Sofia is fascinating. Grand, rammed with history and budget friendly.
If you like Roman mosaics, Ottoman mosques, Soviet remnants and skiing it will tick your boxes. Here’s our top things to see in the capital of Bulgaria:
Boyana Church
On a hillside just outside the city is the exquisite Boyana Church. This frescoed UNESCO listed marvel is one of our favourite places, anywhere. Tiny Boyana Church dates from the 11th century and its intact interior is coated with 90 jewel coloured medieval frescoes.
Tips as only a limited amount of visitors can enter at once, be prepared for a wait in the peaceful garden. If you’re not up for the walk to the bus stop, the hotel down the road will order a taxi for you.
The Red Flat
The Red Flat is a perfectly preserved Communist family residence you can experience what life was like for Bulgarians during the Cold War. We loved it, you can also buy cool memorabilia from the shop.
Tip the Red Flat sometimes closes at lunchtime so book in advance or check.
Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
This golden domed 19th century cathedral dominates the centre of Sofia. The church is Bulgarian Orthodox and is the largest cathedral in the Balkans. It is 174 feet tall with a cavernous, richly decorated interior. Don’t miss it.
Tip avoid late afternoon as the windows look best in strong light as does the signature golden dome.
Serdika Metro Station and complex
Bang in the centre of the city is the stunning excavation site that is Serdika. Serdica was the name of Roman Sofia and during the creation of the metro 8 streets dating from the 4th to the 6th centuries were uncovered, plus a Christian basilica and baths.
Tip don’t miss the late 14th century Ottoman Sveta Petka Samardzhiiska.
Vitosha Mountain National Park
Just 30 minutes by metro/tram/bus from the centre of Sophia is the mountain resort of Vitosha. Don’t expect an expansive modern resort, but there’s enough intermediate skiing for a day in the Winter and beautiful hiking in the Summer.