They cook wonderfully and have a spacious garden where you can enjoy their specialties. The river, that was once far wider and mightier than it is now, carved many interesting shapes into the rocks. You can choose one of the many hotels in our capital. Book Tour to Saeva Dupka, Devetashka & Prohodna Cave. Pobiti Kamani 16. If youd like to return to Sofia, it might be nice to take the road south through Smolsko and Baylovo. Church of St Sophia: A sixth century Byzantine church built on an ancient Roman theatre. Location: "Saint Alexander Nevsky" square. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. I want emails from Road Affair with travel updates and marketing. Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations. If you have a wish to make, get to the church's crypt and write it on a piece of paper. It possesses thirteen halls in which several cultural exhibitions are organized art exhibitions, The Day of the Book, music concerts, folklore performances, art performances, and much more notice their home below the ceiling of this infrastructure. It means Windmills. Vitosha Nature Park, a great trekking and skiing destination on the outskirts of Sofia Yoana Hristova / Lonely Planet Escape to nature in nearby forests and mountains Nestled in the foothills of the sprawling Vitosha Nature Park, Sofia is just a 10km drive from the pleasant shades of its pine and oak forests. Suggested Read: 12 Things To Do In Bulgaria That Will Keep You Engaged Throughout The Trip. Day 3
During the day, its an excellent place for a picnic. (577 reviews) "Hotel Ibis has to offer everything that you need for a hotel close to the airport- convenient, reliable transportation at any time of the day or night; friendly,responsible staff ; a small dining . Youll be rewarded with a wide view on the Skaklya waterfall. Once you are done with sightseeing you can sit down in the local cafe and enjoy the vibe of the town before heading back to Sofia. You can read more about Skopje in the article I wrote What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia. This also means you will have a guide with you on the hike. Plovdiv 2. Complete info about tourist places near sofia, best & popular places to visit near sofia. Its a popular destination for local people as well as tourists. Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria, deserves more time than just a few hours but if you are short on time a day trip from Sofia to Plovdiv can be a good way to see this interesting place. Sofias own Roman amphitheatre wasnt discovered until 2004. Mostar. Berkovitsa itself is a nice town to visit with a wide view over the mountains. Getting to Vitosha Mountain: There's a number . You could walk downhill and visit Razboishte monastery, where you find a chapel inside the rocks and an interesting monastery complex of hundreds of years old. You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. 66 reviews. Drive northwest towards the small town of Godech, where you can have a coffee and visit the small river front with the many plants and flowers in springtime. From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Bachkovo Monastery From Sofia: Full-Day Tour of Plovdiv with Lunch Veliko Tarnovo I personally think that Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Bulgaria that you simply need to visit during your trip there. The flight from Paris to Sofia will take 2 hours, 45 minutes. 34 Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary. If you are still unsure of where to go, there are many places to go between the National Museum of Culture and the Nevski Cathedral.
Trains run every hour or two and are scheduled to take around 2 hour 45 minutes, though they are known for delays. Huis En Co By Sofia. The mountain offers all kinds of ways to relax or get active during your trip. I always use the free app Maps.Me. Make sure to stop by at the Bukorovski monastery. St. Stephen's Basilica. $74. Suggested Read: 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience. Your visit starts with a chair lift ride to the Seven Rila Lakes hut, from which you can hike out to the different lakes. There are many amazing places nearby that you can visit as day trips from Sofia and you should definitely consider them when planning your Bulgaria itinerary. Its a good place to celebrate New Years as well, if this is the time you visit. YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. We will have your rental car, including insurance, ready in Sofia. Just a bit more south of the Iskar reservoir is the city of Samokov. Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay. The easiest way to reach the lakes is via a shuttle transfer & self-guided tour, alternatively, you could opt to combine the 4-hour hike with a visit to Rila Monastery on a full-day guided tour. Varna 4. As you most likely already saw from the airplane, Sofia has a huge mountain right next to the city.
2. Getting there: To visit as a day trip, youll want to take an early bus to Borovets via Samokov. Thank you. The entrance fee for the national park costs only 5 lv. from city center 2 out of 19. places to visit in Salalah. Christ Enthroned Mosaic, Hagia Sophia. A UNESCO world heritage site, this 10th century church boasts layers and layers of splendid frescoes from different eras. The city used to have one of the three woodworking schools in Bulgaria and even nowadays, many examples of fantastic woodwork of masters from Samokov is found all over the Balkan peninsula. Continuing around the Old Town youll spot plenty of traditional Ottoman houses like the Balabanovs House enroute to the Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. directionNav:true, Then, continue towards the waterfall Kotlite, which is at its best in spring. It is a place to get mesmerized in natures serene embrace are everyone would be perpetually honored to arrive at tBoris garden, which is among the best place to visit in Sofia. Then, after just a few kilometres, turn right again towards the Klisurski monastery. Found between 2,100 and 2,500 meters in elevation, these glacial lakes combine with the mountain scenery to create a stunningly beautiful destination for hikers and photographers alike. by Leon de Leeuw
Then, you can enjoy the many good restaurants of Sofia and the nightlife of this cool city! Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions . Welcome to Bulgaria. All Rights Reserved. Renting a Car: Tips and tricks to help you save. A team of instructors takes care of those who want to experience the magic of skating and the ice field, as well as the good mood of the rink. Youll most likely have the road to yourself, just be prepared to make sudden stops in case of animals on the road! Much of the fortress was designed to blend in with the unusual landscape, while the fortress walls surrounding it are all more than 2 meters thick. Below you can see the selection of my favorite day trips from Sofia as well as a few recommendations from fellow bloggers. Theres even more to see on the road! }, If you want to learn something about the history of Sofia, the Sofia History Museum offers a fun walk through the past of the city. The houses in Bansko, built in the 18th 19th century, are of the so-called fortified houses type, which is quite unique for Bulgaria. And making such a trip with your rental car is certainly worth it! Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. I'm working full time and balancing my job with extensive travels all over the world. easing:"linear", You could make a day trip just as many locals do. The Ice Rink of "Sports Sofia - 2000" is part of the facilities of the open multifunctional sports complex "Zone B-5", with an area of 800 square meters and a capacity of up to 100 users simultaneously. Take a tour of Istanbul, with places like Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Maiden's Tower, the Anatolian Fortress, Ataturk Airport, Hagia Sophia, the July 15th Martyrs Bridge, Dolmabahe Clock Tower, and Eyp Sultan Mosque among the models in the park. Dont stick only to the main streets but go to some backstreets too as you can find some gems there, not to mention even more great views of the city and beyond. Youre free to try it if youre brave enough! At that junction, you find Complex Stalin, where you could have a delicious meal. direction:'horizontal', Youll notice that theres some tall mountains close to Samokov, this is the Rila mountain range. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, isnt the most popular destination among European cities. $('#metaslider_50011').flexslider({
Visit one of the mountain huts that are up in the hills, to enjoy a strong cup of herbal tea. The small town has a long history and some of the greatest Bulgarians have been born or lived here. a) K.E.B.A. slideshow:false, Visiting Rila Monastery will take you around 2 hours. Full-day Tours from $52.74 per adult (price varies by group size) Full-day Rila Mountains, Seven Lakes Hike, and Hot Springs Tour from Sofia 31 Adventure Tours from $100.73 per adult (price varies by group size) Top Attractions in Sofia Region See all 2022 1. And if you're looking for accommodation in Sofia, Bulgaria, we have the best places to stay in Bulgaria just for you. The construction holds an area of 123000 square meters, has three underground levels, and eight floors. 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape! The town is located around 180 km away from the capital, near the border with Greece, and reaching Melnik by public transport takes too long to do as a day trip. If you come during the winter season, we will make sure your car is equipped with winter tyres so you can drive to the resorts safely and enjoy your winter activities! Its one of Sofias most photographed buildings, constructed in the neo-byzantine style with a large dome behind an impressive vestibule. The Central Baths date to 1913 and were in use up until the mid-80s. " Good hot chocolate " 29/08/2021. For instance the estate once had an exotic menagerie, including Bulgarias first elephants, which were used for yardwork in the grounds! You'll be amazed by the seamless melding of modern culture and historical monuments as a tourist. The town is perfect for wandering around and getting lost in the maze of narrow lanes. Inside the church youll find frescoes and a gilded iconostasis with intricate wood carvings. It was originally dedicated to the Russian soldiers that lost their lives in the course of this liberation. You can opt to walk to the top & back (which takes 4 hours) or do a circular full-day hike. It is among the most magnificent buildings in Sofia was supposed to be the Core Mineral Bath, where as of now it holds the Sofia History Museum. The buildings have sleek, distinctive shapes with vivid colors and rich decorations. Road Affair is reader-supported and may earn commission from purchases made through links in this article. Its a thoroughly pleasant place to spend a couple of hours; the cafes along the pedestrian street have outdoor seating and in recent years the lampposts, benches and kiosks have been redesigned into an elegant art nouveau style, recalling the early years of the Bulgarian Revival. Bulgaria 15 Best Things to Do in Sofia (Bulgaria): St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral St. George Rotunda Vitosha Boulevard St. Sofia Church Boyana Church Vitosha Mountain National Institute of Archaeology National Historical Museum Ivan Vazov National Theatre Borisova gradina Serdica Amphitheatre Its situated along the Nishava river. I personally think that Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Bulgaria that you simply need to visit during your trip there. Then get back to your rental car and drive on towards Chavdar. We provide a 24/7 FREE meet and greet service at the arriving hall of SOFIA AIRPORTwith a sign with customer's name. The most famous sightseeing location of Sofia, and perhaps Bulgaria is the legendary Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Our room was comfortable but honestly rather dated, but it We will prepare your rental car so you can enjoy a carefree trip through the surroundings of Sofia. Bicycles can be borrowed in various areas around the capital city at an affordable price. And keep in mind this is a holy place and still a working monastery (around 60 monks live there) so visit the site with the respect. Bansko is a skiing mecca in Bulgaria. It might seem like you have to make a long round trip to make the best of your visit to Bulgaria. Ruse Resorts to visit in Bulgaria 6. A unique and scenic drive. We were able to travel here easily with an airport transfer and check in was smooth. Samokov played an important role in the National Revival. Home to the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, theres plenty of history to explore in Veliko Tarnovo. Where the climate is fantastic and allows for year-round tourism. They are often affiliate links. In the national park itself, there are two trails: the red and blue trail. This is actually the most impressive rock formation in Bulgaria, reaching up to 200 meters, making the site very picturesque with the landscape a bit similar to the famous Meteora in Greece. Have some tea at the mountain hut and enjoy a walk through the beautiful landscape. After it was unearthed it became integrated into the design of the Arena di Serdica hotel, but visitors off the street are free to look down at the ruins from the hotels specially-designed gallery. Over the years it expanded and today this is one of the most unique fortresses you can find in Europe, where nature and the work of humans are combined into a real masterpiece. Centrum, Sofia (0.6 miles from Sofia Central Bus Station) Located in Sofia, a 9-minute walk from Council of Ministers Building and half a mile from the center, Momenti&Colori Studios provides air-conditioned accommodations with free WiFi, and a terrace. #655 of 3,614 Restaurants in San Diego. Saint Sofia Monument. The Vazova ekopateka, in Gara Bov, will surely be a good option if you enjoy a hike uphill. The Vazova ekopateka, in Gara Bov, will surely be a good option if you enjoy a hike uphill. }; These were only rediscovered and restored in the 1990s.
Why? Aleksandur Nevski Cathedral, Sofia, Bulgaria. While comprehending the metro system tunnels, development operators exposed remnant of Roman buildings. Just a bit more south of the Iskar reservoir is the city of Samokov. After exploring the cave, drive another 20 km and you will find the village of Lovech. This might count for the village square, which is renovated and indeed looks fine with many rose gardens and ponds, including fountains. As you walk around, youll see plenty of architectural treasures in the form of old houses and churches. Then they will take you to all the most significant landmarks while highlighting key historical moments. Now lets get back to your rental car. The Viennese architects Helmer & Fellner, responsible for a catalogue of extravagant buildings across Central Europe, built this theatre in 1909. Bicycles can be borrowed in various areas around the capital city at an affordable price. It is recommended that you use a rental car service, however. Wadi Darbat is a splendid lush green valley with a river running through the middle. The route from Boyana Church, wandering past Boyana Waterfall to Zlatnite Mostove, is also super popular with locals & tourists alike. Multilingual guided tours take place every hour and offer fun snippets about the palace and its grounds. $(this).css('display', 'block'); Do not hesitate to contact us. Milan has a deserved reputation as a city of business, finance and fashion. Inside St. Alexander Nevski has room for 10,000 people and its the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region. These mountain huts, called hizha or plural hizhi, are spread all over the country.
You can find a full studio apartment in the city center for 55-85 BGN per night. The magnificent Neoclassical architecture makes this building a real eye candy, plus it was designed by two famous Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer.
Whether you love hiking or cycling, Sofia-City Region is a region where 20 hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Also be sure to join 27.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! Buses are more frequent and take only around 2 hours.
This might count for the village square, which is renovated and indeed looks fine with many rose gardens and ponds, including fountains. ONLINE MODULES. Recommended by Sue from Sue? 23. if( ! Dec 26 - Dec 27. Begin your visit along the towns main street, admiring the quaint houses as you go. Make sure to stop by at the Bukorovski monastery. Melnik is the smallest town in Bulgaria, having a population of only around 400 inhabitants. } Click here to learn more and order your Revolut card. One or two days in Sofia is plenty to experience all of the citys major sights, after which you might want to shift your gaze to all the other remarkable destinations in Bulgaria. If you have time left, drive up until Hizha Kom. Easily seen from the center of Sofia, Vitosha offers both natural scenery and several major cultural landmarks. All insurances included/ All road taxes paid / Easybooking. Revolut bank card is the best way to save money when traveling. While expecting for the train to arrive, tourists can go through the artifacts which have been stored in glass receptacles, similarly as in a museum. You can combine your visit to Veliko Tarnovo with the picturesque Arbanasi village, located only a few kilometers away from the city, where you can see a few beautiful churches (mostly from the 17th century). They have many discounts and excellent customer service. 2. Today you can visit numerous monuments from the golden old times, with the most important one Tsarevets Fortress located at the edge of the town. This place was abandoned but is now inhabited by a couple from Sofia, that is truly happy at this serene place. Youll approach Berkovitsa and can turn right on the way to Varshets. Sofia Image Source Dynamic House, Maruti Industrial Complex, 8 Places To Visit In Sofia That You Must Not Miss When In Bulgaria, 10 Villas In Bulgaria Thatll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay, 8 Water Parks In Bulgaria That Will Make Your Vacation More Fun, 13 Beaches In Bulgaria You Must Visit For A Laidback Experience, 21 Spectacular Places To Visit In Bulgaria That Are A Treat To Your Eyes, 12 Things To Do In Bulgaria That Will Keep You Engaged Throughout The Trip, Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable. Click here to look for the place to stay in Sofia. Getting there: Given their remote nature, visiting these caves all in one day from Sofia is really only manageable if done with a guided tour. - Free delivery
Its a remarkable natural wonder formed by travertines, a kind of limestone that is deposited by mineral springs. In the exonarthex (outer vestibule) and narthex (inner vestibule) are fine early Christian mosaics. The city is famous for its delicious potatoes the best of the country. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); So far Ive been lucky to visit 72 countries on 6 continents. Its just as fulfilling and will leave you with good memories. A walk through the city provides glimpses into its colourful past. You can easily get there by train, the journey takes around 2,5 hours one way. Koprivshtitsa, picturesquely located in a valley surrounded by green mountains, is a real gem. Required fields are marked *. Samokov played an important role in the National Revival. Boyana Church was built in three stages from the 1000s to the 1800s, but the most important additions were made during the Second Bulgarian Empire in the 1200s. Incredible paintings, monstrous marble stairways, and the creaky wooden gates all exhibit a fantasy, which is value hearing too. Now lets get back to your rental car. 0.2 mi from Sofia. The very well known Sofia Largo is the great Independence Square in between the office of President, the Council of Ministry, and various other administration buildings. At night, you will surely have the best view over the many lights of the busy Bulgarian capital. Ive included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Sofia too. Show more. It all makes for a refreshing afternoon amble, and if youre here on a summer evening there are free concerts to catch. Then, walk on towards Sveta Petka monastery. Forbes - David Nikel. Berkovitsa itself is a nice town to visit with a wide view over the mountains. Sozopol 7. Though, pedaling a bicycle is an excellent idea to traverse the city center. Getting there: Public transport is not going to work to get to Belogradchik from Sofia, so youll need to visit as part of a guided tour. But whats impressive is that all the landscapers worked within the original plan, and the upshot is a pleasing sense of coherence for such a big project. Outside you can see the flagstones of a Roman street and other remnants of Ancient Serdica. The caves near the site were inhabited already in the 10th century by hermit Ivan of Rila (eventually the monastery was named after him). You will be nothing but impressed by the opportunity to see a lot in just a day even when spending the night in Sofia! ixigo is a travel search & planning app that aggregates quality travel information, trustworthy traveller reviews and compares lowest prices to help you plan perfect trips! But nevertheless, it is worth visiting. flipped into Vakantie . After the war for the liberation between Russian-Turkish ends, this memorial was built in remembrance of all those who have died in the battle of freedom. downscale_only: false, You can read more about Koprivshtitsa in the article I wrote Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria is this the prettiest town in the country?. Plovdiv, with its picturesque location on seven hills, is such a charming and vibrant place. Of course, you dont need to go that far for an incredible, vertiginous view of Sofia. Essential Sofia Do Places to see, ways to wander, and signature experiences. Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia 38 Bus Tours from 59.13 per adult Guided Walking Tour of Sofia 22 Private and Luxury from 31.84 per adult (price varies by group size) Tour to Lovech, Devetaki cave & Krushuna waterfalls 46 Full-day Tours from 71.86 per adult (price varies by group size)
I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip.
Click here to learn more and order your Revolut card. Flips. When going on a day trip to Belogradchik you can also stop at the nearby Magura Cave with the valuable prehistoric wall paintings. Back in the Rila Mountains yet again is Musala Peak, the highest peak in Bulgaria and all of the Balkans. - 24/7 customer support
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For a trip as long as you wish. Much of the history relates to the citys star attraction Tsarevets Fortress, a huge fortress on the next hill over from the citys Old Town. For that reason, and more, make sure to stop and spend some time in the center. So, pick up your rental car from our office, and youre ready for your first day trip! Whether you love hiking or cycling, Santa Sofia is a region where 20 hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Most hotels have a place to park your car, so you can make your day trips and return in the evenings. The striped design of the arcade pillars create quite a stunning effect around the courtyard, while the arcades are also decorated with mosaic tiles. Take the churches here that have spent several centuries of their existence as mosques, the overbearing soviet architecture or the Roman history that is still being uncovered and blends with the modern city. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter aspires to make a huge impact on the world. Some of the lakes are named after the shapes they resemble, like The Eye and The Kidney, while The Tear is named after its crystal clear water. The 5 Best Things To Do In Prague At Night, Blue Lagoon In Iceland: A Guide For An Ideal Geothermal Spa, Matterhorn Mountain: A Guide For A Memorable Excursion, 22 Places To Visit In Panchgani In 2022 For A Fine Weekend Getaway, 15 Best Places To Visit In Hamburg In 2022, 20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle, 10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Drivers Nightmare, 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2023. Top 10 Things To Do In Milan, Italy. window.setTimeout(timer_metaslider_50011, 1) : metaslider_50011(window.jQuery); }); All of these places are neatly mixed in the UNESCO-listed old part of Plovdiv. Home Travel Guides Bulgaria 15 Best Things to Do in Sofia (Bulgaria). You will be nothing but impressed by the opportunity to see a lot in just a day even when spending the night in Sofia! 84 Likes; 2 Followers; Magazines. Getting there: With no buses or trains reaching its remote location, youll want to do what everyone does and visit as part of an organized tour. The first-largest dome can be found on the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia. When planning your trip to the capital of Bulgaria give yourself some time to see the surroundings of the city too, I bet you will enjoy them too! The city is also a great nature getaway as just at the outskirts you can find stunning Matka Canyon or Mount Vodno with some hiking trails. Its a popular destination for local people as well as tourists. The main reason to visit Rila Monastery is the stunning external frescoes, some of the most impressive you will ever see. Even if today you can only see remnants of the former glory this was actually the center of the Bulgarian rule back in the days. This place is one of the highlights of Bulgaria. Theres even more to see on the road! Its just as fulfilling and will leave you with good memories. Recommendations!! Its a wonder that this building has survived unscathed for such an amount of time, and all around are interesting little details that hit home the great age of the site and civilisations that have passed though. You could make a day trip out of just visiting the complex and once you had enough, then visit some villages. Whats also interesting about this arena is the way it had three lives: First it was a theatre, then an amphitheatre that was sacked by the Goths. $('#metaslider_50011').metaslider_scale_layers({ We will also call you back in 24 hrs. To ensure you have enough time, youll want to consider taking the chair lift or gondola. From there the walk to Vitoshas Black Peak is surprisingly light when then weathers good in spring or autumn, as the peak is part of a large plateau that seems to go on forever thanks to its shallow gradient. We will have your rental car, including insurance, ready in Sofia. Learn how your comment data is processed. The best places to visit from Sofia highlight other aspects of Bulgarias history and culture, as well as its jaw-dropping landscapes. Then get back to your rental car and drive on towards Chavdar. It was developed over the next 50 years by three different designers: the Swiss Daniel Neff, the Alsatian Joseph Frei and then the Bulgarian Georgi Dutev (when the parks Soviet monuments were installed). Its a hulking slab of Stalinist architecture fronted by a massive open yard. You could walk downhill and visit Razboishte monastery, where you find a chapel inside the rocks and an interesting monastery complex of hundreds of years old. Ferdinand I was on hand when this museum was inaugurated back in 1905 as a way of bring all of the important archaeological finds scattered around Sofia and Bulgaria under one roof. var el = $(this); 1172 Sofia, Bulgaria 14 Pimen Zografski str. National Historical Museum: A must-visit place on your Sofia itinerary planners, this museum is . Both will take around 2 hours 45 minutes, although you will need to take a taxi from the train station to the town. Time to explore the region east of Sofia. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or landscape you can find it all near Sofia. Then, theres two waterfalls in the villages Bov and Gara Bov. Enjoy! You can compare car rental deals and find the cheapest prices at Rentalcars.com, an aggregation site that searches and displays prices and availability from hundreds of car rental companies so that you can be sure of getting the best possible car for your budget. Mainly in churches. Sofia can be also a great base to explore some of the best places to visit in Bulgaria and even beyond. However, its not necessary to go from hotel to hotel. In fact, there's houses built against the slopes. There is an abundance of places to explore in the center of the city so no matter where you are staying, you can find somewhere to go. After returning he was prime minister from 2001-05. A single glance at it grants spectators the hypothesis of a building with the fascinating history. Many of the historical houses were turned into the museums of well-known Bulgarians even if you are not familiar with the people it is still worth visiting them to see the original interiors from the times the houses were built in. If you have time left, drive up until Hizha Kom. You could take the cable car up or drive towards the mountain hut Aleko, from where you can make excellent hikes. For two centuries after the Ottoman invasion this was a mosque, but was abandoned after one earthquake in the 1800s brought the minaret down and another killed the Imams two sons. The mosque can fit 700 worshippers, and if you pass on Fridays youll notice many stragglers outside listening via the mosques external loudspeaker. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Just imagine looking at the fireworks you get to see! All rights reserved. The Buzludzha monument is impressive both from the outside and inside although currently, it is not possible to visit the interior with mosaics showing well-known communist figures like Lenin, Marx, or Engels among others. 4/5 Very Good! Theres plenty to see! Copyright 2022 savoyrent. By bus, the trip takes about 3 hours. Day 1
They are bright, colorful, very decorative, and packed with various motives, including some weird and disturbing images like the devil walking with a man on a chain. Further Read: Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable. The first hall individual can possess around 3400 persons, which indicates that each visitor can get something unique that fits their taste within the walls, roof, and flooring of this cultural mastodon. During the day, its an excellent place for a picnic. Srebarna Nature Reserve 20. It might be a long day trip since the capitals are located around 250 km away from each other, but it would give you a taste of North Macedonia. Metro Station Serdika The town, located around 110 km east of Sofia, can be reached by train (and then a bus from the train station to the town itself but its pretty straightforward) or with a tour. Youtube: Visit
This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 120 km away from the capital of Bulgaria and getting there takes around 2 hours. When youre inside, look up at ceiling of the main cupola, which has a mural of the Lord God Sabbath. 2022 Road Affair, LLC. The place is best reached by car. 15 BEST HIDDEN GEMS IN ROME, ITALY . This is because Koprivshtitsa was leveled by a series of fires and was rebuilt in the Revival style. }; There are plenty of places to see and visit in Sofia-City Region. So, to give you an idea of what is possible with your extra time, here are some of the best day trips from Sofia. Our fleet contains economy, compact, mid-size, SUV, minivans and full size cars. Price: $35+ USD per night. Sofia's nightlife is fun In Sofia, you can party until the morning and there are varieties of bars and clubs to choose from. Alternatively, you could surely spend the night there. It feels like the time has stopped there and its impossible not to fall under its charm. The city has experienced a history of over 7000 years, and usually one will inadvertently trip upon it. We leverage an extensive network of local contacts in more than 30 countries around the world to offer impactful learning experiences. Start out with a walk through the modern city center to see the half buried Roman stadium and Roman Forum. The other big attraction here is the Belogradchik Fortress, a stronghold that dates back to Roman times. It is an ancient Eastern orthodox church dating back to 10th Century. Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia 38 Bus Tours from $66.20 per adult Guided Walking Tour of Sofia 22 Private and Luxury from $35.65 per adult (price varies by group size) Tour to Lovech, Devetaki cave & Krushuna waterfalls 46 Full-day Tours from $80.46 per adult (price varies by group size) Though, pedaling a bicycle is an excellent idea to traverse the city center. There are cobbled streets and beautiful houses in the Bulgarian Revival style, but you can also find the remnants of the medieval fortress or the edgy and alternative area. Where you have an endless amount of places to see on a small surface. Would your recommend going. Then, theres two waterfalls in the villages Bov and Gara Bov. Step inside to see the permanent exhibition about the history of Bulgarias Jewish communities. It is among the places to visit near Sofia Bulgaria that makes the tourists experience the typical buildings. prevText:"<", You can find many beautiful traditional houses in Melnik as well as the 12-the century Byzantine House one of the oldest remaining civilian buildings in the Balkans. $('#metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay .layer[data-link], #metaslider_50011 .msHtmlOverlay[data-link]').each(function() { Of course, the best views are reserved for the peak, if the weather is agreeable. The journey culminates in a 20-minute ride on a chair lift to get to the start of a spectacular hike. #1. 1. Drive towards Mirkovo, a little, peaceful town at the foot of the Stara Planina mountain range. minItems:1, In the winter Bansko is a famous ski resort and in the summer a doorway to Pirin National Park, popular with hikers and day-trippers. As with a great deal of Sofias grand architecture, the citys cathedral dates to the 1880s. Read more fantastic stories about Bulgaria:https://www.leondeleeuw.net/travel-bulgaria, . The local wine is so good it used to be a favorite wine of Winston Churchill! }); It is considered as the oldest building in Sofia. You can view Eastern-turned architecture of Turkish, Western-custom baroque constructions and communist squares all entangled in a vibrant European capital. To make up for an exciting holiday, you must cover most of these beautiful places to visit in Bulgaria that we have listed below: Sofia Varna Plovdiv Rila Monastery Nesebar Veliko Tarnovo Bansko Sozopol Koprivshtitsa Burgas Sunny Beach Belogradchik Pamporovo Ruse Hisarya Arbanasi Pobiti Kamani Kaliakra Balchik Kazanlak Etara 1. Make the most of your vacation time in Sofia, Bulgaria, we have compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria.Explore the top attractions and activities in the best places to go in Sofia, Bulgaria, by scrolling down! The best way to organize visiting the Krushuna Falls is connecting it with visiting the karst cave called Devetashka Cave and one of the oldest villages of Bulgaria, Lovech. Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-. In the wide array of accommodation, there will definitely be something that suits your needs. A round-trip ticket through Wizz Air from Paris to Sofia will cost around 302 Euros for a direct flight. The town is located on the southern parts of the country, and right on the foot of the Pirin Mountains. You could have a meal or some drinks at the hotel/restaurant complex St. Ivan Rilski and perhaps enjoy a walk around the town. }); Each village on the way will have something interesting to offer you, such as the Batulia monastery off the main road in Rebrovo, the little town Svoge with the Soleil restaurant (http://soleilbg.com/) or the wide views from the village Zhelen. National Palace of Culture. Affordable things to see near me, must-visit beaches: OK, Small Town, AL, . Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective. Top Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria: See Tripadvisor's 173,210 traveller reviews and photos of Sofia tourist attractions. Top things to do in Sofia 2022.12. If youre not an upmarket shopper then you can just console yourself with those arresting views of Vitosha Mountain which is capped with a dusting of snow for much of the year and framed by the streets tall buildings.
The Rila Monastery and Boyana Church are two of Bulgaria's most important UNESCO World Heritage sites. itemWidth:300, 101 Broadway. If you would like to combine your trip to Sofia with visiting another country you can hop across the border to North Macedonia and see Skopje. Sitting in the foothills of the Sredna Gora Mountains, Koprivshtitsa is like one big open-air museum for Bulgarias Revival Period. }); Your own four wheels allow you to be in control of your time and schedule, and depending on how many people are in your group, renting a car might even work out cheaper than other forms of transportation. These are the grounds of the stately home of the aristocrat Simeon II, who was Tsar of Bulgaria from 1943-46 before going into exile. I really wanted to like this place. How would you structure such a Balkans trip starting from Sofia? This mountain is called Vitosha, with 2.290 metres quite a tall mountain to be right next to a metropolis. The town also has ties with many esteemed Bulgarian writers and revolutionaries, who often have exhibits dedicated to their work and efforts. Paris 2, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria, Phone: +359-2-987-0971. You can explore the area to find all the great reminders of the past but the other reason to visit Tsarevets Fortress is the wonderful view of Veliko Tarnovo and the surrounding that you can admire from there. This is one of the best places to visit when in Sofia. When in Bansko, stroll along the cobbled streets of the lovely Old Town and enjoy the typical architecture in National Revival Style. The scale of this building will blow you away. As you can see above, the variety of places you can visit as day trips from Sofia is really big and everyone can find something for their taste. You can see Eastern-influenced Turkish architecture, Western-style baroque buildings and communist blocks all enmeshed in a dynamic European capital city. See also. Your particular challenges are: 1. Would you like to get some more information on destinations nearby? Have some tea at the mountain hut and enjoy a walk through the beautiful landscape. There are plenty of places to see and visit around Santa Sofia. Still warm as the water reaches the air, during the cold winter nights you can see the steam rising off the water as it crests into the air. To see Plovdivs main historic attractions, head over to the citys Old Town where youll find the impressive Roman Theatre. You could take the cable car up or drive towards the mountain hut Aleko, from where you can make excellent hikes. On the way back to Sofia, first, you can visit the Devetashka Cave which is 16 km from the Krushuna waterfalls. It might seem like you have to make a long round trip to make the best of your visit to Bulgaria. Not too difficult and totally worth the climb. This was directly after the Ottomans were overthrown and the state of Bulgaria was re-established. One is able to experience ancient building structures. Creating hearty, home made Bulgarian dishes with ingredients sourced from the restaurant's own meat and dairy farm, Pod Lipite is a real taste of authentic Bulgarian . You can see them all in the Destinations page. - Delivery & transfers to every point in Bulgaria, Welcome to Bulgaria. You can check the insurance policy for Bulgaria here. You can read more about Veliko Tarnovo in the article I wrote Day in Veliko Tarnovo my highlight of Bulgaria. If youre looking for a short trip from Sofia then theres really nowhere closer than Vitosha Mountain on the edge of the city. Recommended by Daniela from Ipanema Travels. 11. Late in summer, unfortunately, the waterfall is dry. Visit Galata Tower, Chora Church, Basilica Cistern, Do Shop at Grand Bazar, Explore Topkapi Palace, See the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Relax at Emirgan Park, Visit Istanbul Modern Museum, Do Fun at Prince's Island, Spend quality time at Bosphorus Cruise and many more. The surrounding hills have small caves which people can hike up to. Bansko is an adorable small town located at the foot of the Pirin mountain. Youll end up at Gorna Malina, where, on a hot summer day, you could swim at the complex Vyatarnite Melnitsi. You can make trips through the whole country and be surprised by something unexpected and pretty every moment of your stay. Mostar is perhaps the most photographed city in Bosnia, famous for Stari Most, which means "Old Bridge.". Corner Bakery Cafe. Visiting Rila Monastery is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia. It is the largest church on the Balkans and a covenant to iconographic and architectural mastery. Belogradchik Rocks 14. 6. The heart of ancient Serdica and the oldest building in modern Sofia, this red brick church was built all the way back in 300s. Source: flickr. We will be flying from Athens to Sofia. Youll notice that theres some tall mountains close to Samokov, this is the Rila mountain range. . Trip.com features the best things to do in Sofia Bulgaria, including travel-guide, attractions, restaurants, and cheap hotels.
This unassuming red brick building goes right back to Byzantine times and was founded in the 500s on top of the ancient city of Serdicas necropolis, as well as an older church from a century before. Suggested Read: 8 Water Parks In Bulgaria That Will Make Your Vacation More Fun. Once there youll quickly see its blend of cultures both European and Ottoman, as well as the strong Communist-era look that dominates the city to this day. With the variety and quality, the challenge will be deciding how many extra days youll need and where you want to start. Public transport is relatively reliable but with a rental car you are considerably more flexible to do as you please. In fact, theres houses built against the slopes. The mystery does not end here only; it is among the best places to go in Sofia Bulgaria, its beauty from the inside of the building is just as majestic as suspected. Drive northwest towards the small town of Godech, where you can have a coffee and visit the small river front with the many plants and flowers in springtime. This iconic brutalist masterpiece in the shape of a spaceship is located over 3 hours driving from the capital, on top of the mountain with the same name in the central part of the country. Places To Visit In Bulgaria Places To Visit In Albania Places To Visit In Pula. }); Must Read: 10 Villas In Bulgaria Thatll Ensure You Have A Luxurious Stay. Website:https://www.leondeleeuw.net/
What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia. While you can walk from the bottom, its also possible to take a chair lift or gondola to start your hike much further up the mountain. Just imagine looking at the fireworks you get to see! https://www.leondeleeuw.net/travel-bulgaria. To see them all clearly though youll need to wander down to the The Monument of Asenevci, which is itself quite a sight. The crypt here is open to visitors and has a big collection of icons. At that junction, you find Complex Stalin, where you could have a delicious meal. Modern cuisine with local influences - good vegetarian dishes and salads, a little bit hard to find (next to the Billa supermarket) What: Lunch, Dinner, Cocktails. Off-the-beaten path spots in Sofia > THE LADY'S MARKET. orig_width: 300 it's the status quo making the questions of which cities around . Each village on the way will have something interesting to offer you, such as the Batulia monastery off the main road in Rebrovo, the little town Svoge with the Soleil restaurant (http://soleilbg.com/) or the wide views from the village Zhelen. Having enjoyed the towns scenery, head in to the Melnik Wine Museum to learn about the local wines before sampling a few. Your email address will not be published. As you walk around, youll see plenty of architectural treasures in the form of old houses and churches. You can see Eastern-influenced Turkish . And the roof they chose was that of the citys former Grand Mosque, decommissioned following the Bulgarian Revival. Now lets go south, the only direction you havent gone yet. Head north towards Berkovitsa. Getting there: Its possible to take a local bus and reach Boyana Church or Dragalevtsi Monastery from the city center in around 30 minutes. This is what makes it one the best congress center in the South-Eastern part of Europe. The estate is only open on weekends and you cant enter any of the buildings, but the landscaped gardens are one of the most tranquil settings in Sofia. And youre not even an hour outside of Sofia! Although many of these day trips can be undertaken with public transport, consider renting a car for the day to give yourself more flexibility and independence. As you drive east, youll come across many more towns and villages that will be interesting for you to see. You can combine visiting the town with the nearby Rozhen Monastery famous for its 16th-century frescoes. Sofia: just the bulgarian cuisine is a good reason to visit the city. Another popular place for city folks to spend their free time. No worries, weve listed the best tour for each day trip (where available). Youll drive the Petrohan mountain pass, through the dense forests of Western Bulgaria. Veliko Tarnovo is located a bit over 200 km away from Sofia so you can expect a long day trip but its definitely worth all the efforts. It is home to iconic mountain ranges: The Balkan, Rila, Pirin, and Rhodope mountains which make a perfect backdrop for Bulgaria's traditional towns. Nesebar 8. Complex "Windmills"
A guide to must-see places in Sofia, Sofia is the national capital city of Bulgaria. Some of the best ancient monuments include the impressive Roman Amphitheater from the 1st century AD or the Roman Stadium from the 2nd century AD, discovered only in 1923. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today. If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin! It was built for Sofias sizeable Sephardic Jewish population in 1909 and Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria was here when it was inaugurated. Ibis Sofia Airport. That would mean so much to me! You could have a meal or some drinks at the hotel/restaurant complex St. Ivan Rilski and perhaps enjoy a walk around the town. The small Balkan country of Bulgaria, is one of Eastern Europe's diamonds in the rough. The first monastery was established here in the 14th century but the beautiful buildings you can see today are from the mid-19th century when the monastery had to be rebuilt after the fire. If you get hungry or would like to get some souvenirs you can find a few shops and restaurants just outside the monastery gate. The ones you can visit on this day trip are Hizha Trestenaya or Hizha Gubislav. var slider = !window.jQuery ? It is recommended that you use a rental car service, however. Bath Houses in Sofia, Bulgaria Likewise, within Sofia you'll also find an old bath house, where locals can bring their reusable water bottles to fill up on fresh mineral water springing up from the ground. Mainly in churches. In its day it was one of the largest in the Roman empire, holding gladiator fights and grisly battles pitting men against wild beasts. Places to visit in Istanbul are a gateway to several historic attractions . Go On The Free Walking Tour Every day at 11am and 6pm, meet in front of the Palace of Justice for a free walking tour. Bansko 10. Devetashka Cave also has natural openings through its 60-meter-high domed ceiling and plenty of striking cave formations. Every single thing from the great portraitures of saints, the huge wooden door, and the picture of Providence pulled upon the roof, and the tzars throne is the must-view for all the tourists, no matter of what religion and culture they are from. For those who do not favor the concealed wisdom of the metro, there is a solution too. Saeva Dupka has naturally formed corridors and halls which allow you to go in 400 meters past countless stalactites and stalagmites.
Found between 2,100 and 2,500 meters in elevation, these glacial lakes combine with the mountain scenery to create a stunningly beautiful destination for hikers and photographers alike. Sofia has the largest synagogue in the Balkan region, and the third-largest in Europe. The mountain offers all kinds of ways to relax or get active during your trip. $(this).css('display', 'block'); 35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2022 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation! The standard late 19th-century building, consolidated with the massive statues of the brothers Evlogi and Hristo Georgiev who backed the construction of the building, is an extraordinary artwork. PIN THIS! Serdica Amphitheater So, pick up your rental car from our office, and youre ready for your first day trip! Around its edges rise the great brutalist monuments to Soviet rule; endless streams of cookie cutting high-rises. You can attend there numerous events and the best place to enjoy the artistic vibe is the Kapana Art District, where you will find numerous cafes, galleries and the best atmosphere in the city. The grayish and soothing Communist-era building still overshadows the Bulgarian capital city with some modern and vibrantly colorful infrastructures all around. Despite its size, the tiny town of Melnik near Bulgarias Pirin Mountains is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria. Plovdiv is known as the oldest continually inhabited city in Europe, with traces dating back to the 6th century BC. For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you: If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? Climbing to more than 2,200 metres behind Sofias southwestern suburbs is Vitosha, a monumental peak in a nature park, promising more adventure than you could ever cram into one trip.
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