Sofia is the capital and the biggest city in Bulgaria. With its seven thousand-year history and dynamic development at the same time Sofia is an excellent destination for a city break. No matter if you are on a short business trip or on a long summer holiday with your family in the city, it is impossible to get bored.
Sightseeing
Sofia offers many sightseeing opportunities. Probably the most important site in the city is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. It is a main symbol of the city and one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Its gold plated dome reaches a height of 45 m (148 ft).
The other most important historical and cultural sites are also nested in the city center so it won’t be hard to see them all by foot. Just in front of the Cathedral you will find the Monument to the Unknown Soldier with the eternal flame in honor of the Bulgarian soldiers who died in wars defending the country. Behind the monument there is the second oldest church in Sofia – St. Sofia Church.
Another must see place in Sofia is the Largo – a representative area in central Sofia where you can see a great example Socialist Classicism architecture. Now the buildings are occupied by the National Assembly of Bulgaria, TZUM department store, the Council of Ministers of Bulgaria and the President’s Office.
Hidden in the courtyard of the Presidency is one of the oldest preserved buildings in Sofia – Rotunda St. George, built in the early 4th century famous with its unique frescos inside. Of course there are many more things to see, you just have to roam around and enjoy your walk.
Cultural activities
If you want to spend some quality time in Sofia, head to one of the modern concert halls, theatres, art galleries, museums or experience the night life in any club, disco or underground bar.
The National Theatre is not only an impressive building in the city center, it also offers wide range of comedies, musicals, tragedies, etc.
The story of the National Art Gallery is pretty interesting as well. The building where it is located now is the former Royal Palace. The Gallery is rich of examples of National Revival and contemporary art, medieval paintings and icons.
Eating
Sofia also provides excellent conditions for a perfect culinary and wine-tasting experience. The many modern cafes, bars and restaurants offer impressive menu list of traditional Bulgarian and Balkan meals with modern flavor.
“Tavan” restaurant, for instance, offers not only great food but also an amazing view of the city. You can find many traditional and contemporary cafes and bistros in Angel Kunchev Str. and Shsishman Str. as well.
Must try foods include the cold yougurt soup ‘Tarator’, the specialty ‘Shopska Salad’, some ‘Moussaka’, kebapche or kyufte, banitsa, etc.
Daytrips
Only half an hour away from the city center you will find the great Vitosha mountain and Natural Park where you can even ski at night during winter months.
If you are staying longer than a few days you can visit some of the nearby must see sites such as the Belogradchik rocks – a group of unique shaped sandstone rock formations, Koprivshtitsa – a historic and architectural reserve, Rila Monastery which is recognized as UNESCO Heritage Site or Plovdiv’s old town with its narrowed paved streets and ancient buildings.
No matter how long you are staying in Sofia, you will always find something to do because there are endless opportunities for cultural, nature, nightlife or eating experiences. Put aside a few days just for enjoying the unique mix of ancient and modern.
