Sofia 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Sofia, Bulgaria

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

  • Morning: Check-in at your accommodation. We recommend staying in the city center for easy access to main attractions. (Hotel Moskva , Central Hotel Sofia )
  • Afternoon: Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of Sofia’s most iconic landmarks. Nearby, explore the National Palace of Culture and the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Evening: Stroll around Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s premier shopping street, and enjoy dinner at Three House Kitchen , known for its contemporary Bulgarian cuisine.

Day 2: Historical & Archaeological Sites

  • Morning: Visit the Sofia History Museum to gain insight into the city’s past. Next, head to the Rotunda St. George, an early Christian rotunda built in the 4th century AD.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Roman Complex and the Serdica Archaeological Site. End your day at the Sofia Central Mineral Baths for a relaxing experience.
  • Evening: Dine at Hlebar , offering traditional Bulgarian dishes with a modern twist.

Day 3: Natural Beauty & Green Spaces

  • Morning: Take a cable car up to Vitosha Mountain and enjoy the stunning views of Sofia. Alternatively, hike one of the many trails.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Boyana Waterfall and relax in the nearby park. Return to Sofia for dinner at Le Bistrot Provence , a charming French restaurant.

Day 4: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the National Gallery for Foreign Art, home to an impressive collection of European and Asian art. Next, explore the Sofia City Art Gallery.
  • Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at the South Park , a vibrant cultural hub featuring street art, independent shops, and eateries.
  • Evening: Savor Bulgarian wine and cuisine at C casual dining .

Day 5: Day Trip to Rila Monastery

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery, one of Eastern Orthodox Christianity’s most significant monasteries. (Book a tour )
  • Afternoon: Return to Sofia and enjoy your last evening at leisure, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or discovering new ones.

Things to Know:

  • Bulgaria uses the euro (it switched from the lev in January 2026). Credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but it’s always good to have cash on hand for smaller establishments.
  • English is widely spoken, especially among young people and service staff. However, learning a few basic phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
  • Sofia has an efficient public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and the metro. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or through the Telinet app .
  • Tipping in restaurants is customary; 10% is considered acceptable.

Transportation: Sofia’s public transportation system is reliable and affordable, making it easy to explore the city without a car. However, if you prefer private transport, consider booking a taxi or using Uber .

Tips:

  • Try local specialties such as shopska salad, banitsa, and mussaka while in Sofia.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious holidays and events.
  • Stay alert to potential pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Keep your belongings secure.

Enjoy your trip to Sofia!