General Information
Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a city where history meets modernity. With a blend of ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, communist-era landmarks, and modern cafes, it offers a unique cultural experience. Sofia is one of Europe’s oldest cities, founded over 7,000 years ago, and is now a lively destination with beautiful parks, stunning churches, and a vibrant nightlife.
Location
Sofia is located in western Bulgaria, at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, making it a great city for both urban exploration and outdoor adventures.
Nearby Destinations:
- Vitosha Mountain – 10 km (hiking and skiing spot)
- Plovdiv – 150 km (Bulgaria’s cultural capital)
- Rila Monastery – 120 km (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Bansko – 160 km (popular ski resort)
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Sofia International Airport (SOF) – Direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
- By Train:
- Connected to Bucharest, Belgrade, and Thessaloniki via international rail.
- By Bus:
- Daily buses from Istanbul, Skopje, Athens, and Belgrade.
- By Car:
- Major highways connect Sofia to Greece, Serbia, Romania, and North Macedonia.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Pleasant weather (15–25°C) and blooming parks.
- Summer (July – August): Warm (25–35°C), perfect for outdoor cafes.
- Autumn (September – October): Mild and colorful, ideal for sightseeing.
- Winter (November – March): Snowy and great for skiing in Vitosha.
Key Festivals & Events
- Sofia Film Festival (March) – International cinema event.
- Sofia Music Weeks (May – June) – Classical and jazz concerts.
- A to JazZ Festival (July) – Open-air jazz festival.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Grand Hotel Sofia – Elegant 5-star hotel with top amenities.
- InterContinental Sofia – A luxurious stay near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Mid-range:
- Sense Hotel Sofia – A boutique hotel with a rooftop bar.
- Hotel Niky – Cozy and central with great service.
- Budget:
- Hostel Mostel – Popular with backpackers.
- R34 Boutique Hotel – Affordable yet stylish accommodation.
Top Attractions
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: The most iconic landmark of Sofia.
- Vitosha Boulevard: A lively street with shops, restaurants, and cafés.
- Boyana Church: A UNESCO-listed medieval church with beautiful frescoes.
- National Palace of Culture (NDK): A massive cultural center with exhibitions and concerts.
- Banya Bashi Mosque: A historic Ottoman mosque from the 16th century.
- Sofia History Museum: Housed in a stunning former Turkish bathhouse.
- Ivan Vazov National Theater: A grand neoclassical building hosting theater performances.
- Serdika Roman Ruins: Ancient ruins in the middle of modern Sofia.
- Vitosha Mountain: Great for hiking, skiing, and panoramic views.
- Central Market Hall: A bustling market for local food and souvenirs.
Getting Around
- Metro: Fast and cheap, with connections to the airport.
- Trams & Buses: Extensive network covering the entire city.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Apps like TaxiMe and Bolt are reliable.
- Walking & Biking: The city center is walkable, and bike rentals are available.
Local Cuisine
Bulgarian food blends Balkan, Turkish, and Mediterranean flavors, with fresh vegetables, grilled meats, and dairy products.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Shopska Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and white cheese.
- Banitsa: A crispy pastry filled with cheese and eggs.
- Kavarma: A slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew.
- Kebapche: A grilled minced meat sausage, similar to Balkan ćevapi.
- Tarator: A cold yogurt and cucumber soup, perfect for summer.
Top Restaurants
- Moma Bulgarian Food & Wine: Traditional Bulgarian dishes in a modern setting.
- Hadjidraganovite Kashti: An authentic experience with folk music.
- Shtastliveca: A popular spot with a mix of Bulgarian and European cuisine.
Shopping in Sofia
- Vitosha Boulevard: The best place for fashion stores and souvenirs.
- Zhenski Pazar (Women’s Market): A historic open-air market with local produce.
- Mall of Sofia & Paradise Center: Modern malls for international brands.
- Central Market Hall: A great place for Bulgarian cheese, honey, and wine.
Nightlife in Sofia
Sofia has an exciting nightlife, from stylish cocktail bars to underground clubs.
- One More Bar: A trendy place for cocktails and craft beer.
- Sputnik Bar: Famous for creative drinks and a retro vibe.
- Bar Petak: A favorite among locals and expats.
- Yalta Club: The best electronic music club in Sofia.
- Terminal 1: A mix of live music, rock, and DJ performances.
Day Trips from Sofia
- Rila Monastery: The most famous monastery in Bulgaria (UNESCO-listed).
- Plovdiv: A charming city with ancient Roman ruins and old town charm.
- Koprivshtitsa: A picturesque historical town with 19th-century architecture.
- Seven Rila Lakes: A breathtaking hiking destination.
- Melnik: Bulgaria’s smallest town, known for wine production.