Tourist Information Centre Sofia

Recently opened in the Sofia University underpass (a.k.a. “Rektorata”, “SU Kliment Ohridski”, etc.), near a big transit ticket office and literally across metro station “SU Kliment Ohridski”, stands the office of the Municipality of Sofia’s Tourist Information Centre. Inside, you can find detailed maps of the city, information about tours and events and helpful, English-speaking staff.

The office is a great first stop to any do-it-yourself sightseeing. I learned two notable things there:

– There’s a volunteer guide organization called Free Sofia Tour that runs free guided walking tours in English every day, year-round, rain or shine, starting at 11 am and 6 pm. The tours last approximately 2 hours and their route overlaps somewhat with my Essential Sofia tour, except they’re interactive, led by a local volunteer who’s fluent in English. There’s no need to reserve, just show up to the corner of Vitosha Blvd. and Alabin Str. (corner of the Palace of Justice / Съдебна палата) a few minutes before the scheduled start time. This is an initiative approved by Sofia Municipality and its volunteers gladly accept donations that go towards furthering the project.

– For years I have bemoaned the fact that there doesn’t seem to be an easy way to reach Rila Monastery from the capital. Bulgaria’s most impressive monastery is on my list of must-see sights but it’s always been difficult to find a reliable way to cover the 120 km distance from Sofia. It turns out that a company called International Travel offers a guaranteed departure one-day tour that leaves from Alexander Nevski square at 8 am. Go here for information and to reserve your spot. At the time of writing, the cost of the trip was 45 Euro, which is quite reasonable.

NOTE: I have not personally tried either of these services and I am not affiliated with any of the three organizations described above. Book at your own risk.