Your Travel Experience with Finest Journeys
Sofia's Markets, Local History & Fine Dining
In the morning, you will set out to discover the highlights of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. During the city tour, you’ll visit key landmarks, including the iconic yellow-cobbled streets, ancient Roman ruins, and natural thermal springs in the heart of the city. You’ll also see the National Theatre Ivan Vazov, the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Sofia University, the Mosque, the Synagogue, and the Round Church of St. George, which dates back to the 4th century. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum will offer a glimpse of one of Bulgaria’s most renowned Thracian golden treasures, dating to the 4th century BC. Along the way, you’ll encounter many other notable sites that reflect Sofia’s character and heritage. Your tour will also include two of Sofia’s most well-known markets. The first stop is the Antiques Market near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, where you’ll find a variety of unique items such as old cameras, coins, medals, hand-knitted socks, Russian matryoshka dolls, jewelry boxes, and more. Prices can vary, and bargaining is common, often leading to significant discounts. Next, you’ll visit the Women’s Market, Sofia’s oldest market, established in the late 19th century after the end of Ottoman rule. Though its beginnings were modest, it quickly grew into one of the city’s main trading hubs in the 20th century. Today, it remains a lively spot, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices along a pedestrian street lined with dairy shops, local producers, restaurants, fast food stalls, bars, souvenir stores, and more. For lunch, you’ll enjoy a traditional Bulgarian meal at Manastirska Magernitsa, known for its authentic regional dishes. The afternoon will be yours to spend as you wish—whether strolling through the city, relaxing at a café, or visiting additional sights. To conclude the day, you’ll dine at Shtastlivetsa or a similar fine-dining restaurant, where you’ll savor a selection of expertly prepared Bulgarian and European dishes in an elegant setting.