Sofia, besides being our neighbor Capital of Bulgaria, is a historical, touristic and very, very beautiful city. Sofia, which we can even go by bus, with its crazy nightlife, historical buildings and wonderful nature, has been a city that attracted me as well.. One more thing before I forget: Yes. Sofia is a very cheap city in our opinion. Actually, this cheapness is valid for all Bulgaria. Without further ado, I’m going to tell you what I know about Sofia Travel Guide and Sofia Travel Notes.
Bulgarian Capital Sofia Places To Visit : Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
1. Getting Started in Sofia
I have been thinking about going to a nearby and cheap country for a while while I have a ready Schengen visa.. It would be a good alternative to go to Sofia by bus since I was a little late in buying a plane ticket.
Many bus companies from our country organize reciprocal flights to Bulgaria every day.. I bought my round trip bus ticket from Alpar Turizm for 110 TL and fell on the roads of Bulgaria.
Places to Visit in Bulgaria : Indispensable Tramways on Sofia Streets
For some reason, Bulgarian people have always been warm and sincere to me; maybe this is because my family immigrated from Sofia in the 93 war.. Going to this city, which I had been curious about for years because of my family roots and the common Turkish-Bulgarian culture, and which I could never find the opportunity to go to, excited me like a child. and I would have the opportunity to observe the Bulgarian people.
Bulgarian Capital : Sofia
Sardi, Serdika, This is the city of ‘sacred wisdom’, named after Sredets and Sofia… It is still possible to see the traces of the Ottoman Empire in the streets of the city.
Ottoman artifacts sometimes appear as a museum, and sometimes a church.. Throughout history, many words have passed into our language.Bulgarian; fat, socks, double, whipping… some of them.
As soon as you enter the city, the Soviet influence shows itself.. Wide avenues and rail systems, perhaps the only gift of the Soviets to the Eastern Bloc countries… Our journey to Sofia, its neighboring gate with its streets smelling of history, colorful culture, cheap and endless nightlife, begins.
2. About Sofia-Bulgaria
What you need to know about Sofia? With the decline of the Ottoman Empire, an independence movement emerged in the Bulgarians as well as in the whole of the Balkans, and with the support of Tsarist Russia, Bulgaria declared its independence in 1908.. Since Bulgaria was on the defeated side in both world wars, it is a damaged country in many ways.
Bulgaria Cities : Sofia, Plovdiv (Plovdiv), Varna, Burgas… (Bulgaria Map)
Although this country, whose luck did not go well, was ruled under the pressure of the Soviets until 1990, with the collapse of the Eastern Bloc (Eastern Bloc Countries Wikipedia), its relations first with our country and then with Europe were put on a positive basis. seated. In 2007, it joined the European Union, the door of which we have been shuttled for years.
You can still see the Soviet traces all over the city.. For example, in the capital Sofia; wide streets, block structures, the architecture of buildings, the styles of trams, electric buses (trolleybus) are examples of these.
While wandering among the huge block structures, people question their place in the world.. This size makes us think about why we live, where we came from and where we are going.
Let’s talk about the traces of the city left behind from history: For example, the Black Mosque, which is the work of the great master Mimar Sinan, is now used as a church. .
Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard – Sofia
Alexander Nevsky, one of the symbols of Bulgaria from the Soviet era The magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world and located in the Square, is one of the other rich structures in the city.. The cathedral was built for the Russian soldiers who fought in the Ottoman-Russian War between 1877-1878.
As much as the city’s history, Sofia started to come to the fore with its nightlife. It became the new address of those who love to have fun and connect the night to the morning.. Nightlife is also very affordable in our opinion.
Indeed, you will not return without finding what you are looking for in this city.. I will tell you the Sofia Nightlife suggestions below.
3. Sofia-Bulgaria Travel Guide
Where is Sofia? What kind of country is Bulgaria? Located in the Balkans, the Bulgarian city of Sofia is one of the oldest settlements in Europe and dates back to 5 BC.. In fact, it is a Capital that dates back to the 19th century.
Even 2500 years ago, it is obvious why people preferred this place; Surrounded by lofty mountains, the city was founded next to the Iskar River, which passes through a large valley.. With its great mountains, river and green nature, it manages to attract people today and in the past.
Where is Sofia? Tsar the Savior Monument and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (on the back)
To give some information about Bulgaria Sofia: Although the population of the country is a little over 7 million, according to statistics, it is one of the countries whose population is decreasing the fastest in Europe.
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1.3 million people live in this beautiful city.. In the country where the official language is Bulgarian, other languages spoken are Turkish and Romanian.. Of course, hearing Turkish in other lands makes one happy.
As such, it is hard not to wonder about the Turkish population in the country.. Let me tell you right away: Turks make up about 10% of the country’s population, and there is a party representing Turks in the parliament.
Panoramic Sofia – Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of the 16 largest cities in Europe with an area of 110,994 km².. country. The currency is Bulgarian Lev and 1 Euro is equivalent to approximately 2 Bulgarian Lev. Although the currency seems valuable to us, it is much cheaper than Turkey in terms of price.
Already, Bulgaria is among the cheaper countries compared to our country.. It is one of the indispensable addresses for a small holiday at the weekend; It is an ideal route for us, both economically and with its proximity.. But before we forget, Bulgaria asks us for a Schengen visa.
You can watch the past in the streets and buildings of this historical city, relax in the parks in the center of the city, share the spirit of the street artists and experience the city.. At the same time, I say don’t forget to have fun in the city where students are concentrated.
4. How to get to Sofia?
How to reach Sofia? How is transportation provided in Sofia? I went to Sofia from Istanbul by bus in about 8 hours.. I bought my ticket from Alpar Turizm for 120 TL round trip (student 110 TL). Many bus companies such as Alpar Turizm, Huntur, Nisikli, Avar, Has, Metro, etc., from Istanbul to Sofia.
Sofia Touristic Map – Airport – City Center – Train and Bus Station
In addition, Metro Turizm has a bus service from Bursa to Sofia once a day. It is possible to reach the city center by metro from Sofia bus terminal. Since everywhere in the city center is within walking distance, I didn’t feel the need to use public transportation much.
The hostel I stayed was in the center, I settled in my hostel after a short city tour in the morning. In addition, Turkish Airlines has direct flights from Istanbul as well as connecting flights from foreign airlines.. I have listed all alternative road routes for you below.
Transportation in Sofia :
Airport : If you fly to Sofia (You can check my post on flight ticket sites.) If you are one of those who will go with; “Sofia Airport”, which is 9 km away from the city center, will be the airport you will use. You can reach the city center from the airport by bus (bus no. 84).. I definitely recommend you to read it.
The bus goes through both terminals and you can buy the ticket from the bus driver.. Don’t forget to staple the ticket after boarding.. Another option is to take a taxi (10 – 12 Leva), you can reach the city center by saying the address you will go to the ‘OK Taxi’ office at the airport exit, taking your receipt and taking the next taxi.. I recommend you to use OK Taxi to avoid losing money to malicious taxi drivers.
Bulgaria Transportation : Sofia Airport
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Train : The distance from the central train station to the Serdika district, where the heart of the city beats, is only 1.6 km.. Therefore, if you wish, you can reach Serdika in 20 minutes by walking.. Of course, it is a different alternative to get on the metro in front of the train station and get off at the Serdika stop.
Bus : Sofia bus terminal is right next to the train station.. If you are on a Balkan tour or going to Sofia from Turkey, I recommend you to use the bus.
It is both cheaper and it is very easy to reach everywhere by bus.. You can reach the city center in 20 minutes on foot from the bus terminal.. For Sofia Istanbul bus services, you can use Huntur, Nisikli, Avar, Has, Metro companies such as Alpar Turizm.
For urban transportation in Sofia first vehicle that comes to mind: Tram. While visiting the city, you can use the Metro, tram, trolleybus and bus.
Public transport is open from 5 in the morning to 12 at night.. (Ticket Fee: 1 Leva) Also, taxis can be a different alternative after 12 pm.. Don’t forget to turn on the taximeter as you board so you don’t have any trouble.. But I say it again: Everywhere is within walking distance.. I don’t think you will need much.
5. What to eat and drink in Sofia?
Of course not without mentioning Bulgarian food and the richness of Sofia food and drink. What to eat in Sofia? Where to eat in Sofia? What are Bulgarian dishes? What are the most famous Bulgarian dishes? And Bulgarian drinks should also be mentioned.
Bulgarian Dishes: Kebabs
Bulgarian flavors are quite similar to Turkish dishes. : I associate this with the Turkish-Bulgarian common culture. I’ve even prepared a list for you:
- We have cacık, they have tarator
- Kebab, that is kebabs
- Chicken soup is pileşka
- Red meat in Bulgarian cuisine is both grilled and stewed.
- Local soups bob is quite good.
- Another local dish is mişmaş. Mişş is a dish made by Pomak immigrants in our country.
- If you are a salad lover, don’t forget to add shopska salad to the menu, our shepherd’s salad is grated cheese on top of it.
- Definitely try kashkaval cheese as an appetizer.. Also, it is very important in music for Bulgarians.. Eating and dancing to Bulgarian music is very enjoyable.
As a beverage; Whatever raki is to us, raki to Bulgarians. It is also known as mastika in Bulgaria. But it is not mixed with water as we do, but served chilled in small glasses.
In addition, mavrud wine produced from Bulgarian grapes is also very popular in the country.. Stolichno is the most preferred local beer in Bulgaria.
So which restaurant in Sofia to eat at?
Mehana Boliarite : This restaurant located right next to the bus station is one of the best in the city. The restaurant, which has a history of 70 years, is like a tavern.. You can taste Bulgarian appetizers and eat ribs, fried like pomegranate, in the restaurant, which is furnished with local Bulgarian items.
Mehana Boliarite – Sofia Restaurant
Cactus : It has an Italian and international menu alongside Bulgarian dishes. Cactus manages to stand out with its vegetarian dishes as well as seafood. The restaurant is located on Hristo Belchev street that cuts Vitosha Street.. The average price is around 20-30 Leva.
Pri Yafata : This restaurant on Solunska Street is neither luxurious nor modest. It’s nice to have both English and Bulgarian menus. At Pri Yafata, you can taste delicious meat accompanied by Bulgarian raki, or “rakiya”.. I strongly recommend you to go here.. You can offer yourself a delicious meal for an average of 25 – 30 Leva.
Bulgarian Food: Pri Yafata would be a good choice. .
Supa Star : You can try other dishes in this restaurant, which is especially focused on soup and salad.. Do not leave without trying Bulgarian soups at Supa Star on Shishman Street.
Don’t worry anyway.. I will also explain the average costs in the section of food and beverage costs in Sofia below.
6. Where to stay in Sofia?
Where to stay in Sofia? How cheap is accommodation in Sofia? Especially Vitosha Street, where the heart of the city beats. You can find everything you are looking for here with its shops, cafes and bars.
The hostel prices on the street, which also offers many alternatives for accommodation, start from 7 dollars per night.. If you don’t mind staying in a hostel, alternatively you can find hotels around the central metro station Serdika according to your budget.
Serdika Metro Station – Sofia
Sofia is an address where you can find accommodation options for every budget.. If you went with a few friends, you can rent an apartment for 30 dollars or stay in a hotel for 20 dollars in a double room.. Obviously, accommodation in Sofia is so cheap that you will want to extend your vacation.. You can check the prices of hotels in Sofia. But don’t worry! I have included below my recommendations for accommodation in Sofia for every budget.
Sofia Hostel Suggestions
If you are thinking of staying in a hostel. I definitely recommend: Hostel Mostel Sofia. Both cheap and in the very center of the city. You can stay at prices starting from 19 TL per night.
Not only does it stand out with its cheapness, it also has very, very good food.. At the same time, the employees are friendly and you will feel at home.. You can look at my Sofia hostel recommendation, Hostel Mostel Sofia.
My Suggestions for Sofia Hotels
If you don’t want to stay in a hostel, 120 – 130 TL per night for a double room You can stay in a stylish hotel in the center of the city by paying. For this, I suggest you; Gloria Palace Hotel, right next to Serdika Metro.
Sofia Apart Suggestions
You can also rent a daily house in the city if you wish.. It is both very economical and only a 10-minute walk from the center of Sofia; imagine a house with a living room, kitchen and bedroom; what do you think the price is? Let’s say right away, only 110 TL. I suggest you take a look at Oscar Wilde Apartment in the heart of the city.
As you can see, Sofia is a rich and economical city with its hotels, hostels and apartments.. I have already explained 3 different options for you one by one.. I definitely recommend you to consider my suggestions before you go to Sofia.
I explained how I stayed abroad economically, how I rented hotels-hostels and houses cheaply, in my “Economic hotel search engines” article, line by line.. I would definitely recommend you to take a look.
You can stay in a hotel, hostel or rent a house. Even if you do not stay in these places, you can choose other hotels in the vicinity as a location.. You can walk almost everywhere.
Accommodation in Sofia : Hotel Anel
Sofia Good Hotel Recommendation:
- Europe for two people per night.Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel
- EUR 94 for two people per night Hotel Anel
Sofia Medium Budget Hotel Recommendation:
- 60 euros per night for two people
- Olives City Hotel
- Sofia Residence Boutique Hotel
Sofia Economic Hotel, 68 euros for two people per night My suggestion :
- For two people 25 euros per night Family Hotel Saint George
- L for two people 40 euros per night ‘Opera House
Sofia Ev Apart Hotel My Recommendation:
- For two persons 38 euro per night Apartment Durvenitza
- Nevski Apartment
- Hostel Mostel
- Per night for 6 euros per person per night Moreto & Caffeto
- Kashkaval Cheese : You can buy Kashkaval cheese, which is the famous and traditional Bulgarian cheese.. It is very very tasty. I also saw that many immigrant immigrants bought kilos of frozen meat, and I later learned that meat prices are very, very cheap.
- Alcohol : Alcohol is very cheap in Bulgaria, as in the Balkan countries.. You can even find ‘Yeni Rakı’ in our store at very affordable prices, but if you want something local, I suggest: Mastika, which we call Bulgarian raki.
- As for souvenirs: trinkets, mugs, trinkets for 4-5 levs. You can get wonderful ornaments. You can find everything you are looking for, new or old, in the Antique Market next to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- My Day Trip Route
- Vitosha Avenue
- Sveta Petka Church
- Banyabaşı Mosque
- National Art Gallery
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Antique Market
- Ivan Vazov National Theater
- Saint George (Rotunda) Church
- My Day Trip Route
- National Palace of Culture
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church (Black Mosque)
- Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
- Sofia University
- Krystal Garden
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1. Days Sofia Places To Visit
Vitosha Street : The first starting point of my routes in Sofia is Vitosha Street. Vitosha Avenue is to Sofia people what Istiklal Avenue is to us.. Since it is very close to the hostel I stayed in, I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time on the street.
If you want to live your day like a local; Vitosha is an address where you can do your shopping, have your meal and have fun in the evening… At the same time, Vitosha Street is the best place to watch Vitosha Mountain, one of the symbols of the city..
Bulgarian Capital Sofia Places To Visit : Vitosha Street
Sveta Petka Church : This small Orthodox church, which you come across as you exit the Serdika metro, is 11. It was built in the 19th century in memory of St. Petka.. This small church, which was painted during the Ottoman period, contains the tomb of Bulgaria’s national hero, Vasil Levski.. (Entry Fee: 2 Leva)
There is nothing worth seeing inside, but the TZUM Shopping Center next to the building, the Communist Party and the Presidency buildings across it manages to take you on a very different historical journey.. These large structures built around a small and historical church allow me to see 900 years of construction revolution.
Sveta Petka Church : Cities of Bulgaria – Sofia
Banyabaşı Mosque : Banyabaşı Mosque, the work of the great master Mimar Sinan, is one of the oldest mosques in Europe. The most striking feature of the mosque is the height of its unique dome and minaret.. It is also known as Seyfullah Efendi Mosque among the people because the mosque was built by Kadi Seyfullah Efendi at the time.
The Banyabaşı Mosque is the only mosque open to worship in Sofia today.. If you are a little bored, if you want to find someone who speaks Turkish, just wander around the mosque.
Banyabaşı Mosque : Bulgarian Cities – Sofia
National Art Gallery : A place where art lovers should spend at least 2-3 hours is the National Gallery of Art. You can find all the traces of the cultural and artistic life of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian people in this great gallery, which contains more than 50 thousand historical works of art.. Medieval Artifacts are also exhibited in the gallery located in the Old Royal Palace.. Entry Fee: 6 Leva (Student: 3 Leva)
Places to Visit in Bulgaria: National Art Gallery – Sofia
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Alexander Nevsky Cathedral : If you ask about the most important place to see in Sofia, of course I would say the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The cathedral, which is not only the symbol of the city but also of Bulgaria, is the most magnificent structure of the city.. The cathedral, which 200,000 people worked for and completed in 30 years, was built in memory of the Russian soldiers who died in the Ottoman-Russian War between 1877-1878.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a huge structure that can accommodate 10,000 people at the same time.. One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and the city’s top tourist attraction. When I see the tourist buses around the cathedral, I realize once again how important the building is.
Places to Visit in Sofia, the Capital of Bulgaria : Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Antique Market : Let’s come to the antique markets, which is my favorite place in a city.. I usually try to visit the antique markets towards the end of the day.. I both spend time comfortably shopping and buy things at more affordable prices from the stalls that are starting to close.
I also spent a lot of time shopping at the antique market in the city.. I added a few pieces I bought from here to my historical coin collection.
This market has an interesting motto to me; “It grows but does not age.” In the market; You can find everything from historical coins to medals and even weapons and swords.. Not only antique items are sold here.
Places to Visit in Bulgaria: Antique Market – Sofia
Also magnets, You can also buy religious icons and souvenirs here.. Prices are also quite cheap compared to antique markets in many European cities.. The market is held every day in the park just across from the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Ivan Vazov National Theatre : Located in the City Garden, the oldest park in the city, this wonderful theater building is the oldest in the country. and the great theater building. The building, which was built according to the German architectural style by Viennese architects, was opened for use in 1907. The country’s most famous theater actors still exhibit their arts here.
The city park where the theater is located is one of my favorite places.. In the park where old aunts come and chat, uncles gather and play chess, and street artists do their art; You will have the opportunity to observe the Bulgarian people.
Ivan Vazov National Theatre: Bulgarian Cities – Sofia
Saint George (Rotunda) Church : As I bid farewell to the day, I stop by the oldest building in Bulgaria. Located in the courtyard of the Presidential building, this church is the oldest known historical structure in Bulgaria.. The church, which was found with the ruins of the ancient city of Serdika, is a heirloom from the Romans.
The church is also known as the “Rotunda Rotunda” in history.. Meanwhile rotunda; round domed structure. I just learned it too!
Places To Visit In Sofia The Capital Of Bulgaria : Rotunda Church of Saint George
2nd. Places to Visit in Sofia in the Day
National Palace of Culture : Although I had the desire to visit a new city yesterday, I was tired of the 8-hour night journey, but I did not think much of it. I wandered around the most beautiful places in the city without thinking. Today, I started my day energetically.
My first stop is the National Palace of Culture, just above Vitosha Street.. This large complex is the largest congress and conference center in Southeast Europe and hosts the annual Sofia Film Festival.
This large cultural center was voted the best cultural complex in Europe in 2005.. Here you can buy your opera, ballet, theater and concert tickets at very affordable prices and invite yourself to a nice night.
Places to Visit in Bulgaria : National Palace of Culture – Sofia
Borisova Gradina Park : Next, I think the activity is at the top of my list of things to do in Sofia.. If this activity is; Finding peace in Borisova Gradina Park, which is the best address for those who want to meet the unique nature of Bulgaria without leaving the city. This is the city’s lung.
This large park, located right next to the city, is one of the lifebloods of the city that provides clean air.. Actually, this is not just a park; a large zoo with 1200 animals; a large complex with sports fields, stadium, walking paths and a giant communist monument (Brotherhood Monument).. I love such beautiful parks in the heart of cities.
Borisova Gradina Park : Cities of Bulgaria – Sofia
Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church (Black Mosque) : After leaving the park, my next stop is the black mosque. The building, which is currently used as a church, was built by Mimar Sinan at the time of the order of Suleiman the Magnificent.. Of course, when I heard that it was the work of Mimar Sinan, I said that I could not see it and came here.
At the same time, this building, which is as wonderful as its interior and exterior, was called the “Black Mosque” because of the black stones on its minaret.. Bulgarian Poet Ivan Vazov; “It is a founding miracle, the secret of which our time has not been able to solve.”
The Black Mosque, built by Mimar Sinan, today Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church – Sofia, the Capital of Bulgaria
Tsar Ivan Shishman Street : The street just in front of the Black Mosque, Tsar Ivan Shissman Street. After walking down this street towards Sofia University, I examine the historical Bulgarian houses on the street.
These wonderful little houses create a beautiful texture with their colorful appearance.. Let me tell you here without forgetting that the word ‘fat’ in our language has changed to ‘shisman’ in Bulgarian.
University of Sofia : This is located at the intersection of Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard and Vasil Levski Boulevard. beautiful university, founded in 1888. The university also has the title of the oldest and most important university in Bulgaria.
There are 15 faculties at the university, currently 14,000 students study. I had the opportunity to go inside. Luckily, no one asked for ID.
Sofia University : Bulgarian Cities – Sofia
Krystal Garden : I get rid of the tiredness of the day in this small park in the center of the city. There are beautiful parks, big and small, like this everywhere in the city.. When I see the parks in the heart of the city, I think that Bulgarian people love green.
This is where old aunts sit and chat and little children play.. I also rest and watch people and nature. Here I set the sun down and set off to get ready for the night.
Krystal Garden : Bulgarian Cities – Sofia
2 days In my ongoing Sofia adventure, from the city’s culture to its history; from art to nightlife; After experiencing everything about Sofia, I turn my route to Plovdiv, the well-known Ottoman city of Plovdiv.
After spending a day here, I will go back to my homeland. Thus, my 3-day trip to Bulgaria, the neighboring gate, will end with dozens of experiences and new friendships.. I hope everyone will find the opportunity one day and turn their way to Bulgaria.
9. How many days should we stay in Sofia ?
How many days should we stay in Sofia? Let me tell you right away: 2 days are enough for you to see the places to visit in Sofia and to experience the nightlife in Sofia.. For those who are thinking of a little holiday at the weekend, this city will be an indispensable address.
Places to Visit in Sofia: City Garden and Ivan Vazov National Theater
Of course, now that you’re in Sofia, if you want to go to Plovdiv and go skiing, your weekend is not enough.. If you don’t have a time problem, I say extend it as much as you can.. Bulgaria is very, very beautiful.
10. What should not be left without doing in Sofia?
- Without watching Vitosha Mountain from Vitosha Street,
- without seeing Alexander Nevsky Cathedral,
- Without shopping at the Antique Market,
- Without a peaceful walk in Borisova Gradina Park,
- without exploring the historical Bulgarian houses on Tsar Ivan Shissman Street,
- Without seeing the Serdika region,
- Living the nightlife of Sofia,
- Trying delicious Bulgarian food
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must not be back.
11. What route to follow in Bulgaria?
We talked about places to visit in Sofia, Bulgaria, but there are many places to see and visit in this country.. Obviously, just visiting Sofia is not enough to see Bulgaria.. If you are on a Balkan tour, I suggest you to travel the country from south to north, from west to east.
Bulgaria Cities : Plovdiv (Plovdiv)
Especially Plovdiv, the country’s second largest city and the “2019 European Capital of Culture”. In this beautiful city, you encounter many traces of Ottoman and Roman times. Seeing historical Ottoman houses in the old city area does not make one happy.
Places to Visit in Bulgaria: Bansko Ski Center
Bulgarian lands also offer hundreds of natural beauties to mankind with its unique nature. With Musala Mountain, the highest peak of the Balkans, in Bulgaria, there are many ski resorts in the country.. The most important ski centers; Bansko, Borovest and Pamporovo. Compared to our country, ski tourism is much, much cheaper.
Bulgaria does not only offer us winter tourism; Cities such as Varna and Burgas, which are on the Black Sea coast, are flooded by thousands of tourists in summer.. That is Bulgaria; It invites Turkish people to its lands, whether with summer tourism or winter tourism.
12. Why go to Sofia ?
- Cheap. It is very cheap in every respect compared to our country.
- Very close. 8 hours by road, only 1 hour and 20 minutes by air
- Nightlife. Unforgettable Sofia nightlife with modern nightclubs.
- Neighborhood. You will feel as if you are in your country with the Turkish – Bulgarian neighbourhood.
Places to Visit in Bulgarian Capital Sofia : Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- History. Thousands of years of history; It is adorned with Roman, Ottoman and Bulgarian works.
- Parks. There are lush green parks integrated with the city.
- Peaceful. It is full of joy with its wide boulevards and quiet life.
- Rich. Sofia is a very rich city in terms of places to visit.
13. How much does a trip to Sofia cost?
First of all, let me answer the most important question: Is Sofia really a cheap city as they say? How much is enough?
Sofia is a budget city for every budget. In fact, all Balkan countries in the region are very cheap compared to European countries.. I have listed the estimated costs below.. How much you spend is up to you.. In my opinion, you can visit Sofia for 30 dollars a day.. You can reduce the daily cost to 20 dollars, but you can also spend 50 dollars. it’s totally up to you. But 30 dollars a day is enough.. You just decide to go.
What to Buy in Bulgaria : Kashkaval Cheese – Sofia
- Transportation– Sofia flight ticket prices are usually around 500 TL. Turkish Airlines organizes reciprocal flights every day. During the campaign periods, prices can drop to 250 – 300 liras.. But I suggest you go by bus.. Both very economical and close. Bus tickets are only 120 liras round trip.. City transportation (1 leva) is cheaper than water.
- Food– Food prices in Sofia are not very expensive. Restaurants are generally cheap.. For food, you can fill your stomach for 10-12 lev per meal; it’s around 6 dollars. If you want to have a nice dinner with alcohol, 20-25 leva is enough; but I suggest you make a reservation for dinner. By the way, alcohol is very cheap: a beer from the store is around 1 dollar. 2-3 dollars in venues. Isn’t it really cheap?
Bulgarian Food : Mishmas
How is it abroad? In my article “Economic hotel search engines”, I explained, line by line, that I stayed economically, that I rented hotels-hostels and houses cheaply.. I would definitely recommend you to take a look.
- Accommodation– Bulgaria Sofia is a very affordable city in terms of hotel prices.. If you want a hostel instead of a hotel; For example, I only paid 7 dollars for accommodation in a hostel. If you have 2 people, you can stay in hotels in the city center for 20 dollars.. Or if you want to take a little vacation with a group of friends on the weekend, you can rent a house for 30 dollars.. You have already seen my detailed suggestions in the Sofia accommodation suggestions section above.
- Entertainment– Entertainment in the city means festivals held in the spring and nightclubs with its 12 months of endless entertainment.. Some of the nightclubs may have entrance fees not exceeding $5. Beer at the clubs is $2-3, cocktails are around $5-7.
- Shopping– For shopping, go to Vitosha Street you should go. You can find everything you are looking for in large and small shops here.. Everything from big brands to local boutiques is on this street.. At the same time, small cafes where you can take a coffee break while doing your shopping are waiting for you all around the street.
Bulgaria Nights : Colorful Sofia Nightlife
So, you can have a very comfortable Sofia trip for 30-40 dollars a day.. In summary: If accommodation is 10 dollars, one meal is 6 dollars, you can eat 3 meals and spend 10 dollars on entertainment. you can do anything. It’s not that I want to go again as I tell you about this place!
14. When to go to Sofia?
When is the best time to go to Sofia? This is a capital city you can visit every month of the year.. However, if you come across one of the “Film Festival” held in March, the “Jazz Festival” held in April, and the “Salsa Festival” held in May; your trip will turn into a magical Sofia trip that you will not forget for the rest of your life.
World-famous Sofia Film Festival
But Generally; If you like winter sports and are looking for a country to visit in winter: you can go to the city of Bansko, especially if you want to get away in summer, you can go to Sofia.. But let me tell you from the beginning: It can be very, very cold, especially in winter.
15. What are the things I haven’t done in Bulgaria but can suggest you ?
- I haven’t been to Mount Vitosha. If you go to the mountain, which is the longest cable car in Europe, you can go skiing in winter.
- I did not go to Sofia Zoo.. I can guarantee that you will never get bored in the area where more than 1500 animals live.
- You can go to Bansko, one of the most famous ski resorts in Bulgaria and one of the few in Europe.. Transportation takes only 2 and a half hours from Sofia.
Places To Visit In Sofia : Vitosha Mountain
- If you want to sunbathe and swim in the cool waters of Bulgaria; Varna and Burgas are for you. I say stay 2 days each.
- If you have time; By renting a car or by bus, you can visit Macedonia (Skopje) – Kosovo (Prizren) – Serbia (Belgrade Travel Guide) – Romania (Bucharest) – Greece (Thessaloniki) right next to Bulgaria.
16. My warnings about Sofia Travel
- You will go especially in the winter months, choose your clothes considering the cold air wave from the Balkans that we have heard since childhood.
- Always when using public transport. buy tickets. (Ticket fee: 1 Leva) It can be checked almost everywhere. Don’t have to pay fines.
- Many places are closed on Sundays. This includes some nightclubs.
- If you need to take a taxi, make sure the meter is on when you get in.
- You will need a schengen visa or a Bulgarian visa to go to Bulgaria. I suggest you; for your visa to apply for a schengen visa. Because the requirements for the Bulgarian visa and the fee are the same as the Schengen.. Thus, you can visit other EU countries in the vicinity with your schengen visa.
Sofia Metro (Public transport is very cheap. The ticket is only 1 Lev)
Sofia is a delightful city. It is an ideal address to take a small vacation and escape from a metropolitan city like Istanbul, to relax on the weekend and see new places.. It is both very close and economical.
Bulgaria Nightlife : Yalta Club (Sofia)
Latest I strongly recommend that you visit all the places to visit in this guide, which I have prepared for those who ask what to do in Sofia, and experience the wonderful Sofia nightlife at night, wander the wide boulevards in the city and get lost in the side streets.. I would say don’t forget to rest in its lush parks and have a coffee on Vitosha Street.
If you are on a Balkan tour, you can write Bulgaria at the beginning of your itinerary (Don’t forget to check my Bulgaria trip article.) If you are doing Interrail; This beautiful city can be your last stop before returning to your homeland.. I wish you a journey where you will find real peace and realize the beauties of the world.
Other articles that may interest you :
- Visa-Free Balkan Countries
- Serbia Belgrade Travel Guide
- Greece Travel Guide
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Just imagine and think after…
Sofia Hostel Recommendation:
7 with 8 euros per head. Entertainment-Shopping-Nightlife in Sofia
Where is the address for shopping in Sofia? Is Sofia rich in terms of shopping? What to buy in Sofia ?
Vitosha Street – Sofia
The best place to shop nice address, Vitosha Street. Vitosha is in Sofia what Istiklal Avenue is in us… You can do your shopping in the big and small shops here, drink a coffee and relieve the tiredness of the day.. So what should we buy from here :
Bulgaria Night Life : Experience the peaks of entertainment in Sofia nights…
How is the entertainment and nightlife in Sofia?
As for the nightlife in Sofia : The venues are busy on weekends rancorous. Beers $2-3, cocktails $5-7. The fun continues until the morning and Bulgarians love to have fun.
8. Where are the places to visit in Sofia ?
Where to visit in Sofia ? What are the places to see in Sofia? Get lost in the side streets, leaving the wide and orderly streets behind in the city. Serdika district is the center of the city; From there, you can explore the whole city by tram or on foot.
Where to visit in Sofia? I am adding my Bulgaria Sofia Places to Visit Route for you by drawing.
Don’t forget to enjoy the peace of green with city parks.. If the weather is nice, the streets turn into festival grounds.. Walk around the city, listening to street performers at every corner. In short, Sofia is also very, very rich in terms of places to see.
I went on this trip alone, but I was not alone.. I made new Bulgarian and Turkish friends during my trip and we explored the city together on the first day of my 2-day trip. Without leaving you wondering any more, I am starting to explain my routes of places to visit in Sofia and places to see in Sofia. Let our Sofia sightseeing and travel tour begin!
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