Sofia Travel Plans

Get ready to fall in love with a city that's both ancient and modern, charming and quirky - it's Sofia, the place where communist monuments meet vegan bakeries.

Save destination

Best of lists

Best 20 things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria

Welcome to Sofia, the land of endless surprises and delightful adventures! Embark on a journey through this vibrant city and discover its hidden treasures. Unleash your inner connoisseur by indulging in delectable Bulgarian cuisine, trying rakia (a potent local spirit), and stumbling upon quaint family-run shops that will transport you back in time. Don't forget to embrace the city's quirky side by engaging in spontaneous dancing in the streets, because let's be honest, what's a visit to Sofia without a spontaneous jig?

15 perfect restaurants in Sofia, Bulgaria

Welcome to Sofia, the city of enchanting cuisine and hidden gastronomic gems! In our quest to uncover the city's culinary treasures, we stumbled upon 15 restaurants that will tickle your taste buds and make your belly dance with joy. From the majestic flavors of traditional Bulgarian dishes to international fusion masterpieces, Sofia's dining scene has something for every palate. So, grab your fork and join us on this mouthwatering adventure through the best eateries this marvelous city has to offer!

The very best 12 nightlife spots in Sofia, Bulgaria

Welcome to Sofia, the city where nightlife never sleeps (except maybe during nap time). Get ready to groove, sip, and mingle at these 12 nocturnal hotspots that guarantee an unforgettable experience. From hopping clubs that keep your moves in check to cozy, hipster-friendly bars that make you question reality, let Sofia show you how to party until dawn like a true Bulgarian.

How long are you staying?

Romantic stays

Stays on a budget

Family-friendly stays

Sofia's Marvels: A Family-Friendly Adventure Unveiled

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, offers a perfect family-friendly destination packed with history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Take a leisurely stroll through the city center to explore iconic landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. Delve into Sofia's rich heritage by visiting museums like the National History Museum or enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at the Sofia Zoo or the Vitosha Mountain, where the whole family can indulge in activities like hiking, skiing, and picnicking in the beautiful scenery.

Discover Sofia: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

A family-friendly trip to Sofia, Bulgaria promises a memorable experience filled with cultural immersion and fun activities. Explore the city's rich history by visiting landmarks like the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or the ancient Roman Serdica complex. Additionally, take advantage of the spacious parks, charming playgrounds, and interactive museums like the Earth and Man Museum, making Sofia the perfect destination for an entertaining and educational family vacation.

Discover Sofia's Delights: A 3-Day Family Adventure!

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, offers an enchanting family friendly trip blending history, culture, and natural beauty. Begin your adventure by exploring the ancient Serdica ruins, followed by a visit to the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Take a break from sightseeing and let the kids enjoy the wide open spaces of Borisova Gradina or the exhilarating rides at Sofia Land amusement park.

How to get to Sofia

Plane

The best way to get to Sofia, Bulgaria by plane is to fly to Sofia Airport, which is the main airport serving the city. There are numerous airlines that operate flights to and from Sofia, including Bulgaria Air, Wizz Air, and Ryanair.

Car

If you are traveling to Sofia by car, you can either take the E79 highway from Serbia or the E80 from Greece. The distance from Serbia is around 370 km, while the distance from Greece is around 590 km. You can also rent a car from the airport or the city center.

Train

While there are train services from other countries to Bulgaria, the best way to get to Sofia by train is from within the country. The main train station in Sofia is the Sofia Central Station, which offers regular connections to other parts of Bulgaria.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Sofia as the city is not located on the coast. The nearest port to Sofia is the port of Burgas, which is around 400 km from Sofia. From there, you can take a train or bus to Sofia.

Bus

Taking a bus is a popular option for getting to Sofia as there are many bus companies that operate services to the city. The most popular bus station in Sofia is the Central Bus Station, which is located near the center of the city.

Explore elsewhere

Varna Vibes: A 4-Day Budget Getaway

Explore the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria on a limited budget by visiting the charming city of Varna. Take a stroll through the Sea Garden to enjoy the sun and the sea and visit the Roman Baths and the Archaeological Museum to discover the rich history of the city. Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at local restaurants and stay at budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels or guesthouses.

Burgas: A Romantic Seaside Escape

Burgas, Bulgaria is a seaside city with plenty of opportunities for romantic activities. Walk along the beautiful beaches, explore the picturesque Old Town, and enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the Black Sea. The city also offers easy access to nearby attractions like the ancient city of Nessebar and the stunning Rila Monastery.

Bulgarian Budget Bliss: 3 Days in Stara Zagora

Located in the heart of Bulgaria, Stara Zagora is a hidden gem for budget travelers. The city features ancient ruins, a vibrant market, and affordable accommodations and restaurants that offer delicious Balkan cuisine. Whether you're exploring the Roman Amphitheater or sampling Bulgarian wine at a local wine bar, Stara Zagora is the perfect destination for a budget-friendly adventure in Eastern Europe.

Escape to Romantic Pleven: A 4-Day Getaway

Pleven, Bulgaria offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway with its beautiful gardens and historical monuments. The city is home to stunning architectural wonders such as the Pleven Panorama and the St. George the Conqueror Chapel. Lastly, indulge in a variety of delicious Bulgarian cuisine at the local restaurants and cafes.