Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria, and boasts a population of 1,250,000, Sofia is linked by international routes with the capitals of Europe, and via Istanbul and Ankara, with the Middle East. Sofia’s motto is: “Ever Growing, Never Ageing”

Sofia airport is most people's arrival point into Bulgaria, the recently renovated airport is now clean, light, airy and smoke free (smoking is only allowed in the cafe areas). In the departure building the old chandeliers and wall mosaics have been brought to life and a high tech cafe has been placed on the mezzanine level. There is also a bank and other improvements. The washrooms in the departure lounge area include features for people with disabilities and a baby-changing room.

The town centre is situated just a 10 minute taxi drive away from the airport. Taxi's ordered by phone from the airport to the center of the city usually cost about 7 Bulgarian leva. Taxi services offered by the drivers at the airport can cost 20 or more leva, but paying about 10 leva is still reasonable.

Things to do in Sofia 

Whether it's day or night the centre is always buzzing. There are lots of shops both on the fashionable Vitosha Boulevard which is situated in the heart of Sofia and runs along the side of the centre and also in the centre and surrounding streets. There are several parks in and around Sofia which makes it a favourite with kids, there is also an outdoor swimming complex close to the centre.  Sofia Land is well worth a visit, it is the Bulgarian version of Alton Towers with the Bulgarian prices!

Eating out in Sofia 

You will never have any problem deciding on a place to eat out in Sofia, there are lots of restaurants in and around Sofia and most are very reasonably priced, although prices can be higher than in the smaller villages as it is the capital.  If you are just looking to have a drink there are bars in most restuartants.  There is even an English pub in the centre!  There are also a number of cafes and several outside cafes.

 Places of interest include:

• National Palace of Culture
• Russian Church of Saint Nicholas
• Central Mineral Bath
• National Art Gallery
• National Opera

You wil find that most shops and bars take either euros or lev in Sofia, most biger shops also take credit cards.