Visit Sofia, Bulgaria: The City of Parks and Urban Greenery
Last Updated: August 12, 2024
VISIT SOFIA, BULGARIA WITH THESE QUICK LINKS.
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Visit Sofia and the Yellow Brick Road
As in The Wizard of Oz, Sofia's yellow brick roads contain tales, myths and legends. However, if you didn't know the story behind them, you wouldn't even notice they were there. Nevertheless, when you visit Sofia, you will walk them every day.
Likewise, you'll discover numerous tree-lined roads, green parks, fountains and an un-rivalled outdoor social lifestyle.
Furthermore, the city is full of history, especially the Roman Empire.
Communism still dominates the city, yet new values are driving through. It's a city of contrast and layers that never fails to surprise.
I didn't know exactly what to expect during my visit to Sofia, but what I got was far from anything I could have anticipated.
So, to help you plan your trip and keep you better informed than I was, I've created this travel guide to Sofia based on my four-day expedition in June 2024.
In this travel guide to Sofia, I'll suggest where to stay, all the best bars and restaurants, and what I think are the best things to do in Sofia. Finally, I'll discuss the city's vibe and what you will encounter when you visit Sofia, Bulgaria.
Enjoy!
What's it like Visting Sofia, Bulgaria?
As mentioned, two words that define Sofia are layers and contrasts.
Under the modern-day city you see today are layers of ruins, some of which date back to the Roman Empire. Occassionally, these ruins make it to street level where the clear change in architectural styles can be seen. Once discovered, ruins are left in situ for all to appreciate. The best place to see these layers is around Serdika Metro Station.
Further contrasts come in the form of the styles of buildings. It isn't unusual to be able to spin 360 degrees and see modern glass-fronted buildings, sprawling cafes and modern brands, such as that dreaded McDonald's alongside gigantic brutal Stalinist buildings, all overlooking these old, beautiful ruins.
Large domed churches and statues cover the city with elegance, beauty and magnificence. Each with a story to unveil.
Likewise, Sofia is one of the greenest cities I've ever explored. Parks and green open spaces are everywhere, and trees line the often yellow-bricked streets.
No matter the time of day, or night, crowds fill the parks, often in small social gatherings with gentle sounds of music and laughter. Beers flow, and yet, no one interrupts each other's party. It's busy, vibrant and loud, but in a respectful, fun way.
However, as night falls, the city changes again, with buildings and statues lit like Christmas trees, and bars and clubs bringing a new party vibe. This is when the best of Sofia reveals itself.
How to Get to Sofia
As with many European capitals, there are numerous ways of reaching Sofia.
Most of you will, more than likely, be arriving via Sofia International Airport.
From here, you have a few options for how to get to Sofia.
Firstly, a taxi. However, they are often the most expensive way to travel. Secondly, a bus, and whilst cheapest, they take ages, hence I wouldn't use them either.
The best option, and the one I took, is the metro. Exit the airport terminal, turn left, and you will see the metro station.
Tap your Revolut card at the barrier. You do have one, right? Other bank cards are available. Then, when the metro comes, jump on. If you are staying near the centre, Serdika Metro Station is a good stop to get off, it only takes about thirty minutes. Furthermore, it will only cost you ะปะฒ1.60 (ยฃ0.70). You cannot beat that.
A handy tip for those unable to check in to their accommodation or who have had to check out, but don't want to carry their luggage around all day. Serdika Metro Station and other locations around the city have lockers. Four hours costs ะปะฒ6.90 (ยฃ2.99) and can fit a good-sized bag or two.
If you visit Sofia via the main train or bus station found next to each other, north of the city centre, all you need to do is cross to the metro, tap on and enjoy a short journey on line M2 to Serdika.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Visit Sofia, Bulgaria for?
In contrast to other European capital cities, you won't need much time to visit Sofia. Whilst there are plenty of things to do, nothing will take too long, other than a few day trips.
Therefore, I suggest you visit Sofia for two whole days, adding a further day for each day trip, such as to the impressive Rila Monastery, the beautiful lakes or another city, like Skopje or Plovdiv.
The Best Time Of The Year For Discovering The Best Things to do in Sofia
I visited Sofia, Bulgaria in June and thought it was perfect.
It wasn't too busy, cold, wet or too hot. Even my walking tour guide said May and June were the best times to visit Sofia. I cannot disagree with him, hence I will take his suggestion and my findings and recommend you visit Sofia during May and June.
However, September also brings out some of the best weather in the capital.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Sofia
If you are planning to visit Sofia, Bulgaria, then you should look to stay in and around the central hub. Which ideally means within a ten-minute walk of the City Garden.
That way you'll be close enough to several transport hubs, easy access to all the tour start and end points, the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, and all the bars and restaurants.
Once in this area, all the best things to do in Sofia are within a few minutes walk.
Presidency Apartments
- What: Cosy apartment in a central location.
- Where: Almost opposite the National Assembly of Bulgaria. (map)
- Why: It's cheap, comfy and perfectly located. Oh, and as secure as Fort Knox.
- Why Not: I don't know. Maybe you want the five-star butler service and have a phobia of keys and locks. It's very secure.
This cosy little apartment in the heart of the action boasts a little kitchen with all the utensils, a small living room and a comfortable double bed in a spacious bedroom with en-suite.
The first thing you notice is how secure it is. Honestly, there are about four different locks via five different doors. Whilst I'm up for good security, it felt like I was breaking into Alcatraz - without the water.
However, once safely inside, it's peaceful and incredibly quiet despite being in the city centre.
For the price, level of security, and comfort, I'd happily stay here again when I visit Sofia next.
In June 2024, I paid ยฃ157.50p for three nights for two people.
Further Accommodation
When visiting a new city you don't know much about, it's not all about getting the location right. There's more to it than that.
You have to get the type of accommodation right.
Luckily, when you visit Sofia, you'll find a variety of accommodation types, ranging from five-star luxury hotels to a bunk bed in a hostel dorm.
Whatever your preference on style or standard, the three links below should have you covered.
Best Things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria
When you visit Sofia, you'll discover a city you may not have expected.
Again, the word contrast comes to mind. There are old communist buildings, modern-day glass-fronted, almost hipster-style buildings alongside ancient ruins and religious buildings.
Within one small square, you even have a mosque, a church, a synagog and a statue that some say, was built with the non-religious in mind.
Sofia is about exploring on foot, enjoying the green open space (of which there are plenty), and taking in the exquisite buildings that crisscross the city. Furthermore, Sofia boasts artwork that even Banksy would be proud to claim, and whilst it's not on my list, you should aim to see as much of that as possible.
Likewise, Sofia has a huge selection of intriguing statues, all with a story to tell and again worthy of your viewing.
Finally, if you struggle with mobility, there are plenty of Metro stops throughout the city, meaning you don't miss out on exploring Sofia.
While you could spend days exploring the architecture, statues, green spaces and statues, below is a list of what I think should distract you away. All of this from my June 2024 visit.
Discovering Sofia, Bulgaria: The Highlights
Day Trip to the Monumental Rila Monastery and Boyana Church
- Why: Outside of the known manmade wonders of the world, this building has to be one of the prettiest places on earth.
- Where: An organised day trip meets around the back of the Cathedral; here. If you're driving to the monastery it's here.
- How long: If you go with a company from Sofia this is a full-day trip from 9am to 5pm.
- How much: It's free to enter the monastery, but a day trip to the Monastery and Boyana Church costs ะปะฒ60 (ยฃ26).ย
Ok, this isn't exactly in Sofia, but if you join the tour I took, which I highly recommend, you start and end in Sofia. Hence it is in my travel guide to Sofia. Furthermore, it is, by far, the best thing to do in and around Sofia, and you get to see not one, but two UNESCO world heritage sights.
Disclaimer - The ะปะฒ60 (ยฃ26) doesn't include the guided tour around the monastery, it only includes transportation and entrance to Boyana Church and Rila Monastery. Nevertheless, I think self-guiding is just as good.
Boyana Church
On any other given day, the second stop, Boyana Church, around twenty minutes south of the city centre, would be considered a magnificent find. The church is set amid peaceful and captivating green gardens and is, essentially a love story. The church has three obvious separate designs throughout the ages, each tacked on to the last.
The outside is unassuming and could easily be missed whilst still spectacular. However, inside, as with almost every church in Sofia, the frescoes cover the walls and ceilings. It's magnificent to see. Sadly, you can't take pictures inside.
Yet, Boyana Church pales into insignificance compared to Rila Monastery.
Rila Monastery
Entering under the arch, via the carpark, you're instantly greeted by an architectural marvel.
Hundreds of colourful arched columns form a square around the central clock tower and monastery. Above, the rooftops are dressed in red tile and overlooked by the green mountains that peer down from the surrounding hills.
It's as if you're in the middle of nowhere, yet somewhere very significant, almost heavenly.
The monastery is spectacular from inside and out and is one of those buildings you can sit and look at for hours.
Inside, gold clings to everything and anything that isn't the building itself. The only reason it doesn't cling to that is because of the magnificent frescoes that carpet every millimetre of the walls and ceilings.
Several museums are dotted within the grounds, some are worth doing. However, they are all an additional extra, cash only.
Outside the walls are cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a beer, and a little tourist stall for all your memorabilia. Likewise, a river flows past the monastery walls, where you can sit and relax with a sandwich or whatever food you have.
Everything about Rila Monastery is idyllic, beautiful, interesting and dam-right mad. I love it and hope you do too.
Please let me know what you think in the comments at the bottom of the blog.
Learn about Sofia on a Free Walking Tour
- Why: You learn so much, and it adds the missing links to understanding the city.
- Where: The meeting point is outside the city courthouse. (map)
- How long: Two hours starting at 11am.
- How much: Well, it's called the Free Walking Tour, but a tip is expected of around ะปะฒ20 (ยฃ8.64) per person.
I wholeheartedly recommend you go on this walking tour on the first day you visit Sofia, Bulgaria. Ideally with the same company I went with, Free Sofia Tour. Check out their website, as they run several other interesting tours in the city. Normally, there is one in English and one in Spanish.
Why?
It gives you a great insight into the stories of the statues, the yellow brick roads, the buildings and the contrasts and layers within the city.
The tour walks you through some of the city's most loved parks, past some of the most important buildings and explains the city's history and those who have lived and visited.
It gives you a whole new perspective on the city and unveils some incredible events you wouldn't otherwise know about.
Honestly, this is a must during your stay in Sofia, and if you get Ivo as your tour guide, it will be even better. He has a passion for the city, and it shines through on every step of the tour.
Try the Local Cuisine onย a Free Food Tour
- Why: Why not? It's local food, cooked by locals. What is not to love about that?
- Where: Next to the large-headed statue in Crystal Garden. (map)
- How long: As above, it's two hours starting at 2pm.
- How much: Again, it's free, but a tip is expected, of around ะปะฒ20 (ยฃ8.64) per person.
I booked with Balkan Bites and suggest you do too. However, I also suggest pre-booking, even if it's the day before as there are limited spaces. You can also book via a Facebook message.
Luckily, once again, I had Ivo as my tour guide. I'm not sure he felt the same when he saw us rock up, but for the sake of the blog, let's say he did.
After a quick talk about where Bulgarian and other Balkan nation's dishes come from, you'll visit four or five local cafes, bars and restaurants you may otherwise have missed during your visit to Sofia.
Within each place, you get to try a local dish, or two and again get a detailed description of the dish and its heritage.
Veggies and vegans do not worry. They will check with the group at the start of the tour and, more often than not, replacements are found if there is meat, yoghurt, cheese or whatnot within the dish.
Ultimately, I found this an extremely worthwhile tour, and whilst I didn't return to any of the restaurants, I would have if I had more time in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Visit the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky
- Why: You just have to. It's the most impressive building in Sofia and is spectacular to visit.
- Where: Next to the Basilica of St Sofia. (map)
- How long: I'd give yourself twenty to thirty minutes.
- How much: Once again, it's free to enter, unless you want to take photos inside, in which case it's ะปะฒ10 (ยฃ4.32).
Without sounding like I'm repeating the Boyana Church, Rila Monastery and almost all the religious churches in Sofia chat, the walls are covered head to toe in colourful, old, beautiful, yet fading frescoes. Only, here, it feels more impressive due to the sheer size and shapes of the interior.
Similarly, gold flows across the huge chandeliers and religious artefacts, and large statues and buildings within a building stand proudly in place.
However, I think the best view of the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is from the outside and at night. Numerous powerful flood lights hone in on the multi-domed green and sparkling gold rooftops reflecting along the countless arched stain-glassed windows.
It's impressive in every sense of the word. Furthermore, the night glow removes any of that unloved, dirty and in need of some TLC look you can clearly see in daylight hours.
Uncover the History with a Visit to the Red Flat
- Why: If you're interested in learning about family life during the communist period, you'll love this.
- Where: Just around the corner from the Sofia City Court. (map)
- How long: Truthfully, you could spend twenty minutes or two hours here. It depends on how in-depth you want to go.
- How much: It costs ะปะฒ18 (ยฃ7.80) per person.
Firstly, I will admit after about half an hour I got a bit bored in the flat, so I'll try not to let that distract me from the write-up.
The Red Flat is a pristine example of family life during communism in Bulgaria in the 1980s. Everything within the flat is interactive. You can open, touch, watch, look at, read anything and even use the toilet.
You follow the family of Elena Petrov whose husband worked abroad as a journalist leaving her to 'effectively' raise her son alone. Throughout 46 short voice notes you hear about their lives and what day-to-day living was like. In brief, you can immerse yourself as much or as little into their life as you want.
It is interesting to discover what life was like living under communist rule. Sadly, I felt there were too many voice notes which dragged on. Other than that, I think this is something you should see when visiting Sofia.
Freak Out at the Museum of Illusions
- Why: It's a bit of a laugh. Although, don't go on a hangover.
- Where: Behind the central mosque.ย (map)
- How long: Just over an hour should be perfect.
- How much: Overall, it cost ะปะฒ25 (ยฃ11), which I think is reasonable.
I know! It's not a traditional thing to do in Sofia, and yes, they're popping up in many cities the world over, but that must mean it's fun, and I thought it was.
Whilst it isn't the biggest museum you'll visit, you are led through numerous illusions, some that freak you out and others that captivate you.
I liked that everything is interactive and involves your participation be it, walking left and right while looking at an image, creating shadows or sticking your head in a big glass Kaleidoscope. You can make of it whatever you want.
Overall it's a great way to spend an hour, especially if you have kids.
Where to Eat in Sofia, Bulgaria
Throughout Sofia, there is a vast array of food on offer. So no matter your preference, you will find it.
However, if you are vegan, you will be limited in where you can eat as Bulgarian foods are heavily influenced by meats, cheeses, pastries and yoghurts. That said, I do have some vegan and veggie restaurants listed below.
However, as those of you who follow my blogs know, I love meat and trying new and local dishes on my adventures. After all, I think it's the best way to experience any city.
Numerous local restaurants are hidden throughout the city producing dishes from the Balkan states, and I highly recommend you try them. One of the best ways to discover these places, and learn about the food, is to go on the free food tour by Balkan Bites.
Strangely, I discovered most local dishes had a more 'Westernised' equivalent. For example, Bulgarian meatballs in a bap were essentially, bloody-good burgers. Likewise, whilst different to what I'm used to, several dishes involved fries, and for dessert strained yoghurt with honey reminded me of a Greek yoghurt with a dash of honey.
Nonetheless, with every restaurant adding a unique twist to each dish, every meal is different and full of astonishing flavours.
Enough talk, let's grab a fork and dive into some of these foods.
Mi Casa
- What: Italian meets Balkan meets Mediteraininan restaurant amid Roman ruins.
- Where: Just around the corner from the Central Mosque of Sofia. (map)
- How much: Two mains and a few beers cost around ะปะฒ52 (ยฃ22.90). (menu)
The restaurant almost floats above the surrounding ruins, with a mishmash of seating areas.
You will want to sit outside by the ruins rather than inside. Whilst rustic and interesting, the interior lacked the atmosphere, charm and majesty of the outdoor area, hence my suggestion is to pre-book a table overlooking the ruins.
Whilst Mi Casa is an Italian restaurant, the menu was heavily influenced by Greek and Bulkan flavours and ingredients, which is great. Furthermore, the portion sizes were phenomenal too.
Due to the heavy influence of Bulkan ingredients, the majority of dishes contain meats. However, there are good veggie and even a couple of vegan options.
Overall, this was one of my favourite places to eat in Sofia. The flavours were intense, delicious and mouthwatering, and those Grandpa's fries, oh man, they were to die for.
Izbata Tavern
- What: Cute and traditional restaurant with a family-run, mama's cooking, kinda vibe.
- Where: A few streets south of Monument to the Tsar Liberator. (map)
- How much: A starter of gypsy banitsa, two mains (including Granny's Chicken) and a few beers cost ะปะฒ63 (ยฃ27.30). (menu)
When you visit Sofia, you must try Izbata Tavern for a genuine taste of Bulgaria.
It's authentic, colourful and welcoming.
The restaurant had a homely feel with tradition at its heart.
All the staff were lovely and helpful and couldn't do enough for us. Likewise, the food was full of flavour, and, once again the portions were fantastic.
After having Grandpa's fries in Mi Casa, I went for some of Granny's Chicken, which was delicious.
There are veggie and vegan options on the menu.
The Little Things
- What: Bulgarian restaurant in what feels like a small house with a beautiful courtyard.
- Where: Down the little lane opposite the Seven Saints Orthodox temple.ย (map)
- How much: Two meals, a side of fries and a few beers cost ะปะฒ55 (ยฃ23.80). (menu)
This little gem is hidden down a small lane that opens into a beautiful and surprising petite courtyard.
The courtyard is full of beauty, flowers, fairy lights and pretty tables and chairs with umbrellas. That is where you want to be. Hence, once again, I suggest you book in advance.
If you can't get a table out there, inside is waiting. And... inside can only be described as a rickety old house with creaking floorboards and a fairly unique shabby chic design style.
Regardless of how pretty or unique the courtyard or building is, it is nothing compared to the incredibly fresh, flavoursome, colourful and juicy food.
Again, there are a lot of Balkan dishes on the menu, but there are options for veggies and vegans, and by all accounts, they're also bloody delicious.
You have to come here during your Sofia visit.
Made in Blue
- What: Haunted-looking house with a stunning garden.
- Where: Just around the corner from the Seven Saints Orthodox temple. (map)
- How much: Two mains and four beers cost ะปะฒ66 (ยฃ28.60). (menu)
I have no idea what I was expecting, but it wasn't this.
Firstly, I suggest you book, as Made in Blue gets very busy, especially if you want to sit in the garden.
Outside, is striking in every sense of the word. Yet, it looks like Caspa the Ghost or the Adam's family are about to pop out and greet you.
However, the courtyard is far from dead. It's vibey, well-lit, loud and alive. There is an atmosphere here that most other restaurants can only dream of.
Inside is a whole new story. Everything reverts to that haunted, asylum aura, especially the attic. It's weird, but you can't help but love it.
Sadly, the service was very slow. Our two meals came out in what felt like different centuries. Nevertheless, we couldn't fault the food at all. It was exceptional. Finally, I have to say there are great options for veggies and vegans.
Despite the slow service, I'd come back and nosh down on that delicious burger again.
Rainbow Factory
- What: Stunning little brekkie and brunch place with veggies and vegans in mind.
- Where: Just north of the imposing National Assembly of Bulgaria. (map)
- How much: Two brekkies, two hot drinks and two juices cost ะปะฒ45 (ยฃ19.50). (menu)
You could pick The Rainbow Factory up and put it in the hipster and modern parts of any Westernised city, and if that city happened to be London, you could charge three times the amount.
That said, it isn't the cheapest place in Sofia, but at the same time, you don't mind paying for quality.
The Rainbow Factory is a modern forward-thinking vegan and veggie hipster cafe, serving amazing local bites, sandwiches and pastries alongside classics such as avo on toast.
Yet, even the classic dishes come with a twist, which, in this case, was the liquidised avocado which was insanely good.
There is nothing not to like about this place and everything to love. If you wake up in Sofia and need a hot drink, juice or bite to eat, there is no other place like it.
Where to Party in Sofia
If you plan to visit Sofia and enjoy its nightlife, you're in for a treat. It's buzzing, thrilling and exciting.
In the warmer months, youโll notice groups chilling in the parks with music and alcoholic beverages. Youโll feel the excitement as you walk past, and yet, the city remains clean and tidy and you wonโt see anyone with a bottle in a paper bag stumbling around shouting absurdities.
Even late into the night, itโs a family affair, therefore, you feel safe and able to let your hair down.
Outside of the park life you have world-class gin bars, speakeasies, cocktail bars, local bars and nightclubs. A night in Sofia can be anything you want it to be.
Likewise, it doesn't matter where you are in the city, these top-quality bars are everywhere. However, some of the best bars, like the restaurants, centre around Tsar Shishman Street, south of the Monument to the Tsar Liberato.
Finally, with the city centre being so small, it's easy to uncover as many of them as possible. All you have to do is decide what type of night out you want.
Below are a few of my favourite bars in the city. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.
5L Speakeasy
- What: The title gives it away - It's a speakeasy.
- Where: Between the Monument to the Tsar Liberato and the Orthodox Temple of The Seven Saints. (map)
Welcome to a world of dark and cosy underground rooms with some of Sofia's most imaginative and best-tasting cocktails.
As always with speakeasies, it's not as simple as rocking up, sitting at the bar and ordering a cocktail. Oh no!
You have to play a little game, and the game here is which key will let you in. I know the secret, but I'll let you figure that one out.
However, once in and seated, it really is as simple as kicking back and relaxing with a great group of staff and ordering whatever flavoured cocktail you fancy.
The guys here genuinely know their stuff and concoct incredible-tasting drinks with a smile and a great sense of humour.
In fact, it was so good we went back a couple of times.
The Gin House
- What:ย The home of gin in Sofia.
- Where: Tucked between the Monument to the Tsar Liberator and Prince's Garden.ย (map)
If 5L are the cocktail experts, these guys are the gin experts.
Whilst completely different in every way, it's just as impressive and exciting watching the guys shake up a storm in front of you.
With a selection that could floor half of the visitors to Oktoberfest, you will find something to tickle your tastebuds. We only worked through a handful from the menu, and I highly recommend you do too.
I thoroughly enjoyed sitting at the bar getting to know the team on the other side and watching them work. It was like watching a Broadway performance but with a tasty ending.
The vibe is relaxing, the atmosphere chilled and the decor fantastic. This is a must for anyone looking to visit Sofia, Bulgaria.
Sense Rooftop Bar
- What: High-flyer's rooftop cocktail bar with sublime views.
- Where: Right next to the Monument to the Tsar Liberator. (map)
I'm sure you know what's coming here.
It's a hotel rooftop bar in the heart of a city.
Yes, it is a little more expensive than other places, and yes, you are paying a bit extra for the view, but hey, it's worth it, right?
I admit, whilst perfectly delicious and flavourful, the cocktails couldn't and didn't match that of the first two. However, neither of them had this view.
You cannot help but be wowed by the birdseye view of the beautiful St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral lit up against the dark sky.
Get yourself up here, enjoy a couple of cocktails and grab a window seat to take advantage of the best views in Sofia.
Bar Me
- What:ย Magical small cocktail bar.
- Where: Next to the Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker and the Main Astronomical Point of Bulgaria. (map)
Another of my favourites, and arguably with my favourite cocktail in Sofia - The Crazy Garden.
Whilst only tiny, Bar Me has everything you could want for a tasty boozing session.
The decor is beautifully garnished with an almost Moroccan theme, with cage-like candle holders, draping flowers and wonderful plant pots against a sandy-coloured ornate wall and fancy lighting.
You can't help but be impressed and want to stay for a couple more drinks
Then, once you've decided what you want from a large selection of cocktails, you can kick back, relax and enjoy a strong, but exquisitely made fiery-tasting delight.
Bilkova Bar
- What:ย Fun and exciting bar with more life than most.
- Where: Just up the road from the Seven Saints School. (map)
In comparison to the other bars I've recommended,ย Bilkova Bar had a more youthful and student feel. Certainly less dressy anyway.
Furthermore, the drinks were cheaper and, in a way, simpler - but, in no way, any less enjoyable. There was a lively atmosphere inside and out, and everyone was happy and up for a laugh.
There was more of a party atmosphere here than the others, and somewhere that felt inviting and fun, and that's what a bar should be.
Finally, even by my standards, the service was quick. So, by Sofia's standards, it was like going into warp speed.
Overall it's a fantastic little place for pre-drinks or one on the way home.
Beach Bar
- What: Pop-up beach bar without the beach, but with a late-night licence.
- Where: Behind the National Theater. (map)
Having experienced countless sunsets at beach bars around the world, I could have easily believed I was back at one, despite being so far from the sea. I mean, I couldn't even hear a seagull.
The Beach Bar Sofia has seriously nailed the vibe, the atmosphere, the decor and the drinks.
Everything about the bar was fun, exciting and relaxing, as any beach bar should be.
Admittedly, the drinks weren't the best, but you come here for the late-late-night licence and relaxing sunset beachy vibes.
I loved it, and I'm sure you will too.
Is Visiting Sofia Safe?
Generally speaking, I found Sofia an extremely safe city to visit.
In fact, because of the outdoor 'park life' nightlife, Sofia felt safer at night than my home town. After all, no one is stupid enough to commit a crime with several witnesses.
Plus, there are lots of police officers on patrol or directing traffic. No matter where you go you will see a police officer.
Hence, I didn't see or hear anything untoward or feel unsafe, even at night.
Ultimately, it is a capital city and has the largest population in Bulgaria, so crime does and will happen. Yet, as long as you aren't looking for trouble and are sensible, you should be perfectly safe. The same goes for solo backpackers.
Likewise, the roads were safe places to be. Bar the odd few, people abided by road laws better than in many countries I've been to.
Again, more good news when it comes to natural disasters. Outside of the occasional flooding, no natural disasters should ruin your visit to Sofia.
If you decide to leave the city and head into the mountains, the area is prone to the occasional wildfire, especially during unusually hot periods.
However, overall, Sofia is a very safe city to visit.
Leave a comment
Thanks for taking my long and winding yellow brick road tour through Sofia, Bulgaria. Hopefully, I've made you want to visit Sofia and discover the city and its stories.
On the whole, you don't need many days in Sofia. Yet, if you wanted, you could fill days merely working your way around Sofia's cafe culture, and surreal religious buildings, including the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky and the site of the massacre at the Cathedral of Saint Nedelya.
After all, the city is awash with history, some of which is good and some bad. You will want to learn about this during your visit to Sofia. It brings the city to life.
Overall, I have to say it's not my favourite city, but, in time, I will go back again. That said, I did enjoy my time in Sofia, and I'm sure you will.
Finally, please let me know if this blog has been of help to you. Have you used it to explore Sofia? Maybe you've been to Sofia and think I've nailed it or missed something vital? Either way, let me know in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you.
Thanks
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Krakow, Poland – A Travel Guide NEED THE ESSENTIALS FOR BACKPACKING KRAKOW NOW? ABOUT KRAKOWย |ย SHOULD I GO?ย |ย WHAT TO DOย |ย WHERE TO STAYย |ย WHERE TO EATย |ย WHERE TO PARTY | Written by Greg Heads up:ย We sometimes work with companies Read more
Split and Hvar, Croatia – A Travel Guide
Split and H’var, Croatia – A Travel Guide | Written by Greg Heads up:ย We sometimes work with companies to provide affiliate links and reviews – here’s what that means. If it’s here, we use it. Read more
Bucharest, Romania – A Travel Guide
Bucharest, Romania – A Travel Guide | Written by Greg Heads up:ย We sometimes work with companies to provide affiliate links and reviews – here’s what that means. If it’s here, we use it. We don’t Read more