Sofia’s Roots: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Overview

Bulgaria’s capital has layers of captivating history, from ancient Roman foundations to echoes of its days under Communist rule. On this walking tour around Sofia’s vibrant streets, you’ll gain local insights into the city’s rich history and take in cultural landmarks from the fresh perspective of a newly immersed expat. On this tour, you'll see not only point out the obvious landmarks but also hear candid stories and wander off the beaten path, offering you an authentic look at life in Bulgaria. Along the way, you’ll hear about the most horrendous massacre in Bulgarian history and the cultural bracelets shared among friends. Whether you’re revisiting Sofia or exploring it for the first time, this tour offers a thorough and intimate view of the city’s past, present, and all the layers in between. This tour takes approximately 90 minutes without stopping. Allocate two hours in case you expect to pause and explore more.

Itinerary

1. This self-guided audio tour starts in the National Palace of Culture Park. You'll hear the city's history as you make your way into the city centre.

   · Non-stop passage

2. Vitosha Boulevard

   On this self-guided tour, you'll stroll down Vitosha Boulevard, and hear about some of the landmarks along this picturesque route.

   · Non-stop passage

3. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to see the Orthodox Cathedral "Saint Nedelia". You'll learn about its history as you walk around the city centre.

   · Non-stop passage

4. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to step inside ancient churches and ruins that date back to the Roman era, including the hidden St. Georgi Rotunda Church.

   · Non-stop passage

5. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to marvel at the impressive yet misunderstood Monument of Saint Sofia and reflect on the rich cultural diversity at Tolerance Square.

   · Non-stop passage

6. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to explore the remarkably preserved ruins of the cultural complex of ancient Serdika at two underground metro locations and walk along the ancient Roman road that once connected critical cities.

   · Non-stop passage

7. You’ll follow part of the city’s yellow brick roads. Along the way, taking in architectural treasures spanning millennia, including the central mosque of Sofia, Banya Bashi Mosque, the medieval orthodox temple of St. Petka Samardjiyska, and the National Theater Ivan Vazov.

   · Non-stop passage

8. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to see the Central Synagogue of Sofia. You'll learn about its history as you walk around the city centre.

   · Non-stop passage

9. On this tour, you'll pass by the Central Baths (Banski) Square where you'll have a chance to taste the revitalizing mineral spring water that’s been part of Sofia’s healing traditions for centuries.

   · Non-stop passage

10. You’ll follow part of the city’s yellow brick roads. Along the way, taking in architectural treasures spanning millennia, including the central mosque of Sofia, Banya Bashi Mosque, the medieval orthodox temple of St. Petka Samardjiyska, and the National Theater Ivan Vazov.

    · Non-stop passage

11. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to see the Archeological reserve "Serdika - Largo" (at underpass level). You'll learn about its history as you walk around the city centre.

    · Non-stop passage

12. Ivan Vazov National Theater

    You’ll follow part of the city’s yellow brick roads. Along the way, taking in architectural treasures spanning millennia, including the central mosque of Sofia, Banya Bashi Mosque, the medieval orthodox temple of St. Petka Samardjiyska, and the National Theater Ivan Vazov.

    · Non-stop passage

13. Cathédrale Alexandre Nevski

    The beautiful snow-capped Vitosha Mountain provides a stunning backdrop as you make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky, where the tour ends.

    · Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

Ticket handed over by the operator on site

VOICEMAP CODE ─── Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code. DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS ─── Once you've received your code, please follow these steps: Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app Create an account Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes Enter your code then select Download Now PLEASE NOTE ─── You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point. This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next. When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point. Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour. SUPPORT ─── For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• You will receive confirmation immediately when you book.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

Product code: 110804P614

Activity offered by VoiceMap Audio Tours via Viator.