Top Sofia Day Trips - page 7

From Sofia: Vratsa and the region - history, culture and nature

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $99

From Sofia: Rozhen monastery and Melnik with wine tasting

11 hoursFree Cancellation

from $104

On this tour you will have a very comfortable, modern and non-smoking vehicle, based on the number of people in your group. Our vehicles are impeccably clean and very well maintained, especially the cleanness. Our service is unique as we provide young and knowledgeable guides that will also provide information on the every day life of the Bulgarians, the current political and economical situation and will gladly answer any other question that you ask. We are professional, energetic and extremely happy to have you on board. The historical information will be enough even for the most interested travelers.

The Rila monastery and the Boyana church (UNESCO) Private Tour

The Rila monastery and the Boyana church (UNESCO) Private Tour

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $162

Discover Bulgaria in an eco-friendly way - with our hybrid and electric vehicles! Join our journey back in time to Bulgaria's Revolutionary capital Koprivshtica and Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city on full-day tour from Sofia. Feel Koprivshtica, stroll the cobblestone streets and hear about the April Uprising. Discover the charming colorful house museums, enjoy the tasty local food, and feel the beauty of the mountains. In Plovdiv we start with comprehensive guided walking tour, delving into the rich history and vibrant culture of a city steeped in an astonishing 8,000 years of heritage. This tour includes the Ethnographic Museum, a captivating showcase of Bulgarian folk culture, costumes, and lifestyles. Additionally, explore the awe-inspiring Plovdiv Roman Theatre and Stadium, renowned as one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world.

Full Day Eco Private Tour in Koprivshtitsa and Plovdiv

Full Day Eco Private Tour in Koprivshtitsa and Plovdiv

11 hoursFree Cancellation

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from $232

Step out of the ordinary and into a full-day journey filled with nature, culture, and relaxation. We begin in the heart of Sofia at the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, then head up to Vitosha Mountain for a dramatic panoramic view from the cliffs near the TV tower at Kopitoto – a breathtaking photo stop above the city. Next, we explore Bulgaria’s medieval soul with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, over 900 years old and nestled among the trees. Then it's time for a traditional Bulgarian lunch in a cozy mountain restaurant – homemade flavors to fuel your next adventure. After lunch, we escape deeper into nature with a peaceful horseback ride through the wild beauty of Plana Mountain – open meadows, forests, and fresh air. Finally, the perfect ending: a relaxing soak in the natural hot mineral pools of Sapareva Banya. Surrounded by mountains, sky, and steam – this is Bulgaria at its best.

Exclusive Sofia: Nevsky, Vitosha Hoof, Boyana, Horse Ride & Spa

Exclusive Sofia: Nevsky, Vitosha Hoof, Boyana, Horse Ride & Spa

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

This is truly a spectacular, exclusive day tour, visiting some of the "must-see" UNESCO Heritage sites in Bulgaria: Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the Ancient City of Plovdiv, and Boyana Church! You will see really amazing places and landmarks, starting from our meeting point, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and then going by luxury SUV to the ancient city of Plovdiv, one of the oldest centers of European civilization. You will have the unique opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of the city with a professional guide on a two-hour walking tour. We will have lunch at a very nice traditional Bulgarian restaurant. Next stop will be another UNESCO heritage site, about 900 years old: Boyana Church. You will see and learn a lot about Bulgarian history and culture!

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from $270

Exclusive Day Trip at Sofia Plovdiv Boyana Church

Exclusive Day Trip - Sofia - Plovdiv - Boyana Church

7 hours 45 minutes

Unveiling the Rila Monastery: Your Private Journey Experience the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a truly unique and personal journey. Your Private Guide & Driver: Effortless Navigation: Relax and enjoy the scenic drive. Personalized Insights: Benefit from the private guide's in-depth knowledge of the monastery, shared through engaging conversation and insightful commentary. Flexibility: Explore at your own pace. Your private guide is going to adapt to your interests and linger at the spots that captivate you most. Immersive Storytelling: Uncover the monastery's rich history and profound spirituality through captivating narratives that bring its past to life. This is more than a visit; it's your private pilgrimage. Book your tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery with us.

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from $270

Private Guided Tour to Rila Monastery from Sofia

Private Guided Tour to Rila Monastery from Sofia

4 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

(1)

from $277

Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia. It is the country's political, cultural, economic, and academic center. The territory of Skopje has been inhabited since at least 4000 BC; remains of Neolithic settlements have been found within the old Kale Fortress that overlooks the modern city centre. Originally a Paeonian city, Skopje became the capital of Dardania in the second century BC. On the eve of the 1st century AD, the settlement was seized by the Romans and became a military camp. When the Roman Empire was divided into eastern and western halves in 395 AD, Skopje came under Byzantine rule from Constantinople. During much of the early medieval period, the town was contested between the Byzantines and the Bulgarian Empire, whose capital it was between 972 and 992.

Skopje in Macedonia tour

During the 8-9 hours trip, you will see really amazing places and landmarks, starting from our meeting point St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, then going by luxury SUV to the popular UNESCO heritage - about 900 years old - Boyana Church, situated in the heart of Vitosha mountain. After the visit we will bring you to a very nice traditional Bulgarian restaurant in the middle of Rila mountain. When we finish our lunch we will go to the most popular UNESCO Heritage - Rila Monastery. You will have the opportunity to touch the spiritual life of this sacred place and discover its hidden treasures! Our next stop will be another amazing place in the nature - Sapareva Banya village and the hot spring mineral pools there :)! Regardless of the weather you will have the pleasure to dip yourself in the hot mineral waters in an outdoor swimming pools with a magnificent views! We will spend 2 hours there and then we will bring you back to the starting point in Sofia - St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral :)!

from $68

Luxury day trip to Boyana Church and Rila monastery, including outdoor thermal SPA

Luxury Day Trip to Boyana Church and Rila Monastery

9 hours

Meet your guide at the meeting point for an two-hour journey to Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city. We travel in an eco friendly way with exclusive use of hybrid and EVs! Upon arrival, we start wit comprehensive 2- to 3-hour guided walking tour, delving into the rich history and vibrant culture of a city steeped in an astonishing 8,000 years of heritage. Walk the ancient streets and feel the captivating fusion of Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Bulgarian influences that have shaped Plovdiv's unique character. This tour includes admission to the Ethnographic Museum, a captivating showcase of Bulgarian folk culture, costumes, and lifestyles. Additionally, explore the awe-inspiring Plovdiv Roman Theatre and Stadium, renowned as one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. After immersing yourself in the treasures of Plovdiv, embark on the return journey to Sofia, where the tour concludes at the original departure point.

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from $298

Full Day Plovdiv Eco Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from $162

Take a day to visit the cultural heart of Bulgaria: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. Discover the origins of the Glagolitic and Cyrillic alphabets and learn about the monastery’s role in Bulgaria’s political and Orthodox history. The artistic richness of frescoes, carvings, and ancient monuments at these sites is immense. Rila Monastery features a large museum complex with a library holding around 3,500 exhibits, including 300 manuscripts and 9,000 printed works from the 11th to 19th centuries. Also preserved are the relics of St. Ivan Rilski, patron saint of Bulgaria, the icon of the Most Holy Mother of God Osenovitsa, and relics of 32 early Christian saints. Boyana Church, near Sofia, was built in the 10th century and reflects the Byzantine-Balkan Renaissance. It houses the famed 13th-century portrait of Desislava, the “Bulgarian Mona Lisa.” Both sites are UNESCO-listed — join the tour and discover why.

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Day Tour | Small-Group & Pickup

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Day Tour | Small-Group & Pickup

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from $46

Niš Fortress is a fortress in the city of Niš, Serbia. It is a complex and important cultural and historical monument. It rises on the right bank of the Nišava River, overlooking the area inhabited for longer than two millennia. It was protected by law in May 1948 as it was declared a cultural site of great significance. The current condition of the fortress lists it as one of the best preserved fortifications of this kind in Serbia as well as on the Balkan Peninsula. The existing fortification is of Ottoman Turkish origin, dating from the first decades of the 18th century (1719–1723). It is well known as one of the most significant and best preserved monuments of this kind in the mid-Balkans. The Fortress was erected on the site of earlier fortifications – the ancient Roman, Byzantine, and later yet Medieval forts. During World War I it was occupied by Bulgarians who turned it into a prison where Serbian patriots were imprisoned and tortured.

Nis and Pirot in Serbia tour

Discover a historical side of Bulgaria on a 12-hour tour to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi. Thanks to all-inclusive transportation from Sofia, there’s no need for you to interpret cyrillic signs or worry over timetables. Begin with a guided visit of the medieval hill fortress, which served as the country's capital for over two centuries. Continue with the area's main attractions including Samovodska Charshia, Assens Monument, and the village of Arbanassi.

from $68

Private Full Day Tour to Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanassi

Private Full Day Tour to Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanassi

7 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

from $335

Discover the beauty and significance of Rila Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria, on this engaging half-day tour. Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid the crowds and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about the life of St. Ivan Rilski, the founder of the monastery, and gain insight into the rich history and culture of Bulgaria. This small group tour ensures a more personal experience as you explore the stunning architecture and tranquil ambiance. - Visit the largest and most beautiful monastery in Bulgaria - Small group tour for an intimate experience - Early morning start to avoid crowds - Insightful commentary on St. Ivan Rilski and Bulgarian history

Half Day Small Group Tour to Rila Monastery

Half Day Small Group Tour to Rila Monastery

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $66

Departure from Sofia, Serdika Bus Station at 9:00 a.m. From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. free time to visit the Rila Monastery At 2:00 p.m. departure for Sofia At 4:00 p.m. arrival in Sofia Every Tuesday Information about the Rila Monastery The Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century by St. John of Rila, is one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural and historical landmarks. Located in the Rila Mountains, about 120 km south of Sofia, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural and spiritual significance. The complex includes the main church “Nativity of the Virgin,” famous for its rich frescoes and woodcarvings, as well as the medieval Hrelyo’s Tower. The monastery is also a major spiritual center, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful nature, and a unique blend of cultural and spiritual experience.

Full Day Tour Rila Monastery St. Ivan's Grave

Full Day Tour Rila Monastery St. Ivan's Grave

7 hours

from $46

Visit the stunning Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this full-day tour from Sofia. Depart at 9:00 AM from Vasil Levski Monument (Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 7) and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive through Bulgaria’s beautiful landscapes. Take a guided tour of the monastery’s breathtaking architecture and frescoes while learning its fascinating history and legends. Then enjoy your free time to explore the museum, stroll the grounds, take photos, or relax at nearby bakeries. Return to Sofia around 15:30 PM with memories of an unforgettable cultural and historical experience. Highlights: Explore Bulgaria’s most famous monastery Learn stories, legends, and artistic treasures from your guide Free time to visit the museum, walk, or take photos Convenient round-trip transport from central Sofia

Rila Monastery Full Day Guided Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Explore the stunning Rila Mountains on this full day hiking adventure from Sofia, perfect for nature enthusiasts and casual hikers alike. Journey to the renowned Maliovitsa Hut and ascend towards the iconic Malyovitsa Peak, standing tall at 2,729 meters. The trail unfolds through ancient forests, glacial valleys, and alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscapes. Led by a professional guide, this tour not only showcases the natural beauty of the area but also includes fascinating insights into the regions geology and wildlife. After the hike, enjoy a meal at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant before returning to Sofia Guided hike in the beautiful Rila Mountains Ascend to Maliovitsa Peak for panoramic views of the region Suitable for all hikers, with a focus on natural beauty and history

from $23

Likely to Sell Out

From Sofia: Rila Mountain Easy Hike and Optional Local Lunch

From Sofia: Rila Mountain Easy Hike and Optional Local Lunch

9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $46

Iskar Gorge Wine Picnic, Waterfall and Monastery Tour

9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $42

Veliko Tarnovo is hands down the most beautiful and picturesque city in Bulgaria. Often referred to as the “City of the Tsars”, Veliko Tarnovo is located on the Yantra River and is famously known as the historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, attracting many tourists with its unique architecture. Tsarevets served as the Second Bulgarian Empire’s primary fortress and strongest bulwark from 1185 to 1393. The Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex is an open-air museum. It presents the Bulgarian customs, culture and craftsmanship. It spans over an area of 7 ha and contains a total of 50 objects, including water installations and houses with craftsmen’s workshops attached. As a whole, the complex’s goal is to illustrate the architecture, way of life and economy of Gabrovo and the region during the Bulgarian National Revival. It is the place every visitor must experience if he wants to go back home saying that he really saw Bulgaria.

Tsarevets in Veliko Tarnovo and Etar Ethnographical Complex tour

Tsarevets in Veliko Tarnovo and Etar Ethnographical Complex tour

Rose Valley Full Day Tour During Rose Festival

from $68

Likely to Sell Out

12 hoursFree Cancellation

The Yagodinska Cave is 10 kilometers long, 5 stories tall, and made up of many labyrinths. Visitors enter the cave through an artificial opening and follow a special path with electric lights illuminating the beautiful and mysterious formations – stalactites, stalagmites, and cave pearls. In the natural entrance to the cave, located 10 minutes walk from the main visitor entrance, hearths dating back to 4,000 B.C. have been uncovered. These hearths are evidence of eneolithic peoples who lived in the cave. Devil’s Throat is, according to legend, the route by which Orpheus, the legendary Thracian singer, attempted to retrieve his beloved Euridice from Hades in the Underworld. It is connected to lots of mystical powers and it beholds the largest waterfall inside a cave on the Balkan peninsula. Teams from all over the world have tried to connect the waterfall with different rivers but nobody has succeeded and the mystery where and how the water goes still persists until today.

from $68

Devil's Throat and Yagodinska caves tour

Devil's Throat and Yagodinska caves tour

This is one-of-a-kind experience for a daily tour in Bulgaria! In just one day you'll have the great combination between outdoor sports activity kayaking and a cultural experience! Even if you've never been kayaking before now you'll have the opportunity to try - in the easy waters of Zlatna Panega river, surrounded by the beautiful species of trees and bushes. The kayaks are one or two-seaters, very safe. You will receive instructions before you head on a one-hour or a two-hour exploration. Instead you may like to hire a paddling boat for up to 4 people or be taken on a boat ride for approx. 40 mins. all the way to the Zlaten (Golden) park.

from $68

Kayak and nature - Zlatna Panega eco-trail and Eyes of God cave

Kayak and nature - Zlatna Panega eco-trail and Eyes of God cave

9 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $94

Welcome to our Borovets adventure, where history and nature converge for an unforgettable day! Begin your journey at the Royal Bistritsa Palace, a gem of Bulgaria’s early 20th-century history and the former residence of the illustrious Saxe-Coburg royal family. Step into a world of elegance and learn about the royal legacy that shaped Bulgaria's modern identity. From the palace, embark on a serene hike to the Black Rock in the majestic Rila Mountains. This scenic trail will immerse you in the natural beauty of one of Bulgaria's most breathtaking landscapes, offering a moment of peace and connection with nature. Finally, round off your day with pure fun and laughter at the Borovets ski resort, sledding down snowy slopes and creating memories to cherish. A day of royal charm, mountain tranquility, and playful winter fun awaits you!

Hike and Sled in Borovets With a Visit of Royal Bistritsa Palace

Hike and Sled in Borovets With a Visit of Royal Bistritsa Palace

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $110

Rila Monastery and Easy Hike Private Tour from Sofia

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $145

Must-See Plovdiv Day Tour from Sofia

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Top Attractions in Sofia

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What are people saying about Sofia

Beverley_D, Jun 2026

A great day out

Great day out to Plovdiv. The bus pick-up was easy to find and the bus was there waiting on time. The bus was clean and with aircon (needed on a very hot day!) and the guide and driver were professional and welcoming. The guide onboard the bus gave lots of information during the drive. The guided tour in Plovdiv led by Marti gave a great introduction to Plovdiv old town with lots of information and photo opps and then a couple of hours free time in Plovdiv. On the drive back the onboard guide again giving information, restaurant recommendations etc. All-in-all a very good value and a great day tour.

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour

Wu_T, Jun 2026

A Memorable Tour with an Exceptional Guide, Ms. Ornella

We joined the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour on May 27, 2025, and it was one of the highlights of our visit to Bulgaria. A special thank you to our tour guide, Ms. Ornella, who made the experience truly memorable. She is warm, energetic, and humorous, with a genuine passion for sharing Bulgaria's rich history and culture. Throughout the tour, she provided detailed information and clear explanations about the sites we visited, bringing the history to life in an engaging and easy-to-understand way. Ms. Ornella was also attentive to her guests, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and included. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and friendly personality created a wonderful atmosphere for the entire group. The stunning beauty of Rila Monastery and the historical significance of Boyana Church were greatly enhanced by her insightful commentary. We highly recommend this tour, especially if you have the opportunity to explore these remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites with Ms. Ornella as your guide.

Communist Walking Tour of Sofia

Penny_D, May 2026

This was such an...

This was such an entertain and informative tour with engaging and knowledgeable John. It brought to life aspects on the communist era in a non confrontational intelligent factual way. Alongside this we were able to admire many of Sofia’s heritage buildings and enjoy this remarkable city. Highly recommended. A must if visiting Sofia.

Day tour to Skopje, North Macedonia - Small Group

Ramon_D, May 2026

Rewarding trip

Long trip but rewarding. Glad we took the time to get a taste of Macedonia through Skopje. Very interesting town of lots of statues. Valentin was a wonderful local guide in Skopje. Dimi was excellent taking us there and back safely. I now want to visit Ohrid. Highly recommended!

From Sofia:Rila Monastery with Boyana Church or St. Ivan’s Cave

Adrienne_B, May 2026

Day trip to Rila Monastery

A day trip out to the Rila Monastry. Definitely worth a visit it is beautiful and the church is ornate. Off then to Boyne church also worth a visit. We stopped at a national memorial on the way back which celebrated children and there were bells from all over the world. Took packed lunch though you can buy pastries at the monastery. Downside was the toilets at the monastery are awful just appalling! Wait until you get to the Boyne church.

Plovdiv Small Group Full Day Guided Tour from Sofia

Dmitri_G, May 2026

Ani was a excellent tour guide and very welcoming

Tour guide Ani was very friendly right from the beginning. Despite only being booked and required to speak in Spanish Ani kindly translated everything into English for those of us who should have had audio guides. I had downloaded the audio guide but hard to follow given that the numbers etc. didn't tie up with the order that we saw things in Plovdiv. Also, the audio guide is an American voice that goes into a lot of detail sometimes for nearly 10 minutes at a time, which I found quite annoying after awhile and hard to stay interested in. If you can I definitely recommend booking a tour with a tour guide that speaks your required language and don't book the audio guide tours. Plovdiv was lovely and nice weather. We also went to the Thracian tomb near Starosel and Starosel art village to look at the amazing graffiti art work. Thank you Ani and our driver for a lovely day trip in a comfortable minibus.

Small group tour to Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery

Carlos_B, May 2026

Exceptional service with Josif Barsanov – An unforgettable day in Plovdiv!

I cannot recommend this tour enough. We had a scheduling conflict as the agency was fully booked, but they went above and beyond to make sure we didn't miss Plovdiv. Our guide, Josif Barsanov, was absolutely incredible. Even though it was his day off, he stepped in to take us. His English is excellent, and he is deeply knowledgeable and attentive. He brought his 6-year-old daughter along, who was lovely and made the experience feel even more special and authentic. We learned so much about Bulgaria and felt truly cared for the whole day. If you are looking for a guide who genuinely cares about your experience, Josif is the best. Thank you for making our trip so memorable!

Wine Tasting in Heart of Sofia

Bret_M, May 2026

Bulgarian wine and Viticulture

Enjoyed learning about Bulgarian viticulture, history, and wines. Kalin was very much a student and teacher of the industry. Really appreciated his insights and comparisons to other wine regions. We tasted 5 wines, 3 or which were his own production. The wines helped us explore the different white and red grapes while also sampling some very good local sheep and cow cheeses. Afterwards we were able to purchase from his store stock or those we sampled.

Full-day Nis and Serbian History Tour from Sofia

Sara_A, Apr 2026

Excellent guide, well-designed tour

This was a well-designed tour to allow for a day trip experience to Serbia. The guide, Georgi, was knowledgeable and presented instructions and information clearly and in a timely way. With the small group size, we were able to move from place to place with ease. We were allowed ample time at Mediana, the Skull Tower, and the Red Cross Concentration Camp as well as a good amount of time for lunch and further independent exploration of the city center. I learned so much on this tour and would highly recommend it to other travelers.

Sofia Walking Private City Tour

Kiril_Y, Nov 2025

First time in Sofia

Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. She spoke perfect English and showed us everything a foreign tourist would want to experience when they are in Sofia and Bulgaria in general for the first time. We were very satisfied and would recommend this tour 100% to anyone who wants to learn some of the Bulgarian history and culture when they are in the country for the first time.

Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia

Jennifer_C, Sep 2025

Super organized tour and would highly recommend to everybody!

Philip’s communication before the day and via the WhatsApp group was incredibly helpful. Phillip texted us throughout the day with reminders of timing and it made the entire experience feel extremely organized, well thought out and attentive. I also really like the fact that we were in a small bus van, and we purposely arrived an hour after the big bus companies at the monastery so this way, we could have a much more quiet and authentic experience. We were also given paper maps of the hiking trails and also of the monastery, which made for a very easy day to get around. I encountered other people on the mountain trails from the big bus companies and they were given basically no guidance and ended up asking for my help since I had a map from this company. I was very impressed and would absolutely recommend this trip and company to everybody.