Things To Do
in Sopot
Sopot, Bulgaria is a small town in Plovdiv Province at the foothills of the Sredna Gora mountains. Its tree-lined streets, preserved traditional houses, and relaxed pace give it a distinctly Bulgarian small-town charm. The town has a spa heritage and easy access to nearby nature trails and cultural sites, making it a calm base for day trips.
Visitors come for warm Bulgarian hospitality, simple yet satisfying cuisine, and scenic walks through rural landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the House-Museum of Georgi Benkovski, where you can dive into the revolutionary history of Bulgaria. The charming architecture and surrounding gardens provide a peaceful environment for a morning stroll. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Bulgarian pastries to energize your day.
After lunch, wander through the picturesque streets of Sopot, stopping to admire the beautiful 19th-century homes adorned with colorful flowers. Visit the nearby Monastery of Saint Nicholas, a tranquil retreat offering spiritual insights and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Consider enjoying a leisurely hike on local trails to take in the natural beauty of the region.
As the sun sets, return to the town center and explore local shops where artisans sell handcrafted goods. Experience the vibrant atmosphere at one of the traditional taverns, where live folk music sets a cheerful backdrop for dinner. End your evening with a casual walk, relishing the cool evening air and the warm glow of streetlights illuminating your path.
Kick off your morning with an exhilarating hike in the Balkan Mountains, known for their stunning vistas and diverse flora. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you traverse well-marked paths, taking time to appreciate the views. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy amidst nature's beauty at one of the scenic rest points.
Post-hike, return to Sopot for lunch at a family-run restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Afterward, visit the nearby Sopot Natural History Museum to learn more about the region's diverse ecosystems. Don't miss the chance to take a guided horseback ride through the landscapes, perfect for adventurers and families alike.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot in town for dinner featuring grilled meats and fresh salads. Join the locals in one of the parks for a communal gathering, often filled with laughter, music, and dance. Wrap up the night at a local bar where you can sample Bulgarian wines while socializing with new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or groceries | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic base with easy access to nature and culture
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller town amenities compared to bigger cities
- "Zdrasti" - Hello
- "Dobar den" - Good day
- "Molya" - Please
- "Blagodarya" - Thank you
- "Kolko stoi?" - How much does it cost?
- "Glede me" - Excuse me / Pardon me
Places to Visit in Sopot
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful, preserved 19th‑century houses line the square, best at sunrise or golden hour.
A charming stone bridge and tree-lined path along the town stream—great for candid shots.
Whitewashed walls and ornate woodwork offer classic Bulgarian architectural shots.
Outlying hills provide sweeping views over the town and valley.
Snapshots of locals at work and moments of daily life.
Food in Sopot
Sopot Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A layered pastry with eggs and cheese, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Must-Try!
Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and a generous topping of sirene cheese.
Slow-cooked meat with vegetables in a clay pot, rich in regional flavors.
Chilled cucumber-yogurt soup, refreshing in hot weather.
Grilled minced meat seasoned with savory spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, honey, herbs, and local snacks.
Grilled kebapche, sausage, corn on the cob, and other quick bites during the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common. Use polite forms (Mr./Ms.) until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly in religious or traditional sites; ask permission before taking photographs of people.
Bulgarian meals often start with bread on the table; wait for toasts and share dishes when dining with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Sopot
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good. For cafes or take-out, a small tip is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in towns, cash is useful at markets and smaller shops. ATMs are available in the town center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy evening strolls when temperatures cool.
Mild weather, colorful foliage, harvest festivals in nearby villages, great for hiking without heat.
Cool to cold, possible snow; cozy mehanas, fewer crowds, layered clothing recommended.
Mild and vibrant; blossoms and fresh produce dominate markets; ideal for outdoor walks.
Sopot at Night
Hiking in Sopot
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Marked and unmarked trails through pine forests and scenic overlooks just outside Sopot.
Airports
How to reach Sopot by plane.
Major international hub about 150-200 km from Sopot; accessible by road or rail with several daily connections.
Smaller regional airport closer to Sopot, with seasonal and regular domestic/international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in town life, Orthodox Christian heritage common.
Small but visible Roma population contributing to cultural diversity.
A mix of locals and visitors who move to the area for a slower pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Bulgaria; local matches and informal games are common.
Used in local schools and sports clubs; occasional community events.
Popular in schools and leisure centers; affordable to try as a guest.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sopot.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bulgarian vegetarian options include tarator, Shopska salad, grilled vegetables, and bean soups. When ordering, ask for 'bez meso' (no meat) and 'bez mlyako' (no dairy) if needed.