Morning in Sofia: Traditional Breakfast and Cultural Walk - Private Tour

First time in Sofia? Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian breakfast with banitsa, then join a cultural walk tailored to your interests—history, archaeology, local bars, restaurants, markets, or even city spas.

Start your journey at the historic St. Sophia Church, one of the oldest landmarks in the city. Discover centuries of history as you admire its Roman foundations, medieval walls, and stunning frescoes. Then, taste a traditional Bulgarian breakfast – a freshly baked banitsa paired with cold ayran, a local yogurt drink. This walking tour blends history, culture, and authentic Bulgarian flavors, giving you a perfect introduction to the heart of Sophia.

Itinerary

Saint Sophia church

We start our tour at the heart of Sophia’s history – the St. Sophia Church, the city’s namesake.

This 6th-century basilica is one of the oldest churches in Sophia and a true symbol of the city. Its simple exterior hides a rich history: the walls have witnessed Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras.

The Local Bakery

We wil taste the ultimate breakfast classic.

In a cozy, family-run bakery, we taste a freshly baked banitsa – crispy layers of filo pastry filled with white cheese, golden and warm straight from the oven.

To go with it: a glass of cold, refreshing ayran (a yogurt-based drink), beloved by locals for its simple, tangy taste.

Central Sofia Market Hall

Our next stop is the Central Sofia Market Hall, a true landmark in the heart of the city. Built in 1911, this beautiful building with its striking steel structure and colorful facade has been a hub for local trade for over a century.

Inside, you’ll find a lively mix of vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, spices, and traditional Bulgarian treats. It’s the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere, taste some specialties, and see Sofia’s everyday life in action.

Ancient Serdica City

Next, we step back in time to explore Ancient Serdica, the Roman city that once stood where modern Sophia now thrives. Founded over 2,000 years ago, Serdica was an important administrative and commercial center of the Roman Empire.

As you walk through the ruins, you can see ancient streets, foundations of houses, and fragments of public buildings, giving a glimpse into daily life in Roman times. Some areas are integrated into modern streets, creating a unique blend of old and new

Coffee

After exploring the city’s history and ancient sites, it’s time to relax with a coffee break at a local café. Here, you can enjoy a freshly brewed Bulgarian-style coffee or espresso, accompanied by a sweet treat or pastry if you like.

This is the perfect moment to pause, chat, and soak in the local atmosphere, watching the daily life of Sophia’s streets while enjoying a warm drink.

Rotunda of St. George

Our next stop is the , the oldest preserved building in Sophia, dating back to the 4th century. Hidden in the courtyard of the Largo complex, this red-brick rotunda has survived Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, making it a true historical gem.

Inside, you’ll discover remarkable frescoes from different eras, reflecting the rich religious and cultural history of the city. The intimate, circular space gives a sense of continuity through centuries, connecting visitors with Sofia’s ancient past.

Presidency of Bulgaria

Next, we pass by the Presidency of Bulgaria, an important symbol of the country’s modern political life. The building itself is architecturally impressive, reflecting early 20th-century design, and is surrounded by well-kept gardens and open squares.

Visitors can admire the exterior and take photos while learning about the role of the Bulgarian president and the city’s political history.

Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski"

Our next stop is the majestic Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, the oldest higher education institution in Bulgaria, founded in 1888. Its grand architecture, with neoclassical columns and a striking facade, makes it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Walking around the square, guests can admire the statues, fountains, and nearby gardens, and learn about the university’s role in shaping Bulgaria’s intellectual and cultural life.

The National Library

Next, we visit the National Library “St. Cyril and Methodius”, the largest library in Bulgaria and a major cultural landmark in Sophia. Founded in 1878, it holds over 7 million items, including rare manuscripts and historical documents, making it a treasure trove of Bulgarian heritage

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Next, we arrive at the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world and a true symbol of Sophia.