Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and one of Europe's oldest cities — founded by Thracians around 7000 BC, Roman Serdica from the 1st century AD, capital of the Eastern Roman Empire in the 4th century (under Emperor Constantine), Byzantine, Bulgarian, Ottoman. Today — 1.3 million inhabitants, political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
⛪ Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
The symbol of Sofia — neo-Byzantine cathedral (1882–1912) in honour of Russian soldiers fallen in the Liberation War (1877–78). 5300 m² of frescoes, 12 bells (largest 12 tons), gold-leafed domes. Free entry, crypt (icon collection from 10th–19th c.) 6 BGN.
🏛️ Serdica — ancient Sofia
Underground at Independence Square — ruins of Roman Serdica, uncovered during metro construction. Walls, basilicas, mosaics from 2nd–4th century. Free entry, open 24/7.
🎨 Other sights
- Boyana Church (UNESCO) — frescoes from 1259, precursor of the Renaissance. 10 km from centre.
- St George Rotunda (4th c.) — oldest preserved building in Sofia, in the courtyard of Hotel Radisson.
- Ivan Vazov National Theatre — neoclassical 1907.
- Museum of Socialist Art — communist monuments, posters, paintings.
- Vitosha Street — main pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
- Vitosha Mountain — 30 minutes by cable car from the centre. Cherni Vrah peak (2290 m), skiing in winter.
🍲 Cuisine
- Shopska salad — a must.
- Tarator — cold soup of yogurt and cucumber, summer.
- Kavarma — braised meat with mushrooms and vegetables.
- Banitsa with boza — traditional breakfast.
Recommended restaurants: Made in Home (Angel Kanchev 30), Manastirska Magernitsa (Han Asparuh 67), Hadjidraganov's Houses (Kozloduy 75).
🚆 How to get there
Sofia airport (SOF) is 10 km from the centre. Metro line 1 (M1) to centre, 1.60 BGN, 18 min. From other Bulgarian cities: buses and trains to Central Railway Station.