FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Global City Guidebook: Sofia

by mary.melnick

Jul 29, 2023

PHOTO: © UKRPHOTO | DREAMSTIME.COM

GCGB 2023

Surrounded by mountains and situated at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, modern-day Sofia, the largest city and capital of Bulgaria, is cosmopolitan, blending different nationalities and cultures. It’s also one of the 20 largest cities in the European Union, full of universities, cultural institutions and companies.

GETTING THERE & AROUND
Sofia Airport’s two terminals comprise the largest airport in Bulgaria. From Sofia Airport Metro Center, located in the eastern part of Terminal 2, travelers are transported to one of two city center stations, Sofia University Metro Station and Serdika Metro Station, in approximately 20 minutes. Three bus lines operate from the airport as well. Within the city, public transportation includes buses, trams, trolleybuses and the Metro. Contactless payment is available on all. A single trip on one of the Metro’s four lines costs approximately $1. Many taxi companies also operate throughout the city, available by phone or at ranks around the city.

LODGING
Grand Hotel Sofia
A hub for luxury and famous travelers since 2004, 5-star Grand Hotel Sofia boasts an on-site art gallery for art aficionados, Shades of Red restaurant and other eateries, and various room types. The hotel has won awards since its opening.
1 General Gurko St., Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 2 811 0811
grandhotelsofia.bg

InterContinental Sofia
Perfectly situated to the business district, nearby government buildings and cultural highlights, InterContinental Sofia features plenty of meeting and event space as well as guestrooms, suites, two restaurants, club-level accommodations and lounge, and a spa.
4 Narodno Sabranie Square, Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 2 933 4334
ihg.com

Sofia Balkan Palace
Built in 1956, Sofia Balkan Palace’s building is part of the President’s Palace complex and sits atop a historical Roman fortress. With a Metro station next door and the city’s cultural attractions within convenient distance, its 184 guestrooms and suites make an excellent homebase.
5 Sveta Nedelya Square, Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 2 981 6541
sofiabalkanpalace.com

DINING
The Hadjidragana Tavern
Sample traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a setting to match. A rich wine selection complements the old cellar interior, complete with stone walls, barrels, wood carvings, Kolten rugs and more. In summer enjoy dining in an indoor garden courtyard.
18 Hristo Belchev St., Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 89 877 5936
izbite.com

The Little Things
This European restaurant located in the heart of Sofia’s city center boasts a cozy atmosphere in an old house opposite St. Sedmochislenitis Church. Enjoy high-quality ingredients in fusion dishes showcasing attention to detail — as the name implies.
37 Tsar Shishman St., Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 88 249 0030

Moma Bulgarian Food and Wine
Dubbing itself the “modern face of Bulgarian restaurants,” Moma features a modern interior and a menu full of authentic recipes that take travelers and locals back to the roots of Bulgarian cuisine. The eatery offers a seasonal menu, a main menu and a bountiful wine list.
28 Solunska St., Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 88 562 2020
moma-restaurant.com

ATTRACTIONS
Borisova Gradina
Sofia’s oldest and best-known park, construction began here in 1884 and continued under three renowned garden designers: Daniel Neff, Joseph Frei and Georgi Duhter. Today find statues, flower- beds, cafés, play areas, two stadiums and more.
Sofia, Bulgaria, tel 359 2 963 4566

National Archaeological Institute with Museum
With the greatest number of collections in the entirety of Bulgaria, National Archaeological Institute with Museum puts together a complete study of the cultures of the peoples who occupied the country from the remote past to the 18th century.
2 Saborna St., Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
tel 359 2 988 2406
naim.bg

Zhenski Pazar Market
Also known as “The Women’s Market” and dating back 140 years, Zhenski Pazar Market, the only open-air trading area in Sofia, is the place for everything one needs — from fresh fruits and other foods to souvenirs and clothing. About 60,000 shoppers pass through daily.
90B Tsar Samuil St., Sofia, Bulgaria,
tel 359 2 983 2184
zhenski-pazar.com

 

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Nov 21, 2024

Hotel Saint Augustine to Open in Houston’s Museum District Neighborhood

Hotel Saint Augustine, expected to open in Houston this December, is a design-savvy boutique hotel from Austin-based hospitality group Bunkhouse.

Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands

Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.

November 2024
Nov 21, 2024

Immerse in an Invigorating Thermal Journey at Scandinave Spa Whistler

The glittering green pines and burst of jasmine lake beyond almost made me forget about the aches in my legs that slowly developed after the promised hour-long hike ran into the third hour. And, oh, there were my hips, showing up to remind me I was no longer in my 20s. I didn’t mind, though, because the vision that surrounded me during our guided walk through Garibaldi Park to Cheakamus Lake in Whistler, British Columbia, with Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures proved worthy of a thousand postcards.

Daily
Nov 21, 2024

5 Can’t-Miss Black Friday, Cyber Monday Hotel Deals

Plan to shop on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Add these deals from hotels around the country to your shopping list.

Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet

Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.

Daily
Nov 21, 2024

Belmond Unveils First Luxury Sleeper Train in England and Wales

The first luxury sleeper train officially debuts in England and Wales next July thanks to the new Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train. This pioneering train seamlessly blends timeless rail heritage with contemporary British cuisine, culture and style. Guests will enjoy fine-dining experiences designed by Chef Simon Rogan and an on-board wellness suite offering therapies to relax and revive.

eFlyer Deals
Nov 20, 2024

Xanterra Launches Thankful for Travel Sale

Xanterra Travel Collection’s Thankful for Travel Sale is finally here! This travel company’s sale, through Dec. 2, offers the biggest savings on national park stays, yacht-style cruises, historic train rides, legendary resorts, and walking and biking tours.

Explore Egypt on the Most Extraordinary Tour Ever

Picture this: You’re standing in front of the Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in complete silence, with no crowds in sight. As you step inside, your guide leads you to hidden chambers inaccessible to other tourists. Here, you’re granted a rare chance to delve into the deepest mysteries of ancient Egypt.

eFlyer News
Nov 20, 2024

Orient Express Reveals World’s Largest Sailing Yacht

Orient Express just unveiled the design of its first yacht and the world’s largest sailing yacht, Orient Express Corinthian. Set to hit the waves in summer 2026, this yacht will sail across the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Caribbean.