HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN SOFIA, BULGARIA’S QUIRKY CAPITAL

By Julia Van Peer

"Once standing out as a rich centre of trading routes with a lustrous cultural atmosphere, Sofia represents a beating heart where culture meets tradition with a hint of modernity."

Only have one day in Sofia? This nifty guide introduces you to the highlights and lesser known parts of Bulgaria’s capital.

With roots entangled in both Ottoman culture and Communistic reign, the history of Bulgaria takes the explorer back hundreds of years to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest nations in Europe. Having never visited a Balkan capital before, let alone a Balkan country, may have influenced my perception about the first one. Looking back on my 7-month Balkan roadtrip, Sofia doesn’t make my top 5 must-see capitals. Nonetheless, it truly has an unforgettable charm to it.

The impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral seen from the Oborishte boulevard.

Once standing out as a rich centre of trading routes with a lustrous cultural atmosphere, Sofia represents a beating heart where culture meets tradition with a hint of modernity. I always prefer spending a multiple of days in one place, yet Bulgaria’s capital is both compact and walkable, thus a one day itinerary can cover the main sights.

From starting the morning with an invigorating Turkish coffee in one of the numerous bars, to visiting historical and cultural landmarks, before strolling the downtown streets. From ancient bathhouses, to the most famous cathedral on Balkan grounds, and a fortress telling age-old tales of brave knights. If blessed with more time, you can extend your visit by making a day trip to one of the surrounding destinations, or explore the nature scenes around the city.

Altogether an interesting and vibrant destination worth visiting! Here are my favourite things to visit in Sofia.

THE ALEXANDER NEVSKY CATHEDRAL

Without doubt the most photographed architectural sight in Sofia, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral displays the victory over the Ottoman empire. St. Alexander Nevsky, a famous Russian prince and name holder of the iconic building, played an important role in numerous battles intended to preserve Orthodox religion.

Standing in front of this magnificent masterpiece the impressive Neo-Byzantine styled facade will blow you away, whilst on the inside words will fail you. And in a dynamic metropolis like Sofia, silence and peace couldn’t be more appreciated. Take your time to gaze upon the imposing walls and ceilings, completely ornamented with magnificent fresco’s. It almost seems like they made a contest out of it, trying to cover every inch of white wall and leaving nothing unadorned. Let tranquility flow over you while adoring the sublime sculptures and decorations that coat the inside.

The best approach to the cathedral is via the wide boulevard on its eastern side. This way you will have a clear view on the golden domes that shine in contrast to the mint green cupolas. The Orthodox Church has left a clear and beautiful symbolic mark.

The golden-green domes stand out against the clear blue sky.

ADMIRE THE NUMEROUS OTHER ORTHODOX CHURCHES

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is not the only church worth visiting. In a radius of only 1.5 kilometres 17 other churches can be found, some of which you can marvel at from afar, others are worth stepping inside for. After being reigned for five centuries by the Ottoman Turks, and having survived the atheist Communist Period, complete freedom of religion was endowed. The Orthodox religion entered the lives and culture of the Bulgarian people,co-existing in peace with other religious minorities (such as Muslims, Catholics, Protestants and Jews).

A few churches, some of which are of the most impressive ones ever made, are listed below:

St. Nicholas Church of Sofia
St. George Church
Church of St. Paraskeva
Cathedral St. St. Cyril and Methodius
Seven Saints Church (Church of Sveti Sedmochislenitsi)

One of many extraordinary religious buildings.

NAVIGATE THE STREETS FOR COLOURFUL STREET ART

Like any other capital, Sofia is a playground for artists practising the modern art of Graffiti. Ranging from colourful artistic creations to meaningful masterpieces that speak to the soul, these treasures are spread all over the city. Sometimes hidden in the narrow dark alleys while others loom over the well-paved streets in the centre of town, it is undeniable there are some pleasant surprises. Other than marvelling at these murals, it is the perfect opportunity to explore the town in an alternative daylight.

Whether you are a novice admirer or someone who is already acquainted with this kind of street art, Sofia Graffiti Tours offer something for everyone. Their tours run every Saturday and Sunday at 3 pm, taking about 2 hours to finish. Although the tours are free of charge, it is customary to leave something with your guide at the end of the tour.

Part of the Sofia Graffiti Tour.

TAKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME AT THE NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Exhibiting numerous historical objects and relics, displaying the nation’s turbulent past, this building is a must-see today. The National History Museum transports you back to pre-historic times when pottery and jewellery ruled the medieval streets, before taking you to the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman reigned era, when Sofia was still known as Serdica. Hereafter you find yourself wandering through the Bulgarian National Revival period and Communist state, finishing in liberated and peaceful modern times. Both permanent and temporary expositions tingle your senses to find out more about Bulgaria’s rich history.

Next to the most intriguing Museum in town, other fascinating museums lure you with their distinct aspects of the nation’s cultural heritage:

National Archeological Museum
Sofia History Museum
Open Air Ethnographic Museum
Earth and Man National Museum

STROLL DOWN VITOSHA BOULEVARD

Named after the Vitosha Mountain, Vitosha Boulevard has something for everyone.

If you fancy an afternoon of lavish shopping (or for the braver ones of you: window-shopping) this is the place to be. Comprising mostly fashion boutiques and posh stores, it is the main commercial street in Sofia. On the other hand, if you’re in a more cultural mood, marble at the impressive architecture and beautiful buildings that make the boulevard.

However if you want to spare your feet, take a seat in one of the countless bars or restaurants along the avenue. It is unquestionably the ultimate spot to lean back and appraise by-passers grasping their countless shopping bags. I must admit there are more cosy and affordable places to nestle yourself in the tiny back streets, nevertheless good vibes float from one lounge to the other.

Autumn creates a vibrant carpet of fallen leaves on the pavements.

ESCAPE THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE IN ONE OF MANY SURROUNDING PARKS

As Sofia’s vibrant atmosphere can sometimes make you gasp for air, the numerous parks are no unnecessary luxury. Whichever quarter you walk through, many smaller and larger parks will seduce you on all sides.

Situated only a stoneworp from the city centre, Borisova Gradina Park dates back to the 19th Century. With its lucent little lakes, open lush green plains tempting you to unwind, and numerous wooden benches perfect for unpacking your picnic, it is a charming place.

If you are looking for a tranquil corner within a larger radius, the Botanical Garden is the place to be. The ideal escape of blinding city lights, roaring noises and chattering tourists. Either take your favourite book to dream away, or spend a delightful afternoon with some friends. In this oasis there is no lack of fresh air nor a shortage of well-scented, beautiful species of flora.

However if you crave a more hikeable piece of nature, Vitosha Mountain makes for the perfect day trip. Not only does the mountain amaze you with sweeping panoramas, it also embraces an ancient monastery next to the splashing Boyana Waterfall. At an elevation of 2 200 metres above sea level, Vitosha offers beautiful vistas.

Fun fact: Sofia counts more than 30 parks, including North Park, South Park and West Park, but no East Park.

Picture by Zlatko Dimitrov.

TAKE THE FREE WALKING TOUR

If you have limited time to walk about in the city, a walking tour is your best way to go. This 2-hour walking tour navigates you past the highlights of this historically acclaimed city. Having an expert guide narrate story after story about the second oldest settlement in Europe, is an excellent way to become acquainted with Bulgaria’s past. Taking up only 2 hours of your day, you’ll have the whole afternoon to yourself for free strolling. Make sure to double check the exact times with your hotel as they go four times a day.

To get more information, feel free to check their website: Free Sofia Tour.

Have your pick from an infinite number of nuts, dried fruits, and other goodies.

ADD A DAY TRIP TO YOUR ITINERARY

It goes without saying that Bulgarian culture goes way beyond Sofia’s city walls. Even so, the small villages constructed of traditional Ottoman stone houses, are a breath of fresh air away from the modern capital. Here are some wonderful day trips worth undertaking:

Koprivshtisa – Small in stature but rich in history, the town dates back to the 14th century, after being destroyed in 1876 during the April Uprising. Having been rebuilt by locals, the cobblestoned streets and authentic traditional buildings once again shine with light. Once a true ‘hidden’ gem, nowadays the town knows an uprising popularity amongst local tourists. It may be situated relatively close to Sofia, there are only two options to tackle the journey: 2 hours by car through stunning landscapes of the Sredna Gora Mountains, or a 2-hour train ride followed by a short drive by mini bus.

Rila Monastery or The Seven Rila Lakes – By far one of the most gorgeous areas on Bulgarian ground. Not only does the Rila National Park offer you mesmerizing views over seven breathtaking cobalt blue mountain lakes, the Rila Monastery will leave you breathless. Built in the 10th century and preserved in the best of ways, it is inhabited by well respected monks living up to the values of serenity and tranquility. The colourful frescoes that ornament the monastery’s facade are stunning.

Vitosha Mountain – Located just outside of Sofia’s outer rim, Vitosha Mountain is the ideal location for venturing off on countless hiking possibilities. During winter time, the mountain offers a wide range of winter sport activities.

Admire the beautiful Rila Monastery in all its glory.

Colourful frescoes and ornaments decorate the Monastery's walls.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Walking – The city centre is very compact and walkable, with the majority of landmarks within walking distance of each other.

Taxi – They are plentiful and cheap with fares starting as low as 0.80 leva. Don’t be alarmed by the ones in bad shape, most of the times they are the most reliable drivers.

Public Transport – The subway, trams and buses run regularly and are very affordable, with a single travel ticket costing 1.60 leva.

Driving – Only if you are familiar with Sofia’s busy roads it is an option for driving through. On top of that parking places are very expensive and often tourists are ripped off.

Hire a bicycle – Offering a lot of rental services around town (e.g. Sofia Bike Rental), with prices around 20 leva, Sofia is the perfect town to discover by bike.

LOSE YOURSELF IN THE DELICIOUS CULINARY CULTURE

Last but not least it is obliged you indulge yourself in Bulgaria’s culinary scene. Covering more than 60.000 hectares of vineyards, the nation is famous for its distinct wine culture. As wineries can be found all over the country, it is not difficult to arrange a wine-tasting to your liking. For me Medi Valley Winery, near the Rila Monastery, was a very lovely tour with lots of interesting fun facts and most importantly exquisite wines!

Apart from the excellent wines, dishes like Shopska Salad, Banitsa, Tarator Soup, Mekitsa and so much more are to be discovered by the taste buds in your mouth. Some traditional restaurants serving a mélange of delicious cuisine are:

The Little Things – It may be a challenging task to find it, but once inside the ‘living room’ with a traditional meal in front of you, you will feel right at home.

SkaraBar – No place better to enjoy a plate of mixed grilled meat, with some crunchy potatoes at the side.

Hadjidraganov’s House – Offering different culinary delicacies from regions all over the country, this authentic restaurant should not be missing from your list.

The Local Farmers Market – You will not find fresher products, collected straight from the vegetable garden, than at the oldest market in Sofia.

Rainbow Factory – With a menu full of delicious sandwiches, this is the perfect place for your luncheon.

WHERE TO SPEND THE NIGHT?

Like any capital, Sofia counts endless accommodations ranging from the buget hostel to a mid-range airbnb and luxury hotels. Sites like booking.com, airbnb.com, and trivago.com make your search much easier. These are few of many options: