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Sofia Travel & Sightseeing Guide
January 10, 2008 |
A trip to Sofia
Bulgaria’s capital city offers an enticing blend of old and new, with charming 19th-century European architecture contrasting with what remains of Soviet-era block housing. Add to the mix the modern high-rises that have cropped up since the 1989 abolition of Communism, and you are introduced to the lively elegance of Sofia.
Flights to Sofia
Sofia International Airport is located a mere six miles outside of the city and receives mostly flights from Europe and a small selection of flights from Asia and North America. Connections to regional destinations and several Middle Eastern cities are frequent. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Sofia try Thomas Cook.
Frequent bus services run between the city centre and the airport from 5:00 to 23:00. Taxis to the city centre can be booked in the Arrivals hall through the OK Supertrans company. Within Sofia, the extensive public transportation network offers 21 tram lines, 200 bus lines, 11 trolley lines, the Sofia Underground train system and abundant taxis.
Sofia
Sightseeing in Sofia
As one of the oldest European capitals, Sofia boasts impressive architecture and some notable historic landmarks. The 10th-century Boyana Church is a UNESCO World Heritage protected site, and the Alexander Nevski is a fantastic neo-Byzantine cathedral, jutting into the sky with its golden and copper domes.
Many of the city’s main attractions are centrally located and easily explored on foot. Banya Bashi Mosque is the city’s only surviving, functioning mosque, which serves as a small legacy of centuries of Ottoman rule. The nearby Tsentralni Hali (Central Food Halls), Tsentralnata Banya (Central Baths) and the Synagogue offer a glimpse of early 20th-century architecture. The Zhenski Pazar (Women’s Market) is also worth a visit.
Among the many museums are the National Historical Museum, the Museum of Earth and Men and the Bulgarian Natural History Museum. There is now a significant selection of art galleries in Sofia as well.
Fun by night – eating drinking and partying
Sofia’s bustling street life is one of its most notable features. An endless selection of bars and cafés is available by day or night, never lacking in people out to enjoy. Several bars and shops keep their doors open 24 hours, catering to the fun-loving nature that thrives in Sofia.
The nightlife never fails to deliver, with nightclubs, live music and pubs to suit every taste. Mehani (traditional Bulgarian taverns) and live shows by Bulgarian music groups are unique options.
Fun by day - shopping and activities
Vitosha Mountain, only a quick drive or lift trip away, is popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking in the summer. The outdoor book market on Slaveykov Square and the yellow cobblestone boulevards of the city centre are relaxing spots to take in the city’s atmosphere. Vitosha Boulevard, also called Vitoshka, is lined with international fashion boutiques and shops filled with luxury goods. Another exciting shopping experience can be found in the city’s bazaars.
A quick trip to the Boyana Church and the National History Museum, about 5 miles outside of the city, is well worth your time.
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