A long layover in Sofia is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sofia Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 65 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of SOF:
- Can you legally enter Bulgaria? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 65-minute journey each way by Metro Line 4, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BGN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Sofia, two standouts are:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
- Vitosha Boulevard — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sofia.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SOF, check out Vitosha Lounge (Terminal 2) or Sofia Airport Duty-Free & Retail to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Sofia from the Airport
From SOF, the Metro Line 4 gets you to Sofia in around 65 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 85 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Metro Line 4 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sofia: Happy Bar & Grill ‘Vitosha’ and Made in Home. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for World News Cafe (Terminal 2) or Food Gate (Terminal 2). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Sofia layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$11 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$27 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Sofia, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SOF should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Bulgaria and you’re good to go.
Luggage Storage Options
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At SOF, you’ll find bag storage at Not available.
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Need a Nap? Options at SOF
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SOF.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Sofia exploring the streets or relaxing at SOF, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.