Top Sofia Sightseeing Tours in 2026

Koprivshtitsa is one of Bulgaria’s most beautiful historic sights, with spectacular houses that played home to some of the nation’s most influential thinkers and revolutionaries. But it’s tricky to reach from Sofia on public transit. Save time and gain the expertise of a private guide on this door-to-door tour that pairs Koprivshtitsa with Bulgaria’s photogenic second city, Plovdiv. Please note that entrance fees are at your own expense.

Swap Sofia for a day trip to the beautiful town of Plovdiv—which is known for being one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Instead of facing the crowds on busy local bus services, enjoy the luxury of traveling in a Wi-Fi-equipped private vehicle. Along the way, you can see Roman ruins, early Christian mosaics, and traditional Bulgarian houses, as your driver-guide expands your knowledge of the area’s history.

Discover the architecture, culture, and history of Koprivshititsa on a private full-day tour from Sofia. Forget uncomfortable public buses and relax in your very own end-to-end private transportation. En route, you’re free to pause the scenic ride at any point to stretch your legs or photograph the surrounding wildlife. Upon arrival, explore the charming Bulgarian town with your guide and learn about the dramatic history of the April Uprising.

Get an in-depth exploration of the Bulgarian capital on this full-day tour of Sofia. Set out from your hotel and travel in an air-conditioned minivan. Accompanied by a guide, visit Boyana Church, the National Historical Museum, Pancharevo Lake, and more. Take a walking tour through the city center and learn about Bulgarian history from your guide.

Visit the town of Belogradchik and its two notable attractions—Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress—on this day trip from Sofia that combines the natural scenery and history of northwestern Bulgaria. Be wowed by the natural formations of sandstone rocks in the Balkan Mountains, and admire the fortress, which dates back to Roman times.

This is not a standard tour. This is a private expedition led by a real scientist (zoologist, botanist, ornithologist etc.) depending on what you want to see and learn. You choose: wildlife tracking with a zoologist, vulture conservation with an ornithologist, botanical walks with a botanist, or mountain hiking with a local expert. We'll design the day around your interests. No fixed itinerary. No rushing. Just real nature, real science, and a day that fits what you're curious about. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience Bulgaria's wild side with an expert by their side.

Stroll through Sofia’s streets, uncover hidden history, and have a drink with traditional breakfast. Small groups (8–10) for a personal, authentic experience!

For generations, Bulgarians have lived off their land, harvesting wild mushrooms in autumn and wild flowers and herbs in spring and summer to enhance their recipes. Get started foraging on this unique foodie adventure led by a naturalist with a vast knowledge of Bulgaria’s flora and fungi. After you’re done harvesting, savor a gourmet lunch centered on the ingredients you’ve discovered, perhaps a wild garlic pesto or wild mushroom polenta.

Discover Sofia's captivating secrets through an immersive audio journey that puts you in complete control of your adventure. Unlike rigid group tours, you'll uncover exclusive historical narratives and hidden stories that most visitors never hear, from ancient Roman ruins to Soviet-era mysteries. Our expertly crafted narration brings each location to life with compelling storytelling and fascinating details, delivered through crystal-clear audio that's both engaging and easy to follow. Choose your own path through Bulgaria's dynamic capital, spending as much time as you wish at each remarkable site while experiencing the city like a knowledgeable local friend sharing their most treasured insights.

Uncover Bulgaria's medieval history on this immersive 2-day guided tour from Sofia. Journey to Veliko Tarnovo, the "City of the Tsars," and explore the impressive Tsarevets Fortress, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Visit Arbanasi, known for its preserved stone houses and rich Revival-era charm. Enjoy a leisurely overnight stay with the chance to shop for local crafts or relax at a café overlooking the Yantra River before returning to Sofia. - Visit iconic sites like Tsarevets Fortress and the Church of the Nativity - Includes 1 night hotel accommodation - Explore traditional crafts on Gurko Street and Samovodska Charshiya - Round-trip transportation from Sofia in a comfortable vehicle

In Bulgaria there are more than 120 monasteries! The interest in them we can explain with their role in the historical and cultural evolution of the Bulgarian nation. They survived the cruelty times of the middle ages and the Ottoman period, the vandalism, the natural disasters. They were the source of light in the dark ages of the people, making literally schools for education, science and religion.  Some of them are like open-air museums, still keeping their secrets. Join us to solve some of their mysteries, to see the biggest ones like Rila, Bachkovo, Troyan. Feel the spirit of the orthodox temples and look over the monks and the nuns. See the incredible frescos and icons, made by the different painting schools. Come to understand why these things are little pieces of heaven.

Discover the surreal landscapes of Bulgaria on a half-day trip from Sofia. Visit the Saeva Dupka and Prohodna caves, and enjoy a scenic transfer across the stunning Balkan Mountains. Start your day with a convenient hotel pick-up before heading out on a scenic transfer /90 min/ across the stunning Balkan Mountains. Once you arrive, you'll descend into Saeva Dupka, which feels like stepping into a hidden underground palace filled with vivid mineral colors and rock formations. Next, head to Prohodna Cave /30 min transfer/, where you can walk under massive arches and look up at the "Eyes of God." Watch the light pour through those natural skylights, creating a cinematic experience that blends mountain views with unforgettable underground exploration.

Book a tour to Veliko Tarnovo and discover the city and surrounding region with a friendly guide. Veliko Tarnovo is one of the oldest cities in the country, and its history dates back more than 5 millennia. The Byzantine Citadel, first built in the 5th century, has become one of Bulgaria's most famous monuments. Tarnovo boasts many other archaeological wonders in the process of being unearthed and restored; see an excavation of a royal residence in progress at Trapezitsa Hill. Walk to the top of the hill Tsarevets, where the royal citadel is placed and see the reconstructed palace and Patriarchate. The meanders of Yantra river are enjoyment for every one especially for photographers.

Some destinations are beautiful. Some are historic. Very few are both - and almost none come with a story that no one else is telling. Belene Island sits in the middle of the Danube between Bulgaria and Romania. In a single extraordinary day you will stand where Roman soldiers controlled the frontier of the Empire, step inside a church that became a shrine to martyrs executed for their faith, walk through Bulgaria's most significant communist-era labour camp, and watch Dalmatian pelicans glide over Danube wetlands. But here is what makes this tour truly unique. The communist camp closed in 1989 - yet Belene Island never stopped being a place of confinement. An active prison operates here today, right alongside the memorial park and the Roman ruins. History here is not behind glass. It is still happening. Maximum 8 guests. Guaranteed from 1 booking. The only tour like this from Sofia. Note: passport copy required at least 48 hours before departure - we arrange your permit.

This trip is ideal for foreign tourists who want to get to know the nature, history and spiritual heritage around the capital of Bulgaria in a short time. The route combines the Vitosha Mountain with parts of the Sofia Holy Mount – a wreath of medieval monasteries, located around Sofia and often called the “little Athos”. It is a unique combination, with which you will visit four special places: the Boyana church – UNESCO heritage site – as well as the three most significant monasteries from the Sofia Holy Mount: Dragalevsky, Germansky and Kremikovsky! The Sofia Holy Mount, also known as “Sredetska Mala Holy Mount”, is a medieval ensemble comprising 14 monasteries, along with hermitages and chapels. This complex flourished around Sofia and its surrounding mountains during the era of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, from 1185 to 1417. This excursion offers a balanced experience – nature, culture and spirituality – just a step away from the modern European capital.

Meet your guide at the meeting point for an three-hour journey to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria medieval capital. We travel in an eco friendly way with exclusive use of hybrid and electic vehicles! Upon arrival, we start with guided walking tour in Tsarevets fortress where we will explore the Patriarchate complex (restored in 1981), The Baldwin`s Tower (where Latin Emperor Baldwin I of Constantinople found his death as a prisoner of Tzar Kaloyan), and more. After that we continue with Samovodska Charshiya. Located in the heart of Veliko Tarnovo's Old Town, this historic marketplace is a treasure trove of traditional Bulgarian culture and craftsmanship. There you will have the opportunity to meet local artisans and craftsmen as they demonstrate age-old crafts such as pottery throwing, blacksmithing, and weaving. With our eco-friendly electric vehicles and knowledgeable guides, you'll experience Veliko Tarnovo like never before, all while minimizing your environmental footprint.

The Rila Mountains are home to some of Bulgaria’s most fascinating historical and cultural sights, but seeing the highlights—and getting off the tourist track—is difficult without your own transportation. Visit a hand-picked selection of three sites during this full-day private tour, which includes two UNESCO World Heritage attractions— 10th-century Rila Monastery and the 13th-century frescos of Boyana Church (entry fee not included)—topped off by a wine tasting in a panoramic winery.

Enjoy Bulgaria entirely at your own pace. This is a fully private tour: once you book, no other travelers are added — whether you are one person, a couple or a small private group. Embark on an unforgettable journey from Sofia to explore the Valley of Roses and the iconic Buzludzha Monument in a single day! The adventure begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Sofia. From there, we’ll travel through picturesque landscapes towards the Valley of Roses, located in central Bulgaria. .We will make a short stop at the wonderful Ethnographic Complex of Damascena where you can learn more about the production of the famous Bulgarian rose oil. Next, we’ll visit the Buzludzha Monument, a striking symbol of Bulgaria’s communist past. Perched atop the Buzludzha Peak, this abandoned monument boasts a unique and futuristic design. Throughout the tour, our expert guides will provide fascinating insights into the history, culture, and significance of each destination.

The tour stands out for several unique features: Enjoy Bulgaria entirely at your own pace. This is a fully private tour: once you book, no other travelers are added — whether you are one person, a couple or a small private group. Expertly Guided Tours: Knowledgeable and friendly local guides accompany travelers throughout the tour, providing insightful commentary, historical context, and insider tips about Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. Free Time for Exploration: The itinerary includes generous free time at each location, allowing travelers to explore Rila Monastery and Boyana Church at their own pace. Whether it's admiring the intricate frescoes, visiting museum exhibits, or simply soaking in the serene surroundings, guests have the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of these iconic landmarks. Small Group Experience: PrivaTour BG prioritizes small group sizes to ensure an intimate and personalized experience for every traveler.

Join a Local for a two-hour exclusive journey through Sofia, a can't-miss experience that invites you to admire historic landmarks, relive storied pasts, and dive into the city's rich culture. • Discover Sofia’s past with the guidance of a Local. • Uncover how Serdica has defined Sofia's history. • Experience a personalised tour, tailored to your interests. • Get curated recommendations for further city discovery. • Enjoy a private and intimate tour, exclusively for your group. Immerse yourself in Sofia's heritage and let its history become part of your own journey.

Enjoy Bulgaria entirely at your own pace. This is a fully private tour: once you book, no other travelers are added — whether you are one person, a couple or a small private group. 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.

The Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, better known as the Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. It is situated in the Rila Mountains. The monastery is named after its founder, the hermit Ivan of Rila (876 – 946 AD). Founded in the 10th century, the Rila Monastery is regarded as one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments and is a key tourist attraction for both Bulgaria and Southern Europe. If you want to be among the lucky ones who have visited this amazing site, join the tours and let’s have a great time together!

Pre-book tickets to Rila Monastery to explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 1,000 years of history. Booking Rila Monastery tickets online combines the convenience of advance planning with skip-the-line admission and the flexibility to arrive at any time of day—without being limited to a fixed tour schedule. Your tour includes an e-guide to enhance your experience.

Explore Sofia at your own pace on this self-guided audio tour. Make use of a personalized electronic guide equipped with maps and suggested routes as you get to know the city. Access a support staff member if you need assistance and choose between three languages to make learning about Sofia easy.