3 Days in Sofia Itinerary: What to See and Do

Your stylish, culture-packed Sofia itinerary—everything you need to explore Bulgaria’s capital like a creative insider.

Sofia might not be the first European capital that springs to mind—but that’s exactly why it should be. Tucked at the crossroads of East and West, this quietly compelling city blends layers of ancient history with moody Balkan charm, Brutalist architecture, gold-domed churches, and a creative scene that’s hitting its stride.

It’s the kind of place where you can explore Roman ruins beneath a metro station, sip natural wine in a street-art gallery, and hike to a glacier-fed lake—all in the same day.

This curated 3 day Sofia itinerary is designed to show you the best of Sofia: its layered past, dynamic culture, mountain escapes, and under-the-radar magic.

During my own five-day stay, I based myself in the city’s boutique design hotels, wandered through its neighborhoods, and sampled its flourishing food and art scenes. This guide pulls together the highlights—edited, experienced, and ready to roam. This is your insider’s 3 days in Sofia itinerary.

*This ‘Sofia itinerary’ guide may contain affiliate links, meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free. 

Is Sofia, Bulgaria, Worth Visiting?

Yes—Sofia is absolutely worth visiting, but it’s important to set your expectations accordingly. This isn’t Paris with its dizzying cultural kaleidoscope, nor Rome with ancient ruins lurking around every corner. Sofia moves to a different rhythm: quieter, more grounded, and refreshingly unpretentious.

It’s one of the most underrated and under-visited capitals in Europe, often skipped over in favor of flashier neighbors—but that’s precisely what makes it so rewarding. Here, Soviet monuments share space with ancient Roman ruins, and golden-domed Orthodox cathedrals rise up against the backdrop of the Balkan Mountains.

If you’re curious, open-minded, and ready to dig beneath the surface, Sofia offers charm, character, and a refreshing break from the tourist trail.

How Many Days in Sofia?

Three days is the ideal amount of time to explore Sofia at a relaxed, enjoyable pace. It gives you space to experience the city’s layered history, lively food and coffee scene, and still make time for a day trip to Rila Monastery or the Seven Rila Lakes.

If you’re sticking to the city itself and aren’t fussed about venturing into the mountains, two days is enough to see most of the highlights—just expect a faster pace and less time for lingering over espresso or exploring hidden corners.

Best Time to Visit Sofia, Bulgaria

The best time to visit Sofia is from late spring to early autumn—specifically May through October—when the city comes alive with outdoor cafes, green parks, and mild, sunny weather. June and September are particularly sweet spots: warm enough to wander comfortably, but without the midsummer crowds or heat.

That said, winter in Sofia has its own stark, snow-dusted beauty. If you don’t mind the chill, December through February brings a festive atmosphere, fewer tourists, and easy access to nearby ski resorts like Vitosha—just a short drive from the city center.

March and early April tend to have unpredictable rain and gray skies, but I visited then and it wasn’t too bad (some sunny days, a rainy one). Otherwise, Sofia is a year-round destination—it just depends on your preferences.

Getting To and Around Sofia

Sofia is easily accessible from across Europe, with Sofia International Airport (SOF) serving as the city’s main gateway.

The airport has two terminals—Terminal 1 and Terminal 2—and if you’re arriving on a budget airline (think Ryanair or Wizz Air), chances are you’ll land at Terminal 1, the older, more bare-bones of the two. Don’t expect lounges or much in the way of food or shops—it’s strictly functional.

To get into the city from the airport via metro, you’ll need to transfer to Terminal 2, which is connected to the subway system. A free airport shuttle runs between the terminals every 30 minutes or so—just follow the signs outside after exiting baggage claim.

That said, the easiest and most efficient way into the city is by taxi. It’s fast, affordable, and direct—generally around 20–30 BGN (about €10–15) to get to the city center. Just be sure to use a reputable company or a taxi app to avoid the occasional price-gouging driver.

Side note: there’s no Uber in Sofia, but Bulgaria has a range of local taxi apps that work the same way—like Yellow Taxi, TaxiMe, and OK Taxi (I used both Yellow Taxi and TaxiMe). They’re available in English, let you pay by card or cash, spy official fares, and are a great way to get around the city, especially for longer distances or when you’re not up for figuring out the bus system. Some drivers speak a little English.

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When it comes to exploring Sofia, the best way to get around is to walk. The city center is compact, flat, and pedestrian-friendly, with most major sights—like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture are within easy walking distance of each other. You can comfortably see a lot in a day without ever needing to step on public transport.

That said, for destinations further afield, Sofia has a solid metro system (with three lines), plus buses and trams. The metro is clean, cheap, and easy to navigate, and signage is in English as well as Bulgarian.

For even more flexibility, local taxi apps (like TaxiMe or Yellow Taxi) are a great option. They’re especially useful in the evenings or for reaching places not well-served by public transit.

3 Day Sofia Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

Sofia Itinerary Day One

Begin your 3 days in Sofia by soaking up the city’s layered history, from Roman ruins to Orthodox cathedrals, with plenty of stops for coffee, culture, and people-watching along the way.

The Red Flat

Located in a nondescript apartment building at 24 Ivan Denkoglu Street in central Sofia, The Red Flat is not your typical museum—it’s an immersive, interactive experience that transports you to the everyday life of a typical Bulgarian family in the late 1980s.

Spread over four authentic rooms filled with original furniture, appliances, toys, and magazines from the Soviet era, the flat invites you to open cabinets, flip through directories, operate a rotary phone, and even tune an old VEF radio you might hear broadcasts from Radio Free Europe.

The audio-guided tour delivers 46 stories about daily life, school, work, food rationing, and summer holidays, narrated through the fictional Petrovi family’s perspective.

A visit takes around 1.5 hours, is available in English (along with several other languages). I highly recommend heading over early in the morning, as it’s one of the best things to do in Sofia and gets crowded quickly.

Vitosha Blvd

Vitosha Boulevard—known locally as “Vitoshka”—is Sofia’s main pedestrian street, lined with cafes, boutiques, and grand views of Mount Vitosha in the distance. Often called the city’s Champs-Élysées, it’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, or sip a coffee while soaking in the buzz of local life.

Sofia City Court

On Vitosha Boulevard, the Sofia City Court, also known as the Palace of Justice, doesn’t just serve judicial functions—it’s a striking example of mid-20th‑century neo‑classical design.

Completed in 1940, the exterior features a limestone portico and sculpted lions, while the interior is adorned with stained glass, murals, and mosaics crafted by renowned Bulgarian artists.

What many visitors don’t realize is that you can step inside the central hall, even though court sessions are off-limits. This grand atrium—rich in architectural detail and atmospheric lighting—is accessible to non-legal visitors.

Just be sure to bring your passport or national ID, as security checks at the entrance will verify your identity before letting you explore the public spaces.

Saint Nedelya Orthodox Cathedral

On the next block north, you’ll find Saint Nedelya Cathedral, one of the city’s most recognizable Orthodox landmarks—with its distinctive green dome and warm stone facade casting a peaceful presence over bustling St. Nedelya Square.

Inside, the air is thick with incense and history, its richly frescoed walls telling stories in gold and deep shadow, so make sure to go in and have a look (entrance is free).

When I visited, I lingered longer than planned— the soft candlelight and the quiet hum of reverence just seemed to hush the world outside. It’s not as grand as some of Europe’s cathedrals, but it has a quiet dignity that stays with you.

Saint George Rotunda Church

Tucked behind the Presidency, the Saint George Rotunda is Sofia’s oldest building, dating back to the 4th century. This small red-brick church may look modest, but step inside and you’ll find hauntingly beautiful medieval frescoes layered over centuries of history.

Surrounded by Roman ruins and hidden in plain sight, it’s a quiet, powerful reminder of just how far back Sofia’s story goes.

Ancient Serdica Cultural Complex

Hidden beneath the streets of central Sofia, the Ancient Serdica Cultural Complex is one of the city’s most fascinating archaeological sites.

Spread around and underneath the Largo and Serdika metro station, it reveals the remains of ancient Roman Serdica—complete with preserved streets, mosaics, bathhouses, and residential buildings. It’s a surreal experience to wander through Roman ruins while modern Sofia buzzes above your head.

Entry to much of the complex is free, and it’s one of the best places in the city to grasp just how deeply rooted Sofia’s history really is.

Regional History Museum of Sofia

Housed in one of Sofia’s most striking buildings, the Regional History Museum sits inside the former Central Mineral Baths—a public bathhouse that once served as the city’s social and wellness hub. Built in the early 20th century in a gorgeous Neo-Byzantine style, the building still exudes grandeur with its colorful tiles, domed roofs, and arched porticos.

While the pools have long since drained, the space has been lovingly repurposed into a museum that walks you through Sofia’s layered past—from prehistoric settlements and Roman Serdica to royal carriages and socialist relics.

At the end of your visit, don’t miss the mineral fountains just to the right, outside, where locals line up with bottles to collect natural spring water straight from the source (they drink it for its apparent healing properties).

I found it to be warm, a little sulphuric, and definitely not your average sip—but it’s clean, completely free, and part of the city’s daily rhythm.

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After the museum, take some time to wander the charming streets just behind it—a lively pocket of Sofia brimming with cozy coffee spots, boutique wine shops, and stylish local stores. It’s the perfect place to decompress and soak up the city’s creative pulse.

Browse design tomes at the beautifully curated Mahala Independent Bookstore, then refuel with a specialty brew at Altruist or the ever-chic Bloom.

Sofia Itinerary Day Two

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Dominating Alexander Nevsky Square with its gleaming domes and neo‑Byzantine grandeur, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is arguably Sofia’s most iconic landmark.

Built between 1904 and 1912 as a memorial to the Russian and allied soldiers who died liberating Bulgaria in the Russo‑Turkish War, it’s dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky, a revered 13th‑century Russian prince.

The cathedral is monumental in scale—measuring around 3,170 m² with a dome rising 45 m, and a bell tower peaking above 50 m, housing twelve bronze bells weighing a total of 23 tons.

Inside, the soaring interior is adorned with richly colored marble, alabaster, onyx, and frescoes by Bulgarian and European artists. A ring of the Lord’s Prayer in gilded lettering encircles the central dome, and massive chandeliers cast a warm glow over the ornate iconostasis and murals.

Beneath the main sanctuary lies a crypt housing the Museum of Christian Art, a treasure trove of Byzantine and medieval icons from across Bulgaria—the largest such collection in Europe.

The cathedral functions as both an active place of worship and a public monument—admission is free, but remember to dress respectfully and silence phones during services.

St. Sofia Church

Just behind Alexander Nevsky Cathedral sits St. Sofia Church (Basilica of Holy Wisdom), the oldest surviving church in the city and the namesake of Sofia itself. Dating back to the 4th–6th centuries, this understated red-brick basilica was built over a Roman necropolis, some of which is still visible in the underground level.

The interior is simple and serene, offering a stark contrast to the city’s more ornate Orthodox churches. Don’t miss the archaeological crypt below—it’s a fascinating labyrinth of ancient tombs and mosaics that quietly tells the story of early Christian Sofia. Definitely worth a quick look.

National Gallery

Housed in the former Royal Palace on Battenberg Square, the National Gallery is Bulgaria’s leading art institution, showcasing everything from medieval icons to bold contemporary works. If you have time to visit just one gallery, make sure it’s this one.

The elegant 19th-century palace provides a dramatic backdrop for rotating exhibitions, while the nearby Kvadrat 500 extension holds a vast collection of Bulgarian and international art across four floors.

It’s a beautiful space to explore both the country’s artistic heritage and its evolving creative voice. Visit on a quiet weekday (except Mondays) to enjoy the ornate halls and diverse collection without the crowds.

University Botanical Garden

Just steps from the National Gallery and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the University Botanical Garden offers a quiet green retreat for your Sofia itinerary. Established in 1892, it’s small but thoughtfully arranged, with sections devoted to roses, succulents, tropical plants, herbs, and rockery flora.

The garden isn’t a spectacular botanical destination on a global scale—but it makes for a pleasant and peaceful break from the city’s energy, ideal for a short pause with a book or a moment of shade after museum browsing. It’s best visited in the late spring and summer months when plants are in bloom.

San Stefano St

San Stefano Street—a leafy, laid-back corridor just northwest of central Sofia—is a haven for specialty coffee lovers and flower aficionados. With beautifully arranged florists offering bouquets that are a cut above, and indie cafés with single‑origin brews and local roasters, it’s one of the city’s most stylish and vibrant stretches.

Grab a coffee at Kolichka Bar, one of my favorite spots in all of Sofia. Stroll along the street and admire the lush flower displays that line the sidewalks—a true sign of how seriously Bulgaria takes its blooms.

One Gallery

Just across from the City Garden, One Gallery is one of Sofia’s most exciting creative spaces right now—a modern hybrid of gallery, café, and bar that’s as effortlessly stylish as it is welcoming.

By day, it’s a bright spot to sip espresso and flip through art books; by evening, it transforms into a social hub where locals gather over local wine or a well-mixed cocktail.

The rotating exhibitions spotlight contemporary Bulgarian and international artists, making every visit feel fresh and culturally plugged in. Head here later in the day for a drink, a browse, and a slice of Sofia’s art-forward energy.

Sundowners at The Cocktail Bar

Cap off your second evening in Sofia with a visit to The Cocktail Bar, a chic cocktail spot known for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed, park vibes. As daylight fades, settle into a comfy seat and sip something creative—perhaps a Bulgarian twist on a classic.

It’s the perfect way to toast a day well spent discovering Sofia’s history, culture, and buzzing creative scene.

Sofia Itinerary Day Three

Day three of my Sofia itinerary pulls you out of the city and into the breathtaking landscapes and spiritual heart of Bulgaria. Ideally, you could visit Boyana Church, explore Rila Monastery, and see the 7 Rila Lakes—all in one long, early-start day.

Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility, allowing you to tailor the day at your own pace.

If you prefer convenience, local tours often pair two of the three sites—commonly Boyana Church and Rila Monastery or Rila Monastery and the 7 Rila Lakes—making for a packed yet manageable upgrade to your Sofia experience.

Whichever route you choose, today promises deep cultural contrasts, sweeping mountain views, and some of the most inspirational scenery in the Balkans.

Boyana Church

Tucked into the green slopes of Mount Vitosha, Boyana Church may be small in size, but it holds an outsized place in Bulgaria’s cultural legacy. In fact, no Sofia itinerary is complete without a visit here.

This medieval Orthodox church, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates back to the 10th century and is home to stunning frescoes from 1259, centuries ahead of their time in realism and emotional depth.

The expressive faces and fine details painted across its stone walls make this a truly unforgettable stop.

Visits are short but impactful, with timed entries and limited groups to preserve the fragile interior. It’s completely worth the effort—a rare chance to stand face-to-face with early European art history in an intimate, peaceful setting.

If you’re planning to dedicate day three to Rila Monastery and the 7 Rila Lakes, you can also fit Boyana Church in on day two or after returning in the evening, as it’s just a short taxi ride from central Sofia.

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, consider extending your visit into a hike to Boyana Waterfall—a scenic forest trail that starts right behind the church and takes about an hour each way. It’s a great way to combine culture with a breath of mountain air.

Rila Monastery

Set high in the Rila Mountains and surrounded by dense forest, Rila Monastery is Bulgaria’s most iconic and beloved religious site. Founded in the 10th century by the hermit Saint Ivan of Rila, this UNESCO-listed masterpiece stuns with its candy-striped arcades, richly painted frescoes, and the peaceful rhythm of monastic life still carried on today.

The setting alone feels otherworldly, especially when morning mist clings to the tiled rooftops and bells echo off the surrounding peaks, like it did when I visited.

The drive from Sofia takes about two hours, and the journey is half the magic—winding roads, dramatic landscapes, and plenty of scenic stops along the way. If you’re heading out on your own, bring snacks and water; if you’re with a tour, sit back and let the mountain vibes roll in.

Find out more in my full guide to Rila Monastery, where I break down everything from getting there to hidden chapels and where to grab a bite nearby.

7 Rila Lakes

High in the Rila Mountains, the Seven Rila Lakes are a series of glacial lakes set between 2,100 and 2,500 meters above sea level—each named for its unique shape, from the oval “Eye” and steep “Kidney” to the tear-drop “Tear” and twin-like “Twin”.

The most common hiking route is a loop of around 9–10 km with moderate elevation gain—usually 4 to 5 hours, especially if you include the scenic ridgeline viewpoints.

Many visitors take a chairlift from Panichishte to reach the trailhead quickly, leaving more energy for hiking the lakes. It’s practical, photogenic, and trims the toughest elevation early in the day. If you’re heading here to hike, wear layers, sturdy shoes, and pack snacks—weather can shift fast at altitude, and there are few services once you’re out in the lakes.

Tours from Sofia typically start early, drop you at the chairlift by mid-morning, and give you 4–5 hours to hike before returning in the afternoon. Many tours also include Rila Monastery, making for a nature-and-culture-packed day without the logistics stress. It’s one of the best Sofia day trips to go for.

If you’re looking to wander the high alpine lakes surrounded by dramatic mountain silhouettes—or dream in mirror-flat reflections—booking a full-day Seven Rila Lakes tour (with Rila Monastery) is something I highly recommend.

Where to Stay in Sofia

Sofia has no shortage of stylish stays, from sleek design hotels to charming boutique hideaways at very affordable rates. Here are some of my top picks for Sofia, after splitting my trip between three different hotels:

Juno Hotel Sofia – A modern boutique gem tucked away on a peaceful street steps from the city’s pedestrian heart. Contemporary interiors, locally crafted furnishings, and thoughtful design details make it a stylish and restful retreat. Hands down my favorite hotel in Sofia.

Sense Hotel Sofia – Set on historic Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard near Parliament and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, this upscale stay blends minimalist elegance with luxury. Expect rooftop cocktails with cathedral views, a spa, an indoor pool, and a service-forward experience.

Oborishte 63 Boutique Hotel – A gorgeous but more budget-conscious option, this nine-room urban sanctuary on a quiet street feels like staying in a tastefully curated home. Each room honors a Bulgarian artist, breakfast arrives in-room, and the nearby Boho restaurant serves lovely modern European cuisine.

For a deeper dive into accommodations—from luxury to indie charms—check out my full guide on the best hotels in Sofia.

Where to Shop

Sofia is full of creative, independent shops that are perfect for picking up thoughtful souvenirs, beautiful books, or locally made design pieces. These are some of the best spots in town to browse, linger, and take a piece of the city home with you:

Elephant Bookstore – An English-language indie bookstore packed with vintage finds, pop culture collectibles, and gifts. Exploring here often feels like stumbling into a well-curated collection rather than a retail store. Great for gifts.

Photosynthesis – More than a camera store, this is Bulgaria’s largest photography and video equipment shop. It’s where to stop by if you’re interested in photography. Great when you want gear or perspective.

No8 Design Shop – A minimalist boutique showcasing Bulgarian-made ceramics, jewelry, home décor, and lifestyle items. Perfect for elegant, locally made design gifts.

Gifted – Urban Art & Culture Hub – A dynamic space blending zines, street-art prints, indie magazines, and local designer accessories. A real showcase of Sofia’s youthful cultural edge.

Mahala Independent Bookstore – A cozy spot for design, art, and photography books, with a relaxed vibe that invites lingering. Most titles are in English, too, which helps.

Maison Second Hand – A curated vintage boutique offering second-hand fashion and accessories with character and style. I sincerely regret not buying that €300 Burberry trench coat I found here.

Where to Eat

Sofia’s dining scene is a vibrant mix of contemporary flair, cozy creativity, and authentic local flavors. Here are three standout picks to enjoy both Bulgarian tradition and modern polish:

Cosmos – One of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, Cosmos offers elegant, contemporary interpretations of Bulgarian cuisine—think tasting menus where every plate combines tradition with bold, artistic presentation. I love our meal here.

Made in Blue – A cozy, design-forward spot tucked into a peaceful neighborhood, this restaurant delivers modern European dishes with authentic flair. The ambience is artsy and relaxed—with a leafy garden for al fresco dining. The grilled whole fish here was marvelous.

Manastirska Magernitsa – For old-school Bulgarian flavor, this is the spot. Located in a heritage townhouse courtyard, this charming spot feels like stepping into a grandmother’s kitchen. Portions are generous and dishes are inspired by traditional monastery recipes, with warm service and rustic décor that embraces folk aesthetics—perfect for hearty, authentic meals like rabbit stewed in Bulgarian wine or classic banitsa.

These kitchens offer a delicious introduction to Sofia’s evolving culinary identity, and I have to say, there were the top 3 spots I visited during my trip. For a broader look at Sofia’s best food spots—from street eats to fine dining—don’t miss the full guide to the best places to eat in Sofia.

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So, how are you planning to spend your 3 days in Sofia? Let me know your questions in the comments below!

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