Skip to content
Sofia might not always be the first city that comes to mind when you think of European travel, but it should be. Bulgaria’s capital is a fascinating mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, Orthodox churches, Soviet-era monuments, and a buzzing modern café culture. It’s affordable, walkable, and surrounded by mountains — perfect for both city breaks and nature escapes.
Whether you’re traveling for work, a family holiday, or a weekend getaway, these Sofia travel tips will help you experience the city with ease and confidence.
Getting From the Airport to the City Center
Sofia Airport (SOF) is just 10 km from the city center, making transfers quick and straightforward.
- Metro: Line 4 connects the airport to the city in under 30 minutes.
- Bus: Lines 84 and 184 are cheaper, but slower.
- Taxi: Only use official OK Supertrans taxis — scams are common with unlicensed drivers.
- Ride-sharing: Bolt and Uber operate in Sofia.
- Private transfers: Best if you’re traveling with family or arriving late at night.
Getting Around the City
Sofia is compact, but public transport is efficient:
- Metro: Clean, cheap, and easy to use with English signage.
- Trams & buses: Cover most areas, though some routes are slower.
- Bikes & scooters: Rentable through apps, great for parks and boulevards.
- Walking: The city center is very walkable, with many attractions close together.
Must-Try Foods & Where to Eat in Sofia
Bulgarian food is hearty, fresh, and surprisingly diverse.
- Shopska salad – tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and feta-like sirene cheese.
- Banitsa – flaky pastry filled with cheese.
- Kebapche – grilled minced meat sausages.
- Tarator – cold cucumber and yogurt soup.
- Baklava & local sweets – Ottoman influences still shine.
Where to eat:
- Moma Bulgarian Food & Wine – authentic dishes in a traditional setting.
- Skaptobara – for burgers and craft beer.
- Sofia Central Market Hall – snacks and street eats.
Sightseeing & Attractions
Sofia’s history is layered — you’ll find ruins and landmarks from multiple eras.
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – the city’s iconic golden-domed church.
- Serdika Roman Ruins – ancient remains in the city center.
- Boyana Church – UNESCO site with medieval frescoes.
- Vitosha Boulevard – the main shopping and dining street.
- Vitosha Mountain – hiking, skiing, and panoramic city views.
Activities for Families & Kids
- Sofia Zoo – one of the oldest in the Balkans.
- Borisova Gradina Park – playgrounds and bike paths.
- National Museum of Natural History – educational fun.
- Dragalevtsi Ski Resort – quick mountain escape for families.
Finding the Best Accommodation
- City Center (Oborishte, Serdika) – close to major attractions.
- Lozenets – quieter, more residential.
- Studentski Grad – lively, budget-friendly, lots of nightlife.
- Vitosha foothills – great for nature lovers.
Hotels, Airbnbs, and boutique stays are plentiful — prices are far lower than Western Europe.
Best Time to Visit Sofia
- Spring (April–June) – Mild weather, blooming parks.
- Summer (July–August) – Warm, but not as crowded as other capitals.
- Autumn (Sept–Oct) – Perfect balance of weather and affordability.
- Winter (Dec–Feb) – Cold, but festive and great for skiing nearby.
Free & Affordable Things to Do in Sofia
- Join a free walking tour of the city.
- Relax in Borisova Gradina or South Park.
- Visit Church of St. George Rotunda – 4th-century gem.
- Explore Women’s Market (Zhenski Pazar).
- Hike up Vitosha Mountain for stunning free views.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Sofia has a lively, budget-friendly nightlife scene:
- Vitosha Boulevard – bars, cafés, and people-watching.
- Studentski Grad – clubs and late-night venues.
- Cultural events – opera, ballet, and theater at affordable prices.
- Craft beer & wine bars – Bulgaria has a growing craft scene.
Safety & Common Tourist Scams to Watch Out For
Sofia is safe, but watch out for:
- Overpriced taxis (always confirm you’re in an official cab).
- Pickpockets in crowded markets.
- Fake “helpers” at ATMs or transport hubs.
Packing Tips & Travel Essentials
Wondering what to bring on vacation to Sofia?
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Light layers in spring/fall, warm coats in winter.
- A reusable water bottle (tap water is safe).
- Sunscreen and sunglasses in summer.
- Universal power adapter.
Recap
From historic cathedrals and Roman ruins to hearty food and lively nightlife, Sofia offers a unique mix of experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. With these Sofia travel tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy the city stress-free.
About Air Doctor
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including dentists, GPs, and pediatricians
FAQs
The local currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), so you’ll always pay in lev.
Yes, central areas are generally safe. Stick to well-lit streets, and be cautious in less busy neighborhoods.
Sofia is famous for its blend of history and culture — from the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to Roman ruins and the nearby Vitosha Mountain.
