A beginner's guide to Sofia, Bulgaria

The capital of Bulgaria offers a captivating mix of lively culture, rich history, and modern urban flair. Picture ancient ruins and beautiful Orthodox churches nestled among contemporary street art, bustling markets, and serene parks. Indulge in traditional Bulgarian cuisine and the trendiest brunch spots, all in a wonderfully welcoming and budget-friendly atmosphere.

Excited to explore the highlights of Sofia? Let’s jump in.

What’s the best time to visit Sofia?

The ideal time to experience Sofia is from May to October, when the weather is warm, the sun is shining, and outdoor adventures await. While the spring months of May and June may bring some rain, they also promise plenty of sunny days.

Summer in Sofia brings warm weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) between June and September. However, this season is one of the quietest in the city as many locals escape to the seaside for vacation. These months, especially August, can be ideal for exploring Sofia without the usual hustle and bustle.

How easy is it to get around Sofia?

Getting around Sofia is quite straightforward. The city boasts a convenient network of metros, trams, and buses. Given the common traffic, the extensive and reliable metro is the quickest option (it even connects to the airport). You don’t need a ticket for public transport; just use a contactless debit or credit card for fares. Alternatively, you can choose a prepaid card tailored to your needs, whether for a day, ten trips, or a longer duration.

Sofia has recently rolled out shared bike-rental stations. Although cycling isn't yet a prominent aspect of local culture and drivers have room for improvement in sharing the road, it can still be an enjoyable way to explore the city. Check out the bike lane map to find the easiest (and safest) routes for your journey.

For those who prefer to drive, consider using Spark, a short-term car rental service that provides flexibility without the hassle of long contracts. Just remember that driving and parking in Sofia can be challenging, especially during peak times. If a car isn't essential, it's likely best to skip it. The city center has a zoned parking system, which can be quite complicated to navigate.

Must-see attractions in Sofia

Explore the rich history of the city

In Sofia, history is woven into the fabric of this lively capital. Begin your journey at the partially uncovered archaeological complex of Serdica, where ancient Roman ruins stand alongside modern buildings near the Serdika metro station.

The city’s Orthodox heritage is prominently displayed through remarkable landmarks such as the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the 4th-century St George Rotunda, and the medieval St. Petka Temple. To delve into Sofia’s Communist past, visit the Red Flat, a preserved apartment that captures everyday life from that era, or join a fun and informative “Communist Trabant Tour” for additional insights into this historical period.

For a more comprehensive experience, the Sofia History Museum, located in the stunning former Central Mineral Baths, chronicles the city’s extensive history. Additionally, the knowledgeable guides at Free Sofia Tour can provide fascinating facts and stories about Sofia’s past and present.

Immerse yourself in the world of street art and graffiti

Sofia’s dynamic street art adds a vibrant touch to the city’s landscape. As you wander around, you’ll encounter stunning murals that creatively address social issues and reflect local culture. Be sure to check out The Hug by Nasimo, one of Bulgaria’s leading graffiti artists, and the eye-catching Tulip Girl near the Serdika metro station. Another hidden treasure can be found in the artwork behind the Sofia Opera, while the lower levels of the main train station showcase a plethora of vivid images.

To explore Sofia’s street-art scene more thoroughly, consider joining the Free Sofia Graffiti Tour, which provides a unique view of the city’s artistic expressions.

Relax in one of the city’s parks

Enjoying time with friends in the park is a beloved warm-weather pastime for Sofia locals. Whether it's grabbing a drink at the City Garden in front of the National Theater, taking a long stroll through Borisova Garden, exploring the family-friendly South Park, or relaxing near the National Palace of Culture, there are plenty of options for outdoor enjoyment.

For a bit more adventure, visit Park Vrana, a former royal summer residence located on the outskirts of Sofia. Open on weekends and public holidays, this spacious green park can be reached via public transport and has a small entry fee.

Discover the local food market scene

With its abundance of organic shops and local produce markets, Sofia is a fantastic place to savor delicious, high-quality food. Be sure to check out the Women’s Market, one of the top outdoor venues for finding everything from regional fruits and vegetables to spices, meats, and everyday household goods. Don’t miss out on the home-grown tomatoes and the homemade cheeses and dairy products that Bulgarians take great pride in.

For a unique shopping experience, visit the historic Tsentralni Hali (Sofia Central Market Hall), which was renovated and reopened in 2024. This vibrant indoor market is a paradise for food lovers, featuring fresh produce stalls and a variety of food courts to explore.

Don’t overlook the distinctive klek shops, named after the Bulgarian term for “squat.” These late-night spots offer drinks, snacks, and cigarettes, all from their unique ground-level locations—essentially basements—where you’ll need to squat down to make your purchase. Visiting one adds a local touch to your Sofia experience.

My top recommendation in Sofia

If the words “brunch” and “coffee” excite you as much as they do me, Sofia is the place to be. My favorite activity here is exploring the vibrant food and coffee culture with friends. Some of my go-to spots include 1962, Thirsty, and Mekitsa & Cafe.

New brunch spots are constantly emerging. I adore Cafe 1920 for its classic Bulgarian breakfast featuring the beloved “princesses”—sandwiches filled with minced meat and cheese—reimagined with a modern twist. Thirsty offers inventive avocado toast, while Wonderland delights with its charming atmosphere and diverse brunch selections.

Bulgarians enjoy long coffee breaks, making cafes bustling hubs throughout the day. If you're a coffee lover, Sofia has specialty coffee shops on nearly every corner. Be sure to check the map from Sofia Coffee Week for recommendations.

What’s the budget for a trip to Sofia?

Numerous airlines connect Sofia with major European cities, with fares starting as low as €50 from Berlin.

Sofia offers lower prices compared to many other European capitals, making it an excellent and budget-friendly destination for both solo travelers and groups.

• Hostel bed: 20–40 lv (€10–20)
• Double hotel room: 50–90 lv (€25–45)
• Public transport fare: 1.60 lv (€0.80)
• Coffee: 5 lv (€2.50)
• Sandwich: 8 lv (€4)
• Dinner for two: 50–80 lv (€25–40)
• Beer/pint at a bar: 6–10 lv (€3–5)
• Taxi fare: 15–30 lv (€8–15) 

Common questions about Sofia

Can I use a credit card in Sofia?

These days, card payments are widely accepted throughout Sofia, even on public transport. However, it's advisable to keep some lev on hand, as some small shops or eateries may not accept cards.

What is the tipping etiquette in Sofia?

It's common to tip around 10% of your total bill at restaurants and cafes, and this gratuity is not included in the bill.

Is Sofia a safe place to visit?

Yes, Sofia is considered a safe destination with a low crime rate. While scams targeting tourists do exist, they are less frequent than in more heavily trafficked areas. Be cautious of unauthorized taxis from the airport charging higher fares, or individuals on the street offering flowers or other items for money. As always, it's best to use common sense and adhere to general safety practices.

Is English spoken in Sofia?

Bulgarian uses the Cyrillic alphabet, which can be a bit tricky at first. However, most signs throughout the city and on public transport are displayed in both Bulgarian and English. Many locals, particularly younger individuals, are proficient in English and can assist you in navigating the area.