Sofia Bulgaria 3 Day Itinerary

Sofia 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Sofia

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Kanałčo Duma, a cozy and affordable spot known for its Bulgarian cuisine.
  • Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, and take a moment to appreciate its beautiful architecture.
  • Head to St. George Rotunda, the oldest building in Sofia dating back to the 4th century AD.
  • Explore the Sofia Central Market Hall for local produce, souvenirs, and a glimpse into everyday life.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Lokal or Hlem Reyni, two popular restaurants offering traditional Bulgarian dishes.
  • Visit The National Archaeological Museum to learn about Bulgaria’s rich history.
  • Explore the Roman Baths of Sofia, remnants of the ancient Roman city of Serdica.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Cubaneria, a popular Cuban restaurant in Sofia for an enjoyable evening.
  • Stroll around Vitosha Boulevard (Витоша булевард) for shopping and people watching.
  • End your day with a drink at 365 Bar or Aviary Rooftop, both offering stunning city views.

Day 2: Natural Beauty and Modern Sofia

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Café Breizh, known for its French pastries and coffee.
  • Take a trip to Vitosha Mountain, easily accessible by public transport or taxi. Enjoy hiking trails, scenic views, and fresh mountain air.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Alchimist or Cocino & Churrascaria, offering international cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Visit Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning frescoes.
  • Explore South Park (Южен парк) and enjoy the green spaces, fountains, and art installations.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Lauren's Kitchen, offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
  • Visit Lyuben Karavelov Street, lined with bars, restaurants, and street performers.
  • End your day at Sofia Live Music Club or MIX Cafe Bar, both popular spots for live music.

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path

Morning:

  • Breakfast at BioHub, a health-conscious café offering vegan and vegetarian options.
  • Visit The National Art Gallery, featuring works from Bulgarian artists dating back to the 19th century.
  • Head to Elenin Buk (Еленин бук), a picturesque nature reserve just outside of Sofia, perfect for hiking and bird watching.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at The Little Wine House, a cozy spot offering a variety of Bulgarian wines and cheese platters.
  • Explore the National Ethnographic Museum to learn about traditional Bulgarian culture and customs.
  • Visit Borisova Garden, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Sofia, perfect for relaxation.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Manastirska Magernitsa, offering traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a rustic setting.
  • End your trip with a drink at Barbarossa, known for its wide selection of beers and relaxed atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • English is spoken in many places, but learning a few basic phrases in Bulgarian can be helpful and appreciated.
  • Taxis are affordable and widely available, but use reputable companies or apps like Cabby or TaxiME.
  • Public transportation is also extensive and relatively cheap. A single ticket costs BGN 1.60 (around $0.85).
  • Sofia’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for all seasons.

Enjoy your trip to Sofia!