Book flights to Sofia (SOF)

A treasure trove of ancient architecture, fascinating museums and fine dining, Bulgaria’s capital is one of those hidden Baltic gems that’s definitely worth exploring. Nestled beneath the towering Mount Vitosha, it’s filled with Ottoman sites of cultural significance, Roman remains, and exclusive galleries.

A juxtaposition of old and new, Sofia is a family destination too, with plenty of activities for younger adventurers. Gastronomes will adore the exquisite food, with a cluster of Michelin-starred restaurants on offer.

While the city may be small in comparison to other European destinations, Sofia has plenty to offer outdoors lovers, culture seekers, and curious travellers. City break destinations don’t get much better than this charming capital surrounded by some of Bulgaria’s most beautiful countryside.

You can explore much of Sofia’s charming city centre on foot. A guided walking tour takes you around landmarks such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the ancient Roman Serdika complex. But it also takes you down cobbled streets and into the older sections of the city.

If you get thirsty along the way, don’t worry. Sofia is full of mineral springs, and you can fill up your water bottle for free at the city’s public bath.

When you’re at Serdika metro station you’ll find a hidden gem next to the recently uncovered Roman remains. For an unusual view of Largo Square above, there’s a ‘secret’ entrance to a lower-level viewing point with a glass roof.

If you plan a visit to Sofia as a city break destination in the winter, you’re just a short distance from some of the best skiing in Europe on uncrowded slopes. 

Sofia has a rich cultural and arts scene to dive into. A visit to the Ivan Vazov National Theatre or the National Palace of Culture concert hall at the end of Vitosha Boulevard is highly recommended. To see Sofia’s more recent artistic endeavours, take a free tour of its unique graffiti and vivid city murals.

Sofia is famous for its beautiful architecture, but don’t miss the Banya Bashi Mosque, designed by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century. It’s a tranquil, serene place built in the Ottoman style.

Sofia has some beautiful open spaces, including City Garden in front of the National Theatre, the peace of Borisova Garden, and the family-friendly South Park. Discover the natural splendour of the region with hiking tours that take you up Mount Vitosha for exquisite views of the city below.

Sofia is a food-lover’s paradise. With 20 or so Michelin-star restaurants clustered around the centre, you have a huge choice of fine dining. For a more authentic Bulgarian experience, look out for klek shops, open for snacks and drinks late into the evening. You’ll have to look down for these, as klek means ‘squat’ – these shops are at basement level!

Sofia’s markets are full of delicious treats including the many cheeses that are so popular in this part of the world. For breakfast, drop into one of the city’s many coffee shops and order a ‘princess’, a sandwich filled with minced meat and cheese.

Or try banitsa for breakfast, a delicious combination of whisked eggs, Bulgarian yoghurt and crumbled white cheese baked in filo pastry. And don’t leave Sofia without trying some authentic moussaka.

From street markets to modern malls, there’s lots of choice for retail lovers in Sofia. The Women’s Market is the oldest market in the city, selling everything from fruit and vegetables to traditional clothing, artisan crafts, spices and souvenirs.

The Central Covered Market is next to Serdika metro station and is a fun place to browse for bargains. For leisurely shopping, Vitosha Boulevard is full of brands and boutiques and is pedestrianised so it’s a relaxing place to wander. If you want a slightly quirky street experience, head to Shishman Street for art galleries, or Pirotska Street for a glimpse of Old Sofia.

For mall shopping, Paradise Center is the largest mall in the city, while Serdika Center and Park Center are more relaxed and family-friendly shopping experiences.