Sofia, Bulgaria's lively capital, blends old and new seamlessly. Here you'll find Roman ruins and Ottoman buildings next to modern tech hubs and hip cafes - it's a city where history and innovation coexist in a unique urban spirit.
As a rising tech hotspot in Eastern Europe, Sofia's perfect for diving into decentralized tech's future. The city's booming startup scene is an exciting place for Ethereum enthusiasts to meet up and brainstorm blockchain's next big leap.
Getting around
Public transport: Sofia has quite good public transportation. You can utilize Google Maps or Mooveit to navigate around the city. No need to purchase tickets in advance, you can simply pay with a bank card, Apple Wallet, or Google Pay.
Taxi: Uber and Bolt are not available in Bulgaria, but we recommend using Taxi me, Yellow Taxi or Volt for reliable and safe transportation in Sofia. Always ensure the taxi has a working meter and displays its rates.
Currency
The local currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), but card payments are widely accepted. If you need cash, use official bank ATMs. Crypto fans will be happy to know Sofia has over 10 crypto ATMs across the city.
Below you will find some recommendations for accommodation. For rates and availability contact the property, or check via the website.
Ruby Red House: A beautifully restored early 20th-century building in Sofia's historic center, offering 8 self-catering apartments that blend traditional and contemporary aesthetics, perfect for experiencing the city like a local.
Urban Oasis Heaven: A tranquil sanctuary in the midst of Sofia's bustling urban environment, offering a peaceful respite for travelers.
InterContinental Sofia: A sophisticated five-star hotel providing world-class amenities and panoramic views of the city's iconic landmarks.
Central Apartment with Private SPA: A luxurious city-center accommodation featuring its own private spa facilities for ultimate relaxation after exploring Sofia.
Adella Boutique Hotel: Offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities.
*Please note that we are not associated with any of the properties, this list is just a suggestion based on good location and rate.
Sofia offers a diverse culinary scene with countless dining options to suit any taste. Here is a list with some of our favourites:
Moma - a modern Bulgarian restaurant located in a 1930s building.
Cosmos - a fine dining establishment in Sofia's city center explores the universe of tastes, creating a unique "Traditional Space Cuisine".
Shtastlivetsa - a cozy restaurant on Vitosha Boulevard where time seems to stand still.
The Gallery - located on the 28th floor of Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia, The Gallery offers an avant-garde fine dining experience.
Urban Legends - a renowned steak and fish house located in the heart of Sofia.
The Sushi Bar - offering a wide variety of classic and original sushi prepared on the spot.
Altruist Urban Cafe - a stylish, laptop-friendly café in Sofia's center, offering premium coffee, delicious pastries, and a charming backyard.
Barter Community Club - a rooftop coworking space and café, providing a unique environment for remote workers and digital nomads.
Balev bio cafe - a popular work-friendly spot in Sofia that has gained a reputation for its pleasant atmosphere and cozy environment.
Coffee Syndicate - offering a curated selection of high-quality coffee, delectable éclairs, craft beers, and simple cocktails.
Of course, we have the popular coffee chains like Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Coffee Fellows where you always see people with laptops and earbuds.
65 Fireflies: A free-spirited aperitivo bar with two romantic gardens, offering a cool vibe and delicious homemade food to complement the drinks.
Sense Rooftop Bar - a stylish rooftop bar with panoramic views of Sofia's city center, offering an extensive beverage list.
Ozone Skybar & Lounge - the highest bar in Bulgaria, offering a modern and trendy sky-high experience with exceptional city views.
3 oz.Bar - no menu, just say to the bartender what you wanna drink tonight and they will work they magic.
KEBA - just go. You will like it.
Ganci - charming bar and cafeteria located in building from 1931, offering a unique experience that transports visitors to the early 20th century.
Bar Me - if you are a bar person, you will like the place.
The cocktail bar - the place offers a wide variety of signature cocktails and classics, in a pleasant street atmosphere.
Baroteque SLON - a decadent bar in Sofia that embodies luxury and indulgence, offering signature cocktails and an exquisite taste experience in a lavishly designed space.
Carrousel - has become a staple in Sofia's nightlife scene, offering a unique blend of music, atmosphere, and entertainment
Bedroom club - a popular nightclub located in Sofia's city center, housed in the historic building of the former Italian Bank.
Things to Do in Sofia
Sofia offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, blending historical sites, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and modern entertainment. Here are some unique and exciting things to do in Bulgaria's capital:
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Marvel at one of the world's largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals, an iconic symbol of Sofia.
Ancient Serdica Complex: Step back in time as you walk through Roman-era ruins in the heart of the city.
St. Sofia Church: Discover ancient tombs in the crypt of this 6th-century church that gave the city its name.
Square of Religious Tolerance: Visit four places of worship representing different religions within a small area.
Vitosha Mountain: Take a short trip for hiking, skiing, or enjoying panoramic city views.
Borisova Gradina: Stroll through Sofia's oldest park, perfect for picnics and people-watching.
South Park: Enjoy jogging, cycling, or relaxing in this lush green space.
Escape Rooms: Sofia boasts a thriving escape room scene. Challenge yourself at popular venues like:
Dextrophobia Rooms: Offering immersive experiences for 2-7 players.
Area 51 Action-quest: An English-friendly escape room for 2-6 players.
ROOM 66: A 66-minute challenge for 2-5 players
Free Sofia Tour: Join a guided walk to get an excellent overview of Sofia's main attractions.
Sofia Graffiti Tour: Discover the city's vibrant street art scene.
Mineral Springs: Fill your bottle with natural mineral water from public fountains near the Sofia History Museum.
National Archaeological Museum: Explore Bulgaria's ancient past through a vast collection of artifacts.
Museum of Socialist Art: Gain insights into Bulgaria's communist era through art and propaganda.
Museum of Illusions: Experience mind-bending optical illusions in this interactive museum.
National Art Gallery, Kvadrat 500 - Discover a rich collection of Bulgarian and foreign art, as well as topical guest exhibitions. Learn more here.
Useful phrases in Bulgarian
As a visitor, you might find it a bit difficult to get oriented at first, as many street signs are in Bulgarian. Fear not, the locals are quite friendly, so don't be afraid to stop a random stranger and ask directions.
Pro tip: Bulgarians are really flattered if a foreigner tries to say something in Bulgarian, because we know how hard this could be. Here are a few useful words and phrases:
Hello - Здравейте (Zdraveyte)
Thank you - Благодаря (Blagodarya)
Please / You're welcome - Моля (Molya)
Excuse me - Извинете (Izvinete)
Cheers - Наздраве (Nazdrave)
Goodbye - Довиждане (Dovizhdane)
Have a good day - Хубав ден (Hubav den)
Do you speak English? - Говорите ли английски? (Govorite li angliyski?)
Don't worry about perfect pronunciation – your effort will be appreciated!
