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Sofia holidays: Discover Bulgaria's vibrant capital
Are you looking for an exciting getaway? Sofia is a fun European holiday destination that offers a mix of history, culture and adventure. From its cobblestone streets to buzzing nightlife and stunning Vitosha Mountain views, this vibrant capital has something for families and solo travellers alike. Discover centuries-old churches, dive into delicious Bulgarian cuisine and soak up the city's rich heritage, all without breaking the bank. Whether you're strolling through Vitosha Boulevard, uncovering hidden gems in Boyana Church or hitting the ski slopes, Sofia is a year-round destination.
Check out offers on flights to Sofia and grab amazing deals on hotels for an unforgettable holiday.
Sofia at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 3 hours 5 minutes
Main airport: Sofia International Airport (SOF)
Population: 1.2 million
Language: Bulgarian
Currency: Bulgarian lev (BGN)
Time zone: Eastern European Standard Time (GMT+2)
Getting to Sofia from the UK
With plenty of direct flights from London, Manchester and Bristol, it is easy to get from Sofia to the UK. Budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet offer affordable, non-stop flights to Sofia Airport (SOF), so you can jet off to Bulgaria at a low cost. If you prefer a bit more comfort, British Airways also has direct flights from London Heathrow.
Once you land at Sofia International Airport (SOF), grab a taxi or hop on Metro Line 1 to get to the city centre, which is six miles away. You can also take an airport shuttle to hotels in Sofia. Do you want to explore at your own pace? Car rentals are convenient, especially for family holidays in Bulgaria.
When is the best time to visit Sofia?
No matter the season, Sofia holidays are always a great idea. Whether you're chasing snowy adventures, spring blooms, summer festivals or autumn colours, Bulgaria's capital has something to offer all year round.
The best time to visit Sofia is in summer, from June to August, but it is also a festive season, so Sofia hotels will be expensive. During summer, you can enjoy live music and take a day trip to Lake Pancharevo to swim or kayak. Sofia is also a popular destination for ski holidays in winter. The ski season in Vitosha Mountain attracts winter sports lovers, while the city sparkles with Christmas markets and New Year celebrations. You should expect larger crowds during the holiday season.
If you are a budget traveller, spring or autumn is the ideal time to visit. Spring is all about mild temperatures, outdoor fun and blooming parks. You can hike Vitosha Mountain and visit historic sites without the summer crowds.
Top things to see and do in Sofia
Stop by Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
When in Sofia, you can't miss the stunning Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This landmark is one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. With its massive golden domes, intricate frescoes and grand chandeliers, it's a true masterpiece, inside and out. The cathedral, built in honour of Alexander Nevsky, is a symbol of Bulgaria's past. Step inside to admire the breathtaking murals and feel the peaceful atmosphere.
Hike Vitosha Mountain
Are you craving some adventure? Hike up Vitosha Mountain. Just 30 minutes from Sofia, the mountain is ideal for nature lovers. You can try the challenging trek to Cherni Vrah or go for a relaxed forest walk. In summer, expect lush greenery, wildflowers and epic city views from spots like the Golden Bridges (Zlatnite Mostove). In winter, swap your hiking boots for skis. Vitosha turns into a snowy playground with slopes for all levels.
Sample traditional Bulgarian cuisine
A trip to Sofia isn't complete without diving into its delicious traditional cuisine. Start with banitsa, a flaky pastry filled with cheese. It is best enjoyed warm with a glass of Ayran (a salty yoghurt drink). For lunch, try Shopska salad, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers and feta cheese invented in Bulgaria. If you are craving something hearty, order kavarma, a slow-cooked meat stew packed with flavour. And don't leave without trying rakia, a local fruit brandy that Bulgarians swear by.
For authentic eats, check out Hadjidraganov's Houses for a cosy, folk-style experience or Moma Bulgarian Food & Wine for a modern twist. If you love street food, grab a kebapche (grilled minced meat roll) from a local grill.
Relax at Borisova Gradina Park
Do you need a break from sightseeing? Borisova Gradina Park is the perfect spot to relax, unwind and soak up nature right in the heart of Sofia. As the city's oldest and most beautiful park, it's packed with lush greenery, scenic walking paths and peaceful lakes, ideal for a picnic or a casual stroll.
If you are feeling active, hit the bike trails, jogging tracks or even a tennis court. The park is also home to cool landmarks, like Ariana Lake, or you can go ice skating in winter. History buffs will love the Communist-era monuments scattered throughout, while families can enjoy playgrounds and open spaces for a fun day out.
FAQs about Sofia holidays
Q: Is Bulgaria cheap for a holiday?
A: Yes. Bulgaria is one of the best budget-friendly holiday spots in Europe. From affordable Sofia hotels to cheap (but delicious) local food, your money stretches far here. You can enjoy meals for under £10, affordable transportation and low-cost flights to Sofia. Bulgaria offers an amazing holiday without breaking the bank.
Q: Is Sofia good for a lads' holiday?
A: Sofia is a top spot for a lads' holiday, offering cheap beers, buzzing nightlife and epic outdoor adventures. Hit Vitosha Boulevard for bars and clubs, enjoy £1 pints and party at hotspots like PM Club and Terminal 1. Do you fancy a daytime adventure? Go paintballing, quad biking or hiking on Vitosha Mountain.
Q: How many days are enough for Sofia?
A: Three to four days is perfect for exploring Sofia. During that time, you can visit Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard and Borisova Gradina Park, plus take a day trip to Vitosha Mountain. If you love history, check out Boyana Church and the National Palace of Culture.
Q: How far is Sofia from the airport?
A: Sofia Airport (SOF) is just six miles from the city centre, making transfers quick and easy. Hop on Metro Line 1 for a 20-minute ride, grab a taxi or take a bus for a budget-friendly option. If you're staying in one of the many Sofia hotels, most are within 15-30 minutes from the airport.
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