This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.
Are you planning your next city break Sofia Bulgaria? After we visit every country in Balkan including Albania or Serbia we can recommend you to visit also Sofia.
The historical city of Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe with a history lasting more than 7,000 years. It is like a crossroads of different civilizations, their cuisine, traditions, and architecture. In the past, Sofia was
inhabited by Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, who left behind traces of historical and architectural heritage.
Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and also the country’s largest city. It is visited more and more every year,
thanks to its architecture, cultural activities, the surrounding nature, and the friendly nature of the local
people.
The Bulgarian people are very hospitable and polite, the young generation often knows English, so you don’t
have to worry that no one will understand you.
Table of Contents
ABOUT SOFIA
Tip: Here you can see all your options for hotels in Sofia
BULGARIAN CURRENCY
The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev, the Bulgarian Lev is a member of the European Union and has not adopted the Euro as its currency. Oftentimes in Bulgaria, you can find prices in euros so that tourists have a better idea of the price, however, you can only pay in local currency. You can also pay by card in supermarkets and catering establishments.
1€ is 1.96 BGN
BULGARIAN LANGUAGE
Bulgarian is a Yugoslav language written in the Cyrillic alphabet. It is the oldest recorded Slavic language. The language can be compared with the Russian language, they have many similar words, and both languages are written in Cyrillic. The main difference is in pronunciation. Bulgarians pronounce their language similarly to Turks or Arabs, while Russian is pronounced more like Western Europeans.
The Bulgarian language is considered one of the most difficult, it has a complex grammar and an extensive
vocabulary.
BULGARIAN CUISINE AND NATIONAL DRINKS
With Bulgaria’s rich history, its cuisine has been influenced especially by Turkish and Greek cuisine, it is
also influenced by Persian and Indian cuisine from the time of the first Bulgarian Empire.
Dairy products, various soups, wine and meat, and fish dishes are typical for Bulgarian cuisine.
In the city, you will also find many restaurants with international cuisine.
Tarator
It is a traditional Balkan soup or salad served cold, popular, especially in the summer months in Albania,
Bulgaria, North Macedonia, southeastern Serbia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Israel,
Palestine, Armenia, and Cyprus. Consists of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, walnuts, dill, and oil with a little bit of water.
Börek
Or Burek is a filled pastry, made from layers of filo dough. It can be filled with cheese, minced meat, or
vegetables. This dish is typical of the Balkan countries.
Shopska Salad
It is a colorful salad typical of the Balkan countries, usually as an appetizer. Featuring fresh tomatoes,
cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and parsley on top with white salty cheese or feta cheese. Salad is also
popular in Central Europe.
POPULAR BULGARIAN DESSERTS
Baklava
It is usually made from sheets of phyllo pastry with pistachios, walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds as well as from sweet butter, sugar, syrup, cloves, and cinnamon, in combination with lemon and orange peel. It is a
traditional Middle Eastern sweet and is eaten as a dessert in many countries of the Middle East, West Asia,
and the Balkan Peninsula.
Banitsa
Traditional pastry made in Budjak, Bulgaria. It is a mixture of beaten eggs, white yogurt, and white salty
cheese. Pastry suitable for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day in Bulgaria is prepared on New
Year’s Eve and traditionally talismans are put into it. It is cut into smaller pieces and each family member
receives a different talisman with different types of luck for the coming year.
Don’t be afraid to experiment on your city break Sofia Bulgaria, Balkan dishes are very tasty, and well-balanced, there is something here for lovers of meat and vegetable dishes, soups, and desserts.
TRADITIONAL DRINKS IN BULGARIA
Ayran
Cold, savory yogurt drink popular in Central Asia, Western Asia, Southeast Europe, Northern Asia, and
Eastern Europe. The main ingredients are yogurt, water, and salt. Optionally, herbs such as mint can be added.
Rakija (Rakia, Raki, Rakiya)
Collective term for fruit spirits popular in the Balkans. The alcohol content in rakija is around 40%, although
rakija made at home can be stronger.
HOW TO GET TO SOFIA
Sofia is easily accessible from all neighbouring countries such as Turkey, Serbia, Romania, Greece, and North Macedonia.
There are direct buses and from some countries also direct trains. The journey is very scenic. Especially if you take a direct train from Istanbul to Sofia.
How to get around Sofia
Sofia is an easily walkable city but you can use the bus, tram or metro.
Metro is the best option how to get around the city. It’s clean, fast, and cheap. Just purchase a ticket from the machine and just hop on.
Metro line 4 can take you from the Airport (SOF) terminal 2 to the city center.
Tip: Check the official website of Metro in Sofia for all the details.
ARCHITECTURE IN SOFIA
On your city break Sofia Bulgaria, you will find many different architectural styles in the city. This makes the city an interesting place to visit.
Bulgarian architecture combines different styles and influences, from ancient temples and palaces to modernist and neoclassical buildings. A characteristic feature of Bulgarian buildings is the use of ornate
decoration and intricate detailing. The city is home to many historical monuments, such as the Church of St.
George, the National Palace of Culture, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, ancient ruins near Sedrika metro
station, and many more.
Tip: Here you can see all your options for hotels in Sofia
THINGS TO DO ON YOUR CITY BREAK SOFIA BULGARIA
National Palace of Culture (NDK)
The Palace of Culture was officially opened in 1981 on the occasion of the 1300th anniversary of the founding of the Bulgarian state. It hosts various events, international conventions, official meetings, conferences, symposiums, exhibitions, festivals, and concerts. It is the largest multifunctional object in Southeastern Europe. The palace is located in the center of Sofia and is surrounded by a park.
The main building was designed by architect Alexander Barov and his team of architects, and the design of the surroundings is the work of architect Atanas Agura and his team. The building has an octagonal shape with dark-colored details and large bright murals depicting historical figures and events.
The eight-story building has an area of 123,000 m2 with four panoramic terraces and three underground floors.
Lions’ Bridge
The stone bridge built over the Vladaya River dates from the end of the 19th century and is decorated with four lion statues. Part of the bridge is pedestrianized and trams pass through the middle. It is located near the Lavov Most metro station.
Cultural Complex “Ancient Serdika”
Stroll among the ancient ruins of Serdika which was inhabited by people 7000 years ago. The ruins are
located near the Serdika metro station. Outside ruins are for free, if that is not enough for you, there is also a paid section with artifacts and ruins found only a decade ago.
The Monument of Saint Sofia – Patron of City
The statue, built in 2000, stands in the place where the statue of Lenin once stood. The statue, over 8 meters high, is made of bronze and copper, and still remains a controversy in the city because it is too exposed and pagan. It stands on a 16m pedestal and was made by the sculptor Georgi Chapkanov. It is also a few steps from Serdika Metro station.
Banja Bashi Mosque
The mosque was designed by the Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and was completed in 1566 when the Ottomans still controlled the city. The word combination Banja Bashi means many baths, and it was built over
natural thermal baths. The building is known for its large dome with a diameter of 15 m. The local Muslim community uses the mosque.
The nearest metro station in the vicinity of the building is Serdika II.
Regional History Museum of Sofia
In the history museum, you will find exhibits from antiquity to modern times. An entrance fee is charged.
National Art Gallery
National Museum of Bulgarian Works of Art from the Middle Ages to the Present, the building is a former
royal palace.
Tip: Here you can see all your options for hotels in Sofia
Temple of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
Russian Orthodox church with brightly colored exterior and gilded bulbous domes built in 1914. Inside you will find many mosaics and fresco wall paintings.
St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
One of the symbols of Bulgaria and one of the main tourist attractions of the country. It is among the 10
largest Eastern Orthodox buildings in the world and is the largest cathedral in the Balkans. The building is built in the neo-Byzantine style, serves as the cathedral church of the Patriarchate of Bulgaria, and occupies an area of 3170 square meters.
Vitosha Boulevard
Often also called Vitoshka, it is the main shopping street of Sofia. It is named after the nearby mountain Vitosha. Here you will find many expensive brands, as well as open-air bars and restaurants with terraces. After the last reconstruction of the boulevard in 2015, the entire pedestrian zone between Patriarch Evtimiy Blvd. and Alabin Street. Today it’s a place full of people, especially in the summer months, it’s lively here after sunset, a good place to meet for dinner or a drink.
Tip: In the shopping area of Sofia, Vitosha Boulevard, you will also find a few shops with products made from the famous Bulgarian rose. Damascena Bulgarian rose is one of the richest herbs on the planet in terms of antioxidants and bioflavonoids. The Bulgarian Damascena rose has become one of the symbols of Bulgaria.
Vitosha mountains
A mountain massif on the outskirts of Sofia, one of the symbols of the city and the closest place for hiking,
alpinism, skiing, and other outdoor activities. Easily accessible by bus lines or cable car. The most visited
and best-known part is the Vitosha nature park, which is also the oldest nature park in the Balkans. Black Peak is the highest peak in the mountain range with a height of 2290m. During our visit in January, we had
accommodation with a view of Vitosha, seeing the snow-capped mountains every morning with morning
coffee was amazing. You can also see the peaks of Vitosha Mountain from the city center of Vitosha
Boulevard.
Klek shop
An interesting feature of the city that we had never seen before was a general store. What was interesting about him? To order goods from the store, you have to kneel because the window is too low to order from the stands. What a funny way to get your order. Unfortunately, the store is currently closed, hopefully, that will change soon. The store is very close to the National Palace of Culture metro station.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN SOFIA
In the capital of Bulgaria, you will find many restaurants, with local and international cuisine, there is something for everyone.
On the Vitosha Boulevard, you will find restaurants with different budgets. Small bistros but also top restaurants, snack bars, and fast food. Part of the restaurant focuses on modern cuisine and various fusions with an effort to use local ingredients.
WHERE TO STAY IN SOFIA
Sofia has a wide range of hotels and accommodations to suit different budgets. This city offers everything from top 5-star hotels to low-budget hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and apartments.
In luxury hotels, you will find top restaurants, spas, and excellent services, they are usually located in the center of the city, so you can have the attractions of the city at your fingertips.
There is also plenty of accommodation in the middle-price category. They are often located in well-accessible streets of the city where you have it within walking distance of public transport.
If your budget is limited, don’t worry, you will find more than enough hostels and cheap hotels in the city, usually with basic equipment but at discounted prices. Such accommodation is a great option to save money.
Our accommodation was quite far from the city center, exactly as we wanted. At the final metro stop, Business Park. Don’t be afraid to stay on the outskirts of the city, it’s quieter there and you’ll always find a couple of supermarkets and good food delivery services. The business park is also a good location for a view of Mount Vitosha. We enjoyed this location far from the center.
➡️ Check all available hotels in Cairo on Booking.com. It’s our favorite booking platform.
If you are more budget traveler you can check Hostelworld where you find cheaper options with shared facilities. ✅
AND THE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT SOFIA?
Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is affordable for all kinds of visitors. It has a diverse atmosphere with many activities and a great location with beautiful nature all around. Restaurants and hospitality are at excellent levels, Bulgarians are a very hospitable nation, pleasant and helpful to visitors not only of the capital city.
On your city break Sofia Bulgaria, you don’t have to worry about badly organized public transport, on the contrary, the metro and buses are well-marked, and the metro stations are located near almost all the main
attractions of the city.
Our experience in Sofia has always been good, we love to return to both the country and the capital.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Sofia a walkable city?
Yes, Sofia is one of the most walkable cities in Europe. The city’s attractions are within walking distance, and
the capital also has good public transport, often with metro or bus stops a short distance from the city’s main
attractions.
Is Sofia cheap or expensive?
Compared to other European capitals, Sofia is relatively cheap. It is suitable for travelers with a limited budget in terms of food and accommodation, visits to monuments are also charged at reasonable prices.
Can you pay in euros in Sofia?
Despite the fact that Bulgaria is a member of the European Union, they still keep their currency and that is the Bulgarian lev. However, in many businesses such as restaurants and bars, you can already see the use of double written payment on the meal or drink ticket to make it easier for tourists. So you don’t have to convert the local currency to € every time you’re going to eat somewhere. Payment by card is already completely normal everywhere in big cities, not only in restaurants, but also for public transport, for example, so you won’t need to change so much money.
Do they speak English in Sofia?
In the capital, you don’t have to worry that you won’t understand each other, most of the locals working in
services or catering establishments speak English. However, if you learn a few phrases in Bulgarian, the
local people will appreciate it.
OUR FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES
Accommodation: We use Booking.com where we always find great deals for hotels.
For hostels, we use Hostelworld where we find cheaper options and meet new people.
Rental cars: To rent your car with free cancellation check out Discover Cars.
Ferries: For cheap ferry tickets worldwide we use Direct Ferries.
All travel options in one place: Omio.com we use for easy travel planning where we can find trains, buses, ferries, and more.
Tours and other activities: Wherever we go we look at GetYouGuide to find the best tours and many other activities around the world!
Travel insurance: Never travel without travel insurance! Ekta works all over the world and has 10 years of experience in the industry. It is your right choice!
Reviews: Before we travel somewhere we always look at Tripadvisor, where we always find a summary of restaurants, places to visit, or hotels with current ratings and photos from people who have visited this place recently.
Luggage storage: Radical storage is such a helpful Luggage storage network! When we have a late check-in or an early check-out we don’t need to carry our luggage with us, we just simply put it in the Radical storage which operates in over 70 countries!
E-sim card: The best way how avoid all the stress of searching for local SIM cards or wifi signals and save time after you arrive in your new country is to get Airalo e-sim. Download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries/regions!
