Sofia is definitely one of Europe's most charming cities, that originated nearly 7,000 years ago in the shadow of Mount Vitosha. Today the capital of Bulgaria is as cosmopolitan as any other European city, and is also perhaps the last real budget city break in Europe. For the cultural vultures, there is no dearth of inspiration - the Sofia Opera, the Operetta, museums, galleries, theatres, concerts are all interesting options, along with many great Sofia hotels you can stay in.
A colourful, if controversial, history of political and religious invasion has meant Sofia has several places of historical and cultural interest worth visiting, among other attractions. These include the splendid Alexander Nevski Cathedral (1912), the more contemporary Ivan Vazoff Theatre, a classic Russian Church (1913), the historic Bania Bashi Mosque, the Rotunda of St. George and the National Assembly.
While in Sofia, visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church and National History Museum are musts. If you're looking to go on a day trip, try the Vitosha Mountain, and other world famous places of interest such as Rila Monastery and Koprivshtitsa. Taking a local tour is a great way to see all these highlights with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. From Sofia, you can head down to Athens on the way to a holiday in Paphos or Limassol in Cyprus.
Sofia means 'wisdom' and has focused on developing its infrastructure to support international conferences and fairs, a natural boost to trade and commerce. Hence the number of business travellers from around the world has been steadily growing, meaning there is now a wide variety of different accommodation on offer for all kinds of visitors. There are many hotels in Sofia of international standard. Fancy business centres and deluxe hotels are mushrooming and bustling with activity. But if you are looking for tranquil surroundings, the many boutique hotels and hostels in Sofia's suburbs will offer that and more - warm service and home-like comfort.
Jazz and rock clubs or piano bars are buzzing till the early hours of the morning. The discotheques offer a great vibe, ringing true for most of the young fans. As good as any other European capital, Sofia does have an amazing nightlife and nightclubs and casinos don't close before dawn! So come to Sofia and have the party of a lifetime! Use our map to choose a Sofia hotel close to the main party area - or any other area for that matter!
Shopping in Sofia can be whatever you want it to be: a designer trip through fancy labels, or a leisurely amble through traditional Bulgarian wares. Big malls offer designer clothes, antiques, modern art and trinkets. Specialty shops devoted to music or traditional Bulgarian crafts are also a modern feature. And all are still offered at some of the cheapest prices in Europe. Tours in Sofia also give you the opportunity to visit locals, and see these local crafts being made.
The expat and tourist streams have induced many restaurants in Sofia to serve both Bulgarian and European dishes. A taverna (kruchma) meal is a must for authentic fare. As if scrumptious Bulgarian dishes and local drinks were not enough of a treat, you get some lively folk music to tap your feet to.
Find your hotel in Sofia and save money by booking with us! Sofia Hotels-link Booking Service is locally owned and operated by father and son - George and Stefan Tonchev, and their busy team at Orient Travel LTD, located in downtown Sofia. We offer a wide range of handpicked hotel facilities in Sofia intended not only for the business traveller, but also for leisure tourists. We are in a constant contact with the hotels in and around Sofia and obtain some of the best rates available on the Internet for you!
We were born here, and have over 30 years of experience in the travel Industry. What could be better than to ask native Sofians about where to stay and what to do during your trip? Whatever local experience you are looking for, we can help you plan your perfect trip to Sofia.
Important Sofia Travel Information
- 10-Day Sofia Weather Forecast
- 1-Month Sofia Weather Forecast
- Current Time in Sofia
- Currency Converter - use Bulgarian Lev - BGN
Sofia Telephone Information:
- Dial Sofia from abroad: +359 2 ...
- Dial abroad from Sofia: 00...
Sofia Emergency Numbers:
- Fire - 160
- Ambulance - 150
- Police - 166
- Road Assistance - 146
- Traffic Police - 165 or (02) 9882225 in Sofia
- Mountains Rescue - (02) 963 2000 or 0888 1470