Scenic Sofia is unique among European capitals. Where else boasts mountain scenery and world-class skiing just outside the city limits? This ancient city between continents and ideologies offers a very different experience for a short break, as well as a warm continental climate all year round.
- On the tourist trail
If you’re visiting Sofia for the first time, you owe it to yourself to spend at least one afternoon walking the colourful city streets and admiring the stunning architecture which combines classical European, modern Communist and Orthodox Christian influences.
The centre of the old city is literally paved with gold, or at least gold-coloured paving stones, which connect many of Sofia’s top sights (http://www.sofia-guide.com) so it’s easy to visit the National Art Gallery and the Archaeological Museum before catching a local music performance at Yablaski House.
image source :- Bustler
- Historical attractions
Sofia wears its history on its sleeve. Everywhere you look from the vibrant city centre to the Stalinist suburban blocks speaks of a long and dynamic heritage.
Making time to visit some of the city’s most significant historical sites can be rewarding on a cultural break .The oldest is a 4th century church St George’s Rotunda. This ancient building is decorated with elaborate frescoes and has a changeable history itself, beginning life as a pagan temple during the Roman period and being converted to a mosque during Ottoman rule before its restoration to a Christian place of worship.
Sofia’s other major faiths are well represented by the Banya Bashi Mosque and the largest Sephardic synagogue in Europe.
- Outdoor activities
Even on a short weekend break, you should find plenty of time to get out of the city and visit the natural wonders nearby, the principal attraction being the Vitosha Mountain National Park . Visible from all over the city, the park covers an immense 27,000 hectares, contains diverse plant and animal species and is a popular skiing destination with locals and international visitors in the winter.
Even if you’re visiting outside of the skiing season, the Vitosha and Lulin mountains are great for hiking, cycling and mountain climbing. Closer to the city, Borisovata Gradina Park is another popular destination for outdoor activities or relaxing with a meal or a drink and enjoying the view of Ariana Lake.
image source :- Wikimedia
- Food and drink
If you’re keen to try local Bulgarian delicacies during your trip, you’ll never have to go far to find a reasonably priced bakery, snack bar or traditional restaurant where you can sample the full range of Bulgaria’s eclectic cuisine - from pancakes and pastries to kebabs, falafel and pizza.
Beer houses arrived in Sofia relatively recently but have already made a big impact, and you’ll be able to enjoy an assortment of local beers and wines with your meals throughout the city. In recognition of Sofia’s emergence as a major culinary destination, this year sees the city host the Interfood & Drink Bulgaria 2013 in November.
- Nightlife
The fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down either, as Sofia’s reputation for lively nightlife is well earned. To meet locals and get a taste of Bulgarian culture, Chalga clubs feature a curious hybrid of traditional Balkan folk dance and contemporary pop styles, complete with table-top dancers.
If you’re looking for something more familiar in the nightlife scene, you’ll find plenty of Western-style bars and clubs within easy reach of major hotels in Sofia playing music right through the night, with a growing number of live music venues attracting big names in the rock and dance music worlds.
Have you considered Sofia for a weekend break in 2013?
Cynthia Mountweazel-Dempsy is a part time writer and full time travel enthusiast.
