Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is not far from the city where I was born and still live. Nevertheless, it was never very high on my bucket list for various reasons. However, when I managed to visit Bulgaria for the first time, I was happy to discover that the city at the foot of Mount Vitosha hides several surprises for the curious visitor. Interesting Orthodox churches, quiet gardens, and a lively ambience will enchant sensitive souls. Sofia can be quite cold during the winter, and therefore, I think that it’s better to visit the city in spring, autumn, or even summer if you don’t mind the heat. For maximum security and comfort book your transfer from the airport in advance.
Where to stay in Sofia
I stayed in the city centre and I recommend that you do the same, since it will make things much simpler for you. I prefer to walk whenever it is possible, and consequently my choice to stay close to Vitosha Boulevard was very rewarding. Being close to some of the sights and convenient restaurants was very important for me.
What to visit in Sofia
1) St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
The church named after St. Alexander Nevsky, a Russian prince, is the cathedral of the Patriarch of Bulgaria. This massive structure, built in Neo-Byzantine style, is the largest cathedral in the Balkans. The interior of the church, which can hold 5.000 people, is plain and not very impressive. Nonetheless, it will probably be one of the first places that you will visit in Sofia.
2) National Archaological Nuseum
The National Archaeological Museum lies in the centre of Sofia. The building that used to house the largest and oldest Ottoman mosque in the capital is not particularly big. Nevertheless, it presents artifacts from different eras, even prehistoric ones, and it is quite engaging.
3) Church of St. George
The conscious traveller will inevitably come across this small surprise while exploring Sofia. The Church of St. George is a red brick rotunda which is famous for the medieval frescoes inside the dome. The small building is part of a larger archaeological site. It was built in the 4th century and has become one of my favourite landmarks in the city.
4) Banya Bashi Mosque
The mosque, which was built over natural thermal springs, has a large dome and a high minaret. It’s a must-see religious building in Sofia, although it is much more impressive from the outside than the inside.
5) National Palace of Culture
The national palace of culture, which was constructed when Bulgaria was a communist state, is now used as an art and cultural centre. The massive building, which is a meeting point for the residents of the city, didn’t manage to impress me. However, the surrounding park is beautiful and it’s nice to spend some time there.
6) Borisova Gradina
As a park-lover, I was eager to visit Borisova Gradina, Sofia’s most famous park. It is a vast place, well known for a huge communist monument, the Mound of Brotherhood. A relaxing walk to enjoy the serenity of nature while admiring the numerous statues is a must-do experience there.
7) St. Nedelya Cathedral
This rather large church of medieval origin is located in the centre of the city. St. Nedelya Cathedral, which is considered to be one of the landmarks of Sofia, is easily accessible and worth a visit.
8) Church of St Petka of the Saddlers
The Church of St Petka of the Saddlers is another small medieval church, partially dug into the ground, which can be found in the centre of Sofia. The church, which is dedicated to St. Petka, an 11th-century Bulgarian saint, is famous for its mural paintings.
9) Sofia History Museum
The Sofia History Museum includes exhibits from the Neolithic era to the Second World War. Although it is not an incredibly impressive museum, it is still worth visiting to get a taste of the distant and recent past of the city.
10) Russian Church
The Russian Church or Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker is an Orthodox church in central Sofia. The church, which has a unique style compared to other churches in the city, has five domes coated with gold.
11) St. Sophia Church
The Saint Sofia Church was built on the site of earlier churches dating back to the fourth century. The church, whose name derives from the Greek word Sophia (Σοφία) that means wisdom, in the Christian context the Divine Wisdom, is considered the oldest church in Sofia. The entire city of Sofia was named after this church! There is also an interesting necropolis beneath it.
12) National Historical Museum
The National Historical Museum in Sofia is Bulgaria’s most important museum. It is located in the suburbs, quite far from the city centre and presents artifacts dating from prehistoric ages until today.
13) Vitosha Nature Park
If you are visiting Sofia for several days, don’t omit to visit Vitosha Nature Park. It’s a paradise quite close to the city. Although I didn’t have much time to explore it, I was impressed by the outstanding autumn landscape.
14) Vitosha Boulevard
While you are exploring Sofia, it is almost certain that you will come across Vitosha Boulevard, which is the main commercial street in the city centre. This lively pedestrian street is filled with stores, restaurants, and bars.
