Great exhibition, with interactive guide. Small, but we'll selected exhibition, with replicas for some of the most significant artefacts found in the area. Definitely worth visiting, it's a good idea to buy a combined ticket for the museum, the therms and the tomb.

Absolutely worth visiting while in the area. At the moment (August 2023) there is a great exhibition of romance-related artefacts from the beginning of the 20th century. Things you find in your grand grandparents' boxes. Love letters and tokens. Strongly recommend it.

Really small town with small museum, but so full of magic and history. Entrance fee is 2 euro for regular ticket and 3,5 euro for tickets that includee Termal bath entrance as well.

Small but interesting display of artifacts found in the area; ask for the combined ticket to visit the roman baths and tomb;

Small but cozy museum with interesting expositions.

Very tiny museum with understandable focus on the Roman period. There are some nice artefacts about Diocletianopolis and its history. Given the rich history of the place it deserves to be a bigger place. Takes about 30 minutes to see the collection.

A well organized and well kept museum. The responsible person at the reception was very helpful explaining all available apps and resources for maximizing our visit. One combined ticket will give access to all archeological sites. Highly recommended.

Has to be visited if you like historical places and culture!

To me, this is beautiful ancient history It’s hard to read something that’s so priceless Roman tomb gets 10 stars out of five

At the end of a beautiful forest path lies this interesting noble man tomb with mosaic on the floor; it’s not every day you get to see such tombs; worth the visit;

The guide there is not quite friendly, chance to ask “stupid questions” is guaranteed

Small thomb with field all around, nice panorama

Well restored tomb that looks very impressive from the inside.

Small tomb from the 4th century. Entry costs 2 bgn.

I'd like to thank the management staff for their utmost (and successful) attempt at making sure we knew our presence at their complex was unwelcome! Good location but that about sums it up. I feel sorry for anyone who already has planned events at this place, you'll understand in time... Criticism is something they don't tolerate so there's no point in arguing with them, you'll always be in the wrong. You might ask why I'd say that? Because what was supposed to be a relaxing dinner along with my friends was turned into a shallow attempt to humiliate the group. The already small dining hall was divided in two sections with our tables all pointed towards the other guest group so we could watch them have fun while we were left in isolation. Needless to say any request for some music to loosen up the tension and possibly make our stay better were straight up rejected. Don't even get me started about the personnel, gloomy and negative toward us for no reason at all, could barely even look at them from all the hostility. The entire time we felt as if we were looked down on for no reason. And that of course translated over to the stale food we were served. I'm no picky eater and even I had a hard time finishing my plate. Nothing riles me up more than unprovoked negativity...Would've been better if they just told me to get up and get out as I got there rather than having to watch that clown show and THEN kindly tell us to get out. :) 10/10 Would NOT recommend!

Lovely location, the food I had in the restaurant was exceptional! All the waitresses were incredibly friendly and had a great knowledge of the menu and also knew what to recommend. Rooms are specious and decorated beautifully. Check in and check out was so easy, receptionist was very chatty and bubbly, also helpful with recommending wines from their own produce. Highly recommend visiting, beautiful hotel, delicious food, friendly service, mesmerising location and last but not least exceptional wine. We will be back for sure. 😊

Very nice place to spend a day or a weekend and to spend a night their (that we decide to do next time when we go to Plovdiv) we take our lunch , we take a variety of dishes from caw meat and from chiken and goat and all that Meat are came from their farmers . And we drink a very nice wine they produce it from the factory inside the complex (Ezba) , and the dishes of salad we enjoy the great taste of the Bulgarian’s cheese made from their farmers , Villa Yustina is a unique place produce every thing you eat and drink by locals with great professionalism .

I have visited Yustina every time I'm in Bulgaria. Beautiful views, amazing clean accommodation, lovely staff. Amazing wines and wine tasting, which are from their own vineyard and winery. I really can see why so many people want to get married here, or have any special occasion here. Definitely worth a trip

Thank you to the amazing staff of Yustina Villas! We had such a memorable stay. It was the perfect location to combine work and vacation. The pool was a total hit with dedicated pool sections for younger and elder kids, where they could enjoy a lot. The breakfast was perfect, with a great variety of options. The staff was super friendly and made us feel well taken care of. The Internet was very reliable, without any connectivity disruptions. I would highly recommend Yustina Villas and we will surely be visiting soon again! ☺️

the location and the hotel on their own are perfect. but the restaurant/bar service deeply is questionable. we needed to order three times the same things, directly at the counter to finally be seen because they kept forgetting our whole orders, or some dishes, or our presence... even when your ask BEFORE ordering smt to pay separate from your table, you end up paying for the whole thing cause they already closed your tab so it's not their problem anymore. im okay with making mistakes, it happens and it's no big deal, but the servers could at least be kind. however the food is absolutely amazing and i think that all the orderings issues are due to the language barrier, and that the waitresses struggle even if they do their best

We just spent 4 amazing days at Yustina Villas.We were there for a 3 day wedding party and loved the facilities.Management was extremely attentive and helpful when we had any issues or quearies.Service,however was horrible.All waiting personnel at the restaurant were extremely rude and inattentive.Room attendants did not clean our room at all and I had to ask for towel changing several times.I love the place,wedding was amazing but staff...speechless 🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️

Really amazing. It is small but I could have stayed there and enjoyed it for hours. The place is just extraordinary and the area around it is gorgeous!

One of the biggest temples and tombs in the area. You can see a long distance all around the surrounding countryside. There is lots of information about the temple and it's history and discovery.

There is a parking place, if you leave your car there you need to walk hard 10 more minutes, but actually... there is a road to the top, no need to leave your car on the parking... however there are no signs!!! Too hot, take water with you :) No shop around. Place is nice, no gide you need to read, walk, look and learn by yourself. Anyway it’s not a bad place, idea is good and place is important... but still not good organized

The Thracian Cult Temple in Starosel is an absolute gem. The temple's intricate designs and beautiful location in the Bulgarian countryside make it a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. The relics on display provide valuable insights into the Thracian civilization, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended!

One of the relatively well restored and maintained place. I wish there were more signs which is where when you park your car at the parking, but we found out way around (I guess).

Amazing place. The energy that you feel when you are there is indescribable. The temple is 25 centuries old. Everything is authentic. The tour guide is great. You should definitely visit it if you have a chance.

The Thracian Temple Complex in the Chetinyovata Mogila, at a distance of 4km from the village of Starosel, was found in 2000. It has a statute of a group archaeological monument of culture. This is the oldest ever found royal Thracian complex with a mausoleum. It dates back to the end of the 5th and the beginning of the 4th century BC. The Thracian Temple Complex at Starosel covers six underhill temples, four of which are unique, as well as a few royal burials. The entire hill is surrounded by a wall made of processed granite blocks. The wall is called krepis and outlines a circle which according to the Thracian religious believes symbolizes the Sun. The entrance of the temple has a parade staircase and two pedestals, on which statues of lions were sitting. The staircase leads the visitors to a flat platform, used for ritual dances. A corridor leads to the real facade of the temple and to the round hall containing 10 decorative semi-columns and tryglyphs (a rectangular plate above each column) with blue and red decoration. Religious ceremonies, related to the cult to the Mother Goddess, her son the Sun and Orpheus were performed in the temple.

We just came out of the cave. Excellent visit, good audio guide. The climb up from the parking is moderate, with many rest areas.

I loved it, new handrails all the way to the top, clean and well maintained. I saw and felt a lot of history and the guy who was there I think his name was Ivan add a huge amount of interesting information on top of was we saw. He spoke about the cave with so much love and passion it's impressing ❤️

It was very cool and I liked the weird shapes the cave. The tickets weren't expensive and we were able to take pictures. The climbing to get to the cave is not much, but only if you go to the top part with a car. If you have the option to visit, I definatly recommend it.

Very nice and interest place, from the parking lots to the cave itself there is a forest walk so be ready!!! It is not that difficult and look for those faces on the trees.

We didn't make it to the cave and we wish we'd known everything beforehand. So the road to the cave is very narrow and twisted and long. The last part of it of about several km, is not well maintained and difficult to drive. I personally think it's a good and fun experience but not sure everyone will like this. The bigger problem is the trail to the cave which start with couple of widen stairs but very quickly turns into a very steep and mussy trail not easy to walk with kids. We quit somewhere in the middle unfortunately.

From my point of view the price can be lower. But the cave i worth to see. It is no big, around 15-30 minutes to see everything.

A great location to visit with family or friends. The path up to the cave isn’t too difficult and is actually quite enjoyable. Everything is clean and maintained. Everyone was really nice, especially the guy selling tickets at the hut near the cave entrance. The cave itself was beautiful and the audio guide included with the ticket was immersive and informative. Overall a great experience.

Hristo from Avatar Extreme sport is a true professional and the experience flying with him was second to none! Highly recommend 😎

I went to ride waterski, something I have never done before. The whole crew were very friendly. Before entering the water they gave me very good instructions. In result I managed to stand from the first attempt. I highly recommend Avatar Extreme Sport. Definitely visiting again!

We thoroughly enjoyed flying over the Velingrad area and would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone considering it! The views on a clear day are incredible, and Hristo is very professional and knowledgeable. We were fully kitted up to stay warm, comfortable, and safe during your flight, and to communicate with Hristo all the time. We got great video footage of the flight from the onboard camera thrown in, as well as the ability to use our own action camera. Hristo is also fluent in English which was very helpful for my non-Bulgarian-speaking girlfriend. I have no doubt the other experiences on offer are would have tried them if we had the time and the weather allowed it.

A really enjoying experience. We did water ski and knee board. The instructions were clear and the staff made sure that we enjoyed the adventure fully and we learned the skills. Completely recommended to try and they also offer variety of other water sports.

It was easy peasy setting the appointment with Hristo. He was welcoming and nice during the conversation so any fears fade away. Right on time we were getting ready for our flight, he showed himself as a true proffesionalist and the experiance was amazing - 30 min in the sky over cities, mountains, fields and dams. You should try it

We flew yesterday with Hristo, this was an amazing experience, the weather was so clear, we could see 5 mountains. Hristo itself it’s amazing person, BIG THANKS!!!!

The Flyboard was super fun 🤩 nice staff, also speak English

One of the historic houses in Koprivshtitza -the only town-museum in Bulgaria. You are taking a time-mashine and going two centuries back. The experience is one in a life time.

This is one of the most breathtaking and beautiful houses I have ever seen. Its iconic front facade is extraordinary and fascinating and the fact that this house is build in 1854 is mind blowing. The garden in front is well maintained and creates calm and relaxing atmosphere. I loved the interior of the building because of its specific wall paintings. An intriguing history surrounds the family that owned the house. Also a good feature is that its part of a museum tour which contains several other iconic houses of other famous Bulgarian revolutionaries. It is a must see and I strong recommend visiting it!!! Date of experience: April 2022

Lutova House Museum in Koprivshtitsa preserves 19th-century Bulgarian architecture and interior design. The historic house features traditional woodwork, decorative murals, and exhibits illustrating the local lifestyle and cultural heritage of the period.

Very beautiful house from outside and inside. You can feel the history written all over it. All historical houses in Koprivshtica are nice, but this one was my favorite.

Very beautiful house built 2 centuries ago. Nice exposition of old fabric technologies and old textiles.

Beautiful building. Everything is restored and reserved so well.

Beautiful place. Strongly recommend visiting

Very nice, big, bright house with nice yard in front. Totally worth buying ticket for 5-6 houses in the city, a lot of history in it and good spirit. Second floor is very nicely decorated and cosy.

One of the most beautiful museum houses in Koprivshtica. You can buy a full ticket for all 6 at a decent price, but a thing they don't tell you is that you can pay a bit more and get a tour guide. However if you don't there is plenty of information everywhere in Bulgarian and English.

One of the 6 museums you can visit on a shared and very reasonably priced ticket. Even a surly preteen liked the experience

Wonderful place, rich in history. All museums work till 17,30 in the summer and can see 6 of them with one ticket. Enjoy at least two day stay in Koprivshtica so that you can see all museums and monuments.

Beautiful tour of 6 houses of the bulgarian renaissance. This one and Leydiva are the best ones, the rest... is more or less the same decoration inside and renovated façada. Anyway u can learn a lot about the bulgarian uprising with the info u get. The 6 houses are 8 lv. Take your time to enjoy the town.

Very nice typical house of the period of Vazrazhdane. One of the good preserved examples.

Beautiful, rich of information, very well taken care of.

My favorite house is this one, Dimcho Debelyanov's house is unique. With the entrance you will feel the atmosphere of another Era where the poet created, and you will enjoy the beauty and every details of the house. The entrance is free, you can donate money if you want, with 2 floors. You might feel a little sad atmosphere when you see his mother monument, waiting for him to come home as one of his most famous poems says. I Highly recommend to visit it.

Awesome house-museum that shows old bulgarian way of living and values which stood the test of time. It’s certainly not a miss if you’re in town!

great exposition for a noteworthy bulgarian tressure! higjly recommended for anyone who is interested in poetry or bulgarian history!

House Museum “Dimcho Debelyanov” preserves the birthplace and legacy of the Bulgarian poet. The historic home displays period furnishings, personal artifacts, and exhibits highlighting his life, work, and contributions to Bulgarian literature and culture.

Surreal atmosphere, loved the audio podcasts and the abundance of information about the author.

Very nice place to visit, part of the city museum tour. Very well kept and handled.

Authentic and nostalgic atmosphere lets you really feel the spirit and culture of the times.. a reading of the poet's poems is played in each room and brings the whole experience together. Exceptional, a must see!

We were in the middle of the week, a small park, renovations are taking place. A nice place to extract bones on the way from, and nothing more.

Could be a very nice and relaxing place if nor for the trashy people playing super loud and inappropriate music which can easily heard throughout the whole place. Could take a walk but very unaccomodating in case you wanna enjoy a drink or a meal.

The park has been renovated and looks much better now. There's still a lot of room for improvement. It's a pretty place for a walk. Kids love feeding the ducks and riding in the boats.

Lake Park with some renovated benches and paths, first lake is with clean water second one water has a dirty film on top, there is fish inside and a bistro next to the first lake,but seems as it has been 30yrs ago , it is ok for a walk and sitting next to spring water , municipality could turn it into a real gem if they put effort into it.

Very beautiful nature and great for a walk with kids and feeding the ducks.

Small but nice park. There is a lake with water wheels and ducks.

A beautiful park in Velingrad. Its sad to see so many restaurants have closed down. Some of the park upkeeping is not so good. Otherwise a nice place for a stroll 👌

Our group sat right in front of the bar for visibility. Despite that, we waited for more than 15 minutes to receive a menu and in the end we had to ask for it ourselves. The waitress had no idea what was on the menu and even almost argued with us that there isn't such product available. Mind that the conversation was held in Bulgarian, so we can't talk about a language barrier here. She also asked us to repeat half of the order because she didn't write it down and apparently forgot it. Eventually, she got our order but excused herself with the menu being recently changed. Even if that's the case, I think she should take some time to learn it better. What we also noticed is that another customer came inside to ask for his check because he had been waiting for over 20 minutes. We heard the staff dismiss his complaint loudly between themselves, which is terribly unprofessional and shows that they don't take complaints seriously. The place has a very pleasant vibe. However, the service needs a lot of improvement.

I think its the best place to drink something in Velingrad. I really enjoyed my lemonade. Place was decoreted well, inside has a cool vintage design. Outside is pretty fresh. Prices are OK.

The food is so so, but you have to wait 40 mins for just portion of fries. I am disappointed from the behaviour of the waitresses!

The staff yielded at me!I don’t like the prices- too much for one lemonade!The fries did have black dots on them and I waited 2 hours for them!

Great place. Delicious food and beverages. Good price and location

Very nice and modern place with great interior design ideas and wonderful cocktails ,hot beverages and drinks in economic prices.

Nothing good I would say for that place. You can wait waiters for hours and when they come up they do not bring menis.

Very nice place to visit. You can make a refreshing trek around. The monastery is renovated soon, and it looks really nice. Here are also hotel rooms.

Small nice monastery, surrounded by forest. Very quiet, peaceful. You can make an easy walk to the waterfall. Don't put your money in the souvenir coins machine, it doesn't work :(

Lovely place to visit. Don't miss the waterfall behind the Monastery.

A beautiful place full of history, be sure to visit the waterfall after the monastery.

Nice monastery and worth a visit. You could combine that with a hiking trip but only in good weather conditions.

Very old monastery. However, the road to the monastery is very narrow and the area around it is not clean.

Amazing holy place. Definitely would recommend visiting if you happen to be in the area

The place is really up in the mountains so it could get quite cold. Even in hottest days the temperature there is bearable. The best thing is that those guys are doing this to save the bears and they have done an awesome job in finding the perfect place. It was also really nice seeing the bears from so close.

Very pleasant place! The road is ok, the staff is friendly and talkative, the park is well organized, clean and easy to get around. Tours are also organized every 30-40min with a guide and explanation. It is worth visited.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A really nice place to visit! The bears are well cared for, and the sanctuary is peaceful and educational. It’s great to see them in a natural environment. The guide spoke also in English. Mind the time of the season for visiting.

Lovely place and good cause. Stunning views and guided tours were informative. It’s every 30 min so the you don’t really wait for long. Recommended 👏👏👏

The bears look well. The tour is pretty short - about 40 min and you're back at the entrance. The walk is steep downhill and then back uphill, fortunately all the tour is under tree's shade, so it's not too hot, but it is an effort for those like me, who aren't in shape.

It is great to see the hard work that the foundation is doing for the bears. The tour took around 40 mins. You cannot walk freely in the park, which is the best for the animals. Our guide was very nice and humble.

It was great! We saw about 5 bears. Some really close some not so much. A nice place to visit and kids. Don't miss the rila fun park which is on the way there :)

I can highly recommend Polly - excellent communication, perfect English, clear instruction, helpful techniques, a passion for the skiing and the mountains. Her calm approach inspires confidence and is generally a very nice person to spend time with on the slopes!

We have never snowboarded before and had the most fantastic experience! We hired the kit, which was in great condition and well looked after. The team were super nice and helpful. Booking was really easy and the prices were excellent. We had 2 hour lessons over 5 days, and our instructor OJ was incredible, he was such a great teacher, he was fun, motivational and supportive. He progressed the challenges accordingly and we really felt we got most out of it, and we will definitely be back and booking again!

Just back from fab week in Borovets. 5th year of ski there. Wouldn’t get our equipment from anywhere else. Matt and his team have the best equipment,nicest team and very efficient system. I had private lessons with Matt who is empowering and relaxed and made me feel I could do anything. Thank you all! Cannot recommend enough.

If you are staying at hotel Musala don’t book anywhere else. It is so easy and efficient. People working there are friendly and very professional. 100% positive

This place is great. Efficient and friendly service in the hire shop, and very good instructors who explain things well. They know how to adapt their instruction for kids as well as adults, and they know when to push you so you get the most out of your lesson. I booked with them based on a recommendation from someone else who had used them and I was very pleased with my experience.

Huge thanks to Matt and the team. We used their expertise throughout our stay for children and adult lessons for both skiing and snowboarding. Cant recommend them enough and special mentioned to Mitko, OJ and Jess!

Yana was absolutely amazing, would recommended her to anyone! Friendly, polite & a such a great teacher. 👏 Guys at the ski shop also polite as ever. Top people!

Wonderful mountain, best for several days, even week, long trails. Nice conditions for alpinism, snowboarding, skiing, hiking, biking. Amazing nature, many cultural and architecture monuments, like Rila monestary, Stob Pyramids, 7 Rila lakes, highest peak at Balkanian peninsula - Musala 2975 m. Church at Dobarsko, and more. Belmeken sport centre has perfect conditon for sports camp.

Having been to several parts of Rila, i can safely say that whoever you are, as long as you enjoy nature and don’t mind some hiking, you will always have something new to experience here. As far as mountains go, Rila has it all. It should definitely be on your list of places to visit and explore in Bulgaria.

The Rila Mountain is fascinated not only by its beauty, but also by many significant historical and cultural sights. Here is the Rila Monastery - one of the most significant cultural monuments, a symbol of Bulgaria, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The monastery is situated in the deep valley of the Rila River at an altitude of 1147 m. It was founded in the 10th century by the St. Ivan Rilski, and in its present form was built in the 19th century.

The Rila Mountains were breathtaking, i loved the seven lakes and the air is so fresh and clean 😍

I am in love with Rila 7 lakes. Highly recommend to visit. Great views, pure nature. A bit complicated way when you have to take 3 or even 4 buses to reach the lift!! (we came there from Sofia) but it's worth. From our experience it's easier to rent a car. But this is the place where I would like to come back 🙏😊

Beautiful place to go for a hike. Also the view from the top of the mountain is worth the hike up.

Beautiful place, you should definetly visit it.

Incredible. Hike is difficult so be prepared, so worth it. A bit slippery down, walking sticks would have been nice

Rila National Park and Musala Peak represent a perfect combination of natural beauty, biodiversity and mountain challenge. For nature lovers it offers peace and endless expanses of greenery and glacial lakes; for climbers, the highest peak of the Balkans as a prestigious achievement. This park is a destination that remained in my memory as a journey to the peak of Balkan nature.

282 species of mosses made me come here and I'm not disappointed. The skilift makes it way easier, but it is also possible to walk up yourself. (And it will safe you the money and the waiting) Still worth it to take the ski lift option. It's easy to find parking spots. There are some food and drinking options "upstairs". Good amount of high quality information in different parts of the hike. For me one of the high lights of Bulgaria!

The park is very beautiful especially if you go for a hike during the autumn. Fresh air, stunning views on the way and bright colors all around!

It's the most beautiful place in Bulgaria. LOCAL GUIDE IMPORTANT TIPS: 1. Don't go without warm clothes. It is mountain (2000 m altitude) and the weather changes very fast even if it's looks warm and nice. 2. Take cash money to pay the lift ticket. Tehy don't have card payment 3. You can't see the lakes from the hut. After you take the lift, you have to walk up at least 40 min to see the first three lakes. 4. The sixth and seventh lakes can be seen from the end of June to December. In other months it is dangerous to go there without special equipment. 5. In winter, you can't see the lakes because they're covered with meters of snow. 6. Go there only with trekking shoes. Don't go there with flip flops, sandals, and moccasin. 7. Check the weather before you go!!! 8. Don't go there in August it is crowded.

Beautiful Rila always exciting!!!

It was a fantastic memory in the middle of the rila mountain!!

Had a wonderful experience at the pool in the weekend. The pools are immaculate and the atmosphere is chill, all you can need for a weekend getaway. 30 minutes outside the capital, however the place is such a paradise. So many activities onsite, incredible for young people and for families with kids as well. Would highly recommend and will be back very soon! ☀️

“The Windmills” – a little paradise just outside Sofia! If you’re looking for the perfect summer escape, this is the place. Surrounded by greenery, flowers, and peaceful vibes, you’ll find beautiful pools, a cozy restaurant with delicious food, places to relax, and even accommodation if you want to stay overnight. There’s a lovely play area for kids, and the whole atmosphere feels like a fairy tale. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a fun-filled summer day with family or friends. 🌿☀️💦

We really enjoyed our time here! Everything is clean and well-maintained, with plenty of beautiful spots for walking and relaxing. The lake is absolutely stunning – calm, picturesque, and mesmerizing. A perfect place for a full family vacation!

Really nice place. The atmosphere is great – clean, green, with cool pools and plenty of space to relax. Perfect for a weekend with friends or family. The staff were friendly and helpful, which makes a big difference. Everyone was welcoming and ready to assist if needed.

We have such a good time. The kids loved it. The adults loved it as well. It’s very spacious and there’s something for everyone. Will come back for another escape from the city

The property is very clean and beautifully styled. So many attractions give you the opportunity to have fun and relax at the same time. The staff working here is very professional and friendly. Definitely recommend this place!

I think the experience is worth the 35 lv price of admission. (although there was no reduced price for a 3 year old). only three complaints: - the kids pool needs some sort of shadow over at least part of it. - there was absolutely NO soap in any of the dispensers in the bathrooms. - the deers in the zoo had a very small and dry enclosure, with zero shade in the 40 degree heat. they were agitated and clearly miserable. not a good animal to keep in such poor conditions. the place would make a better impression not having deet at all.

I don't know who the architect of this thing is, but the overall look of the geyser - the only one in continental Europe, by the way - reminds of a public toilet. Pretty disappointing.

Being the only geyser in continental Europe it was an underwhelming experience. The park around it was nice and newly renovated

This has to be a joke. Or a scam. First of all, it is barely even promoted, even within the town. A few signs and not much else that somewhat point you in the right direction. But then, once you arrive, it is "under construction". What? it is a geyser, supposedly, it's natural, why would it need to be "under construction"? Gave me scam vibes like they were just pumping hot water from some underground man made pool or something. Don't waste your time.

It is good, a bit smelly, but im putting 1 star due to bad maintenance

Amazing nature

Excluding the natural smell of sulfur, a beautiful park for a walk and lunch

I didn't believe, that's a geysir....

We had a really nice time here. Unfortunately many of the pools were closed, one cooling pool missing was very inconvenient. Still the pools never got crowded, there was lots of space. The saunas are excellent! Lots if sunbeds available to rest. The bar has very fast service the quality is mediocre. Good choice to relax on a sunny day.

lovely day in the mineral hot water! There are 3 separate areas with slightly similar options each: 1 big swimming pool, 1 or 2 smaller for kids, jacuzzi, 1 very hot pond and a very cold pond). There are 3 saunas + a snack bar with climbing features for kids. Enough chaise lounges and green areas. Pluses and nice surprises: We visited during Easter and they were offering free hot tea. There's no music, which I loved!! People come to rest here not to listen to shitty auto tune trap and cheap electronic remixes like in the seaside. So kudos for the management to let us enjoy the birds, the clouds, the laughter. Another plus : the fence's bushes probably have leaves in summer but now it's too early in the year and we could see the northern mountains, there are some decorations mimicking roman ruins that look great against the modern hotels. The only minuses I can think of : although there are enough ugly signs banning drinking and smoking in and close to pools, people do it anyways... And the snack bar is pretty bad. Go to the restaurant instead - you will spend the same money per person on good food. 1 of the big pools was closed unfortunately, but possibly because the venue wasn't crowded. The changing room I was assigned to was pretty small. It had only 1 tiny bench in the middle of some 30 lockers, so I wouldn't recommend waiting to leave in the last minute.

Great mineral pools center. Several baths of different temperature, all clearly labeled. Mostly outdoor pools, but also there is a couple of indoor including a hot jackousee. Only one sauna, and was closed when we visited - but I can not say I missed it. The variety of different temperature in pools is superb, from 13 degrees celcius to 42. There is an indoor cafe with drinks and snacks. Super friendly stuff. Towels and robes available for rent, also personal lockers.

I arrived later in the day, around 5 and stayed until 7:30 in the evening. By 6:30, the pool was mostly empty and very enjoyable. I got a pizza from the snack bar and it was alright and the pool was good and clean. I don't think for just 2.5 hours, it is worth the price (20lev), but after a day of hiking, it was very much enjoyed and appreciated.

Nice place for summer activity, but in the mountain suround. Great pools, clean and cared place. Nice staff. Parking place on the side. Food and drinks in a few bars and a good restaurant.

We were with three teenagers for several hours and had a lot of fun. We went from the hot pools to the colder with activities like waterfalls, hoops, climbing wall (small but nice) and ropes. The hot thermos pools were very therapeutic - felt our back improving from the hikes of the previous days. Last thing - food prices were surprisingly reasonable (e.g. 18 leva for 400 gr burger) and we were sorry we ate outside

Really great place with very nice pools with hot water. Saunas, bar and food.

Sofia’s most iconic and grand cathedral, and its size combined with its stunning architecture gives it a truly commanding presence. Construction: Built between 1882 and 1912 to honor Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), which liberated Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. Architectural Style: Neo-Byzantine, with striking gold-plated domes and intricate frescoes inside. Capacity: Can accommodate up to 5,000 people, making it one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Features: Lavish interior with marble columns, mosaics, icons, and a massive iconostasis. Significance: Serves as the patriarchal cathedral of Bulgaria, a national symbol of faith, history, and Bulgarian liberation.

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is absolutely stunning and definitely a must see in Sofia. The architecture is breathtaking, from the golden domes to the beautifully detailed interior. What really impressed me is the feeling this place gives you. It truly evokes emotion, reflection and a quiet sense of presence. Inside, the frescoes are exceptional, full of depth and beauty, and they make the whole experience even more meaningful. Even if you have seen many cathedrals before, this one really stands out. Iconic, impressive and full of history, it adds something special to your time in Sofia.

The Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of those places that truly catches your eye the moment you see it. Its massive size, golden domes, and unique architecture make it stand out instantly in the city. You can’t help but stop and admire it from the outside. Once you step inside, the atmosphere completely changes. It’s quiet, spacious, and full of beautiful details. The murals, icons, and soft lighting create a calm and almost mystical feeling that makes you want to walk slowly and take everything in. One of the best things is that entrance is completely free, so visiting is very easy. The area around the cathedral is also lovely for a walk, taking photos, or just enjoying a bit of local life.

Such a wonderful cathedral and the largest in the Balkans. It's Neo-Byzantine style is glamorous and admirable. The artwork and chandeliers were such an eyesight. The cathedral is a symbol of Sofia and must visit. There was no wait time during the week and no tickets. A small donation to light up a candle is a nice idea. The crowd was very low.

I was lucky enough to walk in during service and it was magical. There was a beautiful choir singing and the sound was spectacular. I was in tears. The building and the energy almost commands you to be present. The visitors were very respectful. A must visit. I would assume Saturday afternoon is when they have a service.

Free entry. You can either pray or visit or both. One of the most iconic landmarks in Sofia with pure golden roof finish donated by Russia long time ago. Inside, all those riches and hand painted pictures of all Bulgarian saints. Regardless of your faith, it must been seen while visited Sofia.

A breathtaking masterpiece Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of those places that compels you to stop, look up, and remain silent. Its grandeur can be perceived from afar, but it is only when you get closer that you can truly appreciate every detail: golden domes shining in the sun, a majestic facade, and an almost magical feeling that accompanies every step. Upon entering, the atmosphere changes completely: soft lighting, the scent of incense, and wonderful icons that tell centuries of faith and history. Even those who are not religious cannot remain indifferent in the face of such beauty. Everything seems to speak of spirituality, art, and Bulgarian identity. I recommend visiting both during the day, to admire its architectural magnificence, and in the evening, when the lighting makes it even more evocative. A must-see for anyone passing through Sofia: it is not just a cathedral, it is an experience that remains in your heart.

One of the oldest Orthodox churches in Sofia. You can sense the age of the building which was built in the 4th century. It's worth the visit since it's dedicated to Saint Sophia. Unfortunately, the only negative experience was the rudeness and hostility of one of the staff. I didn't realize there was a fee to take photos, so the man approached me aggressively to demand the fee. There's no problem, I considered it a donation but, I hope someone could talk with this staff for a more friendlier approach.

This church is one of Sofia’s most important historical landmarks and among the oldest in the region. It was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine Empire, and its red-brick architecture and imposing dome reflect the solidity and simplicity of Byzantine style. The building’s architecture is quite different from more ornate cathedrals, showing a rustic charm inside, with thick walls and narrow windows. The church’s simplicity and austere appearance create an atmosphere of serenity, calm, and contemplation, leaving a strong impression while telling centuries of history. Visiting the main church is free. For those who want to delve deeper into the site’s history, there’s a fascinating archaeological museum in the crypt. This underground section displays the church’s ancient foundations and Roman tombs from the old city of Serdica, with mosaics dating from the 3rd to 5th centuries. Entrance to the archaeological museum is paid (around 3 euros or 6 BGN).

Very nice church with underground ancient ruins that should not be missed. Please note that there is a fee to see the underground section.

Absolutely beautiful spiritual Orthodox place! A must see piece in Sofia! First church was built more than 1800 years ago... Just imagine ... So close to the Lord Jesus Christ's time ...

One of the oldest churches in Sofia, dating back to the 6th century. St. Sofia Church has a peaceful atmosphere, with fascinating ruins and tombs beneath the building. A must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

Old church with an archaeological grave in the underground. Worth a visit.

No tickets needed. Underestimated church with beautiful paintings. Had a small table for the little ones to sit& draw.

If you are interested in a better angle for photos, head over to the back of the church by the park. It is less busy and more chances of you getting a solo shot. This is the more humble and smaller church in the old city of Sofia. The architecture itself is reflective of most Orthodox Christian churches with the orb cupolas which are glistening and gleaming of gold. Still a cool stop to make during your walks!

This little Russian Revival style church is so cute and worth the visit. The golden domes are so unique of Russian churches and very attractive from afar. No wait or tickets and very little crowd during the week. Definitely worth a visit to receive blessings of St.Nicholas the Wonder-Maker 🙏🏼

I was truly impressed seeing this church, even if only from the outside. It looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale! The Muscovite-style architecture is very rich, full of details and vibrant colors. What stands out the most, without a doubt, are its golden, onion-shaped domes, which shine brightly and stand out in the city center. It is a unique building, different from everything around it, and perfect for taking some memorable photos.

Free entry. I was so impressed by this Russian Orthodox church, well maintained and looks just amazing inside. Plenty of people who only come to visit and plenty of people came to pray. Please respect both set of humans.

Beautiful orthodox church. Inside is very simple but prayerful.

I love classy things. This church is exactly that. No photos inside so you will have to have a look for yourself 😉

The Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker (Църква „Свети Николай Мирликийски“) is a hidden gem in Sofia that captivates visitors with its charm and spiritual ambiance. This small yet elegant church, dedicated to St. Nicholas, boasts beautifully preserved frescoes and intricate wooden carvings that reflect traditional Bulgarian Orthodox art. The peaceful atmosphere invites quiet reflection, making it a wonderful spot to pause amidst the city’s bustle. Its historical significance and timeless beauty make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Sofia’s cultural heritage.

I wish I could see inside too but nice to walk around and watch military how to change position etc

This is an impressive landmark located right in the city center. The architecture is elegant and stately, reflecting the country’s history and governance. You can witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at the entrance, which happens every hour and is worth watching. While visitors can’t enter the building itself, the area around it is lively, with several historic and government buildings nearby.

יש החלפת משמרות כל שעה, פרט לימים שבת וראשון. The official office of the Bulgarian President is housed in this building and therefore the building's honor guard and the guard exchange ceremony, which takes place every hour and can be viewed free of charge (except Saturdays and Sundays). At the entrance to the building are two armed soldiers, dressed in ceremonial uniforms from the 19th century, including a hat with a feather and rifles from this period. The ceremony lasts for five minutes! There are four soldiers who are replacing two who are standing outside, with whom they can also be photographed, if they arrive before the shift begins, and there are two more who are inside the president's house. It is recommended to arrive a few minutes before a round hour.

Nice place. Free to enter. Has a roman ruins within the compound and a round old chapel.

Presidential palace is so accessible to everyone , not like other countries specially US. 😁

Very nice performance. I liked it so much. So much discipline of honored watch of the President.

Cool to see the guards on duty in their cream uniforms. If you arrive at the right time then you can watch the changing of the guard. The building itsf is large but a little non-descript.

Really interesting the way it is situated in the court yard of the government buildings. Very rich and elegant inside in spite of what it looks like outside. I would say, go if you have time, if not, you can place it lower on the priority list. So many amazing museums and art galleries to visit so plan your time well!

The Church of St. George is a truly remarkable place, the oldest preserved monument in Sofia. It is a small red-brick, circular church dating back to Roman times, set among modern buildings, which makes it even more fascinating. Inside, you can admire beautiful Byzantine frescoes from different periods, ranging from the 4th to the 14th century, well preserved and rich in detail. The atmosphere is intimate and spiritual, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time. It is easy to visit, with free entrance, and is located right in the city center, just a short walk from St. Nedelya Cathedral. An unmissable stop for anyone visiting Sofia, both for its historical significance and its unique beauty.

The oldest building in Sofia, and a miracle that it survived wartime bombing and communist indifference. Layers of history, beautiful ancient frescos and an unusual and interesting location. Free to enter, like most churches in Bulgaria. You're not supposed to take photos inside ;)

Lasting for over 1700 years, this church surrounded by ruins, is such a remarkable place to stop by. It's considered the oldest building in Sofia ! Definitely worth the visit and receiving blessings of St.George 🙏🏼

The Rotunda of St. George is one of the oldest buildings in the city, dating back to the 4th century. Its red-brick construction, circular plan on a square base and roughly 13-metre dome create a compact volume rich in history. I really enjoyed how this small building stands out within the urban context, lending the visit a sense of depth.

This is a beautiful temple, an ancient architectural Christian building that will not leave you indifferent with its beauty. Here you will see amazing frescoes, the environment is very cozy and interesting. You will be amazed by its history.

Oldest building in Sofia that’s tucked away in a quiet courtyard right between the Presidency and the Sheraton Hotel.

Vitosha Boulevard is the pulsing heart of Sofia’s city life. Walking down this wide, lively street, you’re surrounded by chic boutiques, cozy cafés, and the buzz of people enjoying the day. The view of Vitosha Mountain at the end of the boulevard gives it a stunning backdrop, making every stroll feel cinematic. It’s the kind of place where you can wander aimlessly, sip a coffee, watch street performers, and feel the city’s rhythm. By night, the lights and laughter give it a whole new energy — Vitosha Boulevard isn’t just a street, it’s Sofia’s living room.

The main street of the city with many restaurants, shops and interesting spots.

Not to be missed. Good walking. Fresh air. Beautiful space. Nice people!

For walking and exploring city one of the main road

very long and nice central street

Was there every day when i visited Bulgaria, very beautiful street with lots of shops and withe a nice vibe

Excellent place to walk around, do some shopping and then sit down to relax and eat food

Impressive building. You have to ring the bell and go through security to get in, including showing your passport. They provide a QR code to access an audio guide from your phone, so phone and headphones are desirable. Our audio guides didn’t work very well but we still managed to get most of the information. You can do it comfortably in about 30 minutes. Entry fee of 10 lev per person.

The Central Synagogue of Sofia is one of those places that immediately commands quiet admiration. Its grand Moorish-style façade, with detailed arches and colorful tiles, stands as a beautiful reminder of Bulgaria’s rich cultural mix. Inside, the space glows softly under a massive brass chandelier, one of the largest in Europe, casting golden light on the intricate patterns and marble columns. Even if you’re not religious, it’s hard not to feel a sense of peace and awe here. The synagogue feels like a gentle heartbeat of history and resilience, still shining at the center of Sofia’s story.

The Central Synagogue of Sofia is a beautiful and impressive building, well worth a short visit. Entry involves a fairly strict security check, but the process is quick. Once inside, you can admire the grand interior and striking architecture. The visit doesn’t take long — about 15–20 minutes is enough to see everything comfortably.

Definitely worth to be visited. Interesting information on an audio guide which you can use on your phone. Don’t forget your ID or passport. 5 EUR entrance fee

What a beautifully maintained and educstional guided Synagogue!!! We had to ring a bell to get in. Then you need a picture ID as they have security. Adults 10lev, kids 12&under FREE. There was a QR code with several information points around the Synagogue in English (and other languages!) It was interesting to learn about Jewish practises and the hostory of Jews in this part of the world. The interior is beautiful and definitely worth visiting ✨️It is the 3rd largest Synagogue in Europe and stunning. My son bought the necklace as a souvenir ✡️

This is an amazing building and home of God. Brilliant architectural masterpiece from both inside and outside.

Absolutely fabulous synagogue. There is a tour via your phone with 18 different pieces of information from the Torah to the Menora, Jewish costumes, the migration of the Jews into Sofia and other cities in Bulgaria over the centuries, to WWII and the horror of the holocaust and afterwards the survivors who emigrated to the Israel 🇮🇱

Easily accessible by bus and car very close proximity to the city. All kinds of trails from easy ones to more difficult. Very quiet and peaceful during the work days less so on the weekends.

Beautiful mountain, different paths, I took the Cherni Vrah path but a storm started but anyway I handled it till the end. Strongly recommend to visit the mountain and even stay there for a day or two. On weekends you can take the metro untill Vitosha station (1,6 leva) then walk straight a few meters and you will find the bus stop, I took bus 66 until Moreni hotel in which I stayed one night too(they have the cutest dog in the world and he is 17 years old!!). The bus cost is also 1,6 leva, first Bus start from 8:55 from the first station and arrived to the bus stop around 9:10 am.

Loved the hike. April start is the best time for the trek. You have a small café on the top that serves food. Don't miss thus trek if you are in Sofia.

My favorite hiking spot! Lots of people everywhere, totally safe, and very pretty!

Amazing hike, if you're a beginner it might be slightly difficult for you but worth it !!! Took me 1h50 from Golden Bridge to the top of the mountain.

We traveled by private car to Simeonovo to take a cable lift there. Unfortunately and please bear in mind that it is opertaing only on weekends during summer time. The lady at the entrance told us that there is other way by car from Aleko hut. The road is ok also for normal cars. Once you reach the place you will exprience a spectacular view and I recommend to take red track to go up.

The summit it self is not very spectacular, quite flat. There is a challet there where you can buy a tea or a coffee. This mountain is better for mountai biking than for treking. The shortest route starts from the refuge Aleko where is a ski lift and a parking place.

There’s not much to see at all… until you enter inside the church (for a fee)! To be honest, I don’t think I would have been able to appreciate as much the inside as well, if we didn’t have an actual tour guide to explain things. Do note that the interior of the church is small. And entry inside is timed by the caretaker to 8~10minutes per group. The main attractions were seeing the three parts of the church and the many beautiful frescoes inside which told so many different stories - interestingly, both Biblical and of the local history of the region. The small church itself is located in the compound of a botanical garden, but the garden itself didn’t seem to have anything unique about it. Boyana Church is one of Bulgaria’s 10 UNESCO Wolrd Heritage Sites.

WOW. Absolutely stunning! Talk to the kind, gentle and knowledgeable guide inside and he will explain the frescos, the history, the significance. You're supposed to only get 10 minutes, but as there was no one waiting to come in we chatted for about half an hour. An absolute gem of a place and we'll worth a short ride out of the city. The area is lovely to walk and perhaps head up the mountain too.

A must-see in Sofia! Boyana Church is absolutely stunning — the frescoes are breathtaking and incredibly well-preserved. It’s amazing to see such important medieval art up close. The setting is peaceful, surrounded by trees, and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. A true UNESCO gem and a highlight of my visit to Sofia!

Peaceful and beautiful monastery This monastery is truly a hidden gem – peaceful, green, and with a calming, almost spiritual atmosphere. The architecture is stunning, and the whole area feels very well preserved and serene. Just behind the monastery, there’s also a trail that leads into the forest – a perfect spot for a quiet walk in nature. Highly recommended for anyone looking to relax, reflect, and enjoy some beautiful scenery.

The frescos are amazingly well preserved, and some brief context is given at the start of the 10 minute viewing window. Kind of a trek out ~50 min from the historic old town/Serdika area but easy to get to with public transit. Worth going to especially if paired with the national history museum that’s a 20 min bus away. There is some uphill walking. I recommend in the morning as only ten people are in at a time, so when you arrive and buy a ticket, you then wait for however many sets of 10 mins until everyone in front of you has gone in. They make sure you have a ticket but not what time, so make sure to stand in line at the church or else others can pass you

Even if you have only 10min inside it’s worth it! You need to experience the frescoes in person, they’re simply breathtaking.

This is a short visit but an opportunity to see remaining frescoes in the church. You can see 3 transitions of the building from outside, and the grave of a notable leader.