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What to do in Sofia? The highest capital in Europe after Madrid, Sofia blends Roman ruins, Orthodox domes, mineral baths, bohemian cafes, and the reassuring shadow of Mount Vitosha. You can stroll from a monumental cathedral to an Ottoman mosque, drink free hot spring water at the foot of an Art Nouveau museum, hop on a tram to expansive parks, and then, in half an hour, find yourself walking among blueberry bushes at nearly 2,300 meters above sea level. The city is perfect for a 48-hour getaway or a long weekend: a compact center, accessible museums, great food, a relaxed nightlife, and easy transportation. Here’s a FAQ to help you plan your trip, followed by 9 must-see experiences -with a few local alternatives here and there.
🗒️ Time of year, hotels: what you need to know before visiting Sofia
Before we get into things to do in Sofia, here are some useful tips.
What is the best time to visit?
From May to October, Sofia lives outdoors: terraces, parks, concerts, and walks in the Vitosha Mountains. Summer is sunny but not stifling thanks to the altitude; spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) offer superb light and vibrant colors in the parks. Winter (December–March) is cold but offers interesting museums, covered markets, hot springs, and even day skiing on the slopes of Vitosha (snow conditions permitting).
How many days should I plan for?
Two full days are enough for the essentials: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana, the Roman center (Largo), museums, and a stroll along Vitosha Boulevard. Three to four days allow you to add the mountains (Aleko, Cherni Vrah), the Regional History Museum (in the former Central Baths), a modern hammam, and a visit to the Zhenski Pazar market. Have an extra day? Consider a trip to the Rila Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
How to get around (metro, tram, bus) and which passes to choose?
The city center is easily explored on foot, complemented by metro, tram, and bus. There’s no equivalent to the Istanbulkart here, but Sofia offers a Sofia Pass/Sofia Card: a 3-day pass with unlimited travel and discounts at several museums and attractions, convenient if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing. Otherwise, single tickets or booklets of tickets work perfectly well; just validate them at the entrance and always carry a contactless payment method.
How do I get to the city center from the airport?
Sofia Airport (Terminal 2) is connected to the city center by metro line M4 ; Serdica (city center, interchanges) can be reached in about thirty minutes. Buses (including the N4 night bus) also serve the area. Terminal 1 is served by a shuttle bus to Terminal 2. By official taxi or ride-hailing service, the journey takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
Where to stay (our 3 popular and well-located hotels)?
The Sense Hotel Sofia (opposite the cathedral) impresses with its bright design, urban spa, and especially its rooftop bar offering one of the most beautiful sunsets over the golden domes. The Grand Hotel Sofia , on the edge of the City Garden, offers very large rooms with views, impeccable classic service, and a perfect location for exploring on foot, including museums, Vitosha Boulevard, and theaters. The Hyatt Regency Sofia, near the Assembly, combines quiet, contemporary rooms, a full-service spa, a panoramic terrace, and easy access to major attractions while remaining slightly removed from the hustle and bustle.
Which restaurants should I try?
For a delicious introduction to Bulgarian cuisine: Moma Bulgarian Food & Wine (revisited classics), Hadjidraganovite Izbi (traditional vaulted cellar, grilled meats), and Shtastliveca (Vitosha branch, market cuisine). For a local drink, head to Raketa Rakia Bar (retro vibe, extensive rakia menu).
🔝 What are the must-do things in Sofia?
Now let’s get to the heart of the matter and see what there is to do in Sofia. Only the must-sees, of course.
Entering under the domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
An absolute symbol of Sofia, the Patriarchal Cathedral of Saint Alexander Nevsky impresses with its neo-Byzantine volumes, gilded domes, and monumental iconostasis. Born of gratitude for the liberation (1877–78), it is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the Balkans. Enter to admire the marble, somber frescoes, and chandeliers, then walk around the outside to frame the succession of domes from the esplanade.
The small icon museum (in the basement) offers a deeper dive into sacred art. Tip: arrive early for peace and quiet and be respectful during services. Afterwards, continue on to the nearby Hagia Sophia and Parliament Park; the view from the Sense Rooftop at sunset is magnificent (even if you’re not staying there).
Get up close to the medieval frescoes in the Boyana church (UNESCO)
On the edge of Vitosha, Boyana comprises three small adjoining churches (10th, 13th, and 19th centuries). The frescoes, dating from 1259 and strikingly naturalistic, are among the pinnacles of medieval European painting: expressive faces, folds of clothing, and lifelike gestures. Visits are strictly regulated (small groups, limited time) to preserve the artworks: book your time slot and arrive a little early. Combine the excursion with the nearby National History Museum or a short walk in the woods. This stop adds a unique depth to your trip, reminding you that Bulgarian art has had a far-reaching influence beyond the Balkans.
Stepping back in time in Roman Sofia: the Serdica complex (Largo)
Beneath and around Nezavisimost Square lies the ancient Serdica complex: cobbled lanes (decumanus maximus), house foundations, basilicas, kilns, and exhibitions. Visitors can freely explore the “Largo area” and complement their visit with the museum spaces. The site’s appeal lies as much in its heritage as in its urban planning: Sofia has integrated its ancient layers into the open air, visible from the Serdika metro station. After your visit, look up at the monumental buildings from the socialist era; then head towards the Rotunda of St. George (4th century), hidden in a courtyard of buildings—one of the oldest structures in the city.
Experience the thermal atmosphere at the Central Baths and mineral fountains
Continuing our list of things to do in Sofia. The former Art Nouveau Central Baths building now houses the Sofia History Museum, while on the esplanade, public fountains dispense free hot mineral water collected daily by locals. Fill your water bottle, observe local life, and explore the museum’s galleries to journey through the city’s history (from the Romans to the 20th century).
It’s also a good starting point for exploring the Banya Bashi mosque, the synagogue, and the market—the famous “tolerance square.” The place perfectly encapsulates Sofia: a discreet spa town, proud of its water and its layers of architecture.
Observing the coexistence of religions in the tolerance square
Within just a few streets, you’ll find Banya Bashi (a 16th-century mosque built over a hot spring), the Sofia Synagogue (1909, one of the largest Sephardic synagogues in Europe), and several Christian churches. Take the time to enter (respecting dress codes and opening hours), admire the materials, listen to the languages spoken, and soak up Sofia’s unique charm. The synagogue also houses a small museum of Jewish history in Bulgaria ; the mosque, designed by Mimar Sinan, evokes the Ottoman heritage and the city’s deep connection to its waters. A short walk away, the Central Market and its cafes offer a welcome respite.
Gaining altitude at Vitosha
A mountain park situated on the outskirts of the city, Vitosha offers a quick escape. From Aleko (accessible by bus + short shuttle or taxi), you can hike towards Cherni Vrah (2290 m) for a panoramic view of Sofia and the plains, or simply enjoy a gentle loop among pine trees, rocks and grassy plateaus.
In summer, set off early and bring a windbreaker; in spring/autumn, beware of thunderstorms; in winter, check the conditions beforehand. The advantage? In the evening, you’re back on Vitosha Boulevard for dinner. For a first taste, follow the marked trails from Aleko; experienced hikers can ascend via Golden Bridges (Zlatnite Mostove) to the summit.
Strolling between Vitosha Boulevard and the National Palace of Culture (NDK)
Vitosha Boulevard, a lively pedestrian avenue, boasts terraces, boutiques, and unobstructed mountain views: perfect for feeling the pulse of the capital at any time of day. To the south, the promenade leads to the NDK, a vast cultural center from the 1980s surrounded by parks, fountains, and sculptures. The contrast between shop windows, colorful cobblestones, and monumental modernism tells the story of a century of urban history in just a few hundred meters. In the evening, bars spill out onto the sidewalks; during the day, cafes and pastry shops invite frequent breaks. Tip: explore the side streets to discover bookstores and restaurants.
Breathe in Borisova Gradina, the large historical park
A green lung laid out as early as 1884, Borisova Gradina unfolds with tree-lined avenues, lakes, stadiums, and monuments. In the morning, joggers and families mingle; in the afternoon, people relax to read, rent a bicycle to cycle along the lawns, or sip coffee while watching the crows. Well-connected to the city center (Eagle Bridge, university), the park blends English-style landscapes with more “wild” clearings as you venture further out. In spring, the blossoms are magnificent; in autumn, the gold of the deciduous trees contrasts with the blue of the sky. It’s the perfect place to unwind between museum visits—and to remember that Sofia is a garden city.
Mingling with the locals at Zhenski Pazar
Sofia’s oldest market (late 19th century) remains a microcosm of urban life: stalls overflowing with vegetables, herbs, dried fruits, and spices, along with grill stands and cafes. People come to sample and buy local products, observe everyday life, and sometimes chat with the vendors. Information panels recount the history of the market and the surrounding neighborhood, where churches, a synagogue, and a mosque coexist. At midday, grab a plate of Bulgarian salad (vegetables, meringue, and herbs) and a grilled kebab, then head to Lion’s Bridge for photos by the river. The market has been renovated and remains one of the best places to capture the vibrant spirit of the capital.
There you have it! We hope this list of things to do in Sofia has helped you plan your trip. Come back and see us for more content about Bulgaria.