Sofia, Bulgaria

[Ihatemondays1962]

I searched and couldn't find any recent posts on this. Has anyone been to Sofia in Bulgaria and what did you think? Planning a summer city break and am now having doubts.

I lived there but it was over twenty years ago. It’s changed since then but I’m not sure it would have that much to offer for a city break really. There is some history obviously - Roman ruins in the city and the underground stations etc. But there wasn’t a vast amount to do back then. It really would depend on what you want. A few days in a different city taking it easy but not expecting a lot and just enjoying it would be fine but if you are expecting more along the likes of a more well known city you might be disappointed.

Been there for holiday 10 years ago. Very boring and not so exciting.

Thanks for the responses. Neither fill me with much hope, might have to rethink.

I thought it would update this in case anyone searched in future. We did end up going to Sofia. The city itself is pretty underwhelming and there is only really enough to do for one day. Its pretty run down generally although the locals are very welcoming. Its a good base for day trips though, lots of places to visit although they are all at least a 2 hour drive away. I don't think I'd make a return visit.

Oh dear, I clicked on this to tell you not to go.
I went in 2004 but clearly not much has changed.

I went there briefly in 2008 and absolutely hated it.

Strange post. Why consider visiting a country/city that has poor feedback and not many interesting sights?

I love planning city breaks but love historic and cultural trips. My favourite cities would be Prague, Lisbon, Malaga and Seville.

Because I was going in a group so wasn't the sole decision maker. Not sure what's strange about asking for advice as part of that process.

Been there twice for work and agree would avoid

We went last month and had a great time, very chilled and did a walking tour in the city and day trips out to Plovdiv and rila monestry. Thought it had a great vibe and very walkable.

We have been and enjoyed it, went to Rila monasteries, Rila mountains and Plodiv (and got to experience a 4.1 earthquake 😁). Did the communist walking tour which was fab and a street art tour. Lots of wine and cheese shops so spent the evenings sipping nice wine!

It's great- I'm here now! I can't believe how cheap it is

I was there back on 2006. Not great then. I much preferred Plovdiv but don't know how easy it is to get there as I went there from Turkey.

I quite liked Sofia, but Plovdiv has more stuff for tourists.

One thing that I would say is that the food in Bulgaria is really excellent, and I'd go back to Sofia just for a few days of eating. Banitsa (the best filo pie in existence) modern and traditional Bulgarian food... plus it's extremely affordable for those paid in GBP.

There are also some nice second hand/vintage shops including some specialising in cashmere & silk.