If you decide to visit Sofia, you will have to shortlist attractive historical sites and tourist spots which you can find here and there in this popular city. We chose some of the best known and top sights to see in Sofia.

Nevski cathedral is really marvelous in design. You must visit this tourist spot that has increased the importance of Sofia city. However, you should also go to other exotic tourist spots like Russian church and other religions shrines that are famous for architectural aesthete. This ancient city has a number of ancient Roman, Byzantine and medieval Bulgarian historical buildings, monuments and palaces such as Boyana Church from the 10th century which is a UNESCO world heritage site, or Church of St. George which is the oldest building in Sofia, or St. Sofia Church – early Byzantine church. In the center of the city you should also visit medieval Church of St Petka of the Saddlers

You will get pleasure by watching natural charisma of snow capped mountain range of Vitosha. Here, you will come into contact with the perfect blend of modern city life and natural aesthete. You will find boutiques, small kiosks, shopping centers and a national park at the base of this well known mountain.

The Sts. Cyril and Methodius National Library is the largest national book collection and Bulgaria’s oldest cultural institute, which encourages young generation to learn more about Bulgarian history and culture. You can visit this historical building to watch the gigantic structure of this national library. If you are a knowledge thirsty human, you can check and review historical documents, different types of marvelous relics and collectibles which are available in the inventory of the library. You can also visit the famous Boyona church to learn about the historical background of Bulgarian culture and religion as well. In this church, you will also be able to find stored artifacts, mythological figurines, painted images, books and religions documents in archive of the church.

Finally, when you stay in Sofia, you can also spend some time by visiting Sofia Zoo which gives shelter to more than 1000 wild species. The Zoo has been founded in 1888. You will be able to meet some rare animals in this national zoo.

For your transport in Sofia you can use Metro which has been opened in 1998 and now has just one line and 14 stations.

From natural beauty to sophisticated busy urban lifestyle, Sofia has become the main attraction to foreign tourists. You can enjoy an intoxicated nightlife in this metro city.

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Although the history of Bulgaria is closely connected with Turkish influence, cultural roots date back to the days of the Roman Empire. At that time, today’s territory of Bulgaria became a Roman province. Bulgaria was founded in the 7th century. Part of the residents were Slavic, and part came from Asia.

In the 11th century Bulgaria was conquered by Byzantium, and from the late 14th century it belonged to Turks throughout five centuries. Perhaps due to this fact, Bulgaria didn’t build any castles during the Middle Ages, just like in Central Europe. The resistance against Turkish domination culminated in the early 20th century, when Bulgaria became independent. However they didn’t enjoy the independence for a long time and before 1 World War II it was merged with neighboring countries against Turkey. After inappropriate policy Bulgaria has lost part of its territory in a dispute with its allies. After World War I and later after World War II, Bulgaria again had to give up other parts of its territory. The inclusion of Bulgaria into Eastern Bloc meant to stop economic development. Just the revolutionary period in the late of 20th century enabled the reforms and reorientation. Today Bulgaria is one of the leading tourist destination countries.

Further information:

Official name: Republic of Bulgaria
Capital city: Sofia
Area: 110.910 km2
Number of residents: 7.537.929
Density: 74 people per km2
Time zone: GMT + 2 h (+ 3 h in summer)
Currency: lev (Lv)
Official language: Bulgarian
Water area: 360 km2
Land area: 110550 km2
Board lengths: 1808 km
Coast lengths: 354 km
Neighbours: Romania, Serbia, Republic of Macedonia, Greece, Turkey
Average age of man: 70
Average age of woman: 76
Ethnic group: Roma
Religion: Orthodox 30%, Muslim 7%, Atheists 60%
GDP per person: 1510 $
The highest mountain: Musala – 2.925m above the sea level
The lowest point: Black sea
The longest river: Marica (526 km)
Biggest city: Sofia (1.125.000 people)
Ports: Burgas, Lom, Nesebur, Ruse, Varna, Vidin

Why visit Bulgaria?
- Bulgaria is an interesting country that has everything: sea, sandy beaches, quaint historic towns, cultural and architectural attractions, old monasteries, modern resorts, high mountain… In Bulgaria, everyone can find something interesting, whether you like to relax by the sea, discover the historical treasures, walk through the picturesque streets of coastal towns or mountain hiking.
- Bulgaria is cheaper than Croatia, France, Italy, Spain and other traditional tourist destinations.
- In Bulgaria you can taste various dishes typical for Bulgaria (Shopska salad, kaškaval, Moussaka and many others)

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