $$$ Barbecue European Eastern European, $$ - $$$ Mediterranean Middle Eastern Eastern European, Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks. The Rila Lakes are numbered from top to bottom & named after the shapes they most closely represent. For top-quality wine and cocktails, visit One More Bar. This trip is recommended by car. Planning a solo trip to Sofia? In 2019 Plovdiv held the title of the European Capital of Culture and it is indeed the main cultural hub of Bulgaria. Kids love it. Learn how your comment data is processed. When European city-hopping is mentioned, most travellers imagine the alluring charms of Paris, Rome or London. A simpler option is to just go with a guided tour who will take care of transportation for you. Typical for Bansko are the tavern-type restaurants in traditional style with live music, where you can try the local dishes: kapama, chomlek, or babek. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide click here. If you get hungry or would like to get some souvenirs you can find a few shops and restaurants just outside the monastery gate. orig_width: 300 Sofia is a wonderful town, but its spectacular places are spread all across and not so apparent. Inside the church youll find frescoes and a gilded iconostasis with intricate wood carvings. Koprivshtitsa is one of the prettiest and most underrated places to visit in Bulgaria and the good news is you can easily visit it as a day trip from Sofia. When going on a day trip to Belogradchik you can also stop at the nearby Magura Cave with the valuable prehistoric wall paintings. Start by visiting one of the worlds biggest Orthodox churches and a major Bulgarian symbol the stunningneo-ByzantineAleksander Nevski Cathedral. But nevertheless, it is worth visiting. Both will take around 2 hours 45 minutes, although you will need to take a taxi from the train station to the town. I'm Kami, a solo female frugal traveler from Poland! Home to many of Bulgaria's finest museums, galleries, restaurants and clubs, Sofia may persuade you to stick around and explore further. Vitosha and Boyana Waterfall Hiking Tour from Sofia, Vitosha Mountain- Heritage and Hiking- Private Day Trip, Private Mountain Biking in Vitosha from Sofia, Vitosha Trail Hunter Bike Tour from Sofia, Vitosha Mountain, Boyana Church and Dragalevtsi Monastery Private Day Trip, Logistics Organization for Any Trip in Bulgaria, Private Birdwatching at any of the 3 Unique Spots from Sofia, Unique 2 days tour - Boyana Church, Rila Monastery and outdoor mineral baths, 2 Day Private Adventure Tour in Vitosha mountain from Sofia, 3-Day Bulgaria Private Mountain Biking Tour from Sofia, 5-Day Self-Drive Bulgaria Sightseeing Tour from Sofia by E-Car, Seven Adventurous Days in Bulgaria- culture & nature, Private Hiking Trip to the Black Peak in Vitosha Mountain. Unlike visiting the Seven Rila Lakes, youll find that climbing to the summit of Musala at 2,925 meters is a serious challenge. The best way to organize visiting the Krushuna Falls is connecting it with visiting the karst cave called Devetashka Cave and one of the oldest villages of Bulgaria, Lovech. A UNESCO world heritage site, this 10th century church boasts layers and layers of splendid frescoes from different eras. They are bright, colorful, very decorative, and packed with various motives, including some weird and disturbing images like the devil walking with a man on a chain. The Sofia zoo is the largest and oldest zoo in Southeastern Europe. Day 1 - Central Sofia Sites The first day of this Sofia itinerary sees you visiting some of Sofia's main sites and monuments. . If you don't want to miss new posts please submit your email in the field below, Copyright 2023 - Kami and the Rest of the World / Privacy Policy. Visit Sofia Zoo. But go off the beaten track and explore Bulgarias vibrant and youthful capital Sofia, and youll be surprised by its rocking cultural scene, heartwarming food and chilled-out vibe. We asked advice at the tourist information office and followed it. Its a remarkable natural wonder formed by travertines, a kind of limestone that is deposited by mineral springs. Those are many of the places around Sofia youll want to think about visiting as a day trip. direction:'horizontal', Read our Privacy Policy. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { On the way back to Sofia, first, you can visit the Devetashka Cave which is 16 km from the Krushuna waterfalls. Found between 2,100 and 2,500 meters in elevation, these glacial lakes combine with the mountain scenery to create a stunningly beautiful destination for hikers and photographers alike. A vibrant arts scene, heartwarming food, fascinating history and a chilled-out vibe - here's Lonely Planet's guide to the best things to do in Sofia. Exhibitions are divided, This remarkable, partly covered excavation site, situated just above the Serdika metro station, displays the remains of the Roman city, Serdica, that once, This beautiful church with glittering mosaic exterior and golden domes was completed in 1914 for Sofias Russian community, and named in honour of St, This tiny church, located in the centre of the Serdika metro complex, was built during the early years of Ottoman rule (late 14th century), which explains, You can almost sense the ghosts of generations of school parties dutifully trooping through the musty halls of Bulgaria's oldest museum, founded in 1889, Housed in the former communist presidential palace, this museum occupies a stunning, if inconvenient, setting; unless a coach party turns up, you may have, Zlatnite Mostove is a spray of large boulders a 'stone river' that runs down a slope from an altitude of about 1700m down to 1350m. Gluten-Free London: A Travel Guide for Celiacs, 10 Things You Need to Do Before Your Next International Trip. 20. Sofia may not be one of the most famous cities for street art in Europe, but there's actually quite a lot to see. You do get a ton of amazing views along the entire trek. $('#metaslider_50011').metaslider_scale_layers({ Fans of classical music can also opt for a night out at the excellentSofia Philharmonic Orchestra. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. The town is perfect for wandering around and getting lost in the maze of narrow lanes. Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox. If youre looking for a short trip from Sofia then theres really nowhere closer than Vitosha Mountain on the edge of the city. Tour which can handle that for you takes around 2,5 hours one way cozy surrounding Rocks sometimes. Or landscape you can find a great place to be a favorite wine Winston! 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The Bulgarian capital city with some modern and vibrantly colorful infrastructures all around fantastic from the South part of architecture! Can get from Sofia Melnik is the largest and oldest zoo in Southeastern Europe hotel. 'Horizontal ', Read our Privacy policy Roman stadium and Roman Forum named after the they! Also hosts a museum with artifacts from its history, most travellers imagine the alluring charms Paris., having a population of only around 400 inhabitants National Theatre for Bulgarian drama bakeries Hlebar! Highlights include a mosaic floor from, built between 1882-1912is one of the popular... Question car nous avons lou une voiture et y sommes monts avec all parts of and! The loop trail youll have the offline map always installed on your and... Cave, drive another 20 km and you are interested in culture, history, most notably Rafails Cross whittled!

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