Sofia 2 Day Itinerary

Sofia 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historical Sofia

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Krapo & Knizhnata Magерiza, a cozy café offering traditional Bulgarian dishes and a wide selection of books. (Address: 124 Vitoshko Lale Street)

  • Head to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - the largest Orthodox church in Southeastern Europe, featuring stunning Byzantine and Russian Revival architecture. (Address: 1 Alexandar Nevski Square)

  • Next, visit St. George Rotunda, one of Sofia’s oldest buildings dating back to the 4th century AD. (Address: 5 Oborishte Street)

Afternoon:

  • Explore the Sofia Central Market Hall for local produce, souvenirs, and lunch at the food court. Try some Shopska salad or Banitsa. (Address: 121 Sveta Nedelya Square)

  • Take a stroll down Vitosha Boulevard, known as Sofia’s Champs-Élysées, filled with shops, cafés, and the iconic Lion Bridge.

  • Visit The National Archaeological Museum to learn about Bulgarian history and culture. (Address: 2 Saborna Street)

Evening:

  • Have dinner at Le Chateau GaGa, a French-Bulgarian restaurant located in a historical building with a beautiful courtyard. (Address: 16 Alabin Street)

  • End your day with a drink at the 365 Rooftop Bar for a stunning view of Sofia’s cityscape. (Address: 42 Slivnitsa Street)

Day 2: Modern Sofia and Relaxation

Morning:

  • Start with breakfast at Pao’s Bakery, offering a variety of pastries and coffee. (Address: 53 Hristo Botev Boulevard)

  • Head to South Park for a peaceful morning stroll, or visit the Sofia City Art Gallery. (Address: 2 Alabin Street)

Afternoon:

  • For lunch, try Musa & Ocher, known for its Mediterranean cuisine and friendly atmosphere. (Address: 15 Vitosha Boulevard)

  • Visit the National Museum of History, showcasing Bulgaria’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. (Address: 2 Saborna Street)

Evening:

  • Relax at HamamBamam, a traditional Turkish bathhouse and spa, offering various treatments and massages. (Address: 104 Rakovski Street)

  • Have dinner at Etara Restaurant, featuring Bulgarian cuisine in a unique, authentic atmosphere. (Address: 23 Slivnitsa Street)

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Bulgarian, but many people speak English.
  • Currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have cash for smaller shops and street food.
  • Public transportation is convenient and affordable. You can use buses, trams, or the metro. A single ticket costs 1.60 BGN and can be used for 90 minutes on all forms of public transport.
  • Tipping is expected in restaurants (around 10%).
  • Don’t forget to try some of Bulgaria’s famous wines, such as Melnik or Mavrud.

Transportation:

  • Sofia Airport (SOF) - The primary gateway to Sofia is Sofia Airport, served by various airlines from across Europe. A taxi ride from the airport to the city center costs around 15 BGN, while a bus ticket costs 96 Stotinki (approximately $0.05 USD) and takes about 45 minutes.
  • Getting Around Sofia - The city has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and the metro. Taxis are also readily available.

Tips:

  • Visit during the spring or fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Enjoy your trip to Sofia!