If you’re lucky enough to spend one day in Sofia, don’t rush it. This laid-back city invites you to slow down, sip your coffee, wander the streets, and soak in the charm. With Roman ruins under your feet and golden domes overhead, Sofia has a quiet magic — especially when explored at an easy pace.
Whether you’re passing through or making a short city break, here’s how to spend 12 hours in Sofia, from coffee to cocktails and a few lovely souvenirs in between.
11:00 AM – Coffee with a view ☕
Where: Veda House or The Apartment (A:part:mental)
Ease into the day with a coffee or herbal tea in one of Sofia’s artsy hangouts. Veda House is calm, central, and full of gentle Bulgarian soul. Or, if you’re in the mood for quirky, head to The Apartment — a cozy spot that feels more like visiting someone’s bohemian flat than a café.
Souvenir Tip: Some cafés sell loose-leaf teas, handmade mugs, or local honey — easy-to-pack and super local.
11:45 AM – A gentle walk through history 🚶♀️
Where: Serdica archaeological site & nearby landmarks
Right in the center of Sofia, you’ll find ancient Roman ruins woven into modern life. Stroll through the Serdica archaeological complex under the glass dome, then admire the contrast of the Saint George Rotunda nestled beside government buildings. Don’t miss the Banya Bashi Mosque and Sveta Nedelya Church nearby — all within walking distance.
1:00 PM – Lunch in a leafy courtyard 🍽️
Where: Made in Home or Raketa Rakia Bar
Time for a leisurely lunch. “Made in Home” offers funky decor and fresh, modern Bulgarian dishes. For a more retro local experience, head to Raketa Rakia Bar, where communist-era kitsch meets excellent food and an extensive list of rakia (fruit brandy).
Souvenir Tip: Ask if you can buy a small bottle of rakia — plum or apricot are local favorites.
2:30 PM – Afternoon stroll through parks and shops 🌳🛍️
Where: Borisova Garden or Vitosha Boulevard
After lunch, walk it off with a trip through Borisova Garden, Sofia’s central park. Or head to Vitosha Boulevard for people-watching, street performers, and boutique shopping. Here you’ll find souvenirs ranging from rose oil products and embroidered linens to artisan jewelry and handmade soaps.
Souvenir Tip: Bulgarian rose oil is famous — look for authentic rosewater, soaps, or balms (avoid the overly touristy ones with flashy packaging).
4:30 PM – Culture or chill time 🖼️
Option 1: If you want a dose of culture, pop into the National Art Gallery or the Museum of Socialist Art (if you’re up for something a bit unusual).
Option 2: If you’re in a laid-back mood, stop for another tea or gelato at Gelateria Naturale and just take it all in.
6:00 PM – Pre-dinner cocktail 🍸
Where: Sense Hotel Rooftop Bar
Head to the rooftop bar at Sense Hotel, right across from Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, for one of the best views in Sofia. Sip a cocktail as the city turns gold in the late afternoon light.
7:00 PM – Dinner with a modern twist 🌆
Where: Hadjidraganov’s Houses for rustic charm or Cosmos for fine modern dining
If you want to try traditional Bulgarian dishes in a folk-style setting, Hadjidraganov’s is perfect. Think grilled meats, banitsa, and hearty stews. For something trendier, head to Cosmos for elevated Bulgarian cuisine in a sleek space.
Souvenir Tip: Some restaurants offer cookbooks or spice blends — a tasty way to recreate your Sofia experience at home.
9:00 PM – A relaxed nightcap 🍷
Where: One More Bar or Bar Petak
Wrap up your day with a mellow drink in a local favorite bar. One More Bar has cozy vibes and a great garden in the summer. Bar Petak is a little livelier, with a hip crowd and solid cocktails. It’s the perfect place to toast your 12 hours in Sofia.
What to Take Home from Sofia 🛍️
Need some last-minute ideas before you leave? Here are a few perfect souvenirs:
- Bulgarian rose oil (authentic versions only!)
- Handmade ceramics or linen embroidery
- A bottle of rakia or a locally brewed craft beer
- Traditional Bulgarian spices (like sharena sol)
- Artisan soaps, candles, or honey from local markets
Final Thoughts
Sofia isn’t a city that shouts — it invites you to slow down and listen. With just one day, you can wander through centuries of history, sample soulful food, sip cocktails with cathedral views, and take home something handmade and meaningful. Whether you came for the culture, the food, or just the chill pace, 12 hours in Sofia might be all it takes to make you want to come back.
Souvenir Ideas to Take Home from Every Country and City 
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