Escape to Sofia 3 Days, Private Tour

Escape to Sofia 3 Days, Private Tour

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3 Days From

$257

Escape to Sofia 3 Days, Private Tour

3 Days Starting and ending in Sofia, Bulgaria

Visiting: Sofia, St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia, St. George Rotonda, Sofia, Russian Church St. Nikolay, Sofia, National Theatre Ivan Vazov, Sofia, Rila Monastery, Boyana Church, Sofia, Plovdiv

Tour code:

634426

Group Type:

Private

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

10-

Tour operated in:

English , French , German , Spanish

Trip Styles:

Small Group

From: $257 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 26-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover the vibrant charm of Sofia with our "Escape to Sofia 3 Days, Private Tour." This short break invites you to explore Bulgaria's capital, a city that seamlessly blends modernity with rich history. Enjoy two nights in a comfortable 3-star hotel, with breakfast included, and private transfers to and from Sofia International Airport. Wander through the city's highlights at your own pace, from the majestic St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral to the bustling Vitoshka Street. Optional tours offer deeper insights, such as a visit to the Rila Monastery or a cultural evening with folklore dances. Whether you're captivated by ancient excavations or the youthful spirit of Sofia, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

  • Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, offers a blend of modern and youthful spirit with spectacular churches and ancient excavations.

  • Experience a traditional Bulgarian night with a folklore program and the mesmerizing Nestinari dances.

  • Visit the St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the largest Orthodox Cathedral in Bulgaria, known for its impressive gold-plated cupola.

  • Explore the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its unique frescoes and stunning mountain views.

  • Discover the Boyana Church, renowned for its frescoes that are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance.

  • Take a tour of Plovdiv, the cultural capital of Bulgaria, and explore its cobbled streets, Roman Theater, and vibrant art scene.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : ARRIVAL SOFIA (10km – 30min)

Location: Sofia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Budapest or similar 3*

Welcome to Bulgaria! Upon arrival at Sofia International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure enjoying the highlights of Sofia. In the evening, you may choose to participate in the following Optional Tour (not included):

Dinner with Folklore and Nestinari Dances (shared basis):

celebrate the start of the trip by being part of a typical Bulgarian night with a delicious welcome dinner and folklore program. Songs, dances… what a magical night full of unforgettable moments. The Nestinari dances, a barefoot dance on smouldering embers, part of the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage will leave you speechless. This ritual will lead you back to the mystery of Eastern Orthodox beliefs together with the older pagan traditions from the Strandza Mountains.

Notes: Included: Dinner in a typical restaurant four-course menu, including a glass of wine; folklore program, and Nestinari Dance* (*performed only if the weather conditions allow). Dinner starts at 20:00h and ends at 23:00h. Not included: guide, transfers.

Overnight in Sofia.

Day 2 : SOFIA

Location: Sofia, St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia, St. George Rotonda, Sofia, Russian Church St. Nikolay, Sofia, National Theatre Ivan Vazov, Sofia, Rila Monastery, Boyana Church, Sofia, Plovdiv

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Budapest or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After your delightful breakfast at the hotel, you can start exploring the capital of Bulgaria at your own pace. You may stroll around the city centre and visit the biggest Orthodox Cathedral in Bulgaria - St.Alexander Nevski, with an impressive gold-plated cupola and rich interior. Your walk may continue with the most significant sights in the centre – St. George Rotonda, the Russian church St. Nikolay, and the National Theatre Ivan Vazov. Do not miss having a cup of coffee on the pedestrian street Vitoshka and feel the atmosphere of this vibrant city. Alternatively, if you would like to be guided through the history and the most interesting places in Bulgaria, you can choose to go on one of the following Optional Tours (not included):

Rila Monastery and Boyana church excursion (shared basis):

Rila Monastery is definitely a must-see sight if you are in Bulgaria. The arcaded balconies, the unique frescoes – a work of one of the most famous Bulgarian Revival Period painters, the gilded iconostasis, the fabulous mountain views… and the unique combination of them all, makes the visit to the monastery extraordinary and memorable one. You will have around an hour of free time at the Rila Monastery to explore the most visited UNESCO site in Bulgaria, enter the main church and the narthex’s gallery, admire the exhibits in the History Museum of the Monastery, try the tasty "mekitsi" (Bulgarian doughnuts) with delicious buffalo’s yoghurt (a local speciality) or even have a short walk in the area. Then, drive back to Sofia, where the next UNESCO Monument is awaiting you. The Boyana Church's frescoes bring epochal change in the mural painting and are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance. The majority of more than 240 figures depicted there have individuality, vitality and psychological depth.

Notes: Included: English speaking guide/Spanish audio guide, modern A/C equipped vehicle and all transportation costs along the way. Not included: any entrance fees, personal expenses, food, beverages, and gratuities.

Plovdiv tour (shared basis, available only on Mondays and Fridays):

Take this tour and explore the cultural capital of Bulgaria. Plovdiv is the second biggest city in the country and the oldest European continuously inhabited town with a history that goes back for more than 6 000 years. Have a walk on the cobbled-stone streets of the Old town and stop by the awe-inspiring Roman Theater, the old-style houses, the Nebet Tepe fortifications, the Ancient Stadium, street art, galleries, old churches, ornamented mosques, exotic cafés and chic bars. Enjoy and really get to know the city with our expert guide on your side. On this unforgettable tour, you will learn a lot of intriguing stories, funny urban legends and striking historical facts. Price includes: English speaking guide/Spanish audio guide, a modern A/C equipped vehicle and all transportation costs along the way.

Notes: Not included: any entrance fees, personal expenses, food, beverages, and gratuities.

Private guide in Sofia (4 hours):

If you wish to know more about the secrets of the Bulgarian capital, you can book our optional private tour guide for up to 4 hours.

Notes: Included: private tour guide (English, French, German or Spanish). Not included: transfers, entrance fees.

Overnight in Sofia.

Day 3 : DEPARTURE SOFIA (10km – 30min)

Location: Sofia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a tasty breakfast before you check out from the hotel. A private transfer will lead you to the airport to catch your return flight home.



What's Included

  • Private Transfers

    Private arrival transfer from Sofia International Airport on Day 1 and private departure transfer to Sofia International Airport on Day 3 are included.

  • Meet & Greet

    A meet and greet service is included upon arrival.

  • Hotel City Tax

    Hotel city tax is included in the package.

What's Not Included

  • Tour Guide

    A tour guide is not included in the package.

  • Entrance and Optional Tour Fees

    Any entrance or optional tour fees are not included and must be paid on the spot.

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included.

  • Meals and Drinks

    Any meals and drinks during meals, unless specified otherwise, are not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours are not included in the package.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.

Requirements

Comfortable and warm clothing for the mountains and comfortable summer clothes (including also swimsuit, hat) for the beach stay. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Please Note

  • The optional trip “Rila Monastery and Boyana church” starts at 09:00h from the parking behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral. Please be sure to organize your travel to the meeting point and be there at least 15 minutes in advance
  • The optional trip “Plovdiv” starts at 09:00h from the parking behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral. Please be sure to organize your travel to the meeting point and be there at least 15 minutes in advance 
  • Check-in time for the hotels, in general, is after 2:00 pm, check out until 12:00 pm. These requirements may differ depending on the hotel. 
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed  

3096

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Sofia
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Budapest or similar 3*
OPTIONAL EXTRA
Pre/ Post-night in Sofia
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Budapest or similar 3*

Mode of Transport

Experience seamless travel with private arrival and departure transfers from Sofia International Airport, ensuring a smooth start and end to your journey in Bulgaria's vibrant capital.

Accommodation

Enjoy a comfortable stay with 2 nights' accommodation at the Hotel Budapest or a similar 3-star hotel in Sofia. Optional pre or post-night stays are available, ensuring a relaxing experience in the heart of Bulgaria's capital.

3096

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Sofia
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Budapest or similar 3*
OPTIONAL EXTRA
Pre/ Post-night in Sofia
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Budapest or similar 3*

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 2 nights' accommodation in a standard hotel category, such as Hotel Budapest or a similar 3-star hotel.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 2 breakfasts. Other meals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.

  • Is transportation provided during the tour?

    Yes, private arrival and departure transfers to and from Sofia International Airport are included in the tour package.

  • What optional activities are available during the tour?

    Optional activities include a dinner with folklore and Nestinari dances, excursions to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church, a Plovdiv tour, and a private guide in Sofia for up to 4 hours.

  • What is the itinerary for the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive at Sofia International Airport, be transferred to your hotel, and have the rest of the day at leisure to explore Sofia. An optional dinner with folklore and Nestinari dances is available in the evening.

  • What can I expect on the second day of the tour?

    On the second day, after breakfast, you can explore Sofia at your own pace or choose from optional tours such as the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church excursion, a Plovdiv tour, or a private guided tour of Sofia.

  • What happens on the last day of the tour?

    On the last day, you will enjoy breakfast at the hotel, check out, and be transferred to Sofia International Airport for your return flight.

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Friday

May 07, 2025 - May 09, 2025
$257 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 08, 2025 - May 10, 2025
$257 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 09, 2025 - May 11, 2025
$257 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 10, 2025 - May 12, 2025
$257 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 11, 2025 - May 13, 2025
$257 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 12, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$257 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

May 13, 2025 - May 15, 2025
$257 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 14, 2025 - May 16, 2025
$257 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 15, 2025 - May 17, 2025
$257 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 16, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$257 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 17, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$257 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 18, 2025 - May 20, 2025
$257 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 19, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$257 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

May 20, 2025 - May 22, 2025
$257 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 21, 2025 - May 23, 2025
$257 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 22, 2025 - May 24, 2025
$257 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 23, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$257 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 24, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$257 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 25, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$257 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 26, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$257 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

May 27, 2025 - May 29, 2025
$257 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 28, 2025 - May 30, 2025
$257 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 29, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$257 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 30, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$257 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
$257 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Bulgaria requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services bulgaria charges.

    Up to 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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