Sofia is a surprisingly rich destination for Spa & Hot Springs Experiences. Beyond its vibrant city life, the area’s natural landscapes—like the Rila Mountains and historic sites—offer a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Whether you’re craving a vigorous hike followed by soaking in mineral springs or a gentle cultural tour with a dip in thermal waters, Sofia has options to suit every taste. One of our favorites is the Full-day Rila Mountains, Seven Lakes Hike, and Hot Springs Tour [], which combines scenic hiking with a soothing soak at Sapareva Banya.
For those short on time but eager to experience Bulgaria’s natural springs, the Half Day Tour – Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa [] provides a taste of local culture, history, and a relaxing dip—all within six hours. If you want a more comprehensive adventure that combines horseback riding, cultural sites, and thermal baths, the Experience Sofia – nature, history, horse riding and SPA [] offers a full day exploring beyond Sofia’s city limits.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top-rated tours, helping you decide which best fits your style and schedule.
1. Full-day Rila Mountains, Seven Lakes Hike, and Hot Springs Tour from Sofia
This tour is a standout for travelers who love hiking and natural scenery, combined with a relaxing thermal bath experience. It starts with a pick-up early in the morning from Sofia, heading toward the stunning Rila Mountains National Park. The tour offers an option of a 3- or 5-hour hike around the famous Seven Rila Lakes, which are renowned for their dramatic beauty and stark mountain scenery. The hike includes highlights like Okoto Lake, Lakes Peak, and Bubreka Lake, with the trail being rated as easy to moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
What makes this tour special is the seamless combination of guided mountain trekking and thermal relaxation. After a full day of hiking, you’ll visit the Sapareva Banya Spa resort, known for its deeply mineral-rich hot springs fed by one of Europe’s hottest mineral springs at 103°C. Tour reviews highlight the personable guides like Phil and Genko, who bring the landscape and history to life, making the experience both educational and memorable.
Key highlights include the scenic chair lift ride to Rila Lakes hut and the opportunity to soak in natural hot springs that soothe tired muscles. The value for money is solid, considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and admission fees included. Ideal for active travelers who appreciate mountain scenery but also want time to unwind in nature’s thermal baths.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Bulgaria’s natural beauty, perfect for adventurous types who want a mix of hiking and relaxation.
2. From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes Hiking & Thermal Spa Day Tour
For those seeking a more relaxed pace while still experiencing the stunning seven Rila Lakes, this day tour hits the mark. It’s rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 41 reviews, reflecting high satisfaction among travelers. It begins with a scenic drive from Sofia to the Rila Mountains, where you’ll enjoy an easy to moderate hike in the heart of the national park.
One of the standout features of this tour is the thermal pools at Sapareva Banya Spa Resort. Guests rave about the deep relaxation after a long day of hiking, with many noting the knowledgeable guide Mariya, who shares insightful historical and cultural details along the way. The itinerary includes a cable car ride (or a challenging walk if the lift is not operational), offering a different perspective on the landscape.
This tour is perfect for travelers with limited time but who want to see iconic mountain lakes and enjoy Bulgaria’s thermal waters. The value is evident in the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and the guided experience, making it a good choice for families or those easing into outdoor activities.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for a comfortable, scenic, and educational day trip—especially if you prefer a gentle hike combined with spa relaxation.
3. Half Day Tour – Sofia and the mountains with Thermal Spa
If your schedule is tight but you don’t want to miss out on Bulgaria’s cultural sites and thermal springs, this half-day tour offers a concise package. Starting from Sofia, the itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks like the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Boyana Church, and panoramic views from the Kopitoto TV Tower.
The tour also offers a dip in the outdoor, natural hot springs pool at Pacherevo lake, making it perfect for travelers keen on combining sightseeing with a bit of wellness. The guide is praised for providing a personalized experience, and the tour is rated 5/5 based on reviews.
This shorter experience is ideal for luxury travelers or city explorers who want a quick but meaningful escape into Bulgaria’s natural and historic highlights. The value lies in the efficient use of time, allowing you to see key sights and relax without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: A great pick for those with limited time who want a taste of both culture and hot springs in just a few hours.
4. Experience Sofia – nature, history, horse riding and SPA
This full-day tour is for adventure seekers and culture vultures alike. Starting with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, the tour combines historical exploration with outdoor activities like horseback riding in Plana Mountain. It’s a 8-hour adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation at the Sapareva Banya hot springs.
One of the tour’s strengths is its variety: from panoramic drives to cultural sites and mountain horseback riding. The local guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and fun. The visit to Sapareva Banya involves soaking in hot mineral waters with scenic mountain views, providing a satisfying conclusion to a busy day.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a full day of diverse activities combining culture, outdoor adventure, and wellness. Its value is boosted by the inclusion of a traditional Bulgarian lunch amid the mountain scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who enjoy a rich mix of history, nature, riding, and thermal bathing in one day.
5. Resilovo Monastery, Waterfall & Hot Springs Day Trip from Sofia
This tour offers a blend of cultural, natural, and wellness experiences, perfect for those who want to escape the city and explore Bulgaria’s countryside. The trip features a visit to Resilovo Monastery, known for its peaceful setting, and a scenic waterfall hike that appeals to nature lovers.
The highlight, however, is the chance to relax in natural hot mineral pools, which provide both therapeutic benefits and a chance to unwind amid beautiful landscapes. The small group setting encourages personalized attention, and travelers mention the enthusiastic guide sharing insights into the local culture and environment.
This day trip is suitable for travelers interested in cultural sites combined with outdoor activities and wellness. Reviews note the laughter and camaraderie during the trip, making it as much about the experience as the sights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxing, culturally rich day with opportunities for waterfall views and hot springs.
6. Hiking to the scenic Seven Rila Lakes with Waterfall and SPA
This longer, 9-hour guided hike is for the hardcore outdoor enthusiast willing to invest a full day exploring Bulgaria’s premier mountain lakes. It features visits to Kidney Lake and the Seven Rila Lakes, with the added adventure of a visit to the highest waterfall in the region.
The tour includes a transfer from Sofia and a guided trek through Rila National Park—certainly a more strenuous option at $319 per person, but one that rewards with stunning landscapes and a chance to relax afterward in Sapareva Banya’s mineral waters. The emphasis on exploring multiple lakes makes this a top pick for nature lovers seeking a comprehensive mountain experience.
Reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and the well-organized logistics, making it an excellent choice for travelers with good fitness levels and a desire for a full immersion in Bulgaria’s mountain wilderness.
Bottom Line: For travelers ready for a full-day, in-depth mountain adventure with multiple lakes, waterfalls, and a spa wind down, this is the prime choice.
How to Choose
When selecting a spa or hot springs experience in Sofia, consider your time availability, fitness level, and interest in cultural or outdoor activities. If you love hiking and scenery, the Full-day Rila Lakes tour offers the best combination of nature and relaxation. Those with limited time should look at the half-day Sofia city and thermal springs tour.
For a full immersion into Bulgaria’s natural beauty with diverse activities, the Experience Sofia tour is ideal. Meanwhile, travelers seeking a relaxing cultural experience can opt for the Resilovo Monastery and waterfall trip.
Remember, booking early is wise during peak months (spring and summer) to ensure availability, especially for popular tours like the Seven Lakes hikes and full-day adventures.
Sofia’s spa and hot springs scene offers a range of options—whether you’re after a vigorous mountain hike combined with thermal baths, a quick city escape, or a full day of outdoor culture and relaxation. For active travelers, the full-day Rila Mountains tour is a standout, while those pressed for time might prefer the half-day Sofia experience. For a more diverse day out, the Experience Sofia tour combines history, horses, and wellness seamlessly.
Whatever your style, Bulgaria’s natural hot springs and scenic landscapes promise a rejuvenating experience. Be sure to plan ahead, pick the tour that matches your interests, and enjoy your time soaking in Bulgaria’s mineral-rich waters.