Adventure lovers and travelers looking for cultural destinations beyond mass tourism will fall in love with Sofia. The capital of Bulgaria is full of modern attractions, bars and restaurants, while brimming with ancient culture and boasting incomparable architectural gems. If you want to enjoy the best introduction to this little-known capital of Eastern Europe, join the best Essential Free Tour of Sofia! This comprehensive tour has been designed by local guides who are passionate about their city and who want to share their culture with newcomers to Bulgaria. The tour will take you through the best monuments of Sofia's Old Town, while learning about its thousands of years of history.

Throughout your Free Essential Sofia Tour, you will walk through the historic center of the city and understand that Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe. In front of the Roman Ruins of Serdica, you will be able to listen to the evolution of the city: from the conquest of Emperor Trajan in the times of the Roman Empire, to the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman period, the Soviet-era and today. Another important stop on the tour will be the enormous St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, whose golden onion domes are a symbol of Sofia. Built at the beginning of the 20th century to commemorate Bulgaria's liberation from the Ottoman Empire, it is an architectural and artistic gem.

Your tour will also take you to other fantastically beautiful Christian and Orthodox churches, and provide an introduction to the role of religion in Eastern Europe. Of course, throughout the tour you will also learn about current Bulgarian customs, cuisine and culture. Chatting with your local guide, as you walk past government buildings such as the Bulgarian Parliament and the Council of Ministers (which used to sport a large red Soviet star in the past), you'll understand the complicated relations with Russia and how Bulgarians look to the future with optimism in search of a better future. During the tour, you'll also hear great tips on what to do, where to eat, and what to order to make the most of your stay.