Whilst Sofia is the capital it is not architecturally as beautiful and rich as its other Eastern European counterparts. But there is still plenty to do and see.



A visit to a tavern is a must they entertain with folk songs music and dances in addition to a menu of delicious typically Bulgarian dishes and choice of drinks. Sofia has also a huge nightlife scene with many different night clubs, live venues, pubs, mehani Bulgarian traditional taverns, and restaurants. Night clubs have variety shows in to the small hours. Finding a clean restaurant with good service and tasty food will not present you with much difficulty. An option is a concert, opera or theatre. Jazz and rock clubs or piano bars are also there

The main shopping areas are on Graf Ignatiev St Rakovski St or Vitosha Blvd and all streets leading off from them. There have been some dramatic changes on the shopping front and an ongoing influx of new and modern shops has made shopping a more pleasant all round experience. Many of the big western names in clothes, shoes, cosmetics and electronic goods are represented here and prices are on a par with the West. Bulgarian products such as textiles, wood, ceramic and leather products still represent value for money.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church and National History Museum or some of the tourist attraction and much is being done to improve the current tourist attractions.

The magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was built between 1882 and 1912 to honour the Russian soldiers who died fighting to liberate Bulgaria from the Turkish rule in the war of 1878. The famous church monument is situated on the tree lined square of the same name, which also contains the Monument of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. The impressive five nave basilica houses an interior just as splendid, with mosaics, stained glass windows, woodcarvings and marble as well as frescoes that cover the domes and walls. The underground crypt houses the Icon Museum featuring icon paintings from across the country that represents masterpieces from the 9th to the 18th century.

Other world famous places of interest such as the Koprivshtitsa and Rila Monastery are also a day trip from the Capital.