10 Things to Do in Sofia

Sofia is a city of churches, but it is also a destination with mountainous landscapes that are worth discovering and a rich combination of culture, architecture and natural parks. In addition, in the Bulgarian capital you can discover several museums and immersive experiences that will allow you to learn about the local idiosyncrasies and history.

Among the best activities you can do in Sofia are visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, walking through the Archaeological Complex of Ancient Serdica, exploring the city's Central Market and touring the interior of the National Palace of Culture, a monumental building located in the centre of the city.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Sofia's most iconic attraction and a national symbol that reflects Bulgaria's Orthodox tradition. This temple, notable for its neo-Byzantine architectural design, with golden domes and interior details, is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe and an outstanding example of Russian Orthodox architectural style.

The cathedral is also notable for its size, with a capacity of up to 10,000 people, making it the second largest cathedral in the world, surpassed only by the Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade. The stone-clad façade is adorned with mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical stories and Bulgarian-Russian history, while the interior features marble and sacred art from all periods.

When you buy tickets to visit St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, you can also view the collection of icons, many of them created by renowned Bulgarian artists, which are located in the interior galleries. The area surrounding the cathedral, with its spacious squares and gardens, is also a perfect place to stroll and take a break between excursions .

The National Palace of Culture is an exhibition centre and a symbol of Bulgaria's architectural and social development. Opened during the communist era, which is where its modernist-monumental style comes from, this building was constructed with the aim of hosting cultural activities such as concerts, exhibitions and conferences, and has played a crucial role in the life of the country since its opening.

When you buy tickets to the National Palace of Culture, you can explore the building's interiors, which reflect Bulgaria's cultural wealth, and visit the event halls, such as the Grand Hall, which can accommodate more than 3,000 people and is known for its acoustics, considered among the best in Europe. You can also view the art exhibition.

This palace, however, is not only a centre for cultural events, but also a space that promotes education and creativity. The palace has a library, a cinema and several exhibition spaces that organise events in different disciplines throughout the year. This is why this site is a meeting point for artists and intellectuals, but also for tourists.

The Banya Bashi Mosque is one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Bulgaria and is a symbol of the country's cultural heritage. Built in the 16th century during the Ottoman occupation, the mosque is one of the few Muslim temples that have survived in the Bulgarian capital since the Turks fled.

Its name, which translates as "Mosque of the Baths", refers to its proximity to ancient thermal baths and contributes to Sofia's reputation as one of Eastern Europe's hidden gems.

Banya Bashi is also known for its distinctive architecture, which combines traditional Ottoman elements with local features. Its central dome and central arches are sober and prominent features of the design, while ceramic details and stained glass windows add a touch of colour to the interior. The mosque is also one of the largest in Sofia.

When you buy tickets for the Banya Bashi Mosque, you can learn about the history of Islam and its influence on Bulgarian society. The mosque is still an active place of worship, where Muslims gather for prayer, but it is also open to visitors and is usually included in guided tours of Sofia's old town or when booking a bike tour of the Bulgarian capital.

Bulgaria is a country where communism is still palpable, and in Sofia you will have the opportunity to enjoy the Red Flat immersive experience. This house-museum allows you to explore the daily life of a family during the Bulgarian communist period through interactive design and careful attention to detail, as you can visit a typical apartment from the era, recreated with the aesthetics and atmosphere of the 1980s.

This attraction stands out as one of the best alternatives for those who want to better understand the history and culture of this fascinating period, but it is also an interesting option for those who are not so familiar with the subject, as they may be able to empathise with the everyday situations shown in the flat, where the reality of communism becomes tangible.

At Red Flat, each room is carefully decorated with furniture, appliances and objects from the period, allowing visitors to experience what life was like in a Bulgarian home during the years of communist rule. Through interactive elements and audio guides in different languages, visitors can explore historical documents, diaries, photographs and personal accounts that provide an intimate insight into those years.

The narrative thread that you will hear during your visit will give you a better understanding of the impact of the regime on people's daily lives, as well as the struggles and challenges faced by Bulgarian citizens in evading propaganda, repression and resistance to change by the Communist Party. Red Flat is an excellent alternative to complement your booking of a communist tour of Sofia.

In Sofia, there is a saying that the government does not expand the metro network because wherever you dig, you will find ruins, which will halt any construction work. In this way, citizens not only mock politicians, but also reveal a truth, because the Bulgarian capital is built on the remains of thousands of years of history. In this vein, the Archaeological Complex of Ancient Serdica is one of Sofia's most fascinating finds.

Located in the heart of the city, this site stands out for its historical and cultural importance, allowing visitors to explore the ruins of what was once a thriving Roman city. Serdica, known as one of the capitals of the Empire, played a key role in the development of the region, and its legacy is evident in the ruins that can be seen today.

In this complex, you can discover a series of well-preserved structures, including parts of cobbled streets, public buildings, and private houses dating from the 1st to 4th centuries AD. One of the highlights is the amphitheatre, which once hosted shows and public events. In addition, you can also see the remains of the city walls, as well as the colourful mosaics that adorned the floors of public buildings .

Booking tickets for the Ancient Serdica Complex will not only allow you to explore Sofia's Roman history, but also give you access to the interpretation centre. This space offers educational information through panels and models that help to contextualise the archaeological finds. In addition, expert guides offer tours that enrich the experience with interesting facts, anecdotes and mysteries surrounding this site.

If you want to learn about Bulgaria's military heritage, don't miss the National Military History Museum in Sofia, an exhibition where you can explore rooms housing uniforms, weapons, vehicles and military equipment used by the Bulgarian armies from ancient times to the present day.

You will also find information about some interesting facts about the local army, such as how it fought against both the Allies and the Nazis during the Second World War.

The museum is organised into different sections, each dedicated to a specific period or aspect of Bulgarian military history. The outdoor section is particularly striking, as it displays armoured vehicles and heavy artillery in a large open-air space. Inside, the rooms are organised chronologically, from medieval times to the 20th century, offering a complete immersive experience.

In addition to the permanent collections, you can complement your tour by booking a guided tour of the National Military History Museum in Sofia and also visiting the temporary exhibitions, which address specific themes and historical events, providing visitors with an unmissable experience.

One of the best ways to enjoy a local experience is to stroll through Sofia Central Market, which has over 100 years of history and has been an important meeting place for the inhabitants of the Bulgarian capital, even during the dark years of communism. Its architecture, which combines neoclassical and early 20th-century styles, is a testament to the history of the place and has been restored to preserve its original charm.

At the market, you will find a variety of fresh, local products. From seasonal fruits and vegetables to meat, fish and dairy products, the market offers something for every palate and taste. You will also find a variety of cheeses, cold meats and artisan bread, as well as herbs and spices that reflect the diversity of Bulgarian cuisine.

In addition to food products, Sofia Central Market is home to shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs and typical Bulgarian products. In the market's aisles, you can find everything from ceramics and textiles to religious icons and handmade jewellery. This aspect of the market makes it an ideal place for those looking to take home a souvenir of the local culture.

Sofia's Central Market is undoubtedly a must-see destination for those who want to experience everyday life in the city and immerse themselves in its rich culture. Although it has evolved over the years, its essence remains the same: a place where Bulgarians gather to share, shop and enjoy themselves.

St. George's Church is one of the most famous churches in Sofia and is considered the oldest Christian building in the city. Built on the remains of an ancient Roman temple, its complex history has left a deep mark on the culture and identity of the Bulgarian capital. Over the centuries, the church has witnessed historical events and undergone various transformations, reflecting the evolution of Christianity in the region.

The architecture of St. George's Church is a outstanding example of the Roman style, characterised by its circular floor plan and central dome. Although rebuilt over the years, its interior preserves medieval frescoes depicting biblical scenes and figures of saints venerated in the region. These murals, dating from the 13th century, are particularly notable for their colourfulness and state of preservation, with incalculable artistic value.

The church is also surrounded by a small courtyard with archaeological remains, offering visitors a broad historical context of the area. Despite its age, St. George's remains an active place of worship and an important spiritual centre for Sofia's Orthodox community.

If you want to discover the authentic local spirit in a typical activity, you cannot miss out on a tour that will allow you to learn about the region's wine-making tradition. If you decide to purchase a wine tasting experience in Sofia, you will be able to try five different varieties, each made from native grapes, such as Misket, Melnik, Mavrud, Gamza and Rubin.

For approximately one hour, you will explore the unique flavours of these varietals, as well as sample a selection of three local cheeses and traditional breads that will help complement the notes of each wine. These carefully chosen accompaniments not only enhance the tasting experience, but also provide a taste of Bulgarian culinary art.

Guided by a local expert, you will learn about the history, production process and unique details of each wine. This guide will share facts about the evolution of the wine industry in Bulgaria, revealing secrets and curiosities that you would be unlikely to discover on your own.

Bulgaria has many attractions to offer, and one of them is the Rila Monastery, located approximately an hour's drive from Sofia and considered one of the country's seven World Heritage Sites. This 10th-century monastery is a cultural treasure that reflects Bulgaria's Orthodox heritage and is popular not only for its architecture but also for its historical significance.

At the monastery, you will discover an architectural complex characterised by its colourful facades and detailed frescoes. The main church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a masterpiece of Bulgarian religious art, with its golden dome and interior adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. John of Rila.

Booking an excursion to the Rila Monastery from Sofia is therefore an experience that goes beyond simply observing a monument, as you will also be able to immerse yourself in Bulgarian history and culture.

The natural environment surrounding the monastery also adds to the appeal of the visit. Located in the centre of the Rila Mountains, this religious complex is surrounded by mountainous landscapes, lush forests and crystal-clear rivers, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers.