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aerial view photography of buildings - Photo by Georgi Kalaydzhiev

Explore the Delights of Sofia, Bulgaria: A Must-Visit

About Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, Bulgaria is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. Explore centuries-old churches, scenic parks, and bustling markets. Experience the lively nightlife and delicious local cuisine. Sofia is a must-see destination for travelers seeking an authentic European experience.

Sofia, Bulgaria is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe that is waiting to be discovered. This city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

One of the most striking things about Sofia is its rich history, which is reflected in its architecture. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, medieval churches, and communist-era buildings, all within walking distance of each other. Some of the must-see historical landmarks include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Saint Sofia Church, and the National Palace of Culture.

Sofia is also a city of culture, with a vibrant arts scene that is sure to delight any traveler. The National Art Gallery and the National Museum of History are two of the best places to experience Bulgarian art and history. Visitors can also enjoy live music, theater, and dance performances at venues like the Ivan Vazov National Theater and the Sofia Opera and Ballet.

For those who love the outdoors, Sofia offers plenty of opportunities to get back to nature. The Vitosha Mountain, located just outside the city, is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore the city's many parks and gardens, such as the Borisova Gradina Park and the Sofia Zoo.

Finally, no trip to Sofia would be complete without experiencing its famous culinary scene. Bulgarian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, such as banitsa (a savory pastry), kavarma (a stew), and kozunak (a sweet bread). Visitors can sample these dishes and more at traditional Bulgarian restaurants like Niko'las and Hadjidraganovite kashti.

In conclusion, Sofia, Bulgaria is a travel destination that is not to be missed. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this Eastern European city.

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Popular Stays in Sofia, Bulgaria

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Sofia, Bulgaria

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Business hotelsHotels with spa

Ramada Sofia

Choose the Ramada Sofia City Center for a business trip, relaxing vacation, or grand event in Sofia. Walk to the city centre in 15 minutes, or take the subway nearby, just one stop. This location is just 12 kilometers from Sofia International Airport, offering 24-hour shuttle service for a nominal charge: 1 to 3 persons - 45 Euro for a private car (one way) and 4 to 6 persons - 15 Euro per person (one way). Shuttle reservation must be made 24 hours prior to arrival.Onsite, enjoy leisure amenities like indoor pool, spa with massage treatments, fitness centre and casino. Take advantage complimentary Internet access in your guest room and all common areas. Catering and event planning services are available for small meetings and large conferences, as well as banquets and weddings; while the business centre and lobby bar offer opportunities to chat with colleagues about professional matters. Starting Jan 10, 2019 Parking charges are applicable.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmFamily hotels

Inter Continental Sofia

The icon of international modern luxury in Sofia, vibrant with 7, 000 years of civilizations. Overlooking Narodno Sabranie Square and offering stunning views of Alexandar Nevski Cathedral, InterContinental Sofia is the capital’s ultimate luxury hotel. Our iconic location will provide you a truly authentic sense of the destination. Relax in one of our luxurious rooms before treating yourself to an unforgettable dinner at Floret Restaurant and Bar.
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Business hotelsSustainable HotelHotels with spaSport hotels

Hilton Sofia

The following services and amenities are available, but with **reduced service**: Breakfast, Room Service.The following services and amenities are currently **not available**: Executive Lounge.Welcome to the Hilton Sofia in the heart of the vibrant Bulgarian capital city, Sofia. You'll appreciate the stunning backdrop of Vitosha Mountain and our central location opposite the National Palace of Culture, Sofia's Congress Centre. Sofia International Airport is just 25 minutes away, and the capital's boutiques, restaurants, bars and commercial district are all within walking distance. The adjacent South Park is a wonderful place to have a stroll or do some jogging. You'll feel right at home in a modern guest room with plenty of room to relax or catch up on work. Upgrade to one of the Executive Floors and enjoy Executive Lounge access with drinks and snacks during the day. The city and mountain guestroom views will inspire you to explore Sofia. Take advantage of our Health Club with summer terrace, 24-hour fitness center, steam room, sauna and relaxing pool. The massage and Hair and Beauty studios offer a variety of treatments to pamper yourself. Award-winning Seasons Restaurant features delicious local fare and picturesque views of the stunning Vitosha Mountain. Enjoy a specialty brandy or cocktail in the Artists Bar and Café, or savor one of the delicious appetizers, sandwiches and pastries on offer.
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Business hotels

Sofia Balkan Palace

This 5 star hotel is located in the city centre of Sofia and was established in 1956. It is a short drive away from the Alexander Nevski Cathedral and the nearest station is Sveta Nedelya Square. The Hotel has a restaurant, a bar, a conference room, a coffee shop and a fitness centre/gym. All 241 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe and air conditioning.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmDesign

Marinela Sofia

This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Sofia within two km of the National Palace of Culture and 3 km from Bulgarian parliament. Prime location and phenomenal service combined at the hotel, making it a perfect home away from home. Garden" was created in the tranquility of its shadows; you can enjoy the great biodiversity of representatives of flora and fauna. Hotel guests can use the services of a modern gym and a large swimming pool. There is also a Vitamin bar with a huge selection of refreshing and energizing drinks. All rooms feature flat screen TV with cables or satellite, mini bars and free WI FI. The hotel welcome the guests for an exciting vacation experience. Business travelers will take pleasure in their stay at the hotel, which provides an atmosphere that is both productive and comfortable. Whatever the reason for visiting Sofia, ensures that the vacation will be a memorable one.
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Business hotels

Sveta Sofia

This hotel is centrally situated at the heart of the fabulous city of Sofia. Located on one of the main shopping streets, in only a number of minutes guests will reach shops, cultural venues and government buildings. This hotel is also not far from the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. Amongst the facilities count a currency exchange desk, a restaurant and a public Internet terminal. Those arriving by car may make use of the nearby hotel car park (fees apply). Room and laundry services are also available on offer.  The en suite rooms are modern and come fully – equipped as standard.  Guests have the opportunity to relax in the hotel's hot tub and for an additional fee, in the sauna.  The hotel's 130 seat restaurant is the perfect place to dine, on offer is a wide choice of Bulgarian, International and vegetarian cuisine.
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Business hotels

Crystal Palace Boutique Hotel

The Crystal Palace Boutique Hotel is a great boutique hotel, housed in a beautiful historic building, situated in the very centre of Sofia, right by the Doctor's Garden, St. Climent Ohridski University of Sofia, as well as St. Krill and Metodii National Library. Links to the public transport network are to be found just a few minutes' walk away. The hotel comprises a total of 63 double rooms fitted with up-to-date amenities and boasts common spaces of luxurious décor. It is a great place for both leisure and corporative travellers.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotels

Best Western Plus Expo Hotel

The Expo Hotel is located only 4 minutes away from Sofia's International Airport. You can find it right in the heart of Bulgaria's capital Business District right and across Sofia's leading International Exhibition center with direct access to the Metro line. We can offer every guest fully renovated luxurious guest rooms, equipped with HD TV and complimentary coffee or tea making facilities. Enjoy our elegant restaurant or a relaxing sophisticated supper in the open-air summer garden. Our business guests can also find a fully equipped business corner, multi-functional meeting rooms and a state-of-art business lounge. All our guests can have free shuttle to the airport and free parking. The high level of quality and service, combined with the friendly atmosphere will make your stay unforgettable. Enjoy your stay.

Things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Sofia, Bulgaria

Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress

Embark on a tour of the extraordinary Belogradchik Rock formations, recognized as one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. Take a visit to Belogradchik Medieval fortress. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
Belogradchik Full-day Tour from Sofia
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Belogradchik Full-day Tour from Sofia

Visit the Bulgarian town of Belogradchik on this guided, full-day, minibus tour from Sofia. Just 180 kilometers north of Sofia, nature has sculpted the amazing Belogradchik rocks, a group of strange shaped sandstone and conglomerate rock formations. The view from the old fortress of the fascinating formations is breathtaking. Use some imagination and visions of 'the Rabbit,' 'Adam and Eve,' 'the Ice-Age Squirrel,' 'the Rebel' and many more can be seen. On the way back to Sofia, visit a beautiful cave called Venetsa (aka the Wreath). Important information: Due to landslide Venetsa cave will be closed till March. In exchange Magurata cave will be visited.
Sofia and Vitosha Mountrain
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Sofia Full Day Tour

Visit Boyana Church, Historical Museum, St.Alexander Nevski Memorial church, St. Sofia church, St. George Rotunda Sofia is the contemporary capital of Bulgaria. Its population grew rapidly during the Communist-Socialist era (1944-1989) - at the time of its liberation from the Turks in 1878, the population of the city was 11,649 inhabitants and for a few decades after that the city experienced large population growth mainly from other regions of the country.During World War 2, Sofia was bombed by allied air crafts in late 1943 and early 1944. As a consequence of the invasion of the Soviet Red Army, Bulgaria's government, which was allied with Germany, was overthrown.The transformations of Bulgaria into a People's Republic in 1946 and Republic of Bulgaria marked significant changes in the city's appearance
Vitosha Mountain- Heritage and Hiking- Private Day Trip
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Vitosha Mountain- Heritage and Hiking- Private Day Trip

This is a Private Tour so you will not be combined with other people besides those in your reservation- there will be a private car and a private driver- guide just for you! With this this tour you will see: Boyana Church- a UNESCO Heritage sight and National Historical Museum, hike to Boyana lake and Boyana waterfall, stone river of Golden Bridges. Most times the trips are done with eco friendly cars - with cng engine or electro mobiles, so that we can help fighting the air polution.
Private Sofia Half Day Tour with Boyana Church and National History Museum
Digital Voucher300 minutes

Private Sofia Half Day Tour with Boyana Church and National History Museum

Enjoy a half-day private tour with which you will have the chance not only to see the central part of Sofia, but also the Boyana Church - a UNESCO heritage site - and the National History Museum, situated at the foot of Vitosha Mountain.
Secrets, Facts & Legends of Sofia: Full Day Tour
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Secrets, Facts & Legends of Sofia: Full Day Tour

Despite that Sofia is very young as the capital of a country it has a very long and dynamic history. You will be lead through it by our highly educated guides and also with the help of two museums – The National Archaeology Museum and Sofia History Museum. In the first one, you will learn about the ancient heritage that Bulgaria has and from the second you will learn about our 20th century monarchy period when Sofia became the center of our country. Also during the day tour, the remains of the Roman city of Serdica will be revealed by visiting the Roman ruins, St. Sofia church, and the rotunda of St. George. Other highlights will be Alexander Nevski cathedral, the symbol of the city, the monarchy palace, Sofia University main building, a piece of art from the very late 19th century, the parliament and of course the Communist administrative center, the stunning view of the “Horseshoe” and the legacy of “The Bells".
Mt. Vitosha and Boyana Waterfall Hiking Tour from Sofia
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Mt. Vitosha and Boyana Waterfall Hiking Tour from Sofia

Hike through the beautiful Vitosha Mountain; visit to the Boyana lake and Boyana waterfall.This walking tour is for the admirers of wild nature and crystal-clear air. This shared experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
Day tour to Rila monastery, hiking to the cave of St. John and Boyana church
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Day tour to Rila monastery, hiking to the cave of St. John and Boyana church

Small group bigger experience! • Visit the Boyana Church – an inspiring temple, with unique frescoes from the 13th century. • Visit the top Bulgarian Landmark, a UNESCO site and the biggest Monastery in Bulgaria – Rila monastery. • Know more about the Eastern Orthodox traditions, frescoes and history. • Get close to the nature and enjoy the “Rila Mountain Natural Park”, the biggest in Bulgaria. • Know more about Bulgarian culture • Walking through an old beech forest, which takes us to a mystical place - the cave and the prayer rock of the hermit

Why People Love Sofia, Bulgaria

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Sofia, Bulgaria

D
dianee_c
5
Aug 2016
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress

Excellent tour to an amazing fortress. Lots of climbing and great views. Methodiy was a knowledgeable and informative guide.

TS
Thomas S
4
Oct 2015
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress

Die Felsen und die Festung würden sofort 5 Sterne bekommen, ebenso Stojan als Reiseführer. Den Stern Abzug gibt es einzig und allein dafür, dass Belogradchick viel zu weit von Sofia für einen Tagesausflug entfernt ist rund 250 km einfach, was insgesamt bei bulgarischen Straßen eine Fahrzeit vo...

AS
Antoaneta S
5
Nov 2023
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Belogradchik Rocks and Belogradchik Fortress
Undoubtedly, the Belogradchik rocks are one of the unique natural phenomena not only in Bulgaria and Europe, but also on a global scale. The most interesting and significant cultural monument in a historical aspect in Belogradchik is the "Kaleto" fortress. It is one of the best preserved fortres...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Sofia

What are the must-visit attractions in Sofia?

Sofia is home to many beautiful and historic landmarks. Some of the must-visit attractions include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the National Museum of History.

What are the best outdoor activities to do in Sofia?

Sofia has many outdoor activities to offer. You can visit the Vitosha Mountain for hiking or skiing, walk around the Borisova Gradina park, or take a bike ride around the city.

What is the best time of year to visit Sofia?

The best time to visit Sofia is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events happening. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds, spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) can be a good option.

What is the local cuisine in Sofia?

Sofia is known for its delicious traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include banitsa (a pastry filled with cheese and eggs), kavarma (a meat stew), and tarator (a cold soup made with yogurt and cucumbers).

What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Sofia?

There are many great neighborhoods in Sofia that offer a variety of accommodations. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include the city center, Lozenets, and Oborishte. These neighborhoods offer easy access to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

What is the nightlife like in Sofia?

Sofia has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Some of the popular areas for nightlife include Vitosha Boulevard, Studentski Grad, and the Red House Center for Culture and Debate.

What are the best day trips from Sofia?

Sofia is surrounded by many beautiful towns and attractions that are worth a day trip. Some of the popular destinations include the Rila Monastery, the Boyana Church, and the Plovdiv Old Town.

What is the transportation system like in Sofia?

Sofia has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and a metro. You can purchase a pass at any station or use the various ticket machines located throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

What are the best museums to visit in Sofia?

Sofia has many great museums that showcase the country's history and culture. Some of the must-visit museums include the National Museum of History, the National Art Gallery, and the Museum of Socialist Art.

What are the best shopping areas in Sofia?

Sofia has many great shopping areas that offer a variety of stores and products. Some of the popular areas include Vitosha Boulevard, the Mall of Sofia, and the Central Market Hall.