Although Sofia is not among the largest cities in the world, 'big city life' here can be quite stressful. That's why I always try to hit the 'pause' button as often as possible. Fortunately, there are more than enough green areas (parks, gardens, etc.) all over the city where one can do that.
What used to be the backyard of the Royal Palace of the Third Bulgarian Kingdom nowadays is often neglected because of the bigger park in front of the palace - the City Garden. However, that's exactly why I like it better - it's much less popular and usually less crowded and more peaceful.
There are benches all over the place so I can just grab my e-book reader (the equivalent of tens of books) or my headphones and believe me, I can stay there all day. And when the sun sets it's the perfect starting point to hit the bars and given the many great options around it might actually be hard to choose (check Tobacco Garden Bar article, for example).
There's something else interesting in that place that I like. Just walking around you might stumble across all kinds of Communist-era art. A fallen statue of Lenin is just meters away from a sculpture of a Trabant with bust of a person on top of it reminding me of the Flintstones driving style.
ul. Moskovska 4
BGN
free
Find your way with 125 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
It's been the same spot for 13 years now. Palace of Justice, next to the lion on the corner. Rain or shine, tour guides are there, you just have to show up.
by
"Made in Blue" is a popular, unique restaurant for meetings and good food in Sofia. You can't miss it - the whole house is painted in blue...
by
Need a peaceful break in central Sofia? Discover the quiet charm of the hidden Archaeological Park Western Gate of Serdica with its rich in history.
by
A Belgian bakery with an Italian name in the heart of the Bulgarian capital. Yet another example of how Sofia is getting more and more cosmopolitan.
by
Honestly, the shop looks more like a lab. Clean, minimalist, and luxurious. You can order whole cakes for special occasions or choose a treat from the beautifully-arranged showcase.
by
"Skaptoburger" is located in the heart of Sofia and won the King of Burgers award for 2016. This restaurant, its monthly offers, some ale... what more?
by
"Antep Baklava" in Sofia is a small pastry shop that makes the best baklava and other Turkish desserts in the city! You have to try the Shobiet...
by
"Gifted" in Sofia is a shop that aims to bring together artists and offer unique souvenirs and gifts that go beyond the ordinary. It keeps surprising me!
by
"Boyana Church" in Sofia is one of my favorite temples in the city. It's a UNESCO heritage gem of a site from the 11th century, next to giant sequoias...
by
"Chucky's" is the place for you if you know the differences between your macchiato, flat white and chemex. I like their two 'gossip chairs'...
by
"65 Svetulki" in central Sofia is a bar rapidly becoming a favorite destination for locals. What I love is its terrace and alternative bohemian design...
by
125 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 125 Insider Tips