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Sofia

Bulgaria, Europe

Sofia, Bulgaria's vibrant capital, is a blend of ancient history and modern charm. Known for its stunning architecture like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture, it offers engaging museums, lively street art, and a thriving café culture. The nearby Vitosha Mountain provides a quick escape for outdoor enthusiasts, while cultural events and nightlife satisfy diverse tastes. With a rich combination of history, culture, and nature, Sofia is an appealing destination for all travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Sofia

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Sofia

1. Explore Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

A stunning Orthodox cathedral adorned with golden domes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Stroll through Vitosha Boulevard

Sofia’s main shopping and dining street buzzing with life.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Visit the National Palace of Culture

A cultural hub hosting exhibitions and performances year-round.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Relax in Borisova Gradina Park

A beautiful park ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Discover the Museum of Socialist Art

Explore Bulgaria's communist past through unique artifacts.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Climb Vitosha Mountain

Hike for breathtaking views over Sofia and nature.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

7. Visit the Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Catch a show in Sofia's iconic theatrical venue.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

8. Tour the Archaeological Museum

See ancient artifacts from Bulgaria's rich history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Savor Bulgarian Cuisine at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy traditional dishes like banitsa and shopska salad.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Explore Boyana Church

Visit a UNESCO site with stunning medieval frescoes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

11. Visit the Sofia Synagogue

Discover the largest synagogue in the Balkans.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

12. Attend a Festival or Event

Experience local culture through various seasonal festivities.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

13. Tour the National History Museum

Learn about Bulgaria's past through engaging exhibits.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Bulgarian Lev

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Bulgarian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Shopska Salad

V

Fresh salad with tomatoes and cheese (National dish)

Banitsa

V

Pastry filled with cheese and eggs

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat sausages

Tarator

V

Cold yogurt and cucumber soup

Musaka

Baked dish with meat and potatoes

Phrases to learn

English

Bulgarian

Hello

Zdraveite

(Zdrah-vay-tee)

Yes/No

Da / Ne

(Dah / Neh)

Thank you

Blagodarya

(Bla-go-dah-rya)

Excuse me

Izvinete

(Eez-vee-neh-teh)

How much?

Kolko?

(Kohl-koh)