FREE Tours in Sofia

Few people would argue that one of the best ways to see a city would be to take a tour through the streets and iconic landmarks where you can discover a city through the eyes of a local. With so many free tours in Sofia to choose from, you’ll discover a combination of history, architecture, traditions and stories from knowledgeable guides whose passion for their capital will entice you into learning some known, and hidden insights. All the tours are non-profit organisations so if you’ve enjoyed your tour, please give them a donation!

The Walking Tour

The Free Sofia Tour has gained a huge reputation as being one of the best tours in Bulgaria and is a great introduction to the attractions, history and culture of Sofia and Bulgarians, all from a local’s perspective. Tours run every day, twice a day, no matter what the weather and run for around two hours.

   The Biking Tours

The Sofia Free Bike Tour offers three free tours in Sofia so if you’re feeling energetic try their Sofia Green Bike Tour (11am) which will take you on a three hour tour of the city’s attractions and parks. Alternatively, you can take a bike ride on their Landmarks Bike Tour which starts at 5pm and is around two hours long. Both tours start at the National Theatre Ivan Vazov, every day (April to November) and for off-peak times, you can arrange a tour in advance by contacting them first.

   The Hiking Tours

Also run by the Green Tour company, are two different hiking tours which take you to the outskirts of Sofia for a four to five hour hike of around 8km. Both tours meet outside the National Theatre Ivan Vazov – Boyana Hike Tour at 11am, every day from April to November; the Winter Hike Tour also starts at 11am but on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and runs from December to April. Although the actual hike is free, you’ll have to pay for inexpensive taxi transfers there and back, and you’re also expected to pay for (cheap) insurance before arriving at the meeting point.

The Food Tour

When you want to combine the sights of Sofia with the taste of Bulgarian food, try the Balkan Bites free food tour for authentic cuisine from four venues spread out over the city’s streets. Meeting everyday at 2pm in front of the statue of Stefan Stambolov in Park Crystal, enthusiastic guides will take you on a culinary and cultural tour of local hotspots which takes around two hours.

Have I missed out any tours in Sofia? Feel free to add them in the comment box below.