Sofia is a surprisingly good place to find Massage & Relaxation Services that go beyond just a basic spa day. The city’s proximity to natural thermal springs and mountain landscapes makes it an ideal hub for wellness experiences. For instance, the Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa offers an exceptional mix of sightseeing combined with a dip in outdoor thermal pools, giving you a chance to see UNESCO-listed Boyana Church and enjoy panoramic views from Vitosha Mountain—[]. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of nature and history along with some soothing relaxation. We especially appreciate the opportunity to soak year-round in the Korali thermal spring, which is right on the mountain’s slopes.
If outdoor adventures and mountain scenery appeal to you, Sofia also offers fantastic options like guided hikes to the Seven Rila Lakes, followed by thermal spa visits—[]. These tours combine physical activity with restorative baths, making them ideal for active travelers who want to wind down. Whether you prefer guided walking tours, snowshoeing, or private spa trips, Sofia has a range of services to help you relax and explore.
Below, we’ve detailed the best massage and relaxation services, each with its own unique appeal, so you can find the perfect way to unwind during your visit.
1. Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa
At number 1 on our list, this half-day tour combines sightseeing with thermal relaxation. Starting from Sofia’s iconic St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the tour takes you to the National Museum of History, followed by a scenic drive to Vitosha Mountain where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and visit the Kopitoto TV Tower for unforgettable photos. The highlight, however, is the visit to the Boyana Church, a UNESCO heritage site, and the opportunity to soak in the Korali thermal spring—a natural outdoor thermal pool open year-round—for the full experience, see the link.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of cultural exploration and relaxation. The tour is rated 5.0/5 based on 40 reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guide, comfortable transfers, and the thermal dip. It’s an excellent choice for those with limited time but who still want a complete taste of Sofia’s surroundings. The inclusion of a traditional Bulgarian lunch adds a nice local touch—although this is at your own expense.
Bottom line: Perfect for visitors who want a mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and a soothing thermal soak, all within half a day.
2. Seven Rila lakes – guided day hiking with Waterfall and SPA
Number 2 is a favorite among outdoor lovers. This guided hike takes you deep into the Rila National Park to see Bulgaria’s Seven Rila Lakes, a stunning chain of glacial lakes high in the mountains. The tour includes a cable car ride from Panichishte, starting at 1800 meters altitude, climbing to 2500 meters, and passing by lakes with evocative names like The Kidney and The Fish Lake. After a few hours of exploring these natural wonders, you’ll visit the Goritsa Waterfall, then relax in a mineral spring—a perfect reward for your efforts—[].
This tour is rated 5.0/5 from 19 reviews, with travelers appreciating the flexibility and the guide’s local knowledge. The tour’s unique appeal is the combination of moderate hiking through snow or clear weather, depending on the season, and the bonus thermal spring soak afterward. It’s ideal for hikers who want an authentic mountain adventure coupled with the chance to unwind in natural mineral waters.
Bottom line: A great choice for active travelers who want scenic mountain views, a challenging hike, and a relaxing thermal bath in one day.
3. From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes Hiking & Thermal Spa Day Tour
Number 3 offers a full day of moderate hiking in the Rila Mountains, combined with a visit to the Sapareva Banya thermal spa. Starting from Sofia, this tour takes you to the Rila Lakes area on a scenic drive, followed by an easy-to-moderate hike with panoramic mountain views. Afterward, you’ll relax in the thermal pools of the local spa—more details here.
Rated 4.6/5 with 41 reviews, guests mention the knowledgeable guide Mariya and the breathtaking vistas. The tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of hiking and relaxation without a strenuous climb. It appeals to travelers who appreciate cultural insights along the way and the opportunity to unwind in thermal waters after the trek.
Bottom line: Ideal for hikers seeking scenic mountain views combined with a soothing thermal soak within a single day.
4. The Best of Sofia: Magical Snowshoeing Adventure in Vitosha & SPA
Number 4 is a winter favorite, especially for those who want to experience Vitosha Mountain in snow. This snowshoeing tour includes instruction for beginners, with itineraries suitable for all fitness levels—whether you want a gentle walk past frozen waterfalls or a more challenging trek. You’ll see centuries-old pines, stone rivers, and frozen waterfalls before ending with a relaxing dip in the Korali mineral pools—see the full description here.
Rated 5.0/5 from 10 reviews, travelers praise the expert guides, beautiful scenery, and the chance to try snowshoeing for the first time. The tour’s flexible itineraries make it perfect for families or outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine winter sports with relaxation.
Bottom line: A top pick for winter travelers who want an active day in snowy landscapes followed by a warm mineral soak.
5. Half Day Tour – Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa
Number 5 offers a shorter, 6-hour exploration of Sofia’s highlights combined with mountain views and thermal baths. Starting from the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, it includes visits to the National Museum of History and Vitosha Nature Park. The tour finishes with a relaxing bath in the Korali outdoor thermal pool—details here.
Rated 5/5 from 5 reviews, this tour is praised for its compact itinerary and friendly guide. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but rundown of Sofia’s sights and the chance to unwind in natural hot springs.
Bottom line: Suitable for those with limited time seeking a blend of culture, mountain views, and thermal relaxation.
6. Private Day Trip to Sapareva Banya for SPA
Number 6 provides a customizable, private experience in the charming mountain town of Sapareva Banya. The tour includes round-trip private transportation and the freedom to explore at your own pace, whether that’s soaking in baths, walking around the village, or enjoying local cuisine—more info here.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers highlight the personalized service and the peaceful atmosphere of the thermal pools. This trip is great for those who prefer privacy and flexibility, and for families or small groups who want to relax without a packed schedule.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers seeking a relaxed, private thermal experience in a scenic setting.
7. SPA in Sofia: The European Capital Of Thermal Water
Number 7 is a short but immersive tour of Sofia’s thermal spa traditions. It combines a tour of Saint Sofia Church and the Neo-Byzantine cathedral, with a visit to one of the oldest thermal centers—the Royal Bath of Sofia. You’ll enjoy soaking in natural thermal waters in a restored historic setting—details here.
Rated 5.0/5 from 1 review, this tour suits travelers wanting a brief cultural visit with a relaxing thermal bath experience. It’s ideal for those who want a quick immersion into Sofia’s wellness traditions.
Bottom line: Small but memorable, perfect for a half-day of cultural sightseeing and thermal relaxation.
$58.16 per person
8. From Sofia: SPA and Rila monastery
Number 8 combines cultural sightseeing with thermal spa relaxation. This full-day private tour takes you to the iconic Rila Monastery and later to a thermal spa in Sapareva Banya—more personalized than a big bus tour—more details here.
Rated 4.5/5, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see one of Bulgaria’s top attractions and relax afterward. The private driver adds convenience and comfort, making it an excellent pick for a relaxed, enriching day.
Bottom line: A splendid choice for those combining cultural interests with wellness.
9. Experience Sofia – nature, history, horse riding and SPA
This 8-hour tour offers a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. You’ll visit Boyana Church, with its stunning frescoes; ride horses in Plana Mountain; and unwind in Sapareva Banya’s hot mineral waters—full details here.
Rated 5/5, it’s geared toward active travelers wanting a varied day combining cultural sights, horseback riding, and thermal baths. The inclusion of horse riding makes it stand out from other wellness-focused tours.
Bottom line: Perfect for energetic travelers who want a day full of different experiences, ending in relaxation.
10. Hiking to the scenic Seven Rila lakes with Waterfall and SPA
Finally, number 10 offers an extensive 9-hour tour that includes a guided hike to the Seven Rila Lakes, a walk to the Kidney Lake, and a visit to Sapareva Banya’s mineral waters—more info here. This is the most comprehensive option on our list, perfect for serious hikers and wellness seekers alike.
Rated based on reviews, the tour emphasizes the breathtaking mountain scenery, along with the relaxing thermal baths afterward. The full day offers a deep immersion in Bulgaria’s natural beauty balanced with relaxation.
Bottom line: For those wanting a full, adventure-filled day with a focus on stunning landscapes and thermal relaxation.
$319 per person
How to Choose the Best Massage & Relaxation Service in Sofia
Picking the right experience depends on your priorities. If you’re tight on time but want a blend of cultural sights and wellness, the Half Day Tour around Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa is ideal. For dedicated outdoor enthusiasts, the Seven Rila Lakes guided hike or the Snowshoeing Adventure offer active days with restorative baths.
Travelers who want a personalized, private experience will appreciate tours like the Private SPA trip to Sapareva Banya. Budget-conscious visitors can opt for the shorter Sofia spa tour that combines cultural highlights with a thermal bath, or the SPA and Rila Monastery for a full-day cultural and wellness experience.
Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and interests. Do you want snowshoeing and mountain vistas? Or maybe a quiet soak in natural mineral waters? Early booking is recommended during peak seasons, especially winter for snow activities or summer for mountain hikes.
Final Thoughts
Sofia offers a surprisingly diverse selection of massage and relaxation experiences—from thermal springs and mountain hikes to private spa trips and cultural tours. Whether you’re looking for a half-day cultural exploration combined with thermal baths or a full-day hiking and spa adventure in the Rila Mountains, this list covers options for every type of traveler.
For those seeking active relaxation, tours like the Snowshoeing Adventure or the Seven Rila Lakes hike are perfect. If you prefer a more laid-back approach, the private spa trips and historical thermal bath tours provide peaceful retreats. Remember, booking early can secure your spot during busy seasons, so plan ahead to enjoy the best of Sofia’s wellness offerings.