When European city-hopping is mentioned, most travellers think of the alluring charms of Paris, Rome or London. But set off the beaten track and explore Bulgaria's vibrant and youthful capital Sofia, and you will be surprised by its rocking cultural scene, heartwarming food and chilled-out vibe. Whether you need to marvel at historic sights, trek on mountain slopes or have a glass of world-class wine, Sofia offers experiences that are both authentic and affordable. Listed here are the very best things you can do in Sofia.
Explore historic treasures
Every history buff will be pleased to land in Sofia. A leisurely stroll around the city centre lets visitors uncover Bulgaria's diverse layers of history, mixing up Roman ruins and Soviet architecture, as well as Ottoman and Byzantine religious and cultural influences.
Start by visiting among the world's biggest Orthodox churches along with a major Bulgarian symbol – the stunning neo-Byzantine Aleksander Nevski Cathedral. Renowned for its gold-laden domes, the church commemorates the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died for Bulgaria's independence throughout the Russo-Turkish War (1877 -78).
If you prefer trying to find Thracian gold and Roman artefacts, definitely spend each day in the National Museum of History. Relax in its spacious gardens, while going for a photo with the Russian MiG fighters' statues that are erected there. To have an insight into Bulgaria's decades behind the Iron Curtain, go to the Museum of Socialist Art to check out its quirky collection of statues, paintings and propaganda movies.
Admire the vibrant arts scene
Get towards the heart of Bulgarian art by browsing the National Gallery Quadrat 500. This is where you can admire the country's largest collection of medieval paintings as well as impressive examples of contemporary art. Another art venue worth popping into is the Sofia City Art Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions of Bulgarian paintings and sculpture.
Lovers of opera and ballet can enjoy beloved classics at the Sofia Opera and Ballet. You cannot go wrong with its selection of deeply moving, world-class performances (with ticket prices beginning with only 10 euros). Fans of classical music may also opt for a evening out at the excellent Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra. Head to Ivan Vazov National Theatre for Bulgarian drama.
Taste the Balkan cuisine
Food is deeply ingrained in Bulgarian culture – it is a method to enjoy life and connect with other people. To begin the day just like a local, possess a bite of a freshly baked banitsa. It's hard to find a more traditional breakfast than this warm and buttery pastry made from special dough sheets with fillings like white cheese (the complete classic), spinach and cheese, cinnamon-sprinkled apples and sugary pumpkin. Banitsa can be found virtually everywhere, however, many of the trendiest local bakeries include Hlebar, Furna and Cafe Ma Baker.
Sampling Sofia: best new food and drink spots
At lunchtime, get cozy at one of the restaurants offering local specialities: grilled meat, shopska salad (a brand new mixture of tomatoes, cucumbers and white cheese) and rakia (Bulgaria's national spirit – beware, it's strong!). Save the night for any glass of locally produced wine (the red variety mavrud, particularly, is excellent), juicy steaks along with a heavenly Turkish-influenced dessert. Vegans and vegetarians won't be disappointed either – a range of vegan places have shaped the neighborhood style of recent years.
Shtastliveca is fantastic for an inexpensive traditional dinner with a modern twist (vegetarian and vegan options included), Fabrika Daga is famous for its excellent brunches, while Soul Kitchen offers mainly vegan and raw food options. For top-quality wine and cocktails, visit Yet another Bar.
Go shopping for authentic Bulgarian goods
Thinking of your next grocery shopping, you're more prone to plan a weekend in Italy than in Bulgaria. While so Sofia is no big fashion capital, it's its fair share of small boutiques and designer clothing that come at less expensive prices than in western Europe. But it is safe to say that shopping in Sofia stretches beyond the well known brands.
Visitors can take home authentic bits of the country's spirit – from organic rose-oil cosmetics (Bulgaria is the world's leading producer of rose oil) and Bulgarian raspberry wines to white cheese and spices. You'll find a good selection of products at Rose of Bulgaria and Vino Orenda stores. The best place to stock up on fresh and economical local foods may be the Ladies' Market (watch out for pickpockets).
Escape to nature in nearby forests and mountains
Nestled in the foothills of the sprawling Vitosha Nature Park, Sofia is just a 10km drive from the pleasant shades of their pine and oak forests. In summer and spring, the mountain is popular for its trekking routes resulting in the nearby villages, as well as the soul-stirring peak Cherni Vr^ah (literally "Black Peak").
One from the spots to begin your hike is Zlatnite Mostove (meaning "Golden Bridges"). This is an extraordinary geological phenomenon that looks just like a stone river running down an incline from around 1700m to 1350m. Nature lovers may also enjoy trekking to the 25m-high Boyana waterfall that lures with its crystal-clear waters.
When winters are snowy, Mt Vitosha offers accessible and cheap ski rides, however that the facilities listed here are basic compared to big Bulgarian resorts like Bansko. Non-skiers can catch the Simeonovo gondola (accessible via bus lines 111, 122 and 123) and revel in a refreshing walk in the woods.
