What to Do in Sofia, the Capital of Bulgaria?

Sofia is the capital city of Bulgaria and the largest city in the country. It is situated in the western part of the country and is about 560 kilometers away from Bucharest and 149 kilometers away from Serbia. The city is home to nearly two million citizens making it the 14th largest city in the European Union by population. Sofia is also a popular tourist destination with an abundance of attractions and activities for all ages. Whether you are looking for culture, art, shopping, outdoor activities or nightlife, you can find something to do in Sofia.

Places to Visit in Sofia, Bulgaria

National Museum of History

The National Museum of History is a must-see when visiting Sofia, Bulgaria. It is dedicated to Bulgarian history and culture and houses an impressive collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to modern day. It also includes a library, a cafe and three permanent exhibitions. Visitors can learn about the history of Bulgaria and its people through a wide range of beautifully displayed objects, sculptures, photographs and artwork.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Sofia and it shouldn’t be missed when visiting the city. It was built between 1882 – 1912 and it is known for its grandeur and beauty. The interior of the cathedral is covered with golden mosaics, frescos and marble statues as well as grand 19th century Russian-style paintings depicting various biblical scenes. On Saturdays, visitors can listen to live traditional Bulgarian church music here.

Earth and Men National Museum of Mineralogy

The Earth and Men National Museum of Mineralogy showcase an impressive collection of minerals and rocks from all over the world, as well as Bulgarian mineral specimens. Here visitors can learn about the history and science of mineralogy while enjoying a stunning display of sparkling gemstones. The museum also includes an interactive 3D exhibition, which allows visitors to see up close a variety of geological structures, as well as a mineralogical library.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Thracian antiquities in Europe, including a large collection of gold artifacts from the Valley of Thracian Kings. Highlights include a replica of an ancient Thracian tomb from 4th century BC, as well as mosaics from that era. The museum also features numerous artifacts from ancient Roman times, such as coins, sculpture and jewelry.

National Gallery for Foreign Art

The National Gallery for Foreign Art is located in downtown Sofia and it showcases a large collection of artwork from foreign countries throughout Europe and Asia, including Impressionist works from famous French painters. Here visitors can get a unique glimpse into the artistic expression of other cultures, while admiring some of the world’s most renowned masterpieces right in the heart of Sofia.

Other Things to do in Sofia

Shopping

Sofia has plenty of shopping opportunities for everyone. Stroll down one of the main shopping streets such as Vitosha Boulevard or Serdika Street to find boutiques and shops offering clothing, accessories and souvenirs. Head to Aladzha Mall or Mall Boulevard Sofia to find larger chain stores like Zara, H&M and Koton. For more upscale shopping head to City Center Sofia or Grand Mall. Here you can check out luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada and Bulgari. Shopping opportunities for antiques can be found in the Sveta Nedelya flea market held on Sundays in front of the Russian Church.

Outdoor Activities

Sofia is full of outdoor activities for all ages from running/walking trails and bike paths to parks, gardens and playgrounds. Vitosha Mountain has numerous hiking trails around its peaks offering spectacular views of the city below. For those who want to explore nature without leaving the city limits there are many parks and gardens including Borisova Gradina, SS Cyril & Methodius National Park, Dragan Tsankov Botanical Garden, etc. Additionally there are several natural reserves such as Vitosha Nature Park and Eco Trail Vassil Levski for those looking for a more adventurous experience.

Nightlife

In Sofia you can find something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. Those looking for a lively bar scene should head to Graf Ignatiev Street or Mladost district where there are plenty of bars offering cocktails, beer and live music while Hristo Botev Boulevard is perfect for an evening stroll accompanied by cafes along the way. For clubbing headto Graft Ignatiev Street or Lovers’ Street where you can find some of the trendiest nightclubs in town playing anything from RnB to EDM. Additionally there are wine bars like Yuzebar or Vega Winery where visitors have the chance to relax while tasting Bulgarian wines accompanied by jazz music or acoustic performances .Sofia Travel Guide, provides more information about places to visit and things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Visitors who visit Sofia will be able to experience its historical sites, landmarks, culture and nightlife as well as its beautiful landscape as Bulgaria is famous for its wild beauty with majestic mountains towering above its towns set amongst lush green nature reserves. There is something for everyone in Sofia – from an exciting nightlife scene to breath-taking nature hikes, Sofia promises fun for all!