Sofia balances past and present like few other places. Roman ruins lie beneath glass shopping centers. Brutalist towers give way to blooming city parks. One moment you’re sipping coffee in an old printing house, the next you’re hiking above the skyline. The city is understated, a little off the radar, and packed with surprises.

And with bunq in your pocket, it’s even easier to explore. Spend in Bulgarian leva, track in euro, and skip conversion fees entirely with ZeroFX. Here’s how to make the most out of your time in the capital.

Where to Stay

1. Sense Hotel
A minimalist escape in the heart of the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the golden domes of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, while the rooftop bar offers even better views. Inside, expect clean lines, soft lighting, and a calm atmosphere—plus a spa to unwind after a full day.

2. Millennium Hotel
High above central Sofia, this hotel brings sleek luxury and panoramic views. Rooms are spacious and elegant. The wellness center is one of the best in town. It’s a quiet haven with a big-city feel.

Where to Eat

1. Made in Home
Bright, quirky, and full of charm. This converted house dishes up hearty, colourful meals with a creative edge. Bulgarian comfort food meets international flavor, served alongside fresh lemonade and vintage tableware.

2. Cosmos
Fine dining with a local twist. Cosmos reinvents Bulgarian cuisine with bold ingredients—think wild herbs, fermented vegetables, and slow-cooked meats. The setting is moody and intimate, ideal for a long dinner.

3. Raketa Rakia Bar
Step into a retro world of red vinyl, Soviet-era decor, and Balkan soul food. It’s the place for a generous plate of meatballs and a glass (or two) of rakia. 

4. Fabrika Daga
A local favorite for breakfast and brunch. Strong espresso, buttery croissants, and a lively open kitchen make this café an early-morning gem.

Where to Explore

1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
You can’t miss it. This Orthodox cathedral is a masterpiece of gold domes, grand arches, and peaceful interiors. Step inside for intricate mosaics and quiet moments among candlelight.

2. Serdica Roman Ruins
Beneath the modern city lies ancient Serdica. Explore preserved Roman streets and exposed ruins just steps from the metro. You’ll walk through over 2,000 years of history without leaving the city center.

3. Vitosha Boulevard
A lively pedestrian street lined with cafés, boutiques, and street performers. It’s the place for people-watching, shopping, or catching a sunny table for an espresso break.

Where to Unwind

1. Borisova Gradina
This leafy park is Sofia’s natural heart. Come early for quiet walks or later for picnics and paddle boats. Locals run, read, and relax here. You should too.

2. Vitosha Mountain
Just outside the city, Vitosha is your weekend escape. Hike through pine forests, ski in winter, or just enjoy the sweeping views over Sofia. Bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure.

Tips:

• Currency: Bulgaria uses the lev (BGN). 

  Psst. Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, so you won’t have to think about exchange rates for much longer. Until then, bunq and ZeroFX have you covered: spend in leva, track in euros, and skip the hidden fees.

• Cards or Cash: Most places accept cards, even taxis and metro stations. Still, carry a little cash for markets or older cafés.

• Power Plugs: Type F plugs (round, two-prong) and 230V voltage. UK and US travellers will need an adapter.

• Tipping: Not required, but appreciated. Round up for coffee, and leave 5–10% for good service in restaurants.

• Getting Around: Sofia’s metro is clean, quick and card-friendly. Taxis are cheap, but use licensed ones and always check the meter.

• Language: Bulgarian is the official language, written in Cyrillic. Most younger locals speak English in the city center.

• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is common, but bunq’s free eSIM lets you stay connected wherever you go. With bunq Elite, you get 8GB of worldwide data included.

Sofia is subtle, grounded and full of stories waiting to be uncovered. With bunq, you can move through it all seamlessly—fee-free, worry-free, and with your money always in your control.