Heritage & fine cuisine Sofia revealed over the course of a weekend

We’ve seen Rome, we’ve revisited Berlin, we’re going to see Vienna, and we’d like to see Prague. But why has no one ever thought of Sofia? Perhaps because the Bulgarian capital is more discreet, more humble than its European neighbours. Or perhaps because its culture, with its plural origins, is not so easily identifiable. Yet, there is something… “Sofia-esque” about Sofia, something quite unique, in sum. A palpable, authentic atmosphere, where the spirit of the Balkans lingers, preserved by tourism that is still not very developed, with all the advantages that entails. You don’t come here for a marathon of sightseeing, to rush from shop to shop, or to collect Instagrammable pictures. People come to Sofia because it invites you to slow down, to observe, and to experience something different, quite simply.

Sofia, unexpected and captivating

But to say that Sofia has nothing to offer would do it little justice, as it preserves precious traces of its history: Roman and medieval ruins, mosques, Austro-Hungarian buildings, colossal Stalinist constructions, etc. In front of the impressive Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, it’s easy to be left speechless: this early 20th-century structure, built on a small hill in the heart of the capital, required thirty years of dedicated work. Every day, we admire its result: an imposing neo-Byzantine style, golden domes that shimmer in the sunlight and, beyond the heavy doors, a lavish display of gold, onyx and other precious stones. There is a unique energy that hovers above the hundreds of lit candles - the same feeling prevails in the crypt-museum, which unveils Orthodox icons, ancestral manuscripts and wonderful frescoes to the astonished visitor. Among the “highlights”, you should also definitely request the National Library,Sofia University, theNational Assembly and the Ivan Vazov Theatre. The architecture reflects an era marked by European aspirations, set against a backdrop of communism and Thracian, Ottoman and Byzantine roots. It gives you pause for thought… You might be interrupted by the metallic screech of an old tram, or the clinking of cutlery coming from a traditional tavern - mehana - the place to sample Bulgarian specialities, whether original recipes or reinterpretations. At the crossroads of Turkey, Greece, Romania and the countries of the former Yugoslavia, Bulgaria has inherited some of their culture, but above all, it is a delightful culinary melting pot that is sure to delight the taste buds. Comforting soups with seasonal vegetables, grilled meats, and cheeses matured in various ways - including the forgotten green cheese from Tcherni Vit, once savoured at the most prestigious tables in Europe. All of this will be accompanied by the appropriate local wine, before we blend into the capital’s nightlife, centred around Tsar Shishman - Sofia, too, has its share of hipsters and alternative culture. The underground scene continues to grow, and certain unofficial venues are almost reminiscent of Berlin a few years ago. But far from the boozy aromas of rakia, Sofia reveals itself as an undisputed city of nature, home to numerous parks such as Borisova Gradina and Kambanite. A pleasant suburb, Mount Vitosha, visible from everywhere, invites you to go hiking and make other discoveries. These include the peaceful village of Boyana, in particular, which, nestled on the mountainside, offers a unique view of Sofia. In winter, just a few kilometres are enough to reach the nearest ski resorts - how many capitals can say the same?

Your journey

As we’ve said, Sofia is a city to experience, to walk, to taste and to feel. It is therefore essential to be at the heart of things. As a result, we chose an exceptionally central accommodation, set on Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard, which it shares, among others, with the National Assembly. The large bay windows that cover its facade even allow you, in some places, to catch a glimpse of Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. It’s central, just like we said. Both inside and out, the hotel embraces modernity and an understated elegance. In the rooms and suites, the décor is harmonious: natural tones, beautiful parquet floors, carefully selected contemporary furniture. This creates a beautiful overall effect, enhanced by the glass walls that stretch from floor to ceiling, forming wonderful vertical shafts of light. The most beautiful view is still the one from the rooftop on the 9th floor, where a bar-restaurant seems to bring the city to its knees. Here, you can sip cocktails and local wines while nibbling on tapas and world cuisine. As the cherry on the banitsa, a spa is available for guests - the pool, sauna and steam bath are on the schedule. Speaking of the schedule, a few highlights are already on your agenda: a private (and guided) tour of the capital’s must-see sights, so you don’t miss any essentials; a half-day dedicated to Mount Vitosha, including a funicular ascent and a picnic with a view; and finally, we have reserved a table for you at one of the capital’s modern taverns, where national cuisine classics are skilfully reimagined - tasting menu and wine pairings included. From the beginning to the end of your trip, our on-site Concierge is at your service to resolve any minor issues or fulfil last-minute requests - such as a hot air balloon ride, for example.