Guided Tour Sofia – Discover One of Europe’s Oldest Cities
Join a guided tour Sofia and uncover 7000 years of amazing history. Sofia is one of Europe’s oldest cities.
Though it became Bulgaria’s capital in 1879, Sofia’s roots go back to 5000 BC, during the Neolithic era.
The city lies on the Sofia Plain, surrounded by Vitosha, Lyulin, and Sredna Gora Mountains. Its location has always been strategic.
Today, visitors explore ancient ruins, monuments, and churches that reflect this long and rich past.
If you want to personalize your journey, book a customized Sofia tour.
From Neolithic Times to Roman Rule
Modern archaeology shows Sofia was home to Neolithic settlements dating back to 5000 BC.
In the 7th century BC, the Thracian tribe Serdi built a city here. The Romans later called it Serdica.
When Serdica became part of the Roman Empire in the 1st century, it was renamed Ulpia Serdica.
This name honored Emperor Marcus Ulpius Trajan, who granted the city self-rule.
During the Roman era, Serdica became a major trade and administrative center.
Explore these Roman remains with our expert team, or continue your journey with Istanbul private guided tours.
Invasions and the Middle Ages
Serdica thrived until the 5th century, when it suffered attacks from Huns, Goths, and Barbarians.
The city was rebuilt in the 6th century as Triadica, under the Byzantine Empire.
In 809, it became part of the First Bulgarian Empire and was renamed Sredets.
Sofia continued to grow as an important center of politics, culture, and trade.
In the 14th century, the city got its final name—Sofia—inspired by the Church of St. Sofia.
This church was so important that the entire city was named after it.
You can explore religious sites like this during your day tour Ephesus, or include it in your Bulgaria itinerary.
Sofia Becomes the Capital
After the Liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878, Sofia was chosen as Bulgaria’s capital in 1879.
Since then, the city has grown into a modern European capital full of ancient charm.
Today, Sofia blends old and new, with Roman ruins, Ottoman buildings, and modern boulevards.
Whether you’re visiting historical landmarks or exploring local culture, a guided tour Sofia will make your trip special.
We’re happy to help plan your tour—contact us today and start your adventure.
Let Sofia’s long history come alive on your next visit.
