Sofia stands out as a city that combines a lively bar scene with a history-rich backdrop, making it an excellent place for drinking tours. Whether you’re after discovering hidden bars, enjoying nightlife, or sampling local wines and beers, Sofia offers options that cater to all tastes. We particularly like the Sofia’s Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl for its relaxed, social vibe and the chance to explore secret spots you wouldn’t find on your own. The Sofia Party Pub Crawl is perfect if you’re looking to dance and drink your way through the city’s best venues, and the Tour&Tasting Beer and Wine offers a more intimate, wine- and food-focused experience. Each provides a unique way to experience Sofia’s nightlife, with different moods, prices, and itineraries.
Quick Overview
On this list, we highlight three top drinking tours: the hidden bars pub crawl, the party pub crawl, and the beer and wine tasting tour. Each caters to different interests—whether you prefer discovering lesser-known bars, dancing at Sofia’s hottest clubs, or savoring local drinks paired with traditional snacks. For more details, check out these experiences: Sofia’s Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl, Sofia Party Pub Crawl, and Tour&Tasting Beer and Wine.
1. Sofia’s Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl
At number 1, the Sofia’s Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl offers a fantastic way to uncover some of the most secretive, characterful spots in the city. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore offbeat bars that most travelers miss, gaining insight into Sofia’s nightlife that’s often hidden behind unassuming doors. The tour features free beers or wines and shots, making it easy to relax and mingle.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic, lesser-known venues that showcase Sofia’s diverse drinking culture. Guests rave about the chance to meet fellow travelers and locals, share stories, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The tour usually lasts four hours, with flexible start times — check availability for exact schedules. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you discover hidden gems while learning about Sofia’s everyday life. With a high rating of 4.6/5 from 679 reviews, it’s clear this experience delivers real value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, social introduction to Sofia’s underground bar scene. You’ll leave with new friends and a few good stories.
2. Sofia Party Pub Crawl – Party Tour of Sofia’s Best Bars & Clubs
Next up, the Sofia Party Pub Crawl is built for those who want to dive into the city’s nightlife in a lively, energetic way. For around $17.42 per person, this four-hour tour hits three of Sofia’s top bars and culminates in a top nightclub with free entrance. It’s the ideal choice for travelers keen on dancing, drinking, and socializing with a fun-loving crowd.
Your guide will lead you to unique venues with great music and vibrant atmospheres, including a “magic” bar known for its cool vibe. The tour kicks off at 8:30 pm in front of the Palace of Justice, ensuring a smooth start. Guests typically enjoy a welcome shot at each venue and get to play Bulgarian drinking games—a great way to break the ice. Reviews mention the guide’s excellent knowledge of local nightlife and how the tour is a memorable way to experience Sofia’s party scene.
Bottom Line: Best suited for night owls and groups looking for a lively, energetic night out with a mix of drinks, dance, and new friends.
3. Sofia: Tour&Tasting Beer and Wine with Local Appetizers
Finally, the Tour&Tasting Beer and Wine is a smaller, more intimate experience designed for those who want to taste Sofia’s best drinks with local snacks. Lasting around two hours, this guided tour takes you to key attractions like St. Sofia Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and others, but with a focus on culinary delights.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on local wine, beer, and traditional meze — dried meats, cheeses, and regional snacks. Attendees get to sample quality Bulgarian wines and local beers in a relaxed setting, while the guide shares insights into Sofia’s culture and history. Guests have praised the guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to enjoy delicious drinks and snacks during the exploration. The tour ends at Barila Bar, where you can continue your evening independently or ask for recommendations.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in local flavors and a deeper cultural experience, without a huge time commitment.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and energy level. If you want a laid-back discovery of secret bars and a chance to meet fellow travelers, the Sofia’s Hidden Bars Pub Crawl is perfect. For a high-energy nightlife experience with dancing and Bulgarian drinking games, the Party Pub Crawl hits the mark. If you prefer tasting local drinks and learning about Sofia’s culture in a more relaxed, educational setting, the Beer and Wine Tour offers a memorable, intimate experience.
Think about whether you want to spend an evening dancing or prefer a shorter, food-focused tour. Also, check availability and book early during peak tourist season to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Sofia offers a variety of drinking tours that suit different tastes and travel styles. For a relaxed, social vibe, the Hidden Bars Pub Crawl is a top pick, while those eager to dance and party will find the Sofia Party Pub Crawl just right. If you’re more interested in savoring local drinks paired with tasty snacks, the Tour&Tasting Beer and Wine provides a charming, educational experience.
No matter which tour you choose, each offers a chance to connect with local culture in a fun way. We recommend booking early, especially in summer, when Sofia’s nightlife buzz is at its peak. These experiences will give you stories to tell long after your trip ends.
Enjoy your stay in Sofia, and cheers to discovering some of the best drinking spots Bulgaria’s capital has to offer!