Top locations close to Sofia for a weekend trip – Tsari Mali Grad

Include this landmark in your list when your plan your visit to Sofia, Bulgaria!

Tsari Mali Grad is an ancient hilltop fortress outside the town of Belchin, Bulgaria. Belchin is 90 km south of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. You can get to the fortress within an hour by car.

The fortress was first built in IV – V century and has been recently restored. The restoration works ended in 2013 and since then, the fortress has been open for tourists for a small fee of EUR 2.

To get to the fortress, you have to climb up the hill – it will take you ~15 min. There’s also a car road to get all the way up, but it’s only possible in good weather.

Tsari Mali Grad – Selo Belchin Samokov

Besides the fortress, there’s also a small restaurant with barbecue below the hill where you can pick up lunch. On top of the hill near the fortress is a children’s playground, tree climbing are and horseback riding.

Fortress Tsari Mali Grad

Tsari Mali Grad fortress is worth seeing, especially with a SPA hotel close-by!

Accommodation near the fortress

You can book your stay with a 10% discount! Follow our instructions here!

Town of Belchin is known for the mineral springs. There are numerous small guesthouses and restaurants all over the town as many of people that live in Sofia visit Belchin over the weekend.

Our top pick that we would recommend for your stay in Belchin is Spa Hotel Belchin Garden. This hotel is a 4-star property right outside of Belchin. It features modern rooms with spa baths, restaurant, indoor pool and spa center.

Tsari Mali Grad – location