Sofia’s Roots: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Bulgaria’s capital has layers of captivating history, from ancient Roman foundations to echoes of its days under Communist rule. On this walking tour around Sofia’s vibrant streets, you’ll gain local insights into the city’s rich history and take in cultural landmarks from the fresh perspective of a newly immersed expat.

On this tour, you'll see not only point out the obvious landmarks but also hear candid stories and wander off the beaten path, offering you an authentic look at life in Bulgaria. Along the way, you’ll hear about the most horrendous massacre in Bulgarian history and the cultural bracelets shared among friends.

Whether you’re revisiting Sofia or exploring it for the first time, this tour offers a thorough and intimate view of the city’s past, present, and all the layers in between.

This tour takes approximately 90 minutes without stopping. Allocate two hours in case you expect to pause and explore more.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour starts outside the National Palace of Culture (NDK). Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

This self-guided audio tour ends in front of the Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    This self-guided audio tour starts in the National Palace of Culture Park. You'll hear the city's history as you make your way into the city centre.

    Admission ticket free
  • Vitosha Boulevard (Pass by)

    On this self-guided tour, you'll stroll down Vitosha Boulevard, and hear about some of the landmarks along this picturesque route.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to see the Orthodox Cathedral "Saint Nedelia". You'll learn about its history as you walk around the city centre.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to step inside ancient churches and ruins that date back to the Roman era, including the hidden St. Georgi Rotunda Church.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to marvel at the impressive yet misunderstood Monument of Saint Sofia and reflect on the rich cultural diversity at Tolerance Square.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to explore the remarkably preserved ruins of the cultural complex of ancient Serdika at two underground metro locations and walk along the ancient Roman road that once connected critical cities.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll follow part of the city’s yellow brick roads. Along the way, taking in architectural treasures spanning millennia, including the central mosque of Sofia, Banya Bashi Mosque, the medieval orthodox temple of St. Petka Samardjiyska, and the National Theater Ivan Vazov.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to see the Central Synagogue of Sofia. You'll learn about its history as you walk around the city centre.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this tour, you'll pass by the Central Baths (Banski) Square where you'll have a chance to taste the revitalizing mineral spring water that’s been part of Sofia’s healing traditions for centuries.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll follow part of the city’s yellow brick roads. Along the way, taking in architectural treasures spanning millennia, including the central mosque of Sofia, Banya Bashi Mosque, the medieval orthodox temple of St. Petka Samardjiyska, and the National Theater Ivan Vazov.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to see the Archeological reserve "Serdika - Largo" (at underpass level). You'll learn about its history as you walk around the city centre.

    Admission ticket free
  • Ivan Vazov National Theater (Pass by)

    You’ll follow part of the city’s yellow brick roads. Along the way, taking in architectural treasures spanning millennia, including the central mosque of Sofia, Banya Bashi Mosque, the medieval orthodox temple of St. Petka Samardjiyska, and the National Theater Ivan Vazov.

    Admission ticket free
  • St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral (Pass by)

    The beautiful snow-capped Vitosha Mountain provides a stunning backdrop as you make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky, where the tour ends.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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