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The capital of Bulgaria, Sofia is a 2,200 year old city recognized for its European and Communist-style architecture, gorgeous Orthodox churches, and beautiful natural scenery. With Mount Vitosha seen from the downtown area, Sofia has built a fabulous ski resort attracting many visitors. With such ancient origins, Sofia is enveloped in history and has numerous sites to see, from churches and cathedrals to museums, theaters, and casinos. Roman ruins are literally everywhere in the city, with their inclusion in the downtown mall and the St. George Rotunda located behind the Sheraton Hotel Courtyard. A beautiful mix of old and new, Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe and worth seeing with your own eyes! Experience the sights and sounds of this historic city and book your student flight right away!

Sofia Pictures

Things to do in Sofia

With all the history that Sofia has behind it, the number of sites, landmarks, and interesting features of the city would take several days to experience. A few of the msot popular attractions in Sofia include the National Assembly of Bulgaria, Sofia University, the National Palace of Culture, and the Central Military Club. If you love museums, you will love Sofia. Even if you are not the biggest fan of museums, you will be sure to find one of interest in Sofia, with its wide-ranging list- from the National Museum of History, to the Museum of Sport, Literature museum, and an Agricultural Museum. Along with museums, there are quite a few art galleries in Sofia, a couple being the National Art Gallery and the Sofia City Art Gallery. One must-do when traveling to Sofia is attend a church service, in particular, one with a choir. A great place to go is Alexander Nevski Memorial Church, with beautiful carved marble and 12 gilded domes. Some of the most beautiful medieval paintings in Europe are located at the Boyana Church. Experience the city’s Ottoman heritage by visiting a mosque, like the Banya Bashi Mosque. With a total of seven mineral water springs in the city, there are plenty of options for a visit. If there’s time, check out the Sofia Zoo, open until 5pm. Take a stroll through the city garden, which is the oldest and most beautiful central public garden.

Nightlife in Sofia

Even the nightlife in Sofia is involved in the historical culture, because many bars and pubs are located in medieval homes and taverns. For instance, the Apartment, known as “apartamenta” by the locals, is a private club in a 19th century mansion, with several rooms in which you can relax, play chess, or even watch a movie and sample homemade chocolate. Another gem for nightlife is the Lodkite, especially on warm summer nights. This is located outside and is in the place of an old leisure-park parcour, or a water channel with gondolas. They play electronic, ambiance, or progressive rock, and this place is usually packed as the night goes on. A few other choice nightclubs worth a visit include Escape, Chervilo, and Yalta. One tip when heading to the nightclubs in Sofia, wear your sunglasses and you will blend in with the locals!

Dining in Sofia

In Sofia, it is often somewhat difficult to find many places that serve traditional Bulgarian foods, because there are so many pizzerias and snack bars everywhere. One of the best pizzerias is Mr. Pizza, which is one of the most popular places to eat. At Pizza Victoria, you can find some of the best Bulgarian pizza. Trops House is similar to a fast-food place, but does serve traditional Bulgarian cuisine and drinks, on the go. If you are looking for a trendy place to dine, head to Motto, where you can find a modern decor with enjoyable food. For very delicious traditional food at a more expensive price, you could try Pod Lipite, though they require reservations.

Shopping in Sofia

If you are looking for souvenirs to take home from Sofia, check out the gift shop in the Ethnographic Museum, where you can get particularly Bulgarian type trinkets. Check out Alexander Nevski square, just across from the church, for a great selection of antiques and souvenirs. To go shopping where everyone else is shopping, check out Vitosha Boulevard- the main commercial street in Sofia centre. The Mall of Sofia and the SkyCity Mall have many shops to browse around in and explore. The Central Sofia Market Hall, in Marie Louise Boulevard, has numerous stalls with a wide variety of things to purchase, from foods, drink, cosmetics, etc. There is a second floor, which contains somewhat of a cafeteria, with many fast-food cafes.

Sofia travel tips

• The currency of Bulgaria is the Lev or Leva (BGN).
• Service fees are included in the bill at restaurants. If you would like, you can include a small tip, but it has to be very small- round up to the next Lev (about 50 cents).
• Beware of pickpockets in Sofia, especially in open marketplaces and on public transportation.