Day-Tripping From Sofia: Exploring Bulgaria's Best

There are many options for day trips from Sofia, Bulgaria, whether you're looking for natural scenery, cultural landmarks, or a mix of both. Here's a list of some of the most popular destinations:

- Rila Monastery: This magnificent Eastern Orthodox monastery complex, hidden away in the Rila Mountains, is easily one of the most popular day trips from Sofia. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts stunning external frescoes, a gilded iconostasis, and intricate wood carvings.

- Seven Rila Lakes: These glacial lakes, also located in the Rila Mountains, offer a stunningly beautiful destination for hikers and photographers. The lakes are named after the shapes they resemble, like The Eye and The Kidney.

- Vitosha Mountain: This mountain, easily seen from the centre of Sofia, offers natural scenery and cultural landmarks like the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boyana Church, and the ancient Dragalevtsi Monastery.

- Plovdiv: Bulgaria's second city and a spot worth visiting, Plovdiv is known for its impressive Roman ruins and vibrant modern city centre.

- Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress: These curious attractions feature the region's fascinating rock formations, with vibrant colours and strange shapes. The Belogradchik Fortress, dating back to Roman times, blends seamlessly into the unusual landscape.

- Melnik: Officially the smallest town in Bulgaria, Melnik is known for its traditional Ottoman houses, wine, and incredible Sand Pyramids.

- Veliko Tarnovo: Once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, this city is home to the Tsarevets Fortress and a charming Old Town with colourful 19th-century houses.

- Koprivshtitsa: This town, located in the foothills of the Sredna Gora Mountains, is like an open-air museum of Bulgarian Revival Period architecture. You'll find authentic and well-preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as museums dedicated to esteemed Bulgarian writers and revolutionaries.

Explore the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church

The Rila Monastery and Boyana Church are two of Bulgaria's most important UNESCO World Heritage sites, and they are the two most visited UNESCO sites in the country. They are both located just under 2 hours from Sofia, so it is easy to visit them on a day trip from the capital.

Rila Monastery

The Rila Monastery is part of the Orthodox Church, a type of Christianity widespread in Eastern Europe. The houses of worship are traditionally grand and impressive, often inspired by Middle Eastern architecture. This particular monastery was once the home of a hermit, St John of Rila, and his remains still reside there. During the almost 500 years of Ottoman rule in Bulgaria, Rila Monastery was one of the few Orthodox houses of worship that wasn't turned into a Greek Orthodox Church. It is credited with keeping the national religion and language safe, as well as protecting important Bulgarian artefacts and manuscripts.

The monastery is over 1,000 years old and is surrounded by mysterious mountains and forests. It can be seen on the 1 lev banknote and is one of Bulgaria's most important cultural sights. Entry to the monastery is 8 lev (around $5 USD) and it is open from 8.30 am-5 pm every day.

Boyana Church

Boyana Church is an Orthodox Church dating back to the 10th century. It houses the National Museum, which focuses on regional history, art and cultural artefacts. The incredibly detailed and colourful paintings within the church are considered some of the best-preserved of their kind. Entry to the church is 8 lev (around $5 USD) and it is open from 9.30 am-5.30 pm from April to October and 9 am-5 pm in the winter months.

Visiting Rila Monastery and Boyana Church from Sofia

There are several ways to visit the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church from Sofia. The most convenient way is by car. Car rentals in Bulgaria are affordable and start at £10 a day. There are also various guided tour options available, which typically include a visit to both sites. These tours start from €20 per person. It is also possible to visit the sites using public transport.

Hike the Seven Rila Lakes

The Seven Rila Lakes hike is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia, Bulgaria. The lakes are situated in the Rila Mountains, which are known for their stunning natural beauty and pristine landscapes. The hike takes you through an enchanting trail that winds through seven crystal-clear glacial lakes, each with its own unique charm and features.

Getting to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia

There are several ways to get to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia. Here are some options:

• By public transit: Take a bus from the Central Bus Station in Sofia to Dupnitsa, and then take a minibus or public bus to Sapareva Banya. From there, you can take a shuttle bus to the chairlift, which will take you to the starting point of the hike.
• By guided tour: There are many companies offering guided tours to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia, which can be a convenient option if you don't want to worry about transportation logistics.
• By car: Driving to the lakes is a flexible option, but note that road signs will be in Cyrillic, so make sure you are well-prepared with the route before setting off. There is limited parking space, and the nearest car park has some negative reviews.
• By shuttle: Taking a shuttle to the lakes or joining a day trip is a fuss-free option, as you don't need to worry about logistics.

The Seven Rila Lakes Hike

The hike to the Seven Rila Lakes is of average difficulty, but the altitude will make it a bit tough. Most of the hike varies between 2,000 and 2,500 meters. The entire hike usually takes around 3 to 5 hours, but it can be longer depending on your pace and how many photo stops you make. Here is an overview of the lakes and the hike:

• Lower Lake: The first lake you'll encounter, right by the drop-off point for the chairlift. It's located at 2,095 meters above sea level.
• Fish Lake: The next lake is the shallowest of the seven.
• Trefoil: Named for its irregular shape.
• The Twin: The largest of the lakes, composed of two smaller lakes situated very close to each other and linked by a small river.
• The Kidney: A relatively shallow lake with the steepest shores of all the lakes. This is a great spot for a picnic before making the final push to the last two lakes.
• The Eye: The deepest lake, with a depth of around 37.5 meters.
• The Tear: The highest lake, located at 2,535 meters above sea level. This is where you'll get a breathtaking panoramic view of all seven lakes.

What to Know Before You Go

• The Seven Rila Lakes are only accessible during certain times of the year, as they are covered in snow for much of the year. The best months to visit are July and August, as snow is typically melted by mid-June, and it may start to snow again by the end of September.
• The weather at the lakes can be cooler and cloudier than in Sofia, with more potential for rain and snow. Be sure to bring a jacket and wear sunscreen, as the high altitude increases the risk of sunburn.
• Wear comfortable hiking gear and shoes, as the terrain can be rough.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited refreshment points along the hike.

Discover the historic town of Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa is a historic town located in the Sredna Gora Mountains, about 110 kilometres (68 miles) east of Sofia. It is famous for its well-preserved Bulgarian National Revival architecture and its importance in Bulgarian history. The town is nestled in the mountain folds and is a cultural and historic reserve encapsulating the atmosphere of the Bulgarian National Revival period of the 19th century. Koprivshtitsa is also known for its role as one of the cradles of the April Uprising against Ottoman domination, with the first shots fired in the town in 1876.

The town is a great option for a day trip from Sofia, offering a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here are some things you can see and do during your visit:

• Explore the Well-Preserved Architecture: Koprivshtitsa is renowned for its Bulgarian National Revival architecture, with over 350 buildings labelled as "heritage sites". Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful Revival-Period houses with their curved plots, high stone walls, and gates.
• Visit the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church: This church is a notable place of interest in Koprivshtitsa and is included in some guided tours.
• Learn About the Town's History: Koprivshtitsa has a turbulent history during the Ottoman rule. The "Mausoleum – Ossuary – 20th April" is dedicated to those who lost their lives during the April Uprising.
• Visit the Homes of Revolutionary Leaders: Koprivshtitsa was home to several revolutionary leaders and notable figures, including Todor Kableshkov, Georgi Benkovski, Dimcho Debelyanov, and the Karavelov family. Some tours include visits to their homes, which have been turned into museums.
• Immerse Yourself in Local Culture: Koprivshtitsa is known for its friendly locals, who may invite you for coffee or lunch. The town offers a glimpse into traditional Bulgarian life, with horse or donkey-pulled carts still commonly used for transport.
• Taste Local Cuisine: Sample some of the local organic dishes, such as "stomna kebap".
• Enjoy the Natural Surroundings: Koprivshtitsa is surrounded by exceptional natural sights, including the Balkan and Sredna Gora Mountains. The road to the town from Sofia offers panoramic pastoral views and picturesque forests.

You can reach Koprivshtitsa by car, train, or organised day trip. The drive from Sofia takes around one and a half to two hours, passing through scenic landscapes. The train ride takes between one and a half to two hours, with the train station located about 7 kilometres from the town. Shuttle buses are available from the train station to the town centre. Organised day trips from Sofia often combine a visit to Koprivshtitsa with a stop in Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city.

Experience Plovdiv's ancient and modern attractions

Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city, is a charming and vibrant place with ancient and modern attractions. Here are some ideas for a day trip to Plovdiv from Sofia:

Getting to Plovdiv

You can easily get to Plovdiv by train or bus. Trains run every hour or so and take around 2 hours and 45 minutes, while buses are more frequent and take about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour, which will take care of transportation and provide you with a knowledgeable guide.

Exploring Plovdiv's Ancient Attractions

Plovdiv is known for its rich history, dating back to the 6th millennium BC. Start your exploration in the Old Town, where you'll find impressive ancient monuments such as the Roman Theatre, the Roman Stadium, the Odeon, and the Small Basilica of Philippopolis. These sites showcase the Roman, Thracian, and Byzantine influences that have shaped the city over the centuries.

Experiencing Plovdiv's Modern Attractions

In addition to its ancient attractions, Plovdiv also offers a vibrant modern city centre. Stroll through the "The Trap" neighbourhood, known for its cafes and bars. Visit the Regional Ethnographic Museum to learn more about the region's culture and history. Finally, make your way to Nebet Hill for stunning panoramic views of the city.

Recommended Tours

If you're looking for a guided tour option, here are some recommendations:

• Plovdiv Full Day Tour from Sofia
• Small group tour to Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery

Venture to Belogradchik Rocks and the Fortress

One of Bulgaria's best-kept secrets, the Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress is a must-see for travellers wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist trail. Located in the country's northwest region, this incredible site combines stunning natural landscapes with centuries of history. Here's everything you need to know to plan your day trip from Sofia.

Getting There

The journey from Sofia to Belogradchik takes around three hours by car or van, and there are several options for making the trip. You can join a guided tour, which offers an informative and hassle-free experience. These tours typically include hotel pickup and drop-off, and some even combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Magura Cave.

If you prefer independent travel, you can also rent a car, take a bus, or opt for the train. The train ride is particularly scenic, but be sure to check the schedule as there are only three direct trains from Sofia to Oreshec (the closest station) per day. Once you arrive at Oreshec, you'll need to take a taxi to reach the Belogradchik Rocks, which are about 12 kilometres away.

The Site Itself

The Belogradchik Rocks form a 30-kilometre-long strip, reaching heights of up to 200 metres in some parts. These unique rock formations are estimated to be over 230 million years old, and they have served as a natural fortress for centuries. The site was even nominated for the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition. Each rock formation has its own name, shape, and collection of urban legends attached to it. Some of the most famous formations include The Horseman, The Madonna, Adam and Eve, and The Bear.

Nearby, you'll find the Belogradchik Fortress, which blends seamlessly into the rocks. This fortress has existed in various forms for the past 2,000 years, with its current appearance dating back to the 14th century. It was built during the Roman Empire and later conquered by the Ottomans. The fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding rolling hills and serves as a testament to the region's rich history.

Practical Information

The Belogradchik Fortress is open daily, with varying hours depending on the season. Ticket prices are as follows:

• Regular ticket: 6 BGN
• Discounted ticket (for students and pensioners): 4 BGN
• Family ticket (2 parents + kids up to 18 years old): 12 BGN
• Groups of 10 or more: 5 BGN per person (3 BGN for students and pensioners)

There is also a paid parking lot available on-site for both cars and buses.

In terms of dining options, there are a few restaurants in Belogradchik that offer traditional Bulgarian cuisine and drinks, such as "Mislen Kaman" and "Pri Ivan."

Reviews

Travellers who have visited the Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress consistently rate the experience highly, praising the stunning scenery, the convenience of guided tours, and the knowledge of their tour guides. Many also mention that the long journey is well worth the effort to see this unique natural and historical site.

So, if you're looking for a day trip from Sofia that combines breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and local culture, a venture to Belogradchik Rocks and the Fortress is an excellent choice.

Frequently asked questions