Cultural Delights and Mountain Escapes in Sofia, Bulgaria Itinerary

Escape the city for a few hours and head to the serene Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning frescoes. After exploring the church, enjoy a morning coffee at The Little Things, a cozy spot with a focus on quality and simplicity.

Return to the city and ascend Vitosha Mountain for breathtaking views and a refreshing mountain breeze. You can choose to hike or take the lift to reach the top. For lunch, pack a picnic or visit Motto, a restaurant with a menu inspired by the mountain's natural surroundings.

Wind down your day with a visit to the Museum of Socialist Art, a unique institution that offers insight into Bulgaria's socialist past. For dinner, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Raffy Bar & Gelato, where you can enjoy both savory dishes and delectable gelato for dessert.

Embark on a day trip to the charming city of Plovdiv, located just a couple of hours from Sofia. Explore the well-preserved Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis and the picturesque Old Town. Enjoy a memorable lunch at Happy Bar & Grill, known for its diverse menu and lively ambiance.

After returning to Sofia, take a leisurely stroll through the city's green spaces, perhaps visiting the City Garden or the Borisova gradina. For a cultural experience, consider an evening performance at the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the oldest and most authoritative theatre in the country.

Dine at Shtastlivetza, where the cozy atmosphere and carefully selected wine list provide the perfect setting for a memorable evening. After dinner, join the Sofia's Hidden Bars 4-Hour Pub Crawl to discover the city's vibrant nightlife and hidden gems.

Journey to the iconic Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Rila Mountains. Explore the complex and the nearby nature, then enjoy a serene morning at the Boyana Waterfall. For breakfast, stop by The Little Things for a simple yet satisfying start to the day.

Return to Sofia and spend your afternoon indulging in a guided tasting of local wines and cheeses at Sofia Guided Tasting of Local Wines and Cheeses. Learn about the unique flavors and pairings while relaxing in a comfortable setting. For a late lunch, visit Motto and enjoy their mountain-inspired dishes.

For your final evening in Sofia, dine at Soul Kitchen once more to savor the familiar flavors in a new light. After dinner, take a reflective walk to the Monument to the Soviet Army and the nearby Sofia National Gallery to appreciate the city's history and art.

Begin with a visit to the Sofia National Archaeological Museum, where you can explore the ancient history of the region. Then, enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Little Things before taking a guided tour of the Amphitheater of Serdica, an impressive Roman landmark located in the heart of the city.

For your final afternoon, take a trip to the nearby city of Lovech, where you can explore the Lovech, Devetaki Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls Tour. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, and enjoy a memorable lunch at a local restaurant along the way.

Return to Sofia for your departure, and perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner at Happy Bar & Grill, where you can reminisce about your Bulgarian journey over a delicious meal. End the evening with a shared transfer to Bansko, where you can continue your adventures in the beautiful mountain resort.