Excursions in Sofia

Bulgaria is the third largest archaeological country in the world, following Greece and Italy. There is no typical structured central part in Sofia as in other European cities, and when you arrive you may find it chaotic. To better navigate the area all you need is a couple of walking tours with an English-speaking guide.

What is worth seeing in the Bulgarian capital

One can learn about the origin of Sofia by visiting the largest National Museum of History in the Balkans or by using the services of a tour guide who will explain in a clear way the main milestones of the capital's formation.

Sofia is very likely the only city in Europe where the places of worship of the four religions are located close to each other. Right in the city center one can see an Orthodox church, a mosque, a Catholic cathedral and a synagogue.

The sightseeing tour will show you the following major attractions:

• Ivan Vazov National Theatre;
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral;
• National Palace of Culture.

One can visit with a tour guide the Rotunda Church of St. George, a red brick church built in the IVth century. It is the oldest building in modern Sofia, where medieval frescoes have been preserved intact.

Any sunny day one can go on a tour in Borisova gradina park, which was landscaped in the 1880s right after the Bulgarian Renaissance.

Natural attractions

In Sofia walking tours are relevant in winter and summer. The guide will definitely recommend you to visit Mount Vitosha, the top of which offers a panoramic view of the city.

In summer you can enjoy walking the areas of natural beauty, in winter – skiing. "Aleko" is a mountain skiing area at an altitude of 1,900 m in the "Vitosha" national park. The season begins in early January and ends in the middle of April.

Hot springs are another gift of nature in Bulgaria. A lot of hot springs are found around the capital, for example:

• Kostenets;
• Pancharevo;
• Sapareva banya.

One can also taste healing water in the city, in particular near the regional museum.