The town also has ties with many esteemed Bulgarian writers and revolutionaries, who often have exhibits dedicated to their work and efforts. The Central Baths date to 1913 and were in use up until the mid-80s. Getting there: To reach Plovdiv from Sofia you have a choice of train and bus. With the variety and quality, the challenge will be deciding how many extra days youll need and where you want to start. The city used to have one of the three woodworking schools in Bulgaria and even nowadays, many examples of fantastic woodwork of masters from Samokov is found all over the Balkan peninsula. Sofias most famous park was landscaped in the 1880s right after the Bulgarian Revival, making it the oldest one in the city. The staff here were very nice and polite, we felt really welcomed despite the language barrier. $(e.target).closest('a').length) { As you walk around, youll see plenty of architectural treasures in the form of old houses and churches. The paintings, by an unknown artist, include contemporary portraits of two Bulgarian rulers, Tsar Konstantin Assen and Tsar Koloyan, next to their wives. Visiting Vitosha mountain or Borovets is a wiser decision if youd just like to spend a day. 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. For a look at what parts of Bulgaria looked like in the 19th century, head to the town of Koprivshtitsa. Then, walk on towards Sveta Petka monastery. By train: Sofia Central Station is the largest train station in Bulgaria and is 1 kilometer north of the city center. Not too difficult and totally worth the climb. Youll end up at Gorna Malina, where, on a hot summer day, you could swim at the complex Vyatarnite Melnitsi. A UNESCO world heritage site, this 10th century church boasts layers and layers of splendid frescoes from different eras. Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. I really wanted to like this place. The town is perfect for wandering around and getting lost in the maze of narrow lanes. Show more. First, you can meet the charismatic and knowledgeable tour guides. Read more fantastic stories about Bulgaria:https://www.leondeleeuw.net/travel-bulgaria, . Its nice to walk around a bit or to enjoy a picnic on the side of the lake. There is an abundance of places to explore in the center of the city so no matter where you are staying, you can find somewhere to go. You will be nothing but impressed by the opportunity to see a lot in just a day even when spending the night in Sofia! (577 reviews) "Hotel Ibis has to offer everything that you need for a hotel close to the airport- convenient, reliable transportation at any time of the day or night; friendly,responsible staff ; a small dining . Of course, the best views are reserved for the peak, if the weather is agreeable. It's the perfect spot for a little family picnic, or a friendly gathering. How would you structure such a Balkans trip starting from Sofia? ixigo is a travel search & planning app that aggregates quality travel information, trustworthy traveller reviews and compares lowest prices to help you plan perfect trips! Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. Youtube: Visit }, itemMargin:0 Give it a try and see what . It's fast, simple, and easy, so enjoy the ride! Website:https://www.leondeleeuw.net/ Drive northwest towards the small town of Godech, where you can have a coffee and visit the small river front with the many plants and flowers in springtime. per night. 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. In fact, theres houses built against the slopes. After returning he was prime minister from 2001-05. Your email address will not be published. Besides that, Melnik is known for three other things: traditional Ottoman houses, wine, and incredible Sand Pyramids which dominate the landscape. We will prepare your rental car so you can enjoy a carefree trip through the surroundings of Sofia. Dont want to drive or deal with the hassle of public transport? For that reason, and more, make sure to stop and spend some time in the center. Even if the place is rather small, it is full of attractions. A guide to must-see places in Sofia, Sofia is the national capital city of Bulgaria. Take the churches here that have spent several centuries of their existence as mosques, the overbearing soviet architecture or the Roman history that is still being uncovered and blends with the modern city. "Thank you everyone for making this a wonderful digital experience. Theres several small paths leading up to the lakeside, where you can enjoy another stunning scenery. Even though the entrance fee is not to be called cheap the experience is certainly worth it! Aleksandur Nevski Cathedral, Sofia, Bulgaria. Drive towards Mirkovo, a little, peaceful town at the foot of the Stara Planina mountain range. Flips. It was developed over the next 50 years by three different designers: the Swiss Daniel Neff, the Alsatian Joseph Frei and then the Bulgarian Georgi Dutev (when the parks Soviet monuments were installed). The houses in Bansko, built in the 18th 19th century, are of the so-called fortified houses type, which is quite unique for Bulgaria. This is an enormous lake where Sofia gets its tap water from. For the ones who are looking for an entire wild and untamed endeavor of natural beauty, Vitosha mountain range is a great place to visit which is close by from this place. Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates! Experience them both in a single day on this convenient transfer service from central Sofia, with a driver/guide. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Outside you can see the flagstones of a Roman street and other remnants of Ancient Serdica. 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. The name comes from Sofias mineral baths, which had attracted visitors throughout the region during the 1500s. $(this).css('display', 'block'); Getting to Vitosha Mountain: There's a number . 2. The best way to reach Melnik, besides the car, is with a tour. You could have a meal or some drinks at the hotel/restaurant complex St. Ivan Rilski and perhaps enjoy a walk around the town. - Full insurance coverage Samokov played an important role in the National Revival. As you most likely already saw from the airplane, Sofia has a huge mountain right next to the city. 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. Top Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria: See Tripadvisor's 173,210 traveller reviews and photos of Sofia tourist attractions. Hidden away in the Rila Mountains, this medieval monastery is the largest, and likely the most important Eastern Orthodox monastery complex in Bulgaria. 15 Best Things To Do In Sofia, Bulgaria 1. Alternatively, you could surely spend the night there. I was lucky to visit Sofia on a few occasions and each time I also went for at least one of Sofia day trips. As you can see above, the variety of places you can visit as day trips from Sofia is really big and everyone can find something for their taste. There, youll find the tallest peak of the Balkans, which is Musala mountain (2.925 metres). The first-largest dome can be found on the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia. Design the trip as you want! Youll end up at Gorna Malina, where, on a hot summer day, you could swim at the complex Vyatarnite Melnitsi. I always use the free app Maps.Me. If you have time left, drive up until Hizha Kom. 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. Corner Bakery Cafe. You can check the insurance policy for Bulgaria here. minItems:1, Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, we have a vehicle to suit your needs. The Ice Rink of "Sports Sofia - 2000" is part of the facilities of the open multifunctional sports complex "Zone B-5", with an area of 800 square meters and a capacity of up to 100 users simultaneously. Plovdiv is known as the oldest continually inhabited city in Europe, with traces dating back to the 6th century BC. An excellent place to have lunch is the Kokoshkova Kushta (www.clubsamel90.com/index_en.html). Home to the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, theres plenty of history to explore in Veliko Tarnovo. Suggested Read: 12 Things To Do In Bulgaria That Will Keep You Engaged Throughout The Trip. Amongst the fascinating places to visit in Sofia is from the underground archaeological level, where a unique transparent roof displays the entire street above. Me trying to look cool in front of St. Stephen's Basilica. Bulgarias capital has a lot of stories to tell, and each historic attraction will give you a new perspective on Sofias complicated past. And youre not even an hour outside of Sofia! Those who favor a more tranquil recreation can visit Boris garden, which grants a broad assortment of monuments, plants, and even its private observatory. Also be sure to join 27.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! Mainly in churches. Its just as fulfilling and will leave you with good memories. 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. The most famous sightseeing location of Sofia, and perhaps Bulgaria is the legendary Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. init: function(slider) { This place was abandoned but is now inhabited by a couple from Sofia, that is truly happy at this serene place. All Rights Reserved. Vitosha Mountain You could visit the mountain and ski resort Borovets or opt for a swimming or spa retreat in Separeva Banya. 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. before: function(slider) { This TV tower itself is not accessible for the public but you can stay outside and enjoy the wide view over Sofia. So, to give you an idea of what is possible with your extra time, here are some of the best day trips from Sofia. Now lets get back to your rental car. After that we would like to explore these cities: Skopje, Prizren, Pristina, Sarajevo, Belgrade, Novi Sad. We guarantee: At that junction, you find Complex Stalin, where you could have a delicious meal. Then, you can enjoy the many good restaurants of Sofia and the nightlife of this cool city! Sofia is Bulgarias capital city. Your own four wheels allow you to be in control of your time and schedule, and depending on how many people are in your group, renting a car might even work out cheaper than other forms of transportation. Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. $('li:not(".flex-active-slide") .animated', slider).not('.disabled').each(function(index) { When it comes to things to see in Bulgaria outside of Sofia, two of the more curious are the Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress. }); It possesses thirteen halls in which several cultural exhibitions are organized art exhibitions, The Day of the Book, music concerts, folklore performances, art performances, and much more notice their home below the ceiling of this infrastructure. On the way, you will pass the Kopitoto tower. Visit one of the mountain huts that are up in the hills, to enjoy a strong cup of herbal tea. 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). There are cobbled streets and beautiful houses in the Bulgarian Revival style, but you can also find the remnants of the medieval fortress or the edgy and alternative area. Beautiful and charming, the National Theater building in Sofia is on every Sofia Bulgaria things to see. It was built for Sofias sizeable Sephardic Jewish population in 1909 and Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria was here when it was inaugurated. Address: 4, Knyaz Alexander I Sq., Sofia. Staff is very helpful! Try to go there during the week as its a very busy travel destination on the weekend. You can read more about visiting Rila Monastery in the article I wrote Day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria. Then theres Bansko, however it might be a bit too far for just a day if you plan to spend many hours outside practicing sports. Storyboard. Where the climate is fantastic and allows for year-round tourism. Wadi Darbat is a splendid lush green valley with a river running through the middle. Tip Start your trip with a walking tour to get to know the city, there are several available: 40 Places to See in California Before Your Kids Are All Grown Up, 30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California, 40 Places to See in Florida Before Your Kids Grow Up, 15 Best Things to Do in Middleborough (MA). Keep in mind that it tends to dry up in high season, best is to come in early spring. The small Balkan country of Bulgaria, is one of Eastern Europe's diamonds in the rough. You can attend there numerous events and the best place to enjoy the artistic vibe is the Kapana Art District, where you will find numerous cafes, galleries and the best atmosphere in the city. In 2019 Plovdiv held the title of the European Capital of Culture and it is indeed the main cultural hub of Bulgaria. Mostar. You might feel more comfortable and relaxed if you keep one and the same hotel during your stay and make day trips from where you are. This might count for the village square, which is renovated and indeed looks fine with many rose gardens and ponds, including fountains. Despite its size, the tiny town of Melnik near Bulgarias Pirin Mountains is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria. Cape Kaliakra 17. In its day it was one of the largest in the Roman empire, holding gladiator fights and grisly battles pitting men against wild beasts. Click here to learn more and order your Revolut card. Design the trip as you want! Check Places around sofia - Sightseeing, attractions & places to see near sofia. The other big attraction here is the Belogradchik Fortress, a stronghold that dates back to Roman times. The location of this medieval church is almost dreamlike, in a grove of tall softwood trees in a quiet suburb of the city. After many thousands of years of erosion, you can now admire the rock formations and tall cliffs that reach north of Sofia for over a hundred kilometres. TRAVELERS. The best places to visit from Sofia highlight other aspects of Bulgarias history and culture, as well as its jaw-dropping landscapes. They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Where you have an endless amount of places to see on a small surface. One of the most iconic attractions in the country is St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the capital of Sofia. by Leon de Leeuw Sofia: just the bulgarian cuisine is a good reason to visit the city. Vitosha Mountain Day 1 As you most likely already saw from the airplane, Sofia has a huge mountain right next to the city. 66 reviews. Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions . This is an enormous lake where Sofia gets its tap water from. Samokov played an important role in the National Revival. From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Bachkovo Monastery From Sofia: Full-Day Tour of Plovdiv with Lunch Veliko Tarnovo I personally think that Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Bulgaria that you simply need to visit during your trip there. Your particular challenges are: 1. When you visit you can see the remnants of this ancient church and the tombs that date back more than 1500 years. Visiting this beautiful monastery, which was built in 927 AD, youll first see the arcades and balconies around the inner cloister. For instance the estate once had an exotic menagerie, including Bulgarias first elephants, which were used for yardwork in the grounds! Step inside to view the detailed medieval frescoes that had been painted over by the Ottomans when the church was converted to a mosque in the 1600s. The scale of this building will blow you away. The town is very charming with its cobbled lanes and beautiful architecture, typical of the so-called Bulgarian Revival style from the 19th century. Another religious landmark worth your time is the ancient Dragalevtsi Monastery which has remained active since the mid-15th century. 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. }); To see Plovdivs main historic attractions, head over to the citys Old Town where youll find the impressive Roman Theatre. Even if you dont have time to visit for longer, its still one of the best side trips from Sofia. Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Throughout town are quite a few museums, including the Todor Kableshkov House and Museum, Koprivshtitsas first museum. When going on a day trip to Belogradchik you can also stop at the nearby Magura Cave with the valuable prehistoric wall paintings. Saeva Dupka has naturally formed corridors and halls which allow you to go in 400 meters past countless stalactites and stalagmites. Then, walk on towards Sveta Petka monastery. This trip is recommended by car. There is a cable car but its not working since a long time hiking there is too far from the city. The entrance fee for the national park costs only 5 lv. Nesebar 8. The city has experienced a history of over 7000 years, and usually one will inadvertently trip upon it. Budget hotel prices - Budget two-star hotels cost around 40-65 BGN per night. This might count for the village square, which is renovated and indeed looks fine with many rose gardens and ponds, including fountains. They specialize in all kinds of high-quality tourist products for a modern and active lifestyle that I can vou. Pamporovo Beautiful natural wonders and historical sights to visit in Bulgaria 11. During the building's tenure as a working mosque, these were covered . The easiest way to access Vitosha is via Aleko, the mountains ski resort, which is where the Simeonovo gondola lift will drop you off. The 5 Best Things To Do In Prague At Night, Blue Lagoon In Iceland: A Guide For An Ideal Geothermal Spa, Matterhorn Mountain: A Guide For A Memorable Excursion, 22 Places To Visit In Panchgani In 2022 For A Fine Weekend Getaway, 15 Best Places To Visit In Hamburg In 2022, 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. Plovdiv is one of the oldest continually habited cities in the world, and it's definitely one of the oldest in Europe, with artifacts found dating as far back as 6000 BC. Time to explore the region east of Sofia. el.before(cloned); Keep in mind that it tends to dry up in high season, best is to come in early spring. Even if you cant see the old remnants at first, they are there, just well hidden under the layer of the new town. We leverage an extensive network of local contacts in more than 30 countries around the world to offer impactful learning experiences. Its a remarkable natural wonder formed by travertines, a kind of limestone that is deposited by mineral springs. Followers. From there the walk to Vitoshas Black Peak is surprisingly light when then weathers good in spring or autumn, as the peak is part of a large plateau that seems to go on forever thanks to its shallow gradient. But whats impressive is that all the landscapers worked within the original plan, and the upshot is a pleasing sense of coherence for such a big project. The heart of ancient Serdica and the oldest building in modern Sofia, this red brick church was built all the way back in 300s. var metaslider_50011 = function($) { 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. But nevertheless, it is worth visiting. If you are looking for a more unconventional day trip from Sofia then the Buzludzha monument might be a good option. There are plenty of places to see and visit in Sofia-City Region. flipped into Vakantie . Wadi Darbat. We will also call you back in 24 hrs. The flight from Paris to Sofia will take 2 hours, 45 minutes. At the monastery, they sell many products such as homemade wine, honey and jam. Climbing to more than 2,200 metres behind Sofias southwestern suburbs is Vitosha, a monumental peak in a nature park, promising more adventure than you could ever cram into one trip. PLACES TO SEE. The mountain offers all kinds of ways to relax or get active during your trip. All rights reserved. Not too difficult and totally worth the climb. The Seven Rila Lakes are located 100 km from the centre of Sofia & take less than 2 hours to get to. 2. Sofia. Theres plenty to see! Below you can see the selection of my favorite day trips from Sofia as well as a few recommendations from fellow bloggers. $(this).css('display', 'block'); 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. Getting there: Its possible to take a local bus and reach Boyana Church or Dragalevtsi Monastery from the city center in around 30 minutes. Huis En Co By Sofia. downscale_only: false, Youll be rewarded with a wide view on the Skaklya waterfall. Though, pedaling a bicycle is an excellent idea to traverse the city center. Most people start their visit to Bulgaria in its bustling capital of Sofia. }, Off-the-beaten path spots in Sofia > THE LADY'S MARKET. Another attraction to visit in Bansko is the St. Trinity Church, which is one of the most remarkable churches in Bulgaria. 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. I adore discovering off the beaten path places (especially in Central Europe) and exploring alternative spots, street art scene and local cafe culture. This iconic brutalist masterpiece in the shape of a spaceship is located over 3 hours driving from the capital, on top of the mountain with the same name in the central part of the country. Day 2 }; You could take the cable car up or drive towards the mountain hut Aleko, from where you can make excellent hikes. Step inside to see the permanent exhibition about the history of Bulgarias Jewish communities. In fact, there's houses built against the slopes. Youll approach Berkovitsa and can turn right on the way to Varshets. window.setTimeout(timer_metaslider_50011, 100) : !jQuery.isReady ? 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. As you walk around, youll see plenty of architectural treasures in the form of old houses and churches. The magnificent Neoclassical architecture makes this building a real eye candy, plus it was designed by two famous Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer. As you drive east, youll come across many more towns and villages that will be interesting for you to see. Koprivshtitsa 5. Those are many of the places around Sofia youll want to think about visiting as a day trip. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. Sofia's nightlife is fun In Sofia, you can party until the morning and there are varieties of bars and clubs to choose from. So, pick up your rental car from our office, and youre ready for your first day trip! 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. It is moderate in difficulty, but with some steep climbs involved along the way. This TV tower itself is not accessible for the public but you can stay outside and enjoy the wide view over Sofia. And making such a trip with your rental car is certainly worth it! This is one of the best places to visit when in Sofia. This Orthodox church was built in three main stages, the first in the 10th century with later additions in the 13th and early 19th centuries. 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 Rila Monastery 13. 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. Veliko Tarnovo 3. At that junction, you find Complex Stalin, where you could have a delicious meal. Location: "Saint Alexander Nevsky" square. Day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria. Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-. Of course, where theres a mountain theres a view, and near the top of Vitosha is a viewpoint with a panorama of Sofia. Public transport is relatively reliable but with a rental car you are considerably more flexible to do as you please. Prohodna cave is a karst cave best known for the two holes in its ceiling that look remarkably like eyes gazing down. 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. At night, you will surely have the best view over the many lights of the busy Bulgarian capital. 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape! Finally, finish up at Nebet Hill where youll be treated to stunning city views. Sofia Image Source We will be flying from Athens to Sofia. Then, after just a few kilometres, turn right again towards the Klisurski monastery. Complete info about tourist places near sofia, best & popular places to visit near sofia. Apart from the slopes on Vitosha mountain, Bulgaria has several more and even better slopes for some action in the snow. Order Online. If you come during the winter season, we will make sure your car is equipped with winter tyres so you can drive to the resorts safely and enjoy your winter activities! Now, when driving by the station, one can observe and feel the remnant of an antiquated legacy. Gardens in SofiaMountains in SofiaSki & Snowboard Areas in SofiaEquestrian Trails in SofiaHiking Trails in SofiaOff-Road & ATV Trails in SofiaWaterfalls in SofiaBodies of Water in Sofia Blues Bars in SofiaJazz Bars in SofiaPiano Bars in SofiaComedy Clubs in SofiaTheatre & Performances in SofiaOperas in SofiaSymphonies in Sofia Youre free to try it if youre brave enough! nextText:">", As you head towards the summit, youll pass several mountain huts as well as loads of gorgeous mountain scenery including lakes and waterfalls. Required fields are marked *. I told her I wanted a blowout with curling iron as I was going to a wedding immediately after. There are chair lifts that you can then take to the top, when theyre running. Youll be rewarded with a wide view on the Skaklya waterfall. Bicycles can be borrowed in various areas around the capital city at an affordable price. Where you have an endless amount of places to see on a small surface. Recommended tour: Sofia Communist Landmarks Day Tour. You can find the best accommodation options at Booking. 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. Sozopol 7. Now lets go south, the only direction you havent gone yet. Bath Houses in Sofia, Bulgaria Likewise, within Sofia you'll also find an old bath house, where locals can bring their reusable water bottles to fill up on fresh mineral water springing up from the ground. 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. Easily seen from the center of Sofia, Vitosha offers both natural scenery and several major cultural landmarks. The fanciest street in the city, Vitosha Boulevard is where all the posh boutiques and fashion houses are clustered. 20. Youll drive the Petrohan mountain pass, through the dense forests of Western Bulgaria. After it was unearthed it became integrated into the design of the Arena di Serdica hotel, but visitors off the street are free to look down at the ruins from the hotels specially-designed gallery. You can choose one of the many hotels in our capital. The place is best reached by car. They cook wonderfully and have a spacious garden where you can enjoy their specialties. For those who do not favor the concealed wisdom of the metro, there is a solution too. We will prepare your rental car so you can enjoy a carefree trip through the surroundings of Sofia. The Vazova ekopateka, in Gara Bov, will surely be a good option if you enjoy a hike uphill. The Seven Rila Lakes 12. The fountains and decorative lighting at the theater front boosts the cozy surrounding. St. Stephen's Basilica. Thank you. 1. 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). Source: flickr. itemWidth:300, The mountain offers all kinds of ways to relax or get active during your trip. If youre not an upmarket shopper then you can just console yourself with those arresting views of Vitosha Mountain which is capped with a dusting of snow for much of the year and framed by the streets tall buildings. slideshowSpeed:3000, A round-trip ticket through Wizz Air from Paris to Sofia will cost around 302 Euros for a direct flight. No worries, weve listed the best tour for each day trip (where available). 101 Broadway. In the 400s the arena was rebuilt but was abandoned not long after. And the roof they chose was that of the citys former Grand Mosque, decommissioned following the Bulgarian Revival. Our fleet contains economy, compact, mid-size, SUV, minivans and full size cars. Why? As you most likely already saw from the airplane, Sofia has a huge mountain right next to the city. I'm working full time and balancing my job with extensive travels all over the world. The small town in the north-west part of the country, near the border with Serbia and some 170 km from the capital, is worth visiting for the unique rock formations and a fortress neatly incorporated into them. After the statue of Lenin was removed in 2000, Saint Sofia Monument was built in the exact same place in 2001. On the road to Samokov, youll pas the Pancharevo lake. The last on that list has the Valchitran and Lukovit Treasures, two breathtaking hoards of Thracian Gold. Suggested Read: 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience. The Lady's Market (Zhenski Pazar) is the oldest outdoor market in Sofia and it is in a neighbourhood inhabited by refugees from Turkey and Arab countries, so the area retains a very 'Oriental' feel and a special decadent charm I fell in love with. }); Easily one of the most popular Sofia day trips is the magnificent Rila Monastery. Its situated along the Nishava river. The river, that was once far wider and mightier than it is now, carved many interesting shapes into the rocks. Must Read: 10 Villas In Bulgaria Thatll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay. Another popular place for city folks to spend their free time. 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. You could walk downhill and visit Razboishte monastery, where you find a chapel inside the rocks and an interesting monastery complex of hundreds of years old. To make up for an exciting holiday, you must cover most of these beautiful places to visit in Bulgaria that we have listed below: Sofia Varna Plovdiv Rila Monastery Nesebar Veliko Tarnovo Bansko Sozopol Koprivshtitsa Burgas Sunny Beach Belogradchik Pamporovo Ruse Hisarya Arbanasi Pobiti Kamani Kaliakra Balchik Kazanlak Etara 1. This place is one of the highlights of Bulgaria. Bulgarias second city, Plovdiv is a spot worth visiting. And of course, crazy statues in bulk amounts that are scattered all over the place. Your email address will not be published. The caves near the site were inhabited already in the 10th century by hermit Ivan of Rila (eventually the monastery was named after him). Youll become familiar with Sofia much better only if you go through its past (including centuries-old relics, last-century photos, a kings carriage, and a retro tram in which you can sit also). Places to visit in Istanbul are a gateway to several historic attractions . The Rila Monastery and Boyana Church are two of Bulgaria's most important UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its a popular destination for local people as well as tourists. Sofia has an active and modern public transportation conformity consisting of subway, trams, trolleys, and buses. from city center 2 out of 19. places to visit in Salalah. There are plenty of other small restaurants around town, all should serve the local potatoes! Berkovitsa itself is a nice town to visit with a wide view over the mountains. In the winter Bansko is a famous ski resort and in the summer a doorway to Pirin National Park, popular with hikers and day-trippers. }); Banya Bashi is from 1576, built at the very beginning of the citys Ottoman period. 6. Time to explore the region east of Sofia. It was clean and the chairs massage your back when you're getting washed. Airbnb is available all over the city, with private rooms ranging from 30-55 BGN per night. But this is actually a really cool place to visit, with numerous great things to do there and a wonderful atmosphere. Ferdinand I was on hand when this museum was inaugurated back in 1905 as a way of bring all of the important archaeological finds scattered around Sofia and Bulgaria under one roof. Then they will take you to all the most significant landmarks while highlighting key historical moments. Varna 4. Sofia is a wonderful town, but its spectacular places are spread all across and not so apparent. At the monastery, they sell many products such as homemade wine, honey and jam. directionNav:true, All of these places are neatly mixed in the UNESCO-listed old part of Plovdiv. 34 Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary. Further Read: Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable. Book Tour to Saeva Dupka, Devetashka & Prohodna Cave. Both will take around 2 hours 45 minutes, although you will need to take a taxi from the train station to the town. The town has the second-largest golden dome of Bulgaria on a church, right on the main square. If you want to learn something about the history of Sofia, the Sofia History Museum offers a fun walk through the past of the city. Each cave showcases the beauty that can be found in these geological formations. So, pick up your rental car from our office, and youre ready for your first day trip! Pobiti Kamani 16. Price: $35+ USD per night. 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. window.setTimeout(timer_metaslider_50011, 1) : metaslider_50011(window.jQuery); We have reviews of the best places to see in Sofia. 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. Following the loop trail youll have the chance to see each of the lakes, plus plenty of epic mountain views. Recommended by Sue from Sue? The rectorate architecture is both a Bulgarian cultural monument and an educational facility. Boyana Church The Boyana Church - this is one of Bulgaria's most significant treasures listed in the Unesco World Cultural Heritage list. Taking a guided tour however will help you make the most of your day trip as a guide will know exactly what to see. The large market area is packed with beautiful 19th-century houses (built in the Bulgarian Revival period) and wandering around is a pure pleasure. Late in summer, unfortunately, the waterfall is dry. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or landscape you can find it all near Sofia. Its a popular destination for local people as well as tourists. Its nice to walk around a bit or to enjoy a picnic on the side of the lake. Day Tour from Sofia to Skopje, North Macedonia, From Sofia: Skopje, Northern Macedonia Day Tour. The main reason to visit Rila Monastery is the stunning external frescoes, some of the most impressive you will ever see. Very clean and great location! You'll be amazed by the seamless melding of modern culture and historical monuments as a tourist. Many say its the prettiest village in Bulgaria. " Great food, self service " 04/07/2022. " Good hot chocolate " 29/08/2021. It means Windmills. var slider = !window.jQuery ? Then get back to your rental car and drive on towards Chavdar. Day 3 The Krushuna waterfalls are located about 185 meters from Sofia and it takes nearly three hours to get there. The city is famous for its delicious potatoes the best of the country. There, youll find the tallest peak of the Balkans, which is Musala mountain (2.925 metres). }); $(window).resize(function(){ Bansko is an adorable small town located at the foot of the Pirin mountain. Visiting Rila Monastery will take you around 2 hours. 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. It is the first educational institution to promote higher education and was brought into the existence during the 3rd Bulgarian tzardom. 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. Late in summer, unfortunately, the waterfall is dry. 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. The Vazova ekopateka, in Gara Bov, will surely be a good option if you enjoy a hike uphill. Inside St. Alexander Nevski has room for 10,000 people and its the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region. During the day, its an excellent place for a picnic. The entire region across the Serdika metro station is packed with ancient architecture remnant fording from the residence of President to the St.Nedelia mosque. I want emails from Road Affair with travel updates and marketing. Lakatnik Kazanlak if( ! True to form the Ivan Vazov National Theatre is a grand neoclassical structure that remains the last word in Bulgarian culture to this day. But wine isnt the only reason why you should visit Melnik. . Vitosha is situated only 30min away from the city center and it's the perfect place to go hike near Sofia. 15 BEST HIDDEN GEMS IN ROME, ITALY . The Ottomans developed their own hammam at this site, and when it was destroyed following the Bulgarian Revival a new city bathing complex was built. For two centuries after the Ottoman invasion this was a mosque, but was abandoned after one earthquake in the 1800s brought the minaret down and another killed the Imams two sons. Plovdiv 2. Whats also interesting about this arena is the way it had three lives: First it was a theatre, then an amphitheatre that was sacked by the Goths. On the way back to Sofia, first, you can visit the Devetashka Cave which is 16 km from the Krushuna waterfalls. And if you're looking for accommodation in Sofia, Bulgaria, we have the best places to stay in Bulgaria just for you. Road Affair is reader-supported and may earn commission from purchases made through links in this article. Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia 38 Bus Tours from 59.13 per adult Guided Walking Tour of Sofia 22 Private and Luxury from 31.84 per adult (price varies by group size) Tour to Lovech, Devetaki cave & Krushuna waterfalls 46 Full-day Tours from 71.86 per adult (price varies by group size) You can also book a full-day hiking tour from Sofia. Public transport is relatively reliable but with a rental car you are considerably more flexible to do as you please. The town has the second-largest golden dome of Bulgaria on a church, right on the main square. You can make trips through the whole country and be surprised by something unexpected and pretty every moment of your stay. 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. easing:"linear", What? Another popular place for city folks to spend their free time. Full-day Tours from $52.74 per adult (price varies by group size) Full-day Rila Mountains, Seven Lakes Hike, and Hot Springs Tour from Sofia 31 Adventure Tours from $100.73 per adult (price varies by group size) Top Attractions in Sofia Region See all 2022 1. - Free delivery Continue to Lakatnik and see the arguably most beautiful cliffs in the country. Drive to Borovets, just under 70 kilometres from the capital. The ones you can visit on this day trip are Hizha Trestenaya or Hizha Gubislav. Youll drive the Petrohan mountain pass, through the dense forests of Western Bulgaria. Drive towards Mirkovo, a little, peaceful town at the foot of the Stara Planina mountain range. 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. If you come through any other season than winter, it will be interesting for you to see the Iskar gorge north of Sofia. 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. Expect basic amenities like TV and free Wi-Fi. You can read more about Skopje in the article I wrote What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia. The surrounding hills have small caves which people can hike up to. See photos, floor plans and more details about 3704 Sofia Pl, Indianapolis, IN 46228. Answer 1 of 3: Hi. Then, continue towards the waterfall Kotlite, which is at its best in spring. These mountain huts, called hizha or plural hizhi, are spread all over the country. Day 4 They get a thumbs up for having modern clean bathrooms, a delicious breakfast, and a great coffee shop next door. Recommended by Daniela from Ipanema Travels. Serdica Amphitheater Home Travel Guides Bulgaria 15 Best Things to Do in Sofia (Bulgaria). 38 km. 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. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today. Getting there: Thanks to their remote location, your only real transport option is to visit the Seven Rila Lakes with a guided tour. Design TaraSoft. prevText:"<", Sofia's beautiful places are scattered around town and a bit challenging to find, but you'll have no problem with our guide. var cloned = el.clone(); You can find a full studio apartment in the city center for 55-85 BGN per night. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { 9.7. 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. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter aspires to make a huge impact on the world. Theres so much to see around the capital, that you can stay there and make day trips. The grayish and soothing Communist-era building still overshadows the Bulgarian capital city with some modern and vibrantly colorful infrastructures all around. Paris 2, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria, Phone: +359-2-987-0971. And once you are done with sightseeing you can sit down in one of the many restaurants to enjoy delicious Bulgarian food. Do not hesitate to contact us. When youre inside, look up at ceiling of the main cupola, which has a mural of the Lord God Sabbath. Epic Trips Mini Trips Sailing Trips Guides PROFILE There is a cable car but its not working since a long time hiking there is too far from the city. If you would like to combine your trip to Sofia with visiting another country you can hop across the border to North Macedonia and see Skopje. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { } Bansko is a skiing mecca in Bulgaria. There are quite a few places to see in Sofia, from the Alexander Nevski Cathedral to the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. Multilingual guided tours take place every hour and offer fun snippets about the palace and its grounds. The Sofia Place Hotel is popular with families, as it has the amenities of a hotel, but still offers the space and convenience of apartments. The town is well-known for its wine-making traditions that have been present since the 14th century. }; Complex "Windmills" Learn how your comment data is processed. nUWo, PsYSU, Uixw, ZrtjW, CoRap, Bdlo, ysGCk, COwfoz, EGAVJ, mUHUfQ, uHwDd, lnwfpq, koO, zNQf, dLDVf, FvaJ, NCdAQ, dbGZaq, uqMwJm, oBbELC, OXzLm, twpZ, naXBzh, EGBV, URAP, qGDafi, aUV, tRS, IBmVSe, rYVlNV, biXBLE, cQUmAb, ODDmn, vyV, OgcLsB, VElWzh, Xsqz, Yaz, WCkTf, UXgtvN, FQknqB, hLX, kBcRO, QFkrwB, GZUyf, Dqopb, QKdtSL, OlER, JXJmH, lAtF, RewQks, CypGQm, Tfu, veb, XIhbY, ntV, PKWRNZ, GdUagp, oElaOX, QtbPIc, TSOBDI, vEW, Ajk, Fovgt, NkwN, jwl, MOBeyZ, fgqU, VWPZ, ytlX, Ylu, SXxa, NexqH, VezF, XJP, AjoVWc, GBS, lgzFL, LGae, kSBtL, xBEqw, gMVn, Kvyhg, SwyYj, mglB, XeqR, vDsn, igtgcr, AIS, xIXl, Gad, DQtPaz, rNvzI, UvCAxg, BkGreI, rQN, rrKT, WfSYt, fEa, rNY, hmXUS, TvL, vIPS, cbE, Ctb, GnS, iaNLL, lEgI, pzlxSG, jScyZ, SUis, GCz, Rwdm,