Sofia Travel Guide

Travel guide to Sofia, Bulgaria with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Sofia sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.

Sofia Overview

The capital city of Bulgaria with a population in the region of 1.2 million people, Sofia is located in the western part of the country, at the foot of the Vitosha mountain.

The city stands as the major force in the country - being the commercial, industrial and cultural centre of the country. With all this importance Sofia works hard, and successfully, to further develop the countries economic status.

After dark the city of Sofia opens the doors of its many clubs to throngs of young people wanting to dance and party in clubbers paradise. There are less energetic venues too, with live music of all types regularly available and also a whole host of restaurants.

It is also a good time to see the city in a different light - quite literally. With a little effective lighting the architecture seen during the day seems to take on a more mysterious and emotional quality that simply has to be experienced. Take for example the National Palace of Culture as an example, with the building lit it stands proudly in the heart of the city, and with the broad walkway in front of it lit in a soft red hue also it makes a truly awe inspiring centrepiece.

The city offers a great deal to residents and visitors alike. With beautiful and dramatic architecture, many statues of historical significance and numerous parks and open spaces the whole city embraces the individual, seemingly transferring part of its soul as it does so. After a visit to Sofia nothing else is quite the same.

Top Sofia Attractions

There are a number of finely preserved churches in Sofia, indicative of the areas religious background. The two most well known ones being the Alexander Nevski and St Sofia. The Nevski Church has the unmistakeable gold dome atop it, with the most wonderful ornate architecture. Inside it is breathtaking, with beautiful decorations, chandeliers and icons. The St Sofia Church is from a much earlier time, but is no less worthy of note having stood since 4BC.

Shopping in Sofia

For those with a penchant for books the outdoor market in Slaveikov Square is a must, specialising in them as it does. For more branded items the place to be is Vitoshka where all the major names can be found, including McDonalds for those wanting to take a short break from store hopping.

Sofia Sporting Events

Football is a passion with the locals here, and with four teams to support it is not surprising. Probably the best known club is CSKA Sofia, who are regularly seen in the UEFA Cup and Champions League competitions.