2-Day Relaxing Family Shopping Getaway in Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, Bulgaria

2 days

National theater "Ivan Vazov"
The Largo architectural ensemble of three Socialist Classicism buildings
Alexander Nevsky cathedral
The fountain in front of the city's mineral baths complex
National palace of culture

About Sofia, Bulgaria

Discover Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, a destination rich in history and culture. Nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, Sofia offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. Explore the city's architectural gems like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. George Rotunda, and Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the bustling Vitosha Boulevard, lined with trendy cafes, boutiques, and local markets. Visit the National History Museum to delve into Bulgaria's past. Enjoy the natural beauty of Borisova Gradina Park or take a cable car up Vitosha Mountain for stunning city views. Sofia's vibrant nightlife, delicious Bulgarian cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit European city.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City Center and National Museum of Natural History

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the City Center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to visit the local markets for some shopping.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch at a family-friendly restaurant. Try the local dishes like Shopska salad, Banitsa, and Kavarma.

Afternoon

Visit the National Museum of Natural History, where you can learn about Bulgaria's rich biodiversity. Later, relax in the nearby park and let the kids play in the playground.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines. Make sure to try the Bulgarian wine.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia's main shopping street. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and do some window shopping.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning medieval frescoes inside.

Lunch

Have lunch at a cozy restaurant in the City Center. Try the local dishes like Moussaka and Tarator.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Sofia Zoo, the largest zoo in the Balkans. The kids will love seeing the variety of animals.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try the local dishes like Sarmi and Kebapche.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll in the South Park, one of the largest parks in Sofia. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

City Center

1
City Center

The heart of Sofia, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Attractions
Shopping
Food and Drink
Architecture
Neighborhoods
National Museum of Natural History

2
National Museum of Natural History

One of the richest natural history museums on the Balkans, featuring a wide range of flora and fauna exhibits.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Vitosha Boulevard

3
Vitosha Boulevard

Sofia's main commercial street, featuring a number of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

Attractions
Shopping
Food and Drink
Boyana Church

4
Boyana Church

A medieval Bulgarian Orthodox church listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved frescoes.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Sofia Zoo

5
Sofia Zoo

The oldest and largest zoological garden in the Balkans, home to a wide variety of animals.

Attractions
Parks
South Park

6
South Park

A large city park featuring walking paths, sports facilities, and beautiful gardens.

Parks
Sports
Gardens

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Banitsa

Banitsa

A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with whisked eggs and cheese between filo pastry sheets, often enjoyed for breakfast in Sofia.

Shopska Salata

Shopska Salata

A popular Bulgarian salad made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and sirene (Bulgarian cheese), commonly found in Sofia.

Sirene po Shopski

Sirene po Shopski

A traditional Bulgarian dish made from sirene cheese baked in a pot with eggs and tomatoes, a common dish in Sofia.

Kavarma

Kavarma

A popular Bulgarian meat stew that is slow-cooked with vegetables and served in an earthenware pot, a must-try in Sofia.

Tarator

Tarator

A cold cucumber and yogurt soup, seasoned with dill, garlic, and walnuts, a refreshing dish commonly served in Sofia during summer.

Kebapche

Kebapche

A Bulgarian grilled minced meat dish, similar to a sausage but without the skin, often served with fries and salad in Sofia.

Musaka

Musaka

A traditional Bulgarian dish made from potatoes and minced meat, similar to the Greek moussaka, a common comfort food in Sofia.

Rakia

Rakia

A traditional Bulgarian fruit brandy that is very popular in Sofia, often served as an aperitif.

Shkembe Chorba

A traditional Bulgarian tripe soup, considered a hangover remedy, commonly found in Sofia.

Lyutenitsa

Lyutenitsa

A spicy vegetable relish or chutney in Sofia, made from peppers, aubergines, and tomatoes, often spread on bread or served with meat.

Kiselo Mlyako

A Bulgarian yogurt that is thicker and tangier than regular yogurt, a staple dairy product in Sofia.

Boza

Boza

A traditional Bulgarian fermented drink made from millet, with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, commonly enjoyed in Sofia.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Sofia, Bulgaria is from late spring to early autumn, specifically May through October. During these months, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with various cultural events, festivals, and open-air concerts. However, if you're interested in winter sports like skiing, the months from December to February would be the best time for you.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 3

Sun

Liberation Day

March 4

Mon

Day off for Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 3

Fri

Good Friday

May 4

Sat

Holy Saturday

May 5

Sun

Easter Sunday

May 6

Mon

Easter Monday

May 6

Mon

St. George's Day

May 24

Fri

Culture and Literacy Day

September 6

Fri

Unification Day

September 22

Sun

Independence Day

September 23

Mon

Day off for Independence Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Second day of Christmas

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Sofia's public transport system includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses. It's a reliable and efficient way to get around the city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, onboard from the driver, or via a mobile app.

The Sofia Metro is a fast and convenient way to travel around the city. It has four lines that cover most of the city and connect to the airport.

Taxis are widely available in Sofia and can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi ranks at major transport hubs and tourist areas. Always ensure the taxi is licensed and metered.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Bolt are available in Sofia. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Sofia has a growing network of bicycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes. Cycling can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Sofia. However, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in the city center.

Many of Sofia's main attractions are within walking distance of each other, making walking a viable option for getting around. The city is pedestrian-friendly with plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian zones.

Shared electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular in Sofia. They can be found and rented via mobile apps and are a fun and quick way to get around the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyлв BGN

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 150; Fire: 160; Police: 166

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Sofia, Bulgaria as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Bulgarian, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

2

The local currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). It's advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards.

3

Bulgaria is a member of the European Union but not part of the Schengen Area. Ensure you have the appropriate visa if required.

4

Sofia is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in less crowded areas.

5

Public transportation in Sofia is reliable and inexpensive. It includes buses, trams, and a metro system.

6

Taxis are also widely available but make sure to use a reputable company to avoid being overcharged.

7

Bulgarian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local dishes like shopska salad, banitsa, and kavarma.

8

Tipping is customary in Bulgaria. It's typical to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants.

9

The tap water in Sofia is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

10

Bulgaria uses Eastern European Time (EET) and observes daylight saving time.

11

The standard voltage in Bulgaria is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F.

12

Sofia has a humid continental climate. Summers (June to August) can be hot with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), while winters (December to February) can be very cold with temperatures from 23°F to 41°F (-5°C to 5°C).

13

Bulgarians shake their heads to mean 'yes' and nod for 'no', which can be confusing for foreigners.

14

Bulgaria has its own Cyrillic alphabet. It might be helpful to learn a few basic phrases or letters.

15

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants, but is still quite common.

16

Bulgarians are known for their hospitality. It's common to be offered food and drink when visiting someone's home.

17

Sofia is a city with a rich history. You'll find a mix of Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet influences in its architecture and culture.

18

Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe and Sofia is one of the oldest cities, so respect for historical sites and traditions is appreciated.

19

The healthcare system in Bulgaria is generally good, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

20

Bulgaria is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, so modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites.

Basic Bulgarian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Здравей

Zdravey

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Довиждане

Dovizhdane

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

Благодаря

Blagodarya

Expressing gratitude

Please

Моля

Molya

Making a request

Yes

Да

Da

Agreeing or confirming

No

Не

Ne

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Извинете

Izvinete

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Не разбирам

Ne razbiram

Not understanding something

Do you speak English?

Говорите ли английски?

Govorite li angliyski?

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Къде е тоалетната?

Kade e toaletnata?

Looking for the bathroom

I need help

Трябва ми помощ

Tryabva mi pomosht

In need of assistance

Call the police

Повикайте полицията

Povikayte politsiyata

In case of emergency

I'm lost

Изгубих се

Izgubih se

When you can't find your way

How much does this cost?

Колко струва това?

Kolko struva tova?

Asking for the price

Can I use my credit card?

Мога ли да използвам кредитната си карта?

Moga li da izpolzvam kreditnata si karta?

Asking to use credit card

Where can I find a taxi?

Къде мога да намеря такси?

Kade moga da nameriya taksi?

Looking for a taxi

I would like to order

Бих искал да поръчам

Bih iskal da poracham

Ordering food or drink

Water, please

Вода, моля

Voda, molya

Asking for water

Cheers

Наздраве

Nazdrave

Making a toast

Good night

Лека нощ

Leka nosht

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Books or e-books for reading

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

When visiting Sofia, Bulgaria, it's important to note that the city experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. In the winter months, from December to February, Sofia can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to around 27°F (-3°C). Snowfall is common, so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and boots. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual increase in temperature, with highs reaching around 68°F (20°C) by May. This is a great time to visit if you enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer, from June to August, can get quite hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). It's advisable to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Despite the heat, summer is a popular time for tourists due to the numerous outdoor festivals and events. Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by cooler temperatures, ranging from 46°F to 68°F (8°C to 20°C). This is a great time to visit if you enjoy the fall foliage. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to Sofia. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Also, keep in mind that the weather can change quickly, so it's wise to always carry an umbrella or raincoat.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

6° / -4°

January is the coldest month in Sofia, with snowfall being quite common. Pack warm clothing and snow boots.

February

8° / -3°

February is still quite cold with occasional snowfall. Warm clothing is still a necessity.

March

14° / 0°

March sees the beginning of spring with temperatures slowly rising. Light jackets and sweaters are recommended.

April

20° / 4°

April is a mild month with occasional rain showers. Carry a light jacket and an umbrella.

May

24° / 9°

May is pleasantly warm with plenty of sunshine. Light clothing and sunscreen are recommended.

June

28° / 13°

June marks the beginning of summer with long sunny days. Pack summer clothing and a hat for sun protection.

July

31° / 15°

July is the hottest month in Sofia. Light, breathable clothing is recommended.

August

30° / 15°

August is still quite hot, but with occasional rain showers. Carry light clothing and an umbrella.

September

25° / 11°

September is a mild month with less rain. Light jackets and sweaters are recommended for the cooler evenings.

October

18° / 6°

October sees the arrival of autumn with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. Carry a jacket and a scarf.

November

12° / 2°

November is quite chilly with shorter days. Warm clothing and a good pair of shoes are recommended.

December

6° / -2°

December is cold with occasional snowfall. Warm clothing, including gloves and hats, are a must.

Did you know?

Did you know that Sofia, Bulgaria is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history stretching back over 7,000 years?

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