Sofia with Kids: A Unique City Break in Bulgaria
Welcome to your ultimate guide for a city break in Sofia with kids! Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a hidden gem. We will cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable and enjoyable city break in Sofia with your little ones. From child-friendly attractions and activities to tips on accommodation and dining, we have got you covered.
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Top 10 Things to Do in Sofia with Kids
From discovering historical treasures to running wild in parks or visiting the zoo, this list of Sofia’s top activities will help you plan an unforgettable trip for the whole family.
1. Watch the Changing of the Guard
Every hour, on the dot, the National Guard performs a ceremonial changing of the guard. Arrive a few minutes early to grab a good spot and enjoy the precise movements and polished uniforms—a little moment of tradition that kids will love.
2. Taste the Mineral Water
Like many other Balkan cities, Sofia used to have lots of thermal baths. Sofia History Museum is housed in a building that was initially a mineral baths center.
These baths are currently non-operational, although several public fountains are opposite the building. Here, you will witness locals filling large containers with warm mineral water.
3. Visit the Muzeiko
Muzeiko is Sofia’s ultimate spot for kids who love to explore and get hands-on. Packed with interactive exhibits, it sparks curiosity in everything from space and science to art and archaeology.
Younger kids will love the play areas and fossil digs, while older ones can dive into experiments and challenges that make learning fun. It’s colorful, engaging, and ideal for a family-friendly outing—rain or shine.
Don’t miss the rooftop garden for great views and a breather after all the excitement!
4. Walk Around Vitosha Boulevard
Walking around is therapeutic. If you are looking for cool places to visit in Sofia, Vitosha Boulevard, a sizeable pedestrian-only street, is one of them.
The street is perfect for high-end shopping and amazing cafes.
5. Sightseeing at Borisova Gradina
Borisova Gradina is the perfect place for sightseeing. The city’s largest park has gorgeous pathways, well-maintained flowerbeds, a giant playground for kids, a lake, and many statues.
Kids will love the numerous stone sculptures spread around the park.
6. Explore the Monuments in the Historic City Center
Start with the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral—its golden domes are a real showstopper, and even the kids will be impressed!
From there, make your way to the Saint Sofia Church, which gave the city its name and packs centuries of history into its walls. Continue on to the National Assembly building, a great place for a photo op to prove you’ve done your sightseeing.
7. Ivan Vazov National Theatre
The theatre is located just next to the City Garden. As the oldest theatre in the country, it is a popular tourist destination. This neo-classical building is a must-see even if you’re not catching a performance.
8. The Bells, Sofia
Head to The Bells (Kambanite) just outside Sofia for something a little different. This unique monument is tucked away in a park and features over 100 bells from countries around the world, each representing peace and unity.
Kids will love running around the peaceful grounds and ringing the bells—some of them make truly impressive sounds! It’s a great spot to let off steam while soaking up a bit of global culture.
Located about a 20-minute drive from Sofia’s city center, this is a fun little detour that’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon outing.
9. Boyana Waterfall
Just a short drive from the city center, this stunning waterfall is tucked within the Vitosha Mountain trails.
The hike to the waterfall is a bit challenging but totally worth it, especially for older kids who love the outdoors. The trail winds through forests and offers beautiful views along the way, with the sound of water greeting you as you approach the falls.
10. Shopping in Sofia
Start with Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s main shopping street. You’ll find a mix of high-street shops, cozy cafés, and local boutiques here.
It’s a great place to walk, people-watch, and maybe pick up a little something.
Head to the Central Market Hall (Tsentralni Hali) for something more traditional. This historic indoor market is perfect for exploring local foods, spices, and crafts. It’s a fun way to introduce the kids to Bulgarian culture without breaking the bank.
Paradise Centre is Sofia’s largest shopping mall if you’re after big-name brands or need a rainy-day activity. It has everything from clothes shops to a cinema and even a small play area.
How to Get to Sofia, Bulgaria
Flying to Sofia
Sofia Airport is Bulgaria’s main international gateway. It is located about 10 km east of the city center. Direct flights to Sofia are available from most European cities, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham in the UK.
Airlines like British Airways, EasyJet, and Bulgaria Air operate flights to Sofia.
Driving to Sofia, Bulgaria
Driving to Sofia can be a convenient option if you are in a nearby country. Bulgaria’s road network is well-developed, and several international roads connect Sofia.
You would typically drive from the UK through France, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, and then into Bulgaria.
Train Travel to Sofia
Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) operates the train services in Bulgaria. Sofia is well connected by train with several European cities.
From the UK, you can take the Eurostar train to Brussels, then catch a train to Vienna or Budapest, and from there take a train to Sofia.
The journey is long but a great way to see Europe. The BDZ website provides detailed information on train schedules, routes, and ticket prices.
Book Your Train Tickets Here. I always use RailEurope>>>
How to Get to Sofia from the U.S.
From the US, there are no direct flights to Sofia.
Several one-stop options are available from major US cities to Sofia via European cities.
Common stopover cities include London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Paris. Airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights with one stopover to Sofia.
Another option is to fly to a nearby European city and then take a train or bus to Sofia. For example, you could fly to Istanbul, Turkey, and then take a train or bus to Sofia.
Search for Cheap Flights Here >>>
Where to Eat in Sofia with Kids
Shopska Salata and Tarator are Sofia’s most famous foods. Gone are the days when searching for a child-friendly place to eat in Sofia was a tall order.
Nowadays, most locals go out to eat with their children. Here are the best places to eat with kids in Sofia.
Happy
As its name suggests, this bar and grill leave every customer with a smile on their face. The service at Happy is of high quality, and prices are reasonable. View on TripAdvisor
Leo’s Rustico
The wide range of food they serve makes this restaurant outstanding. It is perfect for family lunches as it has a large playground. View on TripAdvisor
Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant
For a delicious traditional Bulgarian meal, this is a great option. Portions are generous and the restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere. The wait staff speaks multiple languages making it easy for families to communicate what they want. View on TripAdvisor
Places to visit near Sofia, Bulgaria with Kids
If you spend little time in Sofia, you should also visit nearby areas.
Korali Mineral Pool
Located 15km from Sofia, Korali Mineral Pool will give you an out-of-this-world experience. It is the best place to go for a Sofia city break. Here, you will have the chance to swim in warm mineral water.
Plovdiv
A bit of ancient history will complete your stay in Sofia. A day trip to Plovdiv, the oldest city in Europe, will leave everyone astonished. It is rich in ancient architecture that signifies Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman occupation. The town is usually closed to cars.
This tour will provide return transfers and guides on an 8-hour day trip to Plovdiv (suitable for teens and some older kids). View prices and availability here.
About the author: This article was originally written by Sylvie Simpson and has been edited by Kirsten Maxwell.