Sofia, Bulgaria 5 Day Itinerary

Sofia, Bulgaria 5-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Sofia Airport (SOF). Take a taxi or public transport to your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, and enjoy the beautiful architecture. Next, head to the St. George Rotunda - an early Christian church located under a modern shopping center.
  • Evening: Explore Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s main shopping street, and grab dinner at one of its numerous restaurants offering Bulgarian and international cuisine (e.g., Karuzela, 7 Kilometers).
  • Late Evening: Relax at a local bar or café in the bohemian district of Oborishte.
  • Tips: Download MAPS.ME for offline maps and navigation.

Day 2: History & Archaeology

  • Morning: Visit the National History Museum to learn about Bulgaria’s history from prehistory to modern times. Nearby, explore the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its frescoes.
  • Afternoon: Head to The Sofia Landmark - The Serdica Complex, where you can see the archaeological site of Ancient Serdica, as well as shops and restaurants.
  • Evening: Grab dinner at Mamma Mia or Fork & Spoon in the area of South Park.
  • Late Evening: Take a walk around the illuminated city center and visit Vitosha Beer Garden for local beers.

Day 3: Nature & Recreation

  • Morning: Travel to Vitosha Mountain by metro (Line M1) or bus (number 64 or 105) and explore Boyana Waterfall. Alternatively, take a cable car up to Mount Vitosha’s Aleko Hut for stunning views of Sofia.
  • Afternoon: Spend the afternoon hiking in Vitosha or relaxing at one of the mountain’s restaurants.
  • Evening: Head back to the city and dine at a restaurant in the Student City district (e.g., Greenwich, Tequila Mexican Grill & Cantina).
  • Late Evening: Visit Lozenets Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife.

Day 4: Museums & Art

  • Morning: Visit the National Gallery for Foreign Art and appreciate works by famous artists like Monet, Picasso, and Matisse.
  • Afternoon: Head to The National Art Gallery, which showcases Bulgarian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Nearby, check out the Sofia City Art Gallery.
  • Evening: Dine at a restaurant in the trendy district of Bankya (e.g., Osteria San Francesco or Bankya Wine House).
  • Late Evening: Visit a local wine bar or try some cocktails at a speakeasy-style bar, such as The Lab Bar.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last hours in Sofia shopping for souvenirs or revisiting your favorite spots. Check out of your accommodation and store luggage if necessary.
  • Afternoon: If time allows, visit the Sofia Central Market Hall, a bustling food market with local products and eateries. Then take a taxi to Sofia Airport (SOF) for your departure.
  • Tips: Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and avoid exchanging money on the street. Always have small bills handy when using public transport. Enjoy your trip!