What to do in Sofia

Activities, attractions and tours

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A historic church with arched windows and a dome, surrounded by trees and flower beds.
A park with benches, trees, and a fountain.
A grand building with a central tower and symmetrical architecture.

Sofia Tourist Attractions & Activities

Constantly in search of inventive ways to get inspired and have an enlightening experience, you’re prepared to check out an exciting travel spot like a pro. It’s not hard to fill an itinerary, because Expedia Australia makes it a breeze to book tons of things to do. Book your activities now, and the only thing you'll have left to do is pack your suitcase and prepare to have fun!

  • The things to do in Sofia are not only perfect for you, but they won’t cost an arm and a leg. We have 328 things to do here, and you can make them yours starting at just AU$9. Get your favourite tour on Expedia Australia at a great value, and you'll still have money for a top hotel or decadent dinner while you’re travelling.
  • Sofia is popular among sightseers similar to yourself. In fact, many travellers have been visiting Sofia to check out local hot spots and find the top activities, and most are already planning to return. The most loved things to do can get the enthusiasm of even experienced explorers, and it's easy to see why. Our collection includes an impressive array of historically themed excursions and excitement. With foodie tours like Small-Group Sofia Food, Heritage & Culture Tour, there is a huge selection of opportunities to choose from when you browse the activities list here at Expedia Australia.

You'll need a bit of planning to make the most of a trip to Sofia, especially when you wish to include plenty of food and entertainment. And it's evident that you're someone who likes to get out and about—you're ready to get out and see what life is like for locals. You're excited to sign up for the top activities around, and a quiet day exploring local neighbourhoods is what you love best. Our activities are the best way to organise your trip. Book professional city tours on Expedia Australia, and you'll learn all about the city's history along the way.

Activities

Sofia: Guided Tasting of Local Wines and Cheeses

Sofia: Guided Tasting of Local Wines and Cheeses

AU$30
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Sofia: Guided Tasting of Local Wines and Cheeses
From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour

From Sofia: Must-See Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Day Tour

AU$33
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
From Sofia: Must-See Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Day Tour
Sofia Pub Crawl Tour of The Hidden Unique Bars

Sofia Pub Crawl Tour of The Hidden Unique Bars

AU$36
per adult
Sofia Pub Crawl Tour of The Hidden Unique Bars
Sofia Highlights 2 Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour

Sofia Highlights 2 Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour

AU$26
per adult
Sofia Highlights 2 Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour
Sofia: Discover Bulgaria with Dance

Sofia: Discover Bulgaria with Dance

AU$37
per adult
Sofia: Discover Bulgaria with Dance
The Crawl Co. Sofia Hidden Bars Pub Crawl Experience

The Crawl Co. Sofia Hidden Bars Pub Crawl Experience

AU$49
per adult
The Crawl Co. Sofia Hidden Bars Pub Crawl Experience
Sofia: Guided Walking Tour with Coffee Break

Sofia: Guided Walking Tour with Coffee Break

AU$24
per adult
Sofia: Guided Walking Tour with Coffee Break
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Top places to visit

1. Alexander Nevski Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of Sofia’s most emblematic buildings; a Russian Orthodox cathedral of incomparable architectural splendor and captivating religious art. Admire its Neo-Byzantine façade, opulent décor, mosaics and murals. Built in the early 1900s, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral honors the 200,000 soldiers who lost their lives in the Russo-Turkish War, fighting for the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule in 1878.
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A large, ornate church with multiple domes and arched windows, illuminated at dusk.

2. National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture is one of Sofia’s most recognizable landmarks and an excellent cultural and entertainment center. Here, you can admire modern fortress-like architecture, visit art exhibitions and enjoy live music events. The National Palace of Culture opened in 1981 to commemorate the 1,300th anniversary of the Bulgarian state.
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A large, modern building with a central sun-like structure, surrounded by a plaza with steps and greenery.

3. Bulgarian Parliament

Visit the Bulgarian Parliament to experience the life of Bulgaria’s National Assembly. Marvel at the impressive 19th-century architecture and then get a glimpse of parliamentary activities during a sitting. The Bulgarian Parliament dates back to 1884, when it was constructed by a builder from the German state of Saxony.
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A grand building with a large emblem above the entrance, flags, and ornate lamp posts.

4. Vitoshka Boulevard

The broad street of Vitosha Boulevard is Sofia’s main thoroughfare for shopping and dining in the city, stretching from St. Nedelya Square to South Park. Walk down the partly pedestrianized strip to see café awnings jutting out from heritage buildings and splashes of color in the potted plants that line the avenue. Refresh your wardrobe with high-end label names or check out some of the side streets and shopping malls that branch out from the boulevard. Visit some of the street’s notable buildings and palaces. Take a seat in a restaurant with tables spilling out into the street and people-watch or gaze at the views of Mount Vitosha, which soars above the southern end of the street.
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A busy outdoor market with people walking and dining.

5. Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Visit the magnificent Ivan Vazov National Theatre to admire opulent early-20th-century architecture and attend opera, ballet and theater performances. Enjoy people-watching from the terrace of nearby cafés or relax in the peaceful Gradska Gradina (City Garden). The Ivan Vazov National Theatre has three stages, with a combined capacity of over 1,000, and welcomes some of Bulgaria’s most revered theatrical performers.
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A grand building with classical architecture, featuring columns and a prominent tower.

6. Boyana Church

Nestled in the foothills of picturesque Mount Vitosha is the centuries-old Boyana Church, a true gem of Sofia’s architectural landmarks. Marvel at the church’s architecture, which dates back to the late 10th century, and then step inside to discover a collection of Medieval art. The church was originally one of 35 fortresses that protected the ancient streets of Sofia. In 1979 it was added to the city’s collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
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A stone building with a tiled roof and a spiral staircase.

Recommended things to do in Sofia

Number of things to do
328
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Self Guided Walking Tour of Sofia with Audio Guide: AU$9
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Sofia

Stay near popular Sofia attractions

A large, ornate church with multiple domes and arched windows, illuminated at dusk.

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

9.4/10 (905 reviews)
The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral captivates with golden domes and intricate mosaics, honouring Russian soldiers from the Russo-Turkish War. Inside, explore one of Europe's largest Orthodox icon collections.
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Our guide on where to stay in Sofia

Find the best Sofia areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A large, historic building with a green dome and arched windows.

Sofia City Center

Noted for its museums and historical sites, there's plenty to explore in Sofia City Center. Top attractions like Sofia City Art Gallery and Ivan Vazov National Theatre are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Serdika Station or Lavov Most Station to see more of the city.

A historic building with a dome, arched windows, and a balcony with a wrought iron railing.

Oborishte

Oborishte is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Serdika Center and Doctors’ Garden.

A stone building with a staircase and a tower.

Lozenets

Unique features of Lozenets include the spas and bars. Make a stop by Borisova Gradina Park or Sofia Zoo while you're exploring the area.

A snow-covered mountain landscape with rocky outcrops and distant snow-capped peaks.
Photo by Lora Tsoneva
Open Photo by Lora Tsoneva

Vitosha District

Vitosha District is noteworthy for its spas, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Mount Vitosha and Boyana Church.

A large, ornate church with multiple domes and a prominent central dome.

Sredets District

If you're spending some time in Sredets District, Monument to the Liberating Tsar and Borisova Gradina Park are top sights worth seeing.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Sofia

A calm lake at dusk with a clear sky and distant mountains.

Ihtiman

Frequently asked questions

Is Sofia worth visiting?
Known for its history and culture, finding fun things to do in Sofia is simple. Don't forget to add Alexander Nevski Cathedral to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Sofia?
Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd are two great places to start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Sofia while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sofia?
The top tourist attraction in Sofia is Alexander Nevski Cathedral, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Sofia?
Three days in Sofia is enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many travellers stay for three days on average. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Samokov.
Is Sofia a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Sofia is a great destination to visit on foot. Wander between Alexander Nevski Cathedral and Sofia Central Mineral Baths. Then take a stroll around Sofia City Centre, located 0.48 kilometres from downtown, and Rajon Triaditsa, which is roughly 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Sofia with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Sofia with kids.

What to do in Sofia for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Sofia for adults including Vitoshka Boulevard and Arena Armeec.
Are there free things to do in Sofia?
From visiting parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Sofia. If you need inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Alexander Nevski Cathedral is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.

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