Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Sofia with kids? You’re in for a treat. Bulgaria’s capital is one of Europe’s most laid-back and affordable cities, but it also happens to be full of enriching, exciting experiences for children of all ages.
Sofia offers a well-balanced combination of urban parks, interactive museums, cozy restaurants, and playful attractions. Whether you’re exploring with toddlers or pre-teens, this city caters surprisingly well to families. Let’s take a tour through the best things to do in Sofia with kids — where fun, learning, and relaxation go hand in hand.
Borisova Garden: The City’s Natural Playground
Your Sofia family adventure should start at Borisova Garden, the city’s oldest and most beloved park. It has large open lawns, tree-shaded paths, and several modern playgrounds. This park is an ideal spot for picnics, frisbee, scooter rides, or just letting the kids run freely.
Within the park, Kokolandia Adventure Park adds an extra layer of excitement with rope courses and zip lines suitable for children aged 4 and up. It’s safe, affordable, and provides supervised outdoor fun that burns off energy in the best way possible.
Nearby, Lake Ariana offers boat rentals in summer and ice skating in winter, making it a year-round destination.
What to Do in Sofia with Kids: Top Family Experiences
Now let’s dive into the essential attractions that make Sofia such a gem for traveling families.
1. Muzeiko – A Museum Made Just for Kids
Located in the Studentski Grad neighborhood, Muzeiko is Bulgaria’s only children’s science museum and one of the best in all of Eastern Europe. It’s built from the ground up with kids in mind — packed with interactive exhibits that let children touch, build, explore, and experiment.
From space stations and archaeological digs to water cycles and eco houses, the activities span science, nature, and innovation. There’s even a dedicated toddler area for the smallest explorers. If you’re asking yourself what to do in Sofia with kids, this should be at the top of your list.
Smithsonian Magazine recommends hands-on science museums like Muzeiko as vital stops on any family European itinerary.
2. Sofia Zoo
Just a short drive from the center, Sofia Zoo offers a gentle escape for animal-loving kids. It’s home to over 2,000 animals including lions, elephants, bears, birds, and reptiles. The zoo features wide shaded paths, benches, and inexpensive snack stands — perfect for a quiet stroll with young ones.
While it doesn’t have the flash of major Western zoos, it makes up for it in charm, calmness, and affordability. Expect to spend two hours or more wandering through with plenty of breaks.
3. South Park (Yuzhen Park)
This large urban park in southern Sofia is another haven for families. It has paved walking trails for strollers, duck ponds, fountains, and at least three modern playgrounds. On weekends in spring and summer, food vendors and musicians often appear — adding energy and color to the atmosphere.
Bring a ball, rent a kids’ bike on-site, or grab a snack at one of the many cafés lining the park’s edges.
4. Vitosha Mountain & Chairlift
For a bit of nature just outside the city, head up Vitosha Mountain. Accessible via taxi or public transit, Vitosha offers light hiking, fresh air, and a break from city streets. Kids will love the Dragalevtsi Chairlift, which carries you over forested slopes to scenic lookouts and gentle trails.
During the winter months, beginner ski schools operate here, making it an ideal place for children to try skiing or snowboarding.
This location is often listed among Bulgaria’s top family excursions by sites like Lonely Planet.
5. National Museum of Natural History
If the weather turns, this downtown museum offers four compact floors of fossils, crystals, insects, and taxidermy animals. It’s manageable even for younger kids and has enough dinosaurs and creepy crawlies to keep them intrigued.
Pair it with a visit to the nearby Central Mineral Baths, where kids can splash in fountains or sip mineral water straight from public spouts.
6. Free Sofia Tour
The Free Sofia Tour is a donation-based walking tour that’s perfect for older kids (9+) who are curious about history. Guided by locals, the tour is dynamic and fun — weaving storytelling with city landmarks like the ancient Roman ruins, the yellow-brick road, and Sofia’s famous churches.
For families who want to blend sightseeing with education, this is a must. Check the official website to confirm family-friendly time slots. Rick Steves recommends walking tours for deeper cultural experiences.
7. Puppet Theatre and Art Workshops
Sofia’s State Puppet Theatre hosts delightful performances aimed at young audiences. While most shows are in Bulgarian, the visual storytelling makes them engaging for kids of any language.
For something hands-on, consider a short art class at Da Vinci Art Studio, where kids can paint, build, and play with clay in a creative environment.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Sofia
Dining out with kids in Sofia is a stress-free experience. Many places are casual, serve simple food options, and are welcoming to even the tiniest travelers. Here are four spots that stand out:
Made in Home
📍 30A Angel Kanchev Street (near NDK metro)
This cozy restaurant offers colorful decor, a casual vibe, and a menu with comfort dishes like grilled chicken, pasta, and soups. It’s stroller-accessible, and staff are attentive to families. Great for brunch or early dinner.
The Little Things
📍 37 Tsar Ivan Shishman Street (just off the city center)
Located in a charming old house with a backyard garden, this restaurant allows kids to move around safely while waiting. The homemade dishes and soft lighting make it a peaceful option for families.
Happy Bar & Grill
📍 4 Sveta Nedelya Square (central location)
A family favorite with multiple Sofia locations, Happy Bar & Grill offers an extensive menu and kid-sized portions. Highchairs, fast service, and child-friendly meals like spaghetti and grilled chicken keep everyone satisfied.
Raffy Gelato & Bar
📍 Vitosha Boulevard pedestrian street
This is the go-to spot for waffles, pancakes, and big ice cream sundaes. Located on the city’s most popular walking street, it’s easy to access and perfect for a casual meal or sweet reward after sightseeing.
More Fun Ideas for Kids in Sofia
If you’re still building your itinerary, here are a few more bonus ideas:
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Take a tram ride — Sofia’s vintage yellow trams are fun, cheap, and give a unique view of the city.
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Walk down Vitosha Boulevard — Full of buskers, cafés, and souvenir stands, it’s stroller-safe and always lively.
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Visit Sofia City Art Gallery — Some family workshops are hosted here on weekends.
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Ride scooters in Zaimov Park — Less known than Borisova or South Park but ideal for kids with scooters or skateboards.
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Try the light fountains at NDK in the evening — Music and lights create a magical setting for children.
FAQ About What to Do in Sofia with Kids
Q1: Do Sofia restaurants offer highchairs?
