Are you a Weekender?

Sometimes, a weekend break is just what you need to recharge. Whether it’s a luxury city escape or a Greek sojourn, Sandglass offers you the perfect weekend guides for an ideal getaway.

Weekender guide to Sofia, Bulgaria

He who would travel happily must travel light
Antoine St Exupery

Explore Europe lesser-known areas and uncover some hidden gems this month. Discover Sofia and the Magic Rila Mountain with Sandglass.

Stay at Oborishte 63, The Art Boutique Hotel.

Stay at Oborishte 63, Sofia’s newest art-inspired urban boutique hotel, where each room is uniquely designed with colors, art, textures, and furnishings that celebrate a Bulgarian artist.

Located in Doctor’s Garden, Sofia’s most prestigious neighborhood, Oborishte 63 is near Saint Sofia Church and Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski.” You’ll find endless shopping, restaurants, art galleries, and museums nearby. Beautiful parks like Borisova Gradina, South Park, and Park Vrana are just moments away, and Sofia Airport is only a fifteen-minute drive.

Upon arrival, our dedicated team will organize two exceptional experiences for your weekend. Choose between:

Explore 1: Rila Monastery & St. Ivan Cave Day Tour

Rila Monastery is a must-see for tourists with a free day in Sofia. The arcaded balconies, unique frescoes by one of the most famous Bulgarian Revival Period painters, the gilded iconostasis, and the breathtaking mountain views create an unforgettable experience.

You’ll have at least two full hours to explore the Rila Monastery (12:00 – 14:00), including free time to enter the main church, take photos of the narthex’s gallery, admire the exhibits in the History Museum of the Monastery, and try the delicious mekitsi (Bulgarian donuts) with buffalo’s milk (a local specialty).

Visit the Cave of Saint Ivan Rilski (14:00 to 15:00), one of Bulgaria’s most sacred places. The belief is that only those with pure souls can pass through the tunnel of St. Ivan Rilski Cave. This is why it’s called the Sacred Hole of the Righteous. While there, drink some water from the holy spring, which never stops or freezes, even in winter. Note that visiting the cave involves a relatively easy 20-minute hike through the beautiful forest surrounding the Rila Monastery. We recommend wearing comfortable, flat, and warm shoes, and bringing a jacket.

Explore 2: The Seven Rila Lakes, Rila Mountains

Spend the day in the Rila Mountains, exploring the Seven Rila Lakes, a popular destination for one-day hiking tours in Bulgaria. The area offers stunning natural beauty, easy access by chairlift, and various hiking routes.

The circular trek starts from the Rila Lakes hut, going along the lower lakes to the highest one (Tear Lake), then descending past Kidney Lake back to the hut (3.5-4 hours hiking, 6 km, +450m, -450m). A transfer from Sofia will take you to the Panichishte Resort cable car, which takes you to the Seven Rila Lakes Cirque. Each lake is named for its most distinctive feature, with the highest, Salzata (“The Tear”), offering a bird’s eye view over all seven lakes and the surrounding landscape.

Additional Tips

Public Transportation: Sofia’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. Use trams, buses, and the metro to navigate the city easily.

Language: While Bulgarian is the official language, many young people speak English. Learning a few basic Bulgarian phrases can enhance your experience.

Currency: The Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for smaller establishments.

Sofia offers a rich tapestry of experiences, combining history, culture, nature, and modern urban life. Enjoy your weekend in this enchanting city!

Book your weekender experience now!