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Guided Walking Tour in Sofia: Unraveling the Rich Historical Layers of Bulgaria
Sofia
Unravel the rich historical layers of Sofia and Bulgaria on a guided walking tour. Discover the first civilization in Europe and receive recommendations for free time activities and more.
Duration:
1 hour, 45 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- This is the city’s primary cathedral and a notable tourist attraction. Although relatively young in age (about 120 years old), the building’s stunning Neo-Byzantine Orthodox architecture from the early 20th century is truly impressive.
- One of the city’s key archaeological and historical landmarks, this church lent its name to the current Bulgarian capital. It holds significant importance for Christianity across the entire Roman Empire and later, Europe.
- The former royal palace, now the location of the national Art gallery and Ethnographical museum.
- One of Sofia’s most aesthetically pleasing buildings, which is ideal for group photos.
- Sofia’s oldest completely preserved structure, nestled amidst Roman ruins and notorious Communist government buildings.
- A square situated between the Presidential office and the National Archaeology Museum. The structure was built in the medieval period to function as a mosque, evident from its signature Ottoman medieval architectural style.
- An open-air archaeological location - formerly the heart of the ancient Roman city of Serdica. The spot where the primary roads intersected then, and still do, 2000 years later.
- The city’s only surviving mosque from a time when it was typically a small Muslim Ottoman town with narrow, muddy streets, one-storey houses and over 35 mosques, 140 years ago.
- An attractive edifice erected in the early 20th century to operate as a public bath. Now it houses the Sofia History Museum and is just a stone’s throw away from the hot mineral water springs. Anyone up for a water tasting?
- The tour concludes at this imposing structure, which is now a court, flanked by two large lion statues. It marks the beginning of the modern city center, from where you will receive suggestions for shopping, dining, leisure time, and more.
What's Included
- Guided walking tour of Sofia’s historical center
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
Additional Information
On this journey, I will elucidate and demonstrate the intricate and deep-seated historical strata that have influenced Sofia and Bulgaria to their current state. This will possibly aid you in comprehending it better. You will grasp why the human history of this region enjoys the esteemed title of being the inaugural civilization in Europe!
I shall provide you with recommendations for leisure activities, plans for the following day, excursions beyond the city, dining options, museums, and more.
- Total tour duration includes travel time.
Location
pl. "Sveti Aleksandar Nevski" 6
ploshtad "Sveti Aleksandar Nevski"
Meeting point is on the stairs in front of the Alexander Nevsky cathedral.
Look for a tour guide wearing a black backpack.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.