Below is a curated list of 50 free (or nearly free) activities to help you explore and enjoy Sofia in 2025.
While most of these suggestions are consistently free, please keep in mind that local policies or events can change. It’s always best to double-check details and opening hours closer to your visit.
Check out the Free Sofia Map at the end of the article.
Part I: Iconic Landmarks & Historic Sights
1. Join the Free Sofia Tour
Offered daily by the 365 Association, these guided walks give you an excellent overview of Sofia’s main attractions.
2. Admire Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
One of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the Balkans; you can enter for free (photography is not allowed).
3. Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Presidency
Every hour in front of the Presidential building on Independence Square.
4. Stroll around the Ancient Serdica Complex
See Roman-era ruins in the heart of the city, near the Serdika Metro station.
5. See the Largo (The Socialist Classicism Complex)
Stand amid grand Communist-era buildings surrounding the Presidency and Council of Ministers.
6. Visit the Central Mineral Baths Building (from outside)
A beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture; the interior now houses the Sofia History Museum (entrance fee applies), but strolling outside and seeing the hot springs taps is free.
7. Check Out the Exterior of St. Sofia Basilica
Sofia’s oldest church (6th century); stand by the statue of Saint Sofia that overlooks the area.
8. Admire the Monument of St. Sofia
St. Sofia is the partron of the city but not where the city got its name from.
9. Banya Bashi Mosque (exterior view)
Built in the 16th century during Ottoman rule. The interior is open to visitors outside prayer times, often at no charge.
10. Sofia Synagogue (exterior view)
One of the largest Sephardic synagogues in Europe. While the interior usually charges a small fee, you can admire its Moorish Revival architecture from outside at no cost.
Part II: Parks & Green Spaces
11. Relax in Borisova Gradina (Boris’ Garden)
The city’s oldest park with tree-lined paths, statues, and a picturesque lake (Lake Ariana).
12. Stroll through City Garden (Gradskata Gradina)
My favourite park in all Sofia. Located in front of the Ivan Vazov National Theater, it’s perfect for chilling, people-watching and admiring local street performers.
13. Enjoy the Fountains at the National Palace of Culture (NDK)
The plaza often hosts festivals and events; the fountains are especially pretty when illuminated at night.
14. Walk around South Park (Yuzhen Park)
A favorite spot among locals for picnics, jogging, and open-air gatherings.
15. Explore Doctors’ Garden (Doktorskata Gradina)
Named after the monument to the medics who died in the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878); a quiet, leafy spot.
16. Visit the Brotherly Mound Monument in Borisova Gradina
A large Soviet-era monument surrounded by pathways and tall pines.
17. Enjoy the “hidden” park Voenna Akademiya (Military Academy park)
Open for visitors from 7:30 till 20:30 every day, this is one of my favourite hidden spots in Sofia.
18. Zapaden Park (Western Park)
Less touristy but great for a peaceful walk and to experience a different side of the city. Don’t go out of your way to visit, but if you are in the area already – it’s a nice outdoor place for a walk or a jog.
19. Knyazheska Garden
Features the famous Soviet Army Monument—controversial but an interesting piece of history.
20. Vitosha Boulevard Promenade
Though not a “park,” this pedestrian street offers café culture, street musicians, and a lively atmosphere.
Part III: Culture, Art & Architecture
21. Marvel at Ivan Vazov National Theater (exterior)
Bulgaria’s oldest theater, with a beautiful neoclassical façade. Try to spot the “easter egg” on the statues above the entrance 😉
22. Check Out Street Art
I loooove the street art of Sofia. Explore areas around Tsar Samuil Street or near the Women’s Market for colorful murals. And for a dee-dive, join the free Sofia Graffiti Tour.
23. Window-Shop at the Central Market Hall (Tsentralni Hali)
Free to enter and look around. A bustling market for food and local products.
24. Browse the Flea Market Near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Eclectic mix of antiques, icons, and Communist memorabilia.
25. Slaveykov Square Book Market
Browse secondhand books and mingle with local readers.
26. Visit Temporary Outdoor Exhibitions by the “Lovers’ Bridge” (NDK)
Photo and art exhibits often pop up here and can be viewed for free.
27. Attend Free Cultural Festivals
Events like “Sofia Breathes” (August) or summer concerts in city parks often have no entrance fee.
28. Experience Live Music on Vitosha Boulevard
Buskers and performers frequently entertain passersby on the lively Vitosha Boulevard.
29. Check for Free Admission Days at Museums
Some state-run museums (like the National Art Gallery) occasionally have free days or extended hours.
30. Sofia National Library (Biblioteka)
Interesting modernist building, plus occasional free art/photography exhibitions in the lobby.
Part IV: Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Wanders
31. Explore the Women’s Market (Zhenski Pazar)
A historic open-air market with fresh produce and a taste of local daily life.
32. Snap Photos at the Monument to the Tsar Liberator
An equestrian statue honoring Russian Emperor Alexander II, near the National Assembly.
33. Roam Shishman Street
Trendy cafés, quirky shops, and colorful facades close to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
34. Gaze at the Architecture of Sofia University
The oldest higher education institution in Bulgaria, with an impressive main building.
35. Check Out Small Art Galleries in the Toplocentrala Area
Some emerging spaces offer occasional free exhibitions—follow local event guides for specifics.
36. Wander the Lozenets Neighborhood
Hilly, leafy streets with some lovely viewpoints overlooking the city.
37. Visit Chitalnyata Info Point
Chitalnyata is a tourist info point, a modern urban reading room, and one of the increasingly favorite places in Sofia’s City Garden!
38. Visit the Park Behind the National Art Gallery (The Royal Palace Garden)
A small, often-overlooked patch of green right behind a major cultural landmark.
39. Join the free Balkan Bites food tour
Explore the local Balkan cuisine by joining one of the first free food tours in the world.
40. Walk the shortest street in Sofia
“Malko Tarnovo”, Sofia’s shortest street, is tucked right in the heart of the city!
Part V: Day Trips & Outdoor Adventures
41. Hike to Boyana Waterfall on Vitosha Mountain
A refreshing nature escape. The trail is free; just pay for bus fare to the trailhead if you don’t have a car.
42. Visit Dragalevtsi Monastery (Vitosha Foothills)
Free to explore this centuries-old monastery compound.
43. Relax by Pancharevo Lake
A scenic spot just outside Sofia, popular for picnics and walks.
44. Explore Bankya’s Mineral Springs
A small suburban town near Sofia known for its healing waters—walk around for free.
45. Walk Up to Cherni Vrah (Black Peak)
The summit of Vitosha (2,290 m). A challenging but free activity for avid hikers.
46. Go for a panoramic view of all Sofia from Kopitoto
The lookout point offers sweeping, panoramic views over Sofia—an especially striking scene at sunrise or sunset.
47. Look for Free Outdoor Movie Screenings
During summer, open-air cinemas pop up in parks—some offer free entry.
48. Go for an afternoon coffee at Balkanity Hut – the coolest hut on Vitosha
Owned by a young Bulgarian family, Balkanity Hut is one of the most hospitable places near Sofia.
49. Explore the Suburbs on Foot
Neighborhoods like Boyana and Simeonovo have picturesque streets and traditional Bulgarian homes.
50. Go for a hike to Golden Bridges (Zlatnite Mostove) on Vitosha Mountain
Just a short drive or bus ride from the city, this unique “stone river” features huge boulders flowing down the mountain slope. The area is popular for picturesque hikes, picnics, and fresh mountain air—all with no entrance fee.
👉 Check out the places on the map:
Tips for Exploring Sofia for Free
- Check Local Holidays & Festivals: National holidays or city celebrations (e.g., May 24th – Day of the Bulgarian Education and Culture) often come with open-air concerts, parades, and museum free-entry days.
- Public Transportation on Festive Days: Occasionally, on major celebrations, there may be free or reduced-fare days for buses and metro.
- Stay Updated Online: Facebook groups like “Foreigners in Sofia & Friends” and official city tourism pages often share info on free upcoming events, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Respect Religious Sites: Many churches and mosques allow free entry but expect respectful behavior and attire. Some might request a small donation.
- Check Seasonal Schedules: Summer months usually have more free outdoor events, while winter might have Christmas markets and free concerts.
Free Admissions at Museums in Sofia
- Earth and Man Museum – Typically free on the last Tuesday of each month.
- Boyana Church (UNESCO site) – Free on Mondays after 3:00 PM (limited hours).
- Archaeological Museum – Free every second Thursday for pensioners, and every last Sunday of the month for everyone.
- Polytechnic Museum – Free every last Monday of the month.
Public Holidays in Bulgaria with Free Events/Admissions
If you are visiting Sofia in any of the following public holidays, many city museums offer free entrance for the day (double-check). There’s also many events organised in various locations across the Bulgarian capital. Make sure to keep those in mind and check for any free activities.
- 3 March – Bulgaria’s National Day, commemorating liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878.
- 24 May – Day of Bulgarian Education, Culture, and Slavic Alphabet.
- 6 September – Marks the Unification of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia.
- 17 September – Official holiday of Sofia, dedicated to the city’s patron saint.
- 22 September – Celebrates Bulgaria’s Declaration of Independence from the Ottoman Empire (1908).
- 1 November – Day of the National Revival Leaders, honoring Bulgaria’s cultural and educational figures.
Central Hotels to stay in Sofia
- Sense Hotel Sofia – A sleek, modern choice near the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, featuring a popular rooftop bar with city views.
- Art ‘Otel – Contemporary style with artistic touches, friendly staff, and located between Vitosha Boulevard and key historical landmarks.
- Hostel Mostel – Centrally located in a quieter part of downtown Sofia, Hostel Mosel offers simple, budget-friendly private rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of many key sights, and guests often appreciate the helpful staff and cozy common areas.