Sofia is a city that rewards curiosity. Its mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, grand Orthodox churches, and modern architecture makes it a fascinating place to explore. What makes Sofia stand out for city tours is how easy it is to walk through history, especially with a knowledgeable guide. We particularly like the private city walking tour because it offers personalized attention and takes you to landmarks like Sveta Nedelya Church and Sofia Synagogue, all at your pace. Whether you have a fleeting visit or a few days, Sofia’s compact center makes it perfect for walking, and a guided tour can reveal stories you’d miss alone.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of tours—from quick 2-hour explorations to full-day excursions outside the city. There are options suited for budget travelers, history buffs, and those seeking cultural experiences. For example, the Sofia by Night tour combines city sights with traditional music and food, offering a lively way to experience Sofia after dark. Or, for those interested in ancient sites, the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church makes a perfect half-day trip. Read on for detailed reviews and insights into each of the top tours in Sofia.
1. Private city walking tour of Sofia
Get to know Sofia with this private walking tour, which has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 130 reviews. In just about 2 hours, a guide will take you through highlights like Sveta Nedelya Church, Sofia Synagogue, and the Cathedral of St. Joseph, sharing stories behind these landmarks. What makes this tour special is the personal attention—your guide can tailor the experience and answer your questions without distractions. The itinerary includes the Orthodox Saint Nedelya Church and the ancient Serdica complex, giving you a taste of Sofia’s layered history. Guests often praise the guide’s storytelling skills and local insights, making this a great option if you want a quick, intimate overview of the city’s core.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers wanting a personalized intro, this tour offers deep insights into Sofia’s past and present, all at a reasonable price.
2. Sofia Walking Private City Tour
For around $72, this private Sofia walking tour covers over a dozen landmarks in 2 to 3 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time. The guide takes you to St. Sofia Church, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the National Art Gallery, providing context along the way. Guests love how engaging the guide, Pavlina, is—she explains Sofia’s history, culture, and architecture clearly and enthusiastically. Highlights include the Russian Church and the city’s historic market hall. The tour’s flexible duration and intimate setting make it suited for families or those who prefer a relaxed pace. Reviewers say it’s a “terrific introduction” and a chance to get oriented for independent exploring afterward.
Bottom line: This tour balances depth and convenience, offering a comprehensive snapshot of Sofia’s top sights with personalized storytelling.
3. Nis City Tour: Full-Day Trip from Sofia
Travel outside Sofia to explore Nis, Serbia’s third-largest city, on this full-day tour. It’s a 9.5-hour journey that takes you to ancient Roman sites like Medijana, where ruins of a Roman villa await, and the Cele Kula, a fortress with sweeping views. The tour includes visits to WW2 concentration camps and opportunities to explore Nis independently. The guide shares stories about Serbian revolutionaries and the city’s significance as a crossroads. Guests note how well-organized and informative the trip is, with some mentioning the drive through scenic countryside. While the day is long, this is ideal for history lovers who want a taste of Serbia’s past without a separate trip.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about Serbia and want a hassle-free day trip from Sofia, this tour offers a well-rounded experience with historical highlights.
4. Transfer Sofia Airport/city to Plovdiv with a sedan 3+1
Need reliable transport? This private transfer offers a comfortable ride from Sofia to Plovdiv for up to 8 people. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with luggage or want to avoid the hassle of taxis. The service is highly rated for punctuality and professionalism, with drivers speaking English and providing a smooth journey. Whether arriving or departing, this is a straightforward way to start or end your trip without stress.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for groups or families needing a dependable, door-to-door transfer between Sofia and Plovdiv.
5. Sofia: City Highlights Sightseeing Walking Tour
This 2-hour city highlights tour is a lively introduction to Sofia’s most famous landmarks. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the essentials. Your guide will lead you through the city center, visiting St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Roman Rotunda, and the National Theatre. Guests praise the guide’s engaging storytelling and the interactive nature of the tour, making it a fun experience for families. It’s a good way to get your bearings and learn the stories behind Sofia’s architecture and culture.
Bottom line: A quick, lively overview suited for travelers who want to see the main sights without a long commitment.
6. Private City Tour of Sofia
This flexible private city tour is designed for those who want a personalized experience. For about $34 a person, you’ll visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Saint Sofia Church, and Saint Nikolas Russian Church. The guide adapts to your interests, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those with special requests. The tour lasts between 2 and 4 hours, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s knowledge and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, especially for travelers short on time.
Bottom line: For a customizable, intimate exploration, this tour offers flexibility and local insights at a budget-friendly price.
7. Sofia by Night: Panoramic City Tour and Folklore Dinner
Experience Sofia after dark on this 4-hour evening tour. It includes a guided look at the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and a traditional Bulgarian dinner with folklore entertainment. Seeing Sofia illuminated makes for memorable photos, and the lively atmosphere at the restaurant with local music and dance rounds out the experience. Guests mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the chance to enjoy authentic Bulgarian cuisine alongside cultural performances.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for night owls and those wanting a lively cultural experience combined with city views.
8. Sofia Small Group City Tour
If you prefer a small-group setting, this 6-person tour offers a personalized two-hour experience. It covers key sights like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Saint Sofia Basilica with an emphasis on history and architecture. The guide, Vessy, is praised for her passion and knowledge about Sofia’s origins and significance. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to ask questions freely.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a more intimate, engaging experience with knowledgeable guides.
9. Sofia: Full-Day City Tour including UNESCO Boyana Church
This full-day tour combines Sofia’s city highlights with a visit to Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It includes stops at the National History Museum and the orthodox churches around the city. Guests love the mix of ancient and modern, with plenty of time at the UNESCO site for photos and contemplation. The guide offers in-depth stories that deepen understanding of Bulgaria’s culture and religious art.
Bottom line: For travelers wanting a rundown plus a UNESCO experience, this tour balances history, culture, and relaxation.
10. Private Sofia Guided Walking City Tour with Traditional Breakfast
Start your morning in Sofia with this private walking tour that combines sightseeing with a Bulgarian pastry breakfast. In about 3 hours, you’ll visit St. Sofia Church, the Rotunda of St. George, and Cathedral St. Alexander Nevski—all with a local guide sharing stories and context. The highlight is the tasty breakfast of pastries and ayran, making it a delightful way to begin your day. Reviewers find the mix of culture and cuisine a memorable experience, especially as it offers a relaxed pace suitable for all ages.
Bottom line: A great pick for early risers who want a flavorful introduction to Sofia’s landmarks.
11. Photo Walk in the City Centre
Capture Sofia’s charm on this photo walk. Led by a local who knows all the hidden spots, this 1-hour tour is perfect for travelers eager to get professional portrait-quality photos while discovering lesser-known corners of the city center. It’s an ideal activity for photography enthusiasts or anyone wanting to remember Sofia with beautiful pictures. The guide shares interesting facts along the way, making it more than just a photo shoot.
Bottom line: Great for visual learners and social media lovers wanting a quick, personalized photo session.
12. Rent MBT, E-MTB or a City Bike and Explore Sofia
See Sofia at your own pace with this bike rental. Whether you prefer a regular or electric bike, you’ll have access to a bicycle suited to your skill level. The city’s parks and bike-friendly streets—like Boris Garden and Yuzhen Park—are perfect for active exploration. For just around $23, you can make your own itinerary, stopping where you like. It’s an affordable, flexible way to see Sofia without the constraints of a guided tour.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want independence and enjoy cycling through Sofia’s green spaces.
13. Sofia City Tour with National History Museum
Aimed at history enthusiasts, this 4-hour tour combines a walking tour with a visit to the National History Museum. The museum houses over 650,000 exhibits, including the famous Varna golden treasure. The tour explores Sofia’s main landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Rotunda, with detailed stories from your guide. Visitors value the comprehensive approach, especially the time spent at the museum, which offers a deep dive into Bulgarian past. It’s best suited for those interested in history and culture, willing to spend a few hours exploring.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting an in-depth understanding of Bulgaria’s past along with city sights.
14. Private Transfer from Sofia City to Sofia Airport
Avoid last-minute stress with this private transfer. It offers a reliable, comfortable ride directly to Sofia International Airport, with drivers speaking English and punctual service. Ideal for early flights or arrivals, especially for groups or families with luggage, this service ensures peace of mind and a smooth end or start to your trip.
Bottom line: A practical choice to ensure stress-free travel to or from Sofia Airport.
15. Private Sofia City Tour by Bike
Explore Sofia’s city center on two wheels with this bike tour. With an English-speaking guide and rented bicycle, you’ll ride through parks like Boris Garden and Loven Park, enjoying Sofia’s green spaces and architecture. The tour lasts about 2-3 hours and is best suited for active travelers who want an immersive experience. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendliness and the fun of combining sightseeing with exercise.
Bottom line: Great for those who want to combine sightseeing with physical activity in Sofia.
How to Choose the Best City Tour in Sofia
Choosing the right tour depends on your travel style. If you want a personalized, in-depth experience, the private walking tours or city tour with traditional breakfast are excellent. Budget travelers might prefer the small group or bike tours, which combine affordability with flexibility.
History aficionados should consider the UNESCO full-day trip or the city and museum combo. For evening or cultural nights, the Sofia by Night offers a lively experience with music and food.
Travelers with limited time can opt for quick, comprehensive highlights tours, while those wanting independence may prefer biking or photo walks.
Final thoughts
Sofia offers a wealth of touring options suited for every interest and schedule. Whether you prefer a private stroll through ancient streets, an educational full-day trip to Serbia, or a fun night out with folklore and city views, this list covers it all. For a first visit, the private city walking tour or the city highlights tour provide excellent overviews. If you’re a history buff, the UNESCO site visit or the full museum tour will deepen your understanding. Active travelers will enjoy the bike tours or exploring on your own with bike rentals.
To make the most of your time in Sofia, consider booking early, especially for popular tours or during peak seasons. Whichever your choice, Sofia’s inviting streets and friendly guides will ensure you leave with a deeper appreciation of Bulgaria’s capital.