Bulgaria might not be the first destination that comes to mind for many travelers, and even those who do venture there often limit their exploration to the capital, Sofia. While Sofia is undeniably a beautiful city with its own unique charm (if you know where to look), Bulgaria offers so much more than just a city getaway. Many of the country's most captivating sights can be easily reached as day trips from Sofia, making it an ideal home base for your adventure.
This itinerary will inspire you with things to do in Sofia and exciting day trips outside the city that are sure to pleasantly surprise you. Feel free to adjust the suggested itinerary based on your preferences, as the visits can be done in any order.
🏙️ Day 1: Exploring Sofia
Start your journey with a walking tour of Sofia to get your bearings and immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture.
-
Sofia Street Art Walking Tour: For a unique twist, consider this tour that offers more than just a stroll — it feels like an interactive art lesson. The guide explains the hidden symbolism in the street art, shedding light on causes that resonate with local artists and Bulgarians alike.
Check it out here.
If your chosen tour doesn’t cover these sights, make sure to visit:
-
Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky: An architectural marvel and symbol of Sofia’s heritage
-
Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker: Worth a walk-by for its impressive exterior
-
Vitosha Boulevard: A pedestrian boulevard perfect for people-watching, coffee, or a casual meal
Day 2: The Enigmatic Caves
Bulgaria boasts a collection of impressive caves, and three of the most famous are easily accessible as a day trip from Sofia.
⛺ Cave 1: Devetashka Cave
-
A remarkable overground cave with grand entrances and a spacious feel
-
Great for those who prefer not to navigate tight spaces
🌌 Cave 2: Prohodna Cave (Eyes of God)
-
Named for its eye-shaped openings in the ceiling
-
Offers climbable formations for both active and relaxed explorers
🌪️ Cave 3: Saeva Dupka Cave
-
Known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites, some over 3 million years old
-
Though not as camera-friendly, the ancient formations are breathtaking
-
Note: Past misuse caused minor damage (before becoming a protected area it was a hotspot for teenage parties), but the majority of its millennia-old formations remain intact
Getting There
Public transportation doesn’t reach these caves, so your options are renting a car or joining a guided tour. For car rentals, I recommend Discover Cars for competitive pricing. Alternatively, check out cave tours on GetYourGuide or similar providers.
🚨 Tour prices may be similar to Western Europe and can vary by group size
Day 3: The Majestic Belogradchik Rocks
Located in northwestern Bulgaria, about a 3-hour drive from Sofia, the Belogradchik Rocks are natural formations offering breathtaking views and inspiring local folklore.
-
Notable figures include the "Adam and Eve" rock formations, resembling guardians of this remarkable site
-
The area features several short hiking trails with minor scrambling and stunning viewpoints
-
The site is also home to the Belogradchik Fortress, built in the 1st century AD by the Romans and perched atop one of the highest rocks
Getting There
As with the caves, public transport is not an option, so you’ll need a rental car or a tour. Most tours are available through Viator and GetYourGuide, often combined with a visit to Veneta Cave, another impressive stalactite and stalagmite site. Be prepared for a long day of exploration, but the experience is well worth the long hours on the road.
⛪ Day 4: Rila Monastery
The Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Bulgaria’s most popular day trip from Sofia. Located under 2 hours away, it's famed for:
-
Vibrant frescoes, intricate stonework, and colorful mosaics (photography inside is not allowed)
-
Founded by Saint John of Rila, a hermit monk of spiritual importance for Bulgarian Orthodox Christians
🌇Note that the monastery is far from being an undiscovered gem. It can be very crowded during high season and weekends — weekdays are better for a peaceful visit
Tours:
-
More reasonably priced than other day trips (20-25 USD)
-
Often include a stop at Boyana Church (also a UNESCO site)
-
Available on Viator or GetYourGuide.
Enjoy your time in Bulgaria — there’s so much more to discover beyond Sofia’s city limits!
Add comment
Comments