Bulgaria, Sofia

Must See Tourist Spots; Instagrammable

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

• Vitosha Boulevard

• Vitosha Mountain

• Sofia Synagogue

• The Roman Baths

• Largo (Sofia's City Centre)

• Sofia’s Parks

• National Palace of Culture Square

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If you want to do some day trips from Sofia, there are quite a few options but since I was there only for weekend I decided to immerse in the beauty of Sofia. However, listing down the options:

• Seven Rila Lakes

  • Distance: 2.5 hours (120 km)

  • For nature lovers, the Seven Rila Lakes offer a day of hiking in the Rila Mountains. These glacial lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes. You can take a cable car to the starting point of the hiking trail, and then explore the lakes, each with its own name and unique beauty.

• Vitosha Mountain

  • Distance: 30 minutes (15 km)

  • If you’re looking for a nature escape close to Sofia, Vitosha Mountain is the perfect option. It’s popular for hiking, skiing, and stunning panoramic views of Sofia. The mountain is dotted with trails for all levels, and you can also visit the Boyana Waterfall and Boyana Church during your visit

• Plovdiv

  • Distance: 1.5 hours (150 km)

  • Bulgaria’s second-largest city, Plovdiv is known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through the charming Old Town, visit the Roman Theatre, and stroll along the picturesque Kapana arts district. Plovdiv is also a European Capital of Culture in 2019, with plenty to explore in terms of art, architecture, and local cuisine.

 

Day 1:

I started my adventure in Sofia by dropping off your bags at the hotel and headed to Cafe 1920 for a delicious breakfast 🥐☕. It's the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring.

First stop, the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – a stunning sight with its golden domes and rich history. This is one of the best photo ops in Sofia! 📸 Don't forget to snap the cathedral's grandeur from every angle. Remember, it looks different during the different hours of the day so do try visiting in morning and especially at sunset time.

Next, stroll along Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia's lively main street. It's lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful buildings, making it a fantastic place for people-watching and photos. ✨

Before lunch, visit the beautiful Sofia Synagogue – one of the largest in Europe, with its stunning architecture and intricate interior. 

In the afternoon after having lunch and enjoying a big scoop of icecream, head to The Roman Baths, a historical site that offers a glimpse into Sofia's Roman past. The site makes for a fascinating stop with its ruins and peaceful atmosphere.

Finished day with a leisurely stroll through Largo (Sofia’s City Centre). The area is packed with historical buildings, including the Presidency and the National Assembly, making it a great spot for capturing Sofia’s rich architecture. 🏛️📸

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Day 2:

Started in the morning with a relaxing walk through Sofia’s Parks 🌳🌺 – a green oasis in the city. If you’re visiting in spring or summer, the flowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant and picturesque backdrop for your photos. Decided to stop for brunch at Shtastlivetsa-Vitosha, such a great place. They have 2 floors and it the decor is just so beautiful, perfect for instagram photos. And the food was super delicious. 

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Spent some more hours exploring the city in the evening and immersed myself in the beauty of this place. Wrap up your Sofia exploration at the National Palace of Culture Square. Known for its grand architecture and wide-open spaces, this spot is perfect for a few last photos of the city. 🏙️✨

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Also I did some shopping, especially the Bulgarian Rose cosmetics, this day as the next day I had early morning flight.

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Whether you're into history, nature, or photography, Sofia is a city that has it all. From charming streets to stunning landmarks, it’s a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories and plenty of Instagrammable moments! 📸