All Sofia Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026 - page 3

Travel with a small group to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church, two UNESCO World Heritage sites. An informative guide points out 19th-century paintings depicting the Bulgarian Renaissance at the country’s largest monastery, set against the beauty of the Rila mountains. In the afternoon, visit Boyana Church to view its medieval frescoes. You’ll travel round-trip by air-conditioned minivan from Sofia’s Alexander Nevski Square.

Likely to Sell Out

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Shuttle Tour

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Shuttle Tour

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(69)

from $41

Buzludzha Communist Monument and Ancient Thracian Tomb

Buzludzha is a historical peak in the Central Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria and is 1,432 metres high. In 1868 it was the place of the final battle between Bulgarian rebels led by Hadji Dimitar and Stefan Karadzha and forces of the Ottoman Empire. The House-Monument of the Bulgarian Communist Party (also known as the Buzludzha Monument) was built on the peak by the Bulgarian communist regime. It commemorated the events of 1891, when a group of socialists led by Dimitar Blagoev assembled secretly in the area to form an organised socialist movement that led to the founding of the Bulgarian Social Democratic Party, a forerunner of the Bulgarian Communist Party. Construction of the monument began on 23 January 1974 under architect Georgi Stoilov, a former mayor of Sofia and co-founder of the Union of Architects in Bulgaria. The building exemplifies the brutalist architectural style common to many state-constructed communist buildings.

Buzludzha Communist Monument and Ancient Thracian Tomb

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Sofia on a private half-day tour. This thorough sightseeing excursion takes you to over a dozen of the city's top landmarks, including the Central Market Hall, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the vibrant historical city center. Along the way, your guide will provide insights into the city's past and present, making this personalized tour a perfect introduction to Sofia's highlights.

(3)

from $69

Sofia Walking Private City Tour

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

(134)

from $78

This experience is a passion project started by two law graduates turned professional guides and wine enthusiasts, Yoan and Ivelin (that’s us in the photo). Join us as we dive deep into Bulgarian history and culture through its drinks. This isn’t just a tasting. It’s an invitation into a warm, cozy atmosphere where history comes alive. On this 2-hour journey into Bulgarian culture, you’ll explore over 3,000 years of wine and rakia-making traditions. A local host will guide you through five local wine varieties and the Balkans’ most iconic drink - rakia - perfectly paired with traditional bites. Experience Bulgaria in a glass through its traditional drinks. This experience means a great deal to us, as the history of wine and spirits is our personal passion. We’re truly excited to share it with you.

Special Offer

Drinks of Bulgaria with Traditional Wine and Rakia Tasting

Drinks of Bulgaria with Traditional Wine and Rakia Tasting

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Escape Sofia in 20 minutes — and enter a different world entirely. Village of German sits at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, where forest trails, open meadows and panoramic ridgelines stretch out in every direction. No city noise, no traffic lights — just you, the machine, and the terrain ahead. Your guide leads the way through routes that combine speed, nature and pure freedom. Whether you've never touched a quad bike or you live for off-road — the trails here will surprise you. Bulgaria looks different from the back of an ATV. Most people never see it this way. Your safety, guaranteed: Full pre-ride briefing, certified guides, all safety equipment provided, and routes designed for both first-timers and experienced riders. Choose your experience: - Solo rider — your ATV, your pace, your adventure -Two riders, one ATV — share the ride and the memories - Transfer from Sofia — we pick you up, drop you off, you just show up

ATV Off Road Tour Near Sofia Guided Quad Bike Experience

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Belogradchik Full-day Tour from Sofia

(12)

from $111

Likely to Sell Out

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.3

(34)

from $80

Private City Tour of Sofia

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.3

(38)

from $34

Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi day tour from Sofia with pickup

10 to 11 hoursFree Cancellation

(18)

from $99

Most travelers in Bulgaria have to decide between sightseeing and relaxation. On this unique, full-day combo tour, experience the best of both worlds as you take in striking Rila Monstery—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—followed by a restorative soak to a traditional mineral bath at a local spa complex. Air-conditioned transfers from central Sofia are included or a hassle-free experience.

Rila Monastery and Hot Mineral Bath Spa Complex Tour

Rila Monastery and Hot Mineral Bath Spa Complex Tour

11 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(34)

from $69

Rila Monastery In-Depth Tour (Extended Free Time)

Escape the rush of standard group tours and immerse yourself in Bulgaria’s rich history on this In-Depth Day Trip to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery. Nestled high in the Rila Mountains, this medieval landmark features breathtaking frescoes, historic architecture, and surrounding alpine beauty. Why choose this tour? Instead of rushing between multiple sites, this tour is designed for travelers who want Extended Free Time at Rila Monastery. After a guided introduction to the complex, you will have ample, unhurried time to deeply explore the inner museums (optional), take stunning photos, hike nearby nature paths, and enjoy a relaxed local lunch completely at your own pace.

Rila Monastery In-Depth Tour (Extended Free Time)

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(42)

from $23

Plovdiv and Rila Monastery tour in one day

10 to 11 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(87)

from $115

Rila Monastery and Melnik, Day Tour from Sofia with Pickup

Southern Bulgaria is home to fascinating cultural and natural attractions, but moving between locations isn’t easy by public transportation. Visit two of the country’s most iconic landmarks during this full-day, small-group combo tour. First, tour iconic Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, taste the famous wines of Melnik, near the Greek border, and visit the town’s pyramid-shaped rock formations.

Rila Monastery and Melnik, Day Tour from Sofia with Pickup

9 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

(8)

from $99

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.

9 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

Skopje in Macedonia tour

4.5

from $69

3-Hour Private Bulgarian Food Tasting Tour of Sofia

3 hoursFree Cancellation

(14)

from $101

Maximize your limited vacation time in Bulgaria on a private day tour from Sofia to Plovdiv. As you explore Plovdiv's Old Town, the Roman Stadium, and the Roman Theater, your guide provides live commentary that takes you beyond the guidebook and into the city's history. Thanks to your local guide, you also gain insights and up-to-date information on Bulgaria's current political and economic landscape.

Private Tour from Sofia to Plovdiv

8 hoursFree Cancellation

(12)

from $151

Rila Monastery day tour with Optional SPA/Thermal baths

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(17)

from $23

Kosovo and North Macedonia in 2 Days from Sofia

Getting around Kosovo and North Macedonia independently is a slow and time-consuming business. Discover them with a driver/guide and a small group of like-minded travelers on this 2-day adventure from Sofia, with an overnight stay at a 3-star hotel in historic Prizren. See bazaars, medieval bridges, giant statues, Ottoman mosques, mountaintop fortresses, and more on a whirlwind tour of two of the Balkans’ most fascinating and least visited nations.

Kosovo and North Macedonia in 2 Days from Sofia

2 daysFree Cancellation

(37)

from $408

Discover the intriguing history of Bulgaria under communist rule from 1945 to 1990 on this small group guided tour. Explore a hidden park featuring authentic monuments from the communist era, while learning about daily life, economic organization, and restrictions faced by citizens. Delve into topics like media control, educational structures, and the oppressive measures of the regime. Visit the 'Vaska Emanuilova' Gallery, home to significant sculptures from this period, with free entry included. The tour wraps up near a traditional restaurant reflecting communist style, perfect for a lunch stop. - Small group tour exploring Bulgaria's communist history - Visit a park with preserved monuments and limited walking distance - Free entry to the 'Vaska Emanuilova' Gallery featuring propaganda art - Option for lunch at a restaurant decorated in traditional communist style

Likely to Sell Out

Life Under Communism - Small Group Guided Tour in Sofia

Life Under Communism - Small Group Guided Tour in Sofia

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

(2)

from $23

Did you know that there are Christian tombs dating back to the 3rd and the 4th century under St. Sophia church? Prepare for a loaded experience as we explore the remains of an early Christian necropolis and stroll through a labyrinth of sarcophagi! Feel like the protagonist of a mystery novel as we tour the underground and explore the tomb pits, stone tombs, stone sarcophagi, the typical late antiquity masonry tombs with semi-cylindrical vaults, as well as the separate Honorius Tomb, I will tell you many thrilling stories from the history of the ancient church of St. Sophia throughout the centuries. Come rain or shine, this is a great experience for all the brave explorers at any time of the year!

Catacomb Tour in Sofia guided by a Local

Catacomb Tour in Sofia guided by a Local

1 hourFree Cancellation

4.2

(5)

from $80

Discover two of Bulgaria's UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a private day tour from Sofia. With round-trip transportation and a local guide included, you're sure to get a seamless and immersive sightseeing experience. Begin with a leisurely visit to the active Rila Monastery, featuring relics, Tsar Boris III's coffin, and a museum. Next, head to Boyana Church, renowned for its beautiful frescoes. Weather permitting, you can also visit the Cave of John of Rila.

Rila Monastery and Boiana church private tour

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

(23)

from $116

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.

Full Day Plovdiv Eco Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from $163

Bulgaria is packed with stunning natural and historical attractions, but visitors without their own transportation may find it tricky to venture beyond the capital. Visit two unique sites during this full-day, small-group excursion. First, head to the foot of the Balkan Mountains to the ancient fortress of Belogradchik. Then, get a first-hand peek at stalactites and stalagmites in stunning Venetsa Cave.

All inclusive Belogradchik fort and Venetsa cave day tour

All inclusive Belogradchik fort and Venetsa cave day tour

10 to 11 hoursFree Cancellation

(1)

from $256

Forget planning routes, researching sites, and boning up on history. See all Sofia’s key attractions and learn the stories behind them too on this great-value small-group walking tour: perfect for history buffs. Sights include the ruins of the Roman-era east gate, the 4th-century Rotunda of St. George, the Byzantine St. Sofia Basilica, the Ivan Vazov National Theater, and the Cathedral Saint Alexander Nevsky.

Guided Walking Tour of Sofia

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(144)

from $47

The Seven Rila Lakes Day Tour From Sofia

1 2 3 4

...

Top Attractions in Sofia

1 / 2

Attractions

What are people saying about Sofia

Scott_J, Jun 2026

7 lakes Rila

It is well worth it at a great price with a very knowledgeable guide who maintained safety at all times and spoke great English. Our guide was Megi Angelova and cannot rate her enough! I would do this tour again in a heartbeat and will be surely recommending to other likeminded travelers I meet! Thank you Megi!

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour

Myra_V, Jun 2026

A wonderful and stress...

A wonderful and stress free way to see Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. Do not miss the frescoes in Boyana Church! Our guide, Iva, was impressively fluent in both English and Spanish, and provided interesting, entertaining, and intelligent commentary about the sites and Sophia, and kept the group on time. Thank you, Iva!

Sofia: History and Heritage - Small Group City Tour

Ruth, Jun 2026

A great overview of Bulgarian history

Vasil was a great guide. His tour and commentary were very informative and interesting, covering history from the Thracians to now, visiting important and historic religious, cultural and civic buildings, statues and archaeological sites, as well as taking in the Central Park. I now feel much better informed about Serdica and its heritage.

Must-See Plovdiv Day Tour from Sofia

Gary_S, Jun 2026

Very interesting place, wear comfortable shoes

It was a 1 day tour to Plovdiv from Sofia, comfortable bus with a good driver and an excellent guide Eva. She was also our English speaking guide for the walking tour in Plovdiv. Eva is very knowledgeable and speaks fluently multiple languages. Very good value for the money.

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

Gisele_L, Nov 2025

The tour was good - we...

The tour was good - we got the audioguide one and it was interesting enough. We didn't enter Boyana as it was similar to other we've seen before, but the Rila Monastery was good. I just think 3h in there is too much. It is really small and nothing to do. 2h would be good enough.

Sofia Walking Private City Tour

peter_b, Nov 2025

A great private walking city tour

From the very first moment, the 3 hour private city tour around Sofia was very interesting, the tour guide Nikolaj was not only knowledgeable, but also full of personal stories and with a sense of humor which is very important. We would highly recommend such an experience! It was 5star plus. Martin

Sofia Food & History Tour with Communist-Era Tram Ride

Ahsanul_R, Sep 2025

Great tour for authentic and nice dishes of Bulgaria

Leading a group of 6 people was not seem to be a problem for Peter on this tour, as he is very well organized, have a clear plan what menu to taste and what story to tell. Everything runs smooth without rushing. Peter leads us to some kind of hidden-gem restaurants, where normal tourist wont find them easily :). We cant remember all the drinks and dishes name, but all were fantastic and authentic. Thank you Peter, we wish you more success with your upcoming tours!

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

Scott_A, Sep 2025

A Great, Unique, Unexpected Experience!

We had a wonderful day with our guide Theodore, he was knowledgeable, attentive and great to get along with. Even though there were some surprises he made it a very memorable experience. Due to road construction (no one’s fault!) we could not see the fortress or monastery, which although disappointing, was a hidden blessing, as instead we visited Koprivshtitsa. Theodore provided an insightful view into the history of Bulgaria, and walking around the streets was memorable - we were actually glad the normal tour itinerary did not work out so that we could have this unique experience! Also, the theatre in Plovdiv was not accessible due to preparation for a concert that evening (again, no one’s fault) but we were still able to view it from the perimeter and that was good enough. Plovdiv overall was amazing, we are so glad we went. The tour was a full 11 hours and worth it, we thoroughly enjoyed it and really appreciated having Theodore as our guide.

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

Mykal_S, Aug 2025

Stress-free way to see the Rila Lakes

I had such a great experience with the Rila Lakes + Monastery trip! Our driver was great and made the ride smooth and comfortable (you book spots for the day and then you are with a group of other travelers on a bus). Prior to departing, Phillip gave us tips on the best routes to take for the hike, which made all the difference. His advice helped me enjoy the lakes at my own pace while still catching the highlights. The hike itself was self-guided, but having those pointers made it feel stress-free. He also regularly checked in with the group via WhatsApp to keep us on schedule and give more information. Highly recommend this for anyone who wants the flexibility of hiking independently while still getting expert guidance at the start.