Sofia might be known for its ancient churches and lively streets, but it’s also a surprisingly good place to indulge in Spa & Hot Springs Experiences. The city’s proximity to mineral-rich thermal springs means that soaking in natural hot waters isn’t just a luxury—it’s part of the local culture. One of our favorite options is the Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa because it combines stunning mountain views, UNESCO-listed sites like Boyana Church, and a relaxing dip in thermal springs—all in just half a day. It’s perfect if you want a taste of nature and history without sacrificing relaxation. Plus, with options like the Full-day Rila Mountains, Seven Lakes Hike, and Hot Springs Tour, you can combine outdoor adventure with soothing thermal baths, making it a well-rounded day for active travelers.
Sofia’s diverse offerings mean you can choose between tranquil hot springs, scenic mountain hikes, or cultural city tours with wellness stops. Whether you’re after a quick escape or a more immersive experience, the city’s thermal waters and surrounding mountains won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
This guide features the best Spa & Hot Springs experiences in Sofia, from half-day city tours that include thermal baths to full-day hiking adventures with hot springs. Highlights include visits to UNESCO sites, mountain panoramas, and mineral water pools—perfect for relaxation and exploration. For example, the Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa offers a compact way to see Sofia’s key highlights and unwind in outdoor thermal pools [], while the Seven Rila Lakes Guided Day Hiking with Waterfall and SPA combines a stunning mountain trek with soaking in natural mineral waters []. Keep reading to see which tour fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa
For around $189, the Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa offers a terrific introduction to both Sofia’s surroundings and its thermal waters. This 6-hour tour departs from St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, where you’ll get a quick guided look inside. From there, it’s a scenic ride up to Vitosha Mountain for panoramic city views and a chance to see the Kopitoto TV Tower—a famous landmark perched on the mountain at 1,348 meters altitude.
The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, a 900-year-old masterpiece, before heading to the Korali thermal spring, where you can soak outdoors in warm mineral waters year-round. The experience is complemented by a visit to the National Museum of History and a traditional Bulgarian lunch (at your own expense). With comfortable Wi-Fi-equipped transfers and personalized small-group service, this tour balances sightseeing and relaxation beautifully. Reviewers love the friendly guide, the scenic stops, and the thermal dip—perfect for a quick escape from city life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time who want a taste of Sofia’s mountain scenery, cultural sights, and a relaxing thermal soak.
2. Seven Rila lakes – guided day hiking with Waterfall and SPA
Priced at about $136, the Seven Rila lakes – guided day hiking with Waterfall and SPA is perfect for outdoor lovers wanting to combine a mountain adventure with wellness. This 7-8 hour tour begins with a transfer from Sofia to Rila National Park, where you’ll take a cable car up to Rila Lakes at 2,150 meters. The hike covers approximately three hours, taking you past some of Bulgaria’s most iconic glacial lakes, each with a shape that reflects its name—like the Kidney or Fish Lake.
After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, the tour includes a visit to Bulgaria’s only natural geyser, then a relaxing stop at the Goritsa Waterfall. The highlight? Cooling off in a mineral spring to unwind after the trek. The guide’s local knowledge shines here, and the tour is praised for flexibility, especially in winter conditions. Since the tour includes transportation, it’s a good fit for those who want an active day with a soothing finish.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for hikers who want stunning mountain views, unique natural features, and a thermal bath experience in one day.
3. Full-day Rila Mountains, Seven Lakes Hike, and Hot Springs Tour from Sofia
This full-day adventure, costing around $128, is the most comprehensive on our list. It offers a guided 3- or 5-hour hike around the Seven Rila Lakes, plus a visit to the Sapareva Banya Spa resort. The journey begins early in Sofia, with a transfer to Pionerska hut, from where you take a chairlift to the lakes at 2,150 meters. The hike showcases spectacular views of lakes, peaks, and the “Bliznaka” and “Trilistnika”.
After the hike, the tour takes you to the thermal springs at Sapareva Banya, where you can relax in natural hot mineral pools—some of Bulgaria’s hottest. The trip is perfect for active travelers who want a full day of mountain scenery, challenging hikes, and wellness. The reviews highlight the guide’s helpfulness and the quality of the experience, making it a good value for a packed day.
Bottom Line: Great for hikers seeking a longer, more immersive experience combined with rejuvenating thermal baths.
4. From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes Hiking & Thermal Spa Day Tour
At around $119, the 7 Rila Lakes Hiking & Thermal Spa tour offers a balanced mix of mountain exploration and relaxation. This day trip features a guided hike in Rila National Park, with options for a 3-hour or 5-hour trail depending on your fitness level. It includes a cable car ride to the lakes, scenic views, and a chance to see blazing winter snow or lush summer landscapes.
After the hiking, you’ll visit the Sapareva Banya Spa, famous for its thermal pools fed by one of Europe’s hottest mineral springs. The guide’s local insights and the flexible itinerary make this appealing for those who want both outdoor adventure and spa pampering. Travelers mention the guide’s knowledge and the enjoyable mix of activities.
Bottom Line: A good all-around choice for travelers who want a shorter but fulfilling mountain hike combined with thermal relaxation.
5. The Best of Sofia: Magical Snowshoeing Adventure in Vitosha & SPA
For $103, this Snowshoeing and SPA Tour is a winter highlight. It’s perfect if you’re visiting in cold months and want to explore Bulgaria’s oldest Natural Park on snowshoes. The tour includes lessons on how to use the equipment, making it accessible even if you’ve never worn snowshoes before. Different itineraries cater to all fitness levels, from easy walks to challenging routes through frozen waterfalls and old pine forests.
After snowshoeing, the group relaxes in Korali mineral pools near Pancharevo Lake. Reviewers love the personalized guides and the chance to see frozen waterfalls and mountain panoramas. The tour offers a rare combination of winter adventure and thermal relaxation, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Bottom Line: A top pick for winter travelers wanting an active outdoor experience with a cozy thermal bath finish.
6. Half Day Tour – Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa
This 6-hour tour, priced on request, provides a compact but comprehensive experience of Sofia’s highlights and nearby nature. Starting at the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, it includes visits to Boyana Church, Kopitoto TV Tower, and scenic viewpoints. One of the most appealing features is a dip in the outdoor thermal pool at Pacherevo lake, perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.
Guests praise the tour guide Dimitri for his professionalism. The itinerary balances city highlights with mountain views, including a lunch at a local restaurant. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a quick but meaningful introduction to Sofia’s history, culture, and wellness options.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those with limited time who want a full overview plus a thermal bath.
7. Private Day Trip to Sapareva Banya for SPA
At $75.24 per person, this private tour offers flexibility and personalized service. It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore Sapareva Banya at their own pace, including visiting the thermal pools and wandering the scenic mountain town. The private vehicle makes for a comfortable, stress-free day, with the freedom to spend extra time at the pools or explore local sights independently.
The tour reviews mention the friendly guide and the tranquility of the thermal pools. If your priority is relaxation without a fixed schedule, this tour delivers a tranquil escape from Sofia’s hustle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent travelers looking for a flexible, private spa day in Bulgaria’s mountains.
8. SPA in Sofia: The European Capital Of Thermal Water
For around $58, this tour combines a quick city tour with a visit to one of Sofia’s oldest thermal centers. It includes visits to Saint Sofia Church and Alexander Nevski Cathedral before ending at the Royal Bath of Sofia, a restored thermal spa. The guide provides insights into Sofia’s thermal water tradition, and the experience is ideal for those interested in history and wellness combined.
Guests appreciate the immersive atmosphere, and the tour’s short duration makes it manageable for travelers with limited time. Bring your swimwear and flip-flops for the thermal pools.
Bottom Line: Good for a brief, culturally enriching thermal spa experience in the city.
$58.16 per person
9. From Sofia: SPA and Rila monastery
At approximately $104, this private full-day tour combines a visit to Rila Monastery with a relaxing thermal spa experience. It’s designed for travelers who want to see Bulgaria’s most famous monastery without the crowds. The walking tour of Rila takes about an hour, giving enough time for photos and brief exploration.
Afterward, you’ll visit Sapareva Banya for a soak in the mineral pools, which are highly praised. The private vehicle ensures a smooth, personalized day, and the combination of cultural and wellness experiences makes this ideal for those wanting a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: A good pick if you want to combine Bulgaria’s cultural icon with a relaxing thermal bath.
10. Experience Sofia – nature, history, horse riding and SPA
For around 8 hours, this tour offers a diverse day with visits to Boyana Church, Kopitoto Tower, and horse riding in Plana Mountain. It also includes a relaxing session in Sapareva Banya’s hot mineral waters. This experience is perfect if you want a mix of outdoor activities, cultural sights, and wellness.
Guests mention the friendly guide and the variety of experiences, especially the horse riding. It’s suitable for active travelers who want to see the countryside and unwind in thermal waters afterward. The tour balances adventure with relaxation.
Bottom Line: A versatile option for those wanting outdoor activities combined with a thermal bath.
11. Hiking to the scenic Seven Rila lakes with Waterfall and SPA
This intensive 9-hour excursion, at $319, is designed for serious hikers eager to explore Bulgaria’s most famous alpine lakes and the Kidney Lake. The guide takes you on a guided mountain hike through the stunning Rila National Park, with views of lakes, peaks, and waterfalls. After the hike, you’ll relax in Sapareva Banya’s thermal pools and take a short walk to the highest waterfall nearby.
This tour is perfect for fit, outdoor-minded travelers who want a full day of activity and wellness in one of Bulgaria’s most scenic regions. The high price reflects the comprehensive nature and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active hikers seeking an all-in-one mountain adventure and spa experience.
$319 per person
12. Resilovo Monastery, Waterfall & Hot Springs Day Trip from Sofia
Costing about $50, this tour combines cultural exploration with nature and wellness. It includes a visit to Resilovo Monastery, a scenic waterfall hike, and relaxing in natural hot mineral pools. The group size is small, allowing for personalized explanations and a laid-back pace.
The reviews praise the friendly guide and the beautiful landscapes. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a mix of cultural sights, nature walks, and thermal relaxation without a long drive.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a relaxed day of sightseeing, spirituality, and hot springs.
How to Choose the Best Spa & Hot Springs Experience in Sofia
When deciding, consider your budget, time, and interests. For example, if you love outdoor activities, the Seven Lakes Hike or Snowshoeing Adventure might be best. If relaxation is your priority, the full-day spa and mountain tour or private Sapareva Banya trips offer more indulgence.
Think about the fitness level required: some hikes are moderate, others more demanding. If you’re traveling in winter, tours like the Snowshoeing Adventure provide a snowy thrill. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season or winter months when outdoor routes are most popular.
Final Thoughts
Sofia offers an impressive mix of cultural sights, mountain scenery, and thermal springs. For a quick city escape, the Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa gives you a taste of everything. For those craving outdoor adventure paired with wellness, the Seven Rila Lakes trips are hard to beat. And if you’re after a comprehensive day with hiking and hot springs, the Full-day Rila Mountain and Spa tour provides a well-rounded option.
If you prefer a private experience or a flexible schedule, the Private Day Trip to Sapareva Banya or Spa & Rila Monastery tours will suit you best. No matter your choice, booking early ensures you’ll enjoy Bulgaria’s soothing mineral waters and stunning mountain views without hassle.
Happy travels and enjoy your time in Sofia—your wellness adventure awaits!