Map of Sofia, Bulgaria

🏞️ What to do in Sofia

Sofia offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler, from history enthusiasts to adventure seekers. Explore ancient sites, vibrant markets, and scenic parks in the heart of the city.

• Best Budget Activity in Sofia:

  Free Sofia Tour: Take a guided walking tour to discover Sofia's main attractions and hidden gems while learning about the city's rich history.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Sofia:

  Vitosha Mountain Hike: Embark on a guided hiking adventure to Vitosha Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding nature.

• Best Luxury Activity in Sofia:

  Private Wine Tasting Tour: Indulge in a private wine tasting experience at a local winery, sampling exquisite Bulgarian wines with expert guidance.

🍽️ Where to eat in Sofia

Sofia is a culinary delight, offering a mix of traditional Bulgarian dishes and international flavors. Must-try foods include Shopska Salad, Banitsa, and Kapama.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Sofia:

  Hadjidraganov's Houses•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Traditional Bulgarian cuisine

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Sofia:

  Shtastlivetsa Restaurant•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fusion cuisine with a Bulgarian twist

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Sofia:

  Made in Home•$$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining experience with a focus on seasonal local ingredients

• Best Budget Bar in Sofia:

  Hambara Bar•$:

  Craft beer and cocktails

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Sofia:

  Bar Friday•$$:

  Signature cocktails and tapas

• Best Luxury Bar in Sofia:

  Sense Rooftop Bar•$$$:

  Fine wines and panoramic city views

🏰 What to see in Sofia

Sofia is a city steeped in history and culture, showcasing a blend of ancient and modern landmarks. From majestic cathedrals to picturesque gardens, these must-visit sites offer a glimpse into Sofia's rich heritage.

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral:

  This iconic cathedral is a symbol of Sofia, known for its stunning Neo-Byzantine architecture and impressive golden domes.

• Boyana Church:

  A UNESCO World Heritage site, Boyana Church features exquisite frescoes dating back to the 13th century, offering a glimpse into Bulgaria's artistic heritage.

• Vitosha Mountain:

  Just a short drive from the city center, Vitosha Mountain beckons outdoor enthusiasts with hiking trails, breathtaking views, and skiing opportunities in winter.

• National Palace of Culture (NDK):

  NDK is a prominent cultural and events center in Sofia, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and performances in a grand architectural setting.

• Sofia Central Market Hall:

  Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Sofia Central Market Hall, where you can sample local delicacies, shop for fresh produce, and experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Sofia

Sofia offers a vibrant shopping scene, with a variety of shopping places catering to different budgets and tastes. From bustling markets to upscale boutiques, there's something for every shopper in Sofia.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Sofia:

  Zhenski Pazar (Women's Market): Explore this traditional open-air market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local crafts, and budget-friendly clothing items.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Sofia:

  Vitosha Boulevard: Stroll along Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia's main shopping street lined with boutique stores, international brands, cafes, and restaurants.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Sofia:

  Serdika Center: Indulge in a luxury shopping experience at Serdika Center, a modern shopping mall housing designer stores, upscale brands, and gourmet dining options.

🚇 Getting Around Sofia

• Public Transport

  Sofia offers an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, trolleys, and a metro. The most commonly used mode of transport is the metro, with three lines serving various parts of the city. A single journey ticket costs 1.60 BGN and is valid for all modes of transport within 30 minutes. There are also day passes available for unlimited travel within 24 hours. Buses and trams are also widely used, with tickets purchased onboard or at designated kiosks. Timetables and routes are easily accessible online or at stops.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The Central Railway Station in Sofia is a key transportation hub for both domestic and international train services. Located in the city center, it provides connections to major cities within Bulgaria and beyond. The Central Bus Station, known as the Sofia Bus Terminal, is another important hub offering bus services to various destinations across the country. For air travel, Sofia Airport is the main international airport serving the city and is located approximately 10 km east of the city center.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Several international and local car rental companies operate in Sofia, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs. Prices vary depending on the duration of the rental and type of car, starting from around 30 BGN per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, bicycle rental services are available in Sofia. Companies like Sofia Bike Rental offer hourly or daily rentals, with rates starting from 10 BGN per hour. Explore the city at your own pace while enjoying the scenic views.