Sofia
The capital: theatres, golden domes and mineral water straight from the spring.
Why go?
Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe, but feels young and green. Beneath the streets lie the remains of Roman Serdica, which you simply see in the metro station. You walk past golden domes, stately buildings and busy terraces, and fill a bottle with warm mineral water from the spring by the old bathhouse. Behind the city rises Vitosha, the mountain where Sofia's residents hike and ski at the weekend.
Don't miss
SeeIvan Vazov National Theatre
The most beautiful theatre in the country, with a fountain and park in front.
SeeRussian Church of St. Nicholas
A small church with golden onion domes, in the middle of the city.
DoCentral Mineral Baths
A beautiful bathhouse, now a museum. Next to it you can fill up with warm mineral water.
SeeNational Palace of Culture
A large culture palace with fountains and views of Vitosha.
SeeAlexander Nevsky Cathedral
The great cathedral with golden domes, built in the early 20th century. Inside it is dark, quiet and full of icons.
DoRoman Serdica
Streets, houses and a gate of the Roman city, out in the open between the metro and the shops.
Practical
What we thought
Sofia surprises us every time. A capital with lots of green, fountains and beautiful buildings, and yet never rushed. A lovely moment: filling up with warm mineral water at the old baths, in the middle of the city.
— The Groen family, DobrinishteSofia in pictures
Frequently asked questions
Can I do Sofia as a day trip?
Yes, but it is a long day. Staying the night is more relaxed.
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