Sofia travel guide

Sofia Tourism | Sofia Guide

You're Going to Love Sofia

Bulgaria's elegant and relaxed capital constantly throws up surprises. Whether it's stumbling upon the ruins of a Roman theater in the lobby of a luxury hotel, dining on superb Lebanese cuisine, or sifting through antiques at a flea market, Sofia has delights and distractions aplenty.

It also has plenty of history on offer. From its pre-Roman origins through periods as an Imperial outpost, a medieval Byzantine metropolis, an Ottoman center, and a key capital behind the Iron Curtain, Sofia has been many things, and has a wealth of historical attractions from every era.

Add in a ski resort within a half an hour of the city center, tens of heated open air swimming pools across the city, and a packed schedule of arts and music events, and you have a truly exceptional Eastern European destination.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Sofia

1. The Gorgeous Array of Churches

Sofia's historical jewels are obvious. When you wander around town, you'll be astonished by architectural masterworks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, and the Church of Sveti Sedmochislenitsi. Many used to serve as mosques, and Byzantine remains are everywhere.

2. Superb Museums on a Dizzying Variety of Topics

Museum fans never leave Sofia disappointed. The National Archaeological Institute is a great place to start, with artifacts dating back to the 4th century BC, and the Sofia History Museum makes a great chaser. After that, the Museum of Socialist Art is a must-see, while Muzeiko offers child-friendly science-themed exhibits.

3. World-Class Music, Art, and Dance Events

Sofia is one of the cultural hubs of the entire Balkan region. From the graceful performances during Sofia Dance Week and the full-on musical assault of Sofia Rocks, to the refined, intellectual pleasures of One Architecture Week, the city hosts events of all kinds.

4. There's a Modern Ski Resort within the Metropolitan Area

How many major world cities can boast a ski resort inside the city limits? Not many, but Sofia can. The city is overlooked by the bulk of Mount Vitosha, which, perhaps not unsurprisingly given its convenient location, is Bulgaria's most popular ski resort.

5. A Chance to Peek Behind the Iron Curtain

For many visitors, Sofia remains a name from an era of closed borders and international tension. These days, you can learn all about the city's Communist past at the Museum of Socialist Art, take walking tours of the city as it was in the 1950s, and hunt for Communist-era souvenirs at flea markets like Bitaka.

1. The Gorgeous Array of Churches

Sofia's historical jewels are obvious. When you wander around town, you'll be astonished by architectural masterworks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, and the Church of Sveti Sedmochislenitsi. Many used to serve as mosques, and Byzantine remains are everywhere.

2. Superb Museums on a Dizzying Variety of Topics

Museum fans never leave Sofia disappointed. The National Archaeological Institute is a great place to start, with artifacts dating back to the 4th century BC, and the Sofia History Museum makes a great chaser. After that, the Museum of Socialist Art is a must-see, while Muzeiko offers child-friendly science-themed exhibits.

3. World-Class Music, Art, and Dance Events

Sofia is one of the cultural hubs of the entire Balkan region. From the graceful performances during Sofia Dance Week and the full-on musical assault of Sofia Rocks, to the refined, intellectual pleasures of One Architecture Week, the city hosts events of all kinds.

4. There's a Modern Ski Resort within the Metropolitan Area

How many major world cities can boast a ski resort inside the city limits? Not many, but Sofia can. The city is overlooked by the bulk of Mount Vitosha, which, perhaps not unsurprisingly given its convenient location, is Bulgaria's most popular ski resort.

5. A Chance to Peek Behind the Iron Curtain

For many visitors, Sofia remains a name from an era of closed borders and international tension. These days, you can learn all about the city's Communist past at the Museum of Socialist Art, take walking tours of the city as it was in the 1950s, and hunt for Communist-era souvenirs at flea markets like Bitaka.

What to do in Sofia

1. The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Gold-topped Glory

One of the world's largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals, this 20th-century church was built in commemoration of the 200,000 soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish War. The Neo-Byzantine style is made up of soaring domes, a vast and ornate interior, and remarkable mosaics which spread across the walls. Get lost in the incredible detail of the artwork found on nearly every surface. Nearby, tourists will also find Sofia University and the National Art Gallery.

2. Vitosha Mountain: Escape the Concrete

Looming over the city and seen from throughout the capitol, Vitosha Mountain is the best day trip out of Sofia. Nearby but worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the urban streets, Vitosha has a variety of scenic hiking trails for visitors of all ages and skills levels. Make your way through a diversity of flora and fauna and take in the serenity of nature. In the winter things get cranked up a notch, with great alpine skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

3. National Historical Museum: Chronicles of Bulgaria

Hundreds of thousands of artifacts from throughout the history of Bulgaria are found here, in Sofia's largest museum. Prehistoric findings, archaeological discoveries, Medieval tales and more all make the museum the treasure trove that it is today. All the questions you've ever had about the nation are sure to be answered in the halls of this dedicated research center.

4. Boyana Church: To Medieval Times

This centuries-old church is one of the most well-preserved landmarks in Sofia, and it has developed alongside the city since the Middle Ages. Originally constructed around one thousand years ago, different elements of the building have been added with every subsequent century. Frescoes have been overlaid, wings have been extended, and other sections re-conceptualized. So today, the orthodox church remains a living reminder of the history of the city.

5. National Palace of Culture: Emblem of the City

Established for the support and celebration of Bulgarian culture, this enormous building stands out starkly in the midst of green parklands. You can't miss it - the futuristic, black-and-white design fills a vast footprint at the end of a long reflecting pool. Its facilities were established for the 1300th anniversary of the nation, and today it is one of the most popular venues in the region. At the very least, make sure to check out the building's exterior as you wander around the nearby parks and memorials.

1. The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Gold-topped Glory

One of the world's largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals, this 20th-century church was built in commemoration of the 200,000 soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish War. The Neo-Byzantine style is made up of soaring domes, a vast and ornate interior, and remarkable mosaics which spread across the walls. Get lost in the incredible detail of the artwork found on nearly every surface. Nearby, tourists will also find Sofia University and the National Art Gallery.

2. Vitosha Mountain: Escape the Concrete

Looming over the city and seen from throughout the capitol, Vitosha Mountain is the best day trip out of Sofia. Nearby but worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the urban streets, Vitosha has a variety of scenic hiking trails for visitors of all ages and skills levels. Make your way through a diversity of flora and fauna and take in the serenity of nature. In the winter things get cranked up a notch, with great alpine skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

3. National Historical Museum: Chronicles of Bulgaria

Hundreds of thousands of artifacts from throughout the history of Bulgaria are found here, in Sofia's largest museum. Prehistoric findings, archaeological discoveries, Medieval tales and more all make the museum the treasure trove that it is today. All the questions you've ever had about the nation are sure to be answered in the halls of this dedicated research center.

4. Boyana Church: To Medieval Times

This centuries-old church is one of the most well-preserved landmarks in Sofia, and it has developed alongside the city since the Middle Ages. Originally constructed around one thousand years ago, different elements of the building have been added with every subsequent century. Frescoes have been overlaid, wings have been extended, and other sections re-conceptualized. So today, the orthodox church remains a living reminder of the history of the city.

5. National Palace of Culture: Emblem of the City

Established for the support and celebration of Bulgarian culture, this enormous building stands out starkly in the midst of green parklands. You can't miss it - the futuristic, black-and-white design fills a vast footprint at the end of a long reflecting pool. Its facilities were established for the 1300th anniversary of the nation, and today it is one of the most popular venues in the region. At the very least, make sure to check out the building's exterior as you wander around the nearby parks and memorials.

1. The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Gold-topped Glory

One of the world's largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals, this 20th-century church was built in commemoration of the 200,000 soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish War. The Neo-Byzantine style is made up of soaring domes, a vast and ornate interior, and remarkable mosaics which spread across the walls. Get lost in the incredible detail of the artwork found on nearly every surface. Nearby, tourists will also find Sofia University and the National Art Gallery.

2. Vitosha Mountain: Escape the Concrete

Looming over the city and seen from throughout the capitol, Vitosha Mountain is the best day trip out of Sofia. Nearby but worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the urban streets, Vitosha has a variety of scenic hiking trails for visitors of all ages and skills levels. Make your way through a diversity of flora and fauna and take in the serenity of nature. In the winter things get cranked up a notch, with great alpine skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

3. National Historical Museum: Chronicles of Bulgaria

Hundreds of thousands of artifacts from throughout the history of Bulgaria are found here, in Sofia's largest museum. Prehistoric findings, archaeological discoveries, Medieval tales and more all make the museum the treasure trove that it is today. All the questions you've ever had about the nation are sure to be answered in the halls of this dedicated research center.

4. Boyana Church: To Medieval Times

This centuries-old church is one of the most well-preserved landmarks in Sofia, and it has developed alongside the city since the Middle Ages. Originally constructed around one thousand years ago, different elements of the building have been added with every subsequent century. Frescoes have been overlaid, wings have been extended, and other sections re-conceptualized. So today, the orthodox church remains a living reminder of the history of the city.

5. National Palace of Culture: Emblem of the City

Established for the support and celebration of Bulgarian culture, this enormous building stands out starkly in the midst of green parklands. You can't miss it - the futuristic, black-and-white design fills a vast footprint at the end of a long reflecting pool. Its facilities were established for the 1300th anniversary of the nation, and today it is one of the most popular venues in the region. At the very least, make sure to check out the building's exterior as you wander around the nearby parks and memorials.

Where to Eat in Sofia

Bulgarian food is a delightful fusion of Turkish kebabs and Eastern European potato-based dishes, with no end of mouth-watering meat-based dishes. Some of the best places to try authentic Bulgarian cuisine are Mehana Karajata (where you may be serenaded by folk troupes) and Hadjidraganov's Houses. However, international dishes are well represented too, with excellent pizza options like Godzilla and pasta joints like the Spaghetti Kitchen. Expect a high-end meal to cost no more than лв15 per head.

When to visit Sofia

Sofia in January
Estimated hotel price
AED 438
1 night at 3-star hotel
Sofia in January
Estimated hotel price
AED 438
1 night at 3-star hotel

Locals will tell you that the best time to go is definitely between May and September (the Bulgarian summer, more or less). Try May or early June for fine weather and smaller crowds. High summer is still fine, and you can cool off in the city's open air pools, while winter makes skiing in Vitosha another possibility.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Sofia

Plane

Sofia Airport (SOF) is around six miles east of the city center, but it doesn't have any direct connections to North America, so you'll probably need to transfer via France, the UK, or Germany. When you touch down, the best route into town is the subway from Terminal 2 (лв1.60 for a single). Buses cost the same amount, so aren't usually the preferred option. If you choose to take a taxi, expect to pay around лв15 for the journey.

Train

Sofia is a major international train destination, with direct connections to cities like Berlin, Istanbul, and Moscow. The main station is around a mile north of the city center but is on the subway network, so getting to downtown hotels won't be an issue.

Car

If you are driving to Sofia from Istanbul, take the Turkish E80 highway, which then becomes Bulgaria's A4, then switch onto the A1 at Parvomay. The A1 also runs to the capital from Black Sea resorts. If you are coming from Belgrade, take Serbia's E-75, then change to the E-80 at Nis, which runs across the border straight to Sofia.

Bus

Sofia has excellent intercity and international bus connections thanks to companies like Eurolines and MATPU, and you can purchase cheap bus tickets from European cities like Belgrade, Berlin, or Paris. All international services get into the Central Bus Station, right next to the train station.

Plane

Sofia Airport (SOF) is around six miles east of the city center, but it doesn't have any direct connections to North America, so you'll probably need to transfer via France, the UK, or Germany. When you touch down, the best route into town is the subway from Terminal 2 (лв1.60 for a single). Buses cost the same amount, so aren't usually the preferred option. If you choose to take a taxi, expect to pay around лв15 for the journey.

Train

Sofia is a major international train destination, with direct connections to cities like Berlin, Istanbul, and Moscow. The main station is around a mile north of the city center but is on the subway network, so getting to downtown hotels won't be an issue.

Car

If you are driving to Sofia from Istanbul, take the Turkish E80 highway, which then becomes Bulgaria's A4, then switch onto the A1 at Parvomay. The A1 also runs to the capital from Black Sea resorts. If you are coming from Belgrade, take Serbia's E-75, then change to the E-80 at Nis, which runs across the border straight to Sofia.

Bus

Sofia has excellent intercity and international bus connections thanks to companies like Eurolines and MATPU, and you can purchase cheap bus tickets from European cities like Belgrade, Berlin, or Paris. All international services get into the Central Bus Station, right next to the train station.

Airports near Sofia

Airlines serving Sofia

Lufthansa
Good (4,492 reviews)
KLM
Good (824 reviews)
SWISS
Good (914 reviews)
British Airways
Good (4,284 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (2,253 reviews)
Air France
Good (974 reviews)
Iberia
Good (1,534 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (482 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (4,849 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (2,108 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (2,469 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (5,461 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (801 reviews)
Finnair
Good (898 reviews)
LOT
Good (672 reviews)
TAP Portugal
Good (1,116 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (889 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (813 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (693 reviews)
Ethiopian Air
Good (375 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Sofia

Center - Sofia's city center is compact and stuffed with sights and attractions. Within Vasil Levski Boulevard, you'll discover enchanting churches, the Grand Cathedral, the National Art Gallery, and more offbeat places like the Central Mineral Baths - the ideal spot for a cut-price therapeutic spa session.

Popular Neighborhoods in Sofia

Lozenets - just south of the city center, Lozenets is one of the city's greenest, most relaxed areas. That might be something to do with the thousands of students in the neighborhood, or the expanse of Boris Garden. Well served by subway stops, it's a handy, safe base to explore the rest of the town.

Izgrev - on the other side of the Boris Garden you'll find Izgrev (or "Sunrise" in Bulgarian). Bulgaria's media hub and long a popular area with artists, modern Izgrev is one of the most upmarket neighborhoods in the city.

Lozenets - just south of the city center, Lozenets is one of the city's greenest, most relaxed areas. That might be something to do with the thousands of students in the neighborhood, or the expanse of Boris Garden. Well served by subway stops, it's a handy, safe base to explore the rest of the town.
Izgrev - on the other side of the Boris Garden you'll find Izgrev (or "Sunrise" in Bulgarian). Bulgaria's media hub and long a popular area with artists, modern Izgrev is one of the most upmarket neighborhoods in the city.

Where to stay in popular areas of Sofia

Most booked hotels in Sofia

Grand Hotel Sofia
5 stars
Excellent (9.1, Excellent reviews)
AED 496+
Central Hotel Sofia
4 stars
Excellent (8.4, Excellent reviews)
AED 317+
Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (8.1, Excellent reviews)
AED 302+

How to Get Around Sofia

Public Transportation

The crown jewel of Sofia's public transportation network is the city's subway system, but there are also buses, and trams buzzing around every neighborhood. However you travel, there's a fixed single fare of just лв1.60, and you can purchase 10 journeys for лв12.

Taxi

Taxis in Sofia are cheap and easy to spot with their yellow signs. The meter drop will be between лв0.60 and лв0.90, with a charge of around лв1.40 per mile after that, and most inner-city journeys will come to about лв10.

Car

Renting a car is a great way for tourists to venture into the mountains (and very handy if you are hiring ski equipment). Rental companies in the city center include Hertz, Naycar, and AutoJet, with plenty more at the airport. Rates shouldn't be high, at around лв18 per day.

Public Transportation

The crown jewel of Sofia's public transportation network is the city's subway system, but there are also buses, and trams buzzing around every neighborhood. However you travel, there's a fixed single fare of just лв1.60, and you can purchase 10 journeys for лв12.

Taxi

Taxis in Sofia are cheap and easy to spot with their yellow signs. The meter drop will be between лв0.60 and лв0.90, with a charge of around лв1.40 per mile after that, and most inner-city journeys will come to about лв10.

Car

Renting a car is a great way for tourists to venture into the mountains (and very handy if you are hiring ski equipment). Rental companies in the city center include Hertz, Naycar, and AutoJet, with plenty more at the airport. Rates shouldn't be high, at around лв18 per day.

Car hire agencies in Sofia

Sixt

Sixt
Find car hire in Sofia

The Cost of Living in Sofia

Shopping Streets

Sofia has its share of luxury shopping malls, but the place to head for high-end window shopping is the Vitosha Boulevard, where you'll discover fashion stores like Max Mara or Takeshy Kurosawa, jewelry brands like Swarovski, and no shortage of cafes. A grittier shopping experience can be enjoyed at flea markets like Zhenski Pazar, which may be the largest open air market in Europe.

Groceries and Other

If you need to shop for groceries and other essentials, the best places to head in Sofia are supermarkets like Gala, Billa, or the Carrefour on boulevard Tsarigradsko Shosse. The cost of living is very cheap, with a gallon of milk costing about лв7.50.

Cheap meal
AED 20.35
A pair of jeans
AED 188.82
Single public transport ticket
AED 3.27
Cappuccino
AED 4.23
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