Let’s Discover New Capitals: Sofia

Tired of the usual over crowded capitals and looking for inspiration for 2018?

Head to Sofia, capital of Bulgaria!

Thanks to Greek,Slavic,Ottoman and Persian influences, Bulgaria preserves a rich and varied heritage.

Religious tolerance is also a very strong tradition. In fact, Sofia is one of the fewest cities in the world that has an operational church, a mosque and a synagogue just 2 minutes on foot from each other.

 

The city itself can be easily explored on foot.

As accommodations were incredibly cheap,me and my travel buddy opted for a 5 stars hotel for the first time in our lives!

The hotel had also a lovely spa which was a lifesaver after a day wandering in the snow.

You can start exploring the city centre. There are many nice cafeterias and shops along the pedestrian street.

Did you know that just 7 years ago, while excavating for a new Metro line,an archaeological Roman complex has been discovered?

You can find it at the exit of the Serdika Metro Station.

My favourite (and also most popular) Bulgarian landmark is definitely the St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

This beautiful gold domed basilica is 45 m high and has an interior decorated with Italian marble in different colours.

 

You will have an amazing view of the Cathedral from the rooftop bar of the Sense Hotel.

We enjoyed the view sipping a hot (very needed) cappuccino.

Another beautiful building to visit is the former Central Mineral Baths (Centralna Mineralna banya).

 

We couldn’t end our weekend without tasting the local cuisine.

We found this cheap authentic place in the heart of the city that I strongly recommend: Hadjidraganovite Izbi.

I know… it’s almost impossible to pronounce it but I promise that it’s easy to find!

The decorations and the atmosphere are great as well as the food.

 

What do you think?Will you consider Sofia as your next trip?

Let me know!

xxx Valentina

Looking for more week-end ideas?

What about exploring Edinburgh, Belfast or Krakow?

Stalk me on Twitter Instagram Pinterest