Discover the treasures of Bulgarias capital in two days.
It’s one of those places you might not have thought to visit. Yet, Sofia is a great choice for a few days on a small budget. Nestled at the foot of the imposing Mount Vitosha, the capital of Bulgaria is a city rich in culture and history that holds plenty of surprises for travelers.
Two days are enough to see many sights and enjoy unhurried strolls in a city that in recent years has grown into an enticing destination for budget-friendly city breaks. From Thessaloniki it’s very easy to reach Sofia by road, while from Athens the flight takes just over an hour.
Top sights in Sofia
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
The sheer scale of this cathedral will impress you. The Cathedral of St Alexander Nevsky is one of the largest in the world, as well as a symbol and key attraction of Sofia. Built in Neo-Byzantine style, the cathedral covers an area of 3,170 sq. meters and can hold 10,000 people inside. The central dome is painted by the famed Russian artist Ivan Grigorievich Miasoedov. This masterpiece spans 850 sq. m., and around the dome the “Lord’s Prayer” is inscribed in gold letters. In the crypt there is an icon museum, an annex of the National Gallery.
Church of St Sophia
St Sophia Church stands very close to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and is one of the oldest churches in Bulgaria. The present basilica was built in the mid-6th century AD on the site of an earlier temple. It evolved into the city’s religious center, and in the 14th century the city took its name from it; until then it was known as Sredets.
National Palace of Culture (NDK)
The«NDK», inaugurated in 1981, hosts numerous events, concerts, art exhibitions, performances and conferences. In front of the imposing building, the large and beautifully designed square at the end of the Vitosa pedestrian street is a lovely spot for a stroll, coffee and photos.
Vitosha Boulevard
The pedestrianized Vitosha Boulevard is the city’s main shopping street, where a multitude of cafés, restaurants and all kinds of stores draw people at all hours. A stroll here is a must, to browse, shop and spend your time pleasantly.
Ivan Vazov National Theatre
The Ivan Vazov State Theatre is the oldest and most esteemed theatre in Bulgaria. It stands in the heart of the city and was founded in 1904 by the artists of the Salza i Smyah, (Tears and Laughter) troupe. Ivan Vazov’s play “The Outcasts” was the first production staged here when it opened. Even if you don’t manage to catch a performance, it’s worth a visit to admire the imposing Neoclassical building, designed by the famous Viennese theatre architects Hermann Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner.
Borisova Gradina
The city’s most famous park boasts towering trees, little lakes, benches, restaurants and cafés, and it’s full of life with families, cyclists and athletes. It’s especially worth visiting in spring, when everything is in bloom. At the top of the park you’ll also find the stadiumVasil Levski.
National Historical Museum
Set aside a little time to explore the country’s rich past in the halls of Bulgaria’s largest history museum, the National Historical Museum. Thousands of exhibits tell stories of tsars, ancient tribes and spectacular gold treasures. The museum lies on the outskirts of the city, in the Boyana area, and you can combine it with a visit to Boyana Church, one of the most important monuments of medieval Bulgarian art included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Mountain excursion
A great option for a short outing is Mount Vitosha, which is easily accessible from the city and offers many opportunities to unwind in lush nature, hike, ski and enjoy other athletic activities.
Food suggestions
Mekitsa & Kafe is a great choice to start your day by tasting mekitsa, the Bulgarian version of a fried pastry. You’ll also find a tasty breakfast at the bakery Hlebar - don’t miss the traditional banitsa (pie) with boza (a grain-based drink with low alcohol content).
For local cuisine we recommend Manastirska Magernitsa, Shtastliveca and Raketa Rakia Bar. A lovely modern restaurant is Made in Blue. Besides tasty European dishes, it serves good cocktails.
