Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
/ Person
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
/ Person
Select date and participants
At least one participant is required. Please adjust and try again.

Communist Walking Tour of Sofia

5 (475)
Sofia, BG
Share

Communist Walking Tour of Sofia

5 (475)
Sofia, BG
Share
Experience the captivating history of Sofia during the Communist era on this immersive walking tour. Step back in time as you delve into Sofia's past and learn about the 45-year-long period of Communist rule. With an objective and informative approach, this tour explores the factors that led to the Communist regime and its aftermath. From the hidden church that tells the story of religion during this time to the iconic Soviet Army Monument with its graffiti art, each stop on the itinerary unveils a different aspect of this fascinating period. Discover the stories behind the Former Bulgarian Communist Party Headquarters and the National Palace of Culture, Sofia's biggest communist landmark. The tour culminates next to a piece of the Berlin Wall, symbolizing the triumph of democracy. Get ready to be captivated by the history and culture of Sofia on this Communist walking tour.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • "Discover the hidden secrets of Sofia's communist past"
  • "Learn about the arrival of the Soviet Army in Bulgaria"
  • "Explore the Largo Complex and hear the story of the Red Star and Statue of Lenin"
  • "Uncover the history of Sofia's most controversial monument, the Soviet Army Monument"
  • "Visit the National Palace of Culture, Sofia's biggest communist landmark"
  • Local guide
  • Professional guide
  • Gratuities

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Step into the intriguing world of Bulgaria's communist past with the Communist Walking Tour of Sofia. This 3-3.5 hour tour will transport you back in time to the 45-year-long period of the Iron Curtain. Gain a deeper understanding of the factors that led to the communist regime and its aftermath as you explore Sofia's significant landmarks and hidden gems.

What to expect?

During the Communist Walking Tour of Sofia, you can expect to uncover the captivating history of Bulgaria's communist era. Explore notable sites such as the Sofia Court House, where the tour begins, and learn about the arrival of the Soviet Army in Bulgaria at the Presidency Building. Discover the Former Bulgarian Communist Party Headquarters and its intriguing story of the Red Star and Statue of Lenin. Immerse yourself in the history of the Mausoleum at City Garden and witness Sofia's most controversial monument, the Soviet Army Monument.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex history of Bulgaria. Whether you are a seasoned traveler looking to uncover the hidden stories of Sofia or a first-time visitor eager to learn about the city's intriguing past, this tour caters to all. Join fellow explorers from different backgrounds and perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding of Bulgaria's communist era.

Why book this?

By booking the Communist Walking Tour of Sofia, you will embark on a unique journey through history, guided by knowledgeable experts. This tour offers an unbiased and informative perspective, giving you a deeper understanding of the significant events and impacts of communism in Bulgaria. Immerse yourself in the stories and anecdotes of the era, allowing you to connect with the past and gain a new appreciation for Sofia's cultural heritage.

Good to know

As you embark on this tour, it is essential to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. The tour will last approximately 3-3.5 hours, allowing you to explore the key landmarks and learn about their historical context. The tour culminates next to a piece of the Berlin Wall, a powerful symbol of the fall of communism. Be prepared to be immersed in history and gain a unique perspective on Sofia's past.

Reviews

Visitors who have experienced the Communist Walking Tour of Sofia have praised the knowledgeable guides who bring the history to life. Many have appreciated the comprehensive coverage of significant landmarks and hidden gems, providing a holistic understanding of the communist era. Travelers have enjoyed the opportunity to learn about Sofia's history from a different perspective, allowing them to appreciate the city's cultural heritage in a new light. Overall, the tour has been highly recommended for its informative and engaging approach to Bulgaria's communist past.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Sofia Court House

The first stop of the Sofia Communist Tour.

365 Association Sofia Tours

The Palace of Justice in Sofia is the starting point of the Sofia Communist Tour.

Ancient Orthodox Church Saint Parascheva - the Old "St. Petka"

A hidden church. Religion during the Communist period.

The Presidency Building

The arrival of the Soviet Army in Bulgaria.

Former Bulgarian Communist Party Headquarters

The Largo Complex in the heart of Sofia. Story of the Red Star and Statue of Lenin.

City Garden

The story of the Mausoleum

National Art Gallery

(Pass by)

The building of the Former Royal Palace during the early communist days.

Soviet Army Monument

Sofia's most controversial monument and graffiti art. Early uprisings against the communist regime.

National Palace of Culture (NDK)

Sofia's biggest communist landmark and a famous cultural hub.

Berlin Wall

Final stop of the tour. The story of how it all ended.

Reviews

(475)

5 (475)

Brittmsri_N

Very good history description with excellent explanations of the background , the communist era and after. Stefan gave a very interesting lecture!!!! And he was so knowledgeable! An exceptional good tour!

imury

We were 5-10 minutes late at the rendezvous but there was no one there, after we tried calling the operator it gave an automated message that the phone number wasn’t in use.

murphdean

I am so glad we took this tour. Our guide took us to a great many places, all in easy walking distance within the city center. Standing in front of buildings you wouldn't look at twice, he told us stories about events that transpired there. Some were painful, shocking, or sad. Some were funny or thought-provoking. Most were a combination. But none were boring.

Hector_M

This was one of the best tours in Sofia. The guide was extremely knowledgeable with first hand experience. I would recommend this tour to everyone!

Mel L

Excellent tour with Vasily. He was interesting, really knowledgeable, witty and engaging. Our tour was 3 hours which sounds a long time, but it has a little break in the middle and absolutely whizzed by. It was interesting from start to finish with a really good mix of sights and information putting different perspectives on the impact of communism. Highly recommended.

crochet51

Friendly greeting from Nikola . Such an interesting tour, I literally knew nothing about communism before the tour but felt educated by the end. Very well run tour by such a knowledgeable and charismatic young man ... thank you Nikola. We will return to the tunnels

Roger_J

A great three hour plus tour of sites in Sofia with a socialist/communist link. Helped also orientate ourselves in the city. The guide was well informed and told us a lot about his own experiences as Bulgaria came out of its 45 year experiment in communism. Highly recommended.

Rebecca_J

A very enjoyable afternoon learning about Bulgaria and Sofia through the lens of communism. Lots to learn and think about, and our guide Vasko for an excellent job of taking is through the last 100 years or so. A couple of jaw dropping moments and some laughs thrown into the mix meant that time flew by and before I knew it, it was home time. Thank you Vasko!

Sergio_A

The tour was outstanding. We truly loved it and without it for sure our minivacation to Sofia would have not been as good as it was. Our guide Nicky was very knoledgebole and complemented the general history with his personal memories and experience of the past. I reccomend to do it or you will miss something important.

Alini_C

Our guide, Dino, was energetic, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable. He was able to manage a mid size group on a 3 hour tour which involved a fair amount of walking which he paced carefully to accommodate everyone from a 5 year old child to several retirees and everything in between. The tour moves chronologically which is the easiest way to absorb information, helping us understand the rise, fall and transition of Bulgarian communism. Included are lots of interesting facts, figures, monuments and pictures of what they looked like in communist times. We don’t need to hold on to the past but if we don’t know where we’ve been, we won’t know where we’re going. This tour is not pro or against communism, it lays out the facts and presents both perspectives. A fun day. Well worth the time and money. I took the tour in English and Dino’s English was flawless so no issues there. Commendably, he was also able to provide the POV of his friends and family of their experiences with the communist party.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-04-26 08:05
Price breakdown
    Total
    Sorry, this date is sold out We recommend you try another date or try another product if your dates aren’t flexible.