Leisure in Sofia

As the Bulgarian capital city, Sofia is a key destination when it comes to economic activities. But Sofia also hosts a huge historical and cultural legacy which you can discover during your free time, whether after office hours or during the week-end. Indeed, the city offers a range of leisure activities to locals and expatriates thanks to its various museums, monuments and other places of interest, as well as shopping malls and markets, etc. Regardless of your age, you will definitely enjoy your stay there.

History and architecture

During your stay in the capital city, take the time to visit the Rotunda of St. George's Church, the Archaeological Museum, the Ivan Vazov National Theater, the Stefan Stambolov monument, the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the National Culture Palace, the National History Museum, the Military History Museum, the Boyana Church and the Dragalevtzi monastery which are the most popular places of interest.

You can as well walk along the streets of Sofia to contemplate its magnificent ancient architecture, including those of museums, as well as that of the University of Sofia which is the country's oldest academic institution. Moreover, you are likely to come across many locals sitting on the benches that are found before the National Culture Palace. In fact, many of them enjoy spending some time there with their children.

Culture

The St. Cyril and St. Methodius National Library, named after the two brothers who created the Cyrillic alphabet, is the country's biggest library. It contains hundreds of bookshelves dating back to centuries, hence holding a huge historical heritage. The National Culture Palace is also a real cultural symbol as it hosts the country's biggest conference and exhibition center, hosting major political and cultural events every year.

Shopping

Shopaholics will be delighted in Sofia. Halite, for instance is a covered market which is found in the city-center. You will find not only fruits, vegetables and liquors there but also clothes, make-up products and souvenirs. It is open daily from 7 am to 10 pm. You will also find a craft market where you can purchase souvenir gifts for your friends and relatives. This market is run by locals who themselves produce handmade souvenirs decorated with traditional shapes and colors.

Finally, Sofia's biggest flea market is found at the Sveta Paraskeva Church. In fact, the church's basement has been leased to an antique dealer, who, however, only exhibits his products. So you can just enjoy viewing these.

Useful links:

Expat.com ' Leisure in Sofia Forum
Official Tourism Portal of Bulgaria - Sofia bulgariatravel.org
Programata www.programata.bg
Sofia Globe sofiaglobe.com