Sofia City Guide – All About Sofia

10 Tips for foreigners driving in Bulgaria

March 8, 2023 No Comments

Driving in Bulgaria can be an exciting experience for foreigners. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations governing driving in the country. These rules are in place to ensure safety and prevent accidents on the road. In this blog post, we will cover the essential rules for foreigners driving in Bulgaria.

Have the Right Documents

To drive in Bulgaria, foreigners must have a valid driver’s license issued in their home country, as well as an international driving permit. It is important to note that the international driving permit must be obtained before arriving in Bulgaria, as it is not possible to obtain one in the country.

Foreigners driving in Bulgaria must also have the appropriate car registration documents, including insurance and the vehicle’s registration card. Failure to have the right documents could result in fines, impounding of the vehicle, or even imprisonment.

Keep Right

In Bulgaria, cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. It is important for foreigners to remember this and to stay on the right-hand side of the road at all times. The left lane is reserved for overtaking, and drivers must return to the right lane once they have passed the car in front.

Follow Speed Limits

Speed limits in Bulgaria are measured in kilometers per hour (km/h). The speed limit in residential areas is 50 km/h, while on highways it is 130 km/h. In some areas, there may be lower speed limits posted, so it is important to keep an eye out for these signs.

It is also important to note that speeding is taken very seriously in Bulgaria, and fines can be steep. In some cases, drivers may even face imprisonment for excessive speeding.

Wear a Seat Belt

It is mandatory for all passengers in a vehicle to wear seat belts. This includes drivers, front-seat passengers, and passengers in the back seat. Failure to wear a seat belt can result in fines.

Do Not Drink and Drive

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited in Bulgaria. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l, which is lower than in some other countries. Penalties for driving under the influence can include fines, imprisonment, or even deportation.

Use Headlights

It is mandatory to use headlights during the day in Bulgaria. This is to improve visibility and prevent accidents. Headlights must also be used at night and in inclement weather conditions such as fog, rain, or snow.

Keep Your Distance

It is important to maintain a safe distance from the car in front. This allows for enough time to react in case of sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. The recommended safe distance is at least two seconds behind the car in front.

Yield to Pedestrians

Pedestrians have the right of way at all times in Bulgaria, and drivers must yield to them when they are crossing the road. Failure to do so can result in fines and points on the driver’s license.

Observe Traffic Signs and Signals

Traffic signs and signals must be obeyed at all times in Bulgaria. This includes stop signs, yield signs, and traffic lights. Failure to do so can result in fines and points on the driver’s license.

Carry a First Aid Kit

It is mandatory to carry a first aid kit in the car in Bulgaria. The kit must include basic items such as bandages, antiseptic, and scissors. This is to ensure that drivers are able to provide immediate medical attention in case of an accident.

Driving in Bulgaria can be an enjoyable experience for foreigners, but it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations governing driving in the country. By following these rules, foreigners can ensure that they have a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Bulgaria.

Guide

Top 5 Things to See & Do While in Sofia

April 9, 2016 No Comments

Cathedral If you are heading to the beautiful capital city of Sofia, Bulgaria but still not sure how you are going to spend your days while there, consider the following options…

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to see the city upon your arrival is to join in on a fun walking tour! This will allow you to meet other travelers like yourself, gain a better feel for the city and what makes it so incredibly unique, and have a chance to visit some of the best spots as shown by locals.

Marvel at the Architecture

One of the first things you will notice about Sofia is the fact that it is chockfull of massive, ancient, and stunning architectural buildings throughout its many city streets. Some important ones you won’t want to miss include Cathedral Saint Alexander Nevski, Saint Nikolas Russian Church, and Boyana Church.

Explore Vitosha Mountain

When you have had your fair share of wandering about the city, escape the hustle and bustle just minutes outside the city center to the gorgeous Vitosha Mountain. Surround yourself with nature and partake in one of the many fun outdoor activities available there such as horseback riding, skiing, and hiking!

Wander the Museums

As a place with so much history and culture, you are not going to want to leave Sofia without exploring at least a little bit of what makes this city and its country so great. Be sure you pay a visit to the National Museum of History, the National Institute of Archaeology, and the National Museum of Military History.

Discover the Parks

Amidst all of that constant sight seeing and running about, sometimes it is nice to simply take a leisurely stroll through a beautiful garden; and fortunately, Sofia has plenty of them! The three most popular ones worth checking out include the park at the Military Academy, Borisova Gradina Park, and Yuzhen Park.

Guide

The Need for a Travel Insurance

April 9, 2016 No Comments

A lot of travelers often dismiss the idea of purchasing a travel insurance when travelling. They see it as an unnecessary expense, despite the fact that it can save them financially when things go wrong while backpacking abroad. However, a travel insurance provides great financial protection when unexpected crisis takes. From lost baggage to cancelled flights and medical emergency situations, this simple financial tool will help a backpacker survive from high cost hospitalization, rebooking fees and even lost item reimbursement.

What are the factors I need to consider in getting a travel insurance?

Basically, there are a lot of factors to consider when getting a travel insurance. This includes the security of the destination, the amount of money you can pay for an insurance, the number of days for travelling, the type of coverage you need and the reliability of the insurance company. All of these factors come into play when you plan for a backpacking abroad. You can read more on sites like Wikipedia, Rejseforsikring, Bilforsikring and UK FCO

A travel insurance should be able to cover your needs in worst scenarios. Since there is no way that we can predict the future, researching does a lot of help. Assess your backpacking needs and determine the type of coverage you should get. A comprehensive travel insurance usually covers the medical expenses, emergency evacuation, lost baggage, delayed or cancelled flights and accidental death but you can add special coverage for your sports equipments if you need to. The most important thing is to know your needs, assess your financial capability and get the coverage appropriate for you.

How much do I need a travel insurance?

The amount of protection you get from a travel insurance depends on the policy you purchased beforehand. Some insurer will compensate the entire value of what was lost like your flight cost, lost baggage, hospital bills and many others. But there are some insurance companies that pay a partial of your expenses. That is why you have to analyze the type of coverage you have to have before starting a journey abroad.

A travel insurance will give you a sense of security and freedom. It gives you a peaceful mind while travelling because you know that you are protected financially against losses, damages and theft. Aside from that, your pocket money or even your savings will never be taken from you. A simple card from your insurance company will help you avail the privileges of your chosen coverage. Most importantly, having a travel insurance will lessen the worries of your family or relatives when things go wrong while travelling.

How can I buy a travel insurance?

The internet is a great source of outstanding travel insurance. If you cannot find it in your area, you can browse online and become insured with just one click. You just have to remember that the best way to minimize financial losses is to keep you and your belongings insured with a travel insurance. Take time to research and make comparisons. Through this way, you will never go travelling unprepared with any types of crisis.

visits

A visitor’s impressions

August 11, 2014 No Comments

Sofia- a place to pamper yourself

I just could not stop myself from visiting Sofia which is the capital city of Bulgaria. My friend, who is a passionate traveller has been on a trip to this place during the last winters and had so much praises for this land. As he described the churches, gardens and palaces, my determination to visit this place became stronger and stronger. The first thing I did after he left was to do a bit of homework on how to reach there and when the best time was. Since I love the snow, I decided to visit this beautiful land during the winters like my friend did. The six months wait for the winter was taking longer than usual and then finally came the travel day. Since I had planned my travel in advance, I made my stay and travel bookings in advance which helped me save some bucks which I plan to spend on shopping when at Sofia. Finally I was on my flight to Sofia.

When the flight landed, my excitement was at peak. The weather there was chilling. I managed to hire a taxi and reach my hotel which I had booked earlier. I decided to rest for a day, but could not do so in excitement. I just dumped my bags and went shopping for the rest of the day. I also enjoyed a dinner at a local restaurant. People were friendly. I was told by my friend (who had been before me to Sofia) about the interesting places here. But, I decided to talk to the locals to gather more information. Discussing with locals about the local attractions is an ice breaker. Locals suggested that I must visit the old Church of St George. They advised me that a visit to Sofia would be incomplete without exploring this oldest monument.

Next morning, I got up early in spite of me not being a morning person (that was because I could barely sleep out of excitement to visit a roman 12^th century monument). My hotel manager was kind enough to arrange a taxi for me after I had my breakfast. Within an hour’s drive or so I was at the oldest monument in the oldest city of Bulgaria. The red brick structure stole my heart away and I ended up clicking every angle of this monument. The taxi driver suggested that I visit other churches like Church of St Sofia, Boyana and Alexander Nevsky and I just followed him. We explore as many churches we could in the day. By the end of the day, I was cursing myself for just a week long vacation. The soothing climate and the beautiful surroundings was what I was dreaming for the whole night.

The next day was for gardens and shopping and I made most of it. Like promised, I spent the money saved on my travel expenses on pampering myself (actually, I ended up spending much more). I was shocked to see a huge mall and later my guide told me that ‘The Mall’ was the largest in Bulgaria and is located here in Sofia. I had to keep two days out of my schedule for the museums and cemeteries. And of course a day for skiing on the Vitosha slopes. Enjoyed a lot!! Make sure that you plan a longer holiday.

Guide

Summer festivals taking place in Sofia in 2023

May 26, 2023 No Comments

There are four summer festivals taking place in Sofia, Bulgaria in 2023:

Sofia Swing Dance Festival (June 1, 2023)
SHAPESHIFT Festival (June 2-4, 2023)
Meadows in the Mountains Festival (June 1-5, 2023)
Sofia Music Weeks (May 21-June 30, 2023)

Now, let’s delve into each of these festivals and explore what they have to offer.

Sofia Swing Dance Festival (June 1, 2023)

The Sofia Swing Dance Festival is a vibrant event that brings together swing dance enthusiasts from all over the world. Hosted by Lindy Hop Bulgaria, this festival is a celebration of the joyous and energetic dance style that originated in Harlem, New York during the 1920s. Participants can look forward to a day filled with dance workshops, performances, and social dances. Whether you’re a seasoned swing dancer or a curious beginner, the Sofia Swing Dance Festival promises a day of fun, learning, and connection.

SHAPESHIFT Festival (June 2-4, 2023)

The SHAPESHIFT Festival is a unique event that takes place at the National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts (NATFA) in Sofia. This festival is all about exploring and celebrating the transformative power of art. Over the course of three days, attendees can expect a diverse program of performances, exhibitions, and workshops that span various artistic disciplines. From visual arts to performing arts, the SHAPESHIFT Festival offers a platform for artists to showcase their work and for audiences to engage with art in new and exciting ways.

Meadows in the Mountains Festival (June 1-5, 2023)

While not directly in Sofia, the Meadows in the Mountains Festival is a noteworthy event that takes place in the nearby Rodhope Mountains. This festival began as a dream of a wandering family to share the beauty of the mountains and underground music with an intimate group of friends. Today, it has grown into a five-day event that attracts music lovers from around the globe. The festival features a lineup of upcoming underground musicians and offers attendees the chance to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the Rodhope Mountains.

Sofia Music Weeks (May 21-June 30, 2023)

The Sofia Music Weeks is a long-standing tradition in the city’s cultural calendar. This festival spans over a month and features a wide range of musical performances. From classical music concerts to contemporary music showcases, the Sofia Music Weeks offers something for every music lover. The festival also provides a platform for Bulgarian musicians to showcase their talent and contributes to the vibrant music scene in Sofia.

In conclusion, Sofia, Bulgaria, is a city that comes alive with various festivals during the summer. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, an art lover, a music aficionado, or an adventurer, there’s a festival for you in Sofia. These events not only offer entertainment but also provide a glimpse into the rich culture and vibrant arts scene of the city. So, if you find yourself in Sofia in the summer of 2023, be sure to check out these festivals and immerse yourself in the unique experiences they offer.

Uncategorized

How to Get Compensation for Delayed Flights to Bulgaria: A Comprehensive Guide

May 26, 2023 No Comments

Air travel is not always smooth sailing. Delays and cancellations are common occurrences that can cause significant inconvenience to passengers. However, as a passenger, it’s important to know that you have rights and may be entitled to compensation in the event of a flight delay. This guide will walk you through the steps to claim compensation for delayed flights to Bulgaria, according to EU regulations.

Understanding Your Rights

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers are entitled to compensation if their flight arrives at the destination more than three hours late. This applies to all flights within the EU, and flights from outside the EU to an EU country operated by an EU airline. Bulgaria, being a member of the EU, falls under this regulation.

The compensation amount varies depending on the distance of the flight:

For flights less than 1,500 kilometers, passengers are entitled to €250.
For flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, passengers are entitled to €400.
For flights over 3,500 kilometers, passengers are entitled to €600.

However, compensation is not due if the airline can prove that the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as bad weather or security risks.

Steps to Claim Compensation

Check the Eligibility: First, determine if your flight is eligible for compensation. The flight must be delayed by at least three hours, and the delay must be within the airline’s control.
Keep All Travel Documents: Ensure you have all your travel documents, including boarding passes, tickets, and any other relevant documents. These will serve as proof of your delayed flight.
Contact the Airline: Write a formal complaint to the airline stating the details of your flight and the delay. Include your flight number, the length of the delay, and the compensation amount you are claiming according to EU Regulation 261/2004.
Wait for the Airline’s Response: The airline should investigate your claim and respond accordingly. If your claim is valid, the airline should provide you with compensation.
Seek Legal Assistance if Necessary: If the airline rejects your claim and you believe it is unjust, you can seek legal assistance. There are many companies that specialize in flight delay compensation claims and can help you get what you’re entitled to.

Protecting Yourself in the Future

While it’s not possible to prevent flight delays, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:

Book with EU Airlines: Whenever possible, book your flights with an EU airline. EU airlines are subject to EU regulations, even for flights outside the EU.
Get Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can provide additional protection and compensation in the event of a flight delay.
Keep Informed About Your Rights: Regulations and policies can change, so it’s important to stay informed about your rights as a passenger. Get more information from Bulgaria Air or Forsinket Fly.

In conclusion, while flight delays can be frustrating, knowing your rights and the steps to claim compensation can make the process less stressful. Safe travels!

History

Religious Diversity and the Medieval History of Sofia

March 29, 2023 No Comments

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the medieval period. Throughout the centuries, the city has been a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and civilizations, which have left their mark on its architecture, customs, and traditions.

During the medieval period, Sofia was known as Serdica, a bustling city that was strategically located at the crossroads of several important trade routes. The city was founded by the Thracians in the 5th century BC and was later conquered by the Romans, who transformed it into a prosperous commercial center.

One of the most significant religious factors that shaped the medieval history of Sofia was the Christianization of the region. In the early 4th century AD, the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great converted to Christianity and made it the official religion of the Roman Empire. As a result, Christianity began to spread rapidly throughout the Balkans, including Bulgaria.

In the late 9th century, Bulgaria was ruled by Tsar Boris I, who decided to convert to Christianity and make it the official religion of the Bulgarian state. He invited missionaries from Constantinople to teach the Bulgarian people about the Christian faith and to build churches and monasteries throughout the country.

One of the most significant churches built during this period was the Church of St. Sophia, which was built in the 6th century AD and dedicated to the Holy Wisdom of God. The church was later destroyed by the invading Huns in the 5th century AD and was rebuilt by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century AD.

The Church of St. Sophia became the most important religious center in Sofia and played a significant role in the medieval history of the city. It was the seat of the Bulgarian Patriarchate and served as the spiritual center of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church for many centuries.

During the medieval period, the city of Sofia was also home to many other churches and monasteries, which were built by the Bulgarian rulers and the Byzantine emperors. Some of the most notable churches include the Church of St. George, the Church of St. Petka, and the Church of St. Nedelya.

The Church of St. George was built in the 4th century AD and was dedicated to the patron saint of soldiers and the protector of the city. It was destroyed by the invading Persians in the 6th century AD and was later rebuilt by the Bulgarian ruler Krum in the 9th century AD. The church was a significant pilgrimage site for the Bulgarian people and was believed to have healing powers.

The Church of St. Petka was built in the 14th century AD and was dedicated to the patron saint of women and children. It was built on the site of a pagan temple and was believed to have been a place of healing and spiritual renewal.

The Church of St. Nedelya was built in the 10th century AD and was dedicated to the Holy Sunday. It was one of the most important churches in Sofia and served as the site of many important religious ceremonies and celebrations.

In addition to the churches and monasteries, the medieval history of Sofia was also shaped by the presence of other religious groups, such as the Jews and the Muslims. The Jewish community in Sofia was established in the 4th century AD and was one of the oldest and most significant Jewish communities in Europe.

The Jewish community played an important role in the economic and cultural life of the city and was known for its intellectual and artistic achievements. The Jews built several synagogues in Sofia, including the Central Sofia Synagogue, which was built in the early 20th century and is still in use today.

The Muslim community in Sofia was established during the Ottoman period, when Bulgaria was part of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans ruled Bulgaria for nearly five centuries and had a significant impact on the culture, religion, and architecture of the region.

During the Ottoman period, many mosques were built in Sofia, including the Banya Bashi Mosque, which was built in the 16th century and is one of the oldest and most important mosques in Bulgaria. The mosque was built on the site of an ancient Roman bath and was named after the Turkish word “banyo,” which means bath.

The Ottoman period was a time of religious and cultural diversity in Sofia, with Christians, Jews, and Muslims living side by side and influencing each other’s customs and traditions. Despite occasional conflicts and tensions, the different religious groups in Sofia coexisted peacefully for many centuries and contributed to the rich and diverse heritage of the city.

In conclusion, the medieval history of Sofia was shaped by many different factors, including religion, culture, and politics. The Christianization of Bulgaria and the establishment of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church played a significant role in the development of Sofia as a religious and cultural center. The presence of other religious groups, such as the Jews and the Muslims, also contributed to the diversity and richness of the city’s heritage. Today, Sofia is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that reflects its long and fascinating history.

Uncategorized

Travelling to Bulgaria

October 15, 2020 No Comments

Bulgaria is a beautiful country that is situated in southeastern Europe. The country has many different aspects and layers that makes it a very interesting place to visit. It has world-famous ski resorts to beautiful sandy beaches. It also has a rich ancient history that combines with the country’s modern culture to make one alluring country. You will get to see such an amazing blend of history and modern that it will enthrall you. If you want an unforgettable adventure then Bulgaria should be on the top of your list.

The history of Bulgaria is enriched with the presence of Greeks, Romans and Thracians. During the Neolithic period, organized prehistoric cultures started on this land. After the multi-party elections of December 1989, Bulgaria became a democratic nation. You can see a part of this history through the remains and ruins in Bulgaria. You can see the influence this has had in the country’s art, entertainment and culture. Many people visit Bulgaria just to see a part of the history left behind in the form of fortresses and ruins of empires long gone.

If you do not know much about the country then you can research and you will find that it has a lot to offer. You can go to the sandy beaches, look at historical monuments, go to a fun party in the buzzing towns, or check out the great ski resorts covered in snow. This is a country where everyone can find something exciting to do no matter what your interests are or what you like to do. It is a place of mystery, fun and adventure.

Bulgaria is a place that offers a person everything. You will get to see rich history through traces left behind, natural beauty in the lush green mountains, and an amazing culture that is unique and exclusive to the country. You get to enjoy every aspect in one place such as the city of Varna. It is a stunning country with picturesque villages, sandy beaches, majestic mountains, hospitable people, good food and an affordable lifestyle. So there is no wonder that there are many amazing places to visit in Bulgaria that you can go to enjoy yourself, some of them are listed as follows:

Varna
Veliko Tarnovo
Sofia, Capital of Bulgaria
Zheravna
Burgas
Rila Monastery
Bansko
Pamporovo
Pirin National Park
Belogradchik
Plovdiv
Sunny Beach
Koprivshtitsa
Perperikon
Nessebar

Bulgaria should be on the top of your list if you are into nature, history or culture. This country provides a little bit of everything that you can enjoy and like. No matter what you like to do and what your interests are, you can have a great trip full of adventure and unforgettable memories that you would think back on fondly in the future. There are many unfair and wrong stereotypes that are connected with the country. Once you visit you can be among the people who know the real Bulgaria and what it is really like. You could then tell people what you saw and how wrong they are for assuming wrongfully about such a beautiful country.

Food

Traditional Bulgarian Foods to Taste

July 11, 2018 No Comments

Robust and diverse, traditional Bulgarian cuisine will never leave you hungry. With unique recipes that have been around for ages, the food in Bulgaria will quickly become a favorite of yours too. Here are the foods you should not miss on a visit to this Balkan country.

Cheverme

As one of the favorite dishes of Bulgarians, this whole spit-roasted lamb is a labor of love. It takes between 8 and 10 hours to prepare but the efforts are indeed worth it. It’s a traditional dish that hails from the mountains of the south, one that results in some of the most tender and flavorful meat around.

Sarmi

Leaves of cabbage or vine are stuffed with fillings that include a variety of items including rice, meats, and vegetables. Because there are so many different types, trying them all can be a tasty and fun experiment!

Banitsa

This traditional pastry pie is made with homemade cheese and contains other ingredients that range from meat to spinach and beyond. It’s a symbolic dish for Bulgarians that is usually found in savory flavors, however you’ll be missing out if you don’t try out the sweeter ones that contain apples and walnuts.

Kebapche

Grab a plate of kebapche and a cold glass of Bulgarian beer for the ideal warm weather meal. Kebapche is minced meat formed together in a long shape like a hot dog, though that’s where the similarity to hot dogs ends. It’s typically a mix of pork and beef with black pepper and cumin to add a distinctive flavor. You’ll usually see it served in threes along with sides like fries topped with grated sirene cheese.

Shopska salata

Interestingly enough, this famed Bulgarian salad features the colors of the Bulgarian flag. Chopped tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, grated white cheese and fresh parsley make up the base. It’s a refreshing summer salad to start off your meal.

Rakia

This clear alcoholic beverage is made by distilling fermented fruit. It’s incredibly strong and depending on how it’s distilled can have a proof anywhere from 80 to 190. Rakia comes in many different flavors depending on what fruit is used to make it. You’ll see it with anything from pears to apples to cherries to figs. Making it is a tradition that gets passed down to each successive generation, and it is a perfect partner for any food, especially shopska salata.

Shkembe chorba

Made from the stomach of cows, it’s not something for the non-adventurous eater. However, Bulgarian tradition holds that this rustic soup is the key to sobering up and curing a hangover after having too much rakia so it may very well come in handy depending on how much you imbibe during your travels.

Guide

Road trips in Bulgaria and why they are worth the effort

August 22, 2017 No Comments

While Bulgaria may not be renowned as the best place in Europe to take a road trip, decent roads and general infrastructure make it an incredibly easy place to travel. However, the real draw and main attraction is undoubtedly the fact that this is far less traveled than most of Europe and with magnificent scenery, ancient monuments and relatively low prices, taking a road trip in Bulgaria is certainly worth the effort.

Although Bulgaria is quite a small country, it features an incredible diversity and the perfect mix of history in between natural beauty. In fact, spanning just five hundred and sixty miles, you could probably drive across Bulgaria in one day, but there are obviously many reasons not to rush a road trip in this beautiful part of the world, from stunning mountain scenery and countryside to ancient tombs and medieval forts. Here is a brief run-down of what to expect on a road trip in Bulgaria:

Roads, rules and regulations

As with most European countries, you should keep to the right-hand side while driving in Bulgaria and the usual safety precautions apply such as seatbelts and the standard procedure for overtaking another vehicle. However, there are also some road etiquette laws which you may not have known about. For example using a car horn is prohibited unless it is being used to avoid an accident and you are required to drive with lights on regardless of whether the sun is shining.

Similarly, if you choose to drive outside of a city, you will also need a vignette/small ticket displayed on the windscreen which relates to road taxes in Bulgaria. Yes, even though you may are a visitor and a tourist, you are required to pay this road tax although this is usually included by a provider when it comes to car rental.

Incredible attractions and lesser known remnants

The many parks, nature reserves and ancient monasteries in the Pirin region are usually a highlight for visitors and locals alike. Remote and isolated, these are examples of what makes Bulgaria such a beautiful place to explore from behind the wheel. That being said, this is just one of many destinations where you can find a similar experience, for the Balkan Mountains and Rila Lakes are further examples of how rewarding it can be to take a road trip in Bulgaria.

Of course, another highlight is the wide number of ancient artefacts and remnants in each destination. A perfectly preserved burial chamber, the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari was built in approximately 300 BC and is surprisingly well-preserved despite lying beneath a mound of earth for centuries. Located in Sveshtari in the Razgrad Province, this tomb is an incredible insight into ancient times. And then there is Asens Fortress, a medieval fort in the Rhodope Mountains best known as ‘Petrich’. Built in 300 BC, the fort is situated on a cliff with vertical drops and remains one of the most spectacular sights in all of Bulgaria.

Logistics and services

Getting back to the basics and logistics while taking a road trip, you are unlikely to find many street food sellers, but the local dishes are certainly worth trying. Inexpensive restaurants are common, and you can enjoy a meal for less than 10BGN US$6, while a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant should cost no more than 40 BGN (USD 24).

Furthermore, the food is amazing with some unique combinations including Banistsa, a pastry made with cheese and vegetables or the Kebapche which is made up of minced meat with many spices and a topping of sauce.

As far as gas stations are concerned, these are very sporadic in Bulgaria, and it is always best to plan ahead by filling up before leaving town.

Useful links

Weatheronline – Road conditions in Bulgaria

Europa.eu – Car insurance validity in the EU – Bulgaria

Bilforsikring – Tips about car insurance

Allianz – Hospitals in Sofia

Tips for driving in Bulgaria

Guide

The Top 4 Free Tours to Take in Sofia, Bulgaria

June 9, 2016 No Comments

Whether you are on a strict budget during your trip to Sofia or you simply are looking for fun things to do, consider heading out on one or all of these following free tours offered…

Free Sofia Tour

Free-Sofia-Tour If you are looking for a simple yet entertaining way to get a better feel for the city and its major attractions, the Free Sofia Tour is undoubtedly your best options. Organized by a non-profit organization that not only allows you to see the city yourself, but also offer your local guides to work on their English skills.

Website: http://www.freesofiatour.com/

Sofia Green Bike Tour

Want to see the city in a more active way? The Sofia Green Tour allows you to hop on a bike, explore more of what Sofia has to offer in a shorter amount of time, and all you need to pay for is a short-term bike rental, which are available at the meeting point! This bike tour is available from April to November.

Website: http://www.sofiagreentour.com/

Sofia Green Hiking Tour

If you loved what Sofia Green Tours did for you on the bike tour, then you are going to love the hiking tour they offer at Vitosha Mountain during the same months throughout the year! A total of 8 kilometers in distance will take you past the Boyana Church, the Boyana Waterfall, and also the beautiful lake. You’ll love this free Sofia tour!

Website: http://www.sofiagreentour.com/free-hike-tour.html

Balkan Bites Food Tour

Not only does Sofia have incredible architecture, stunningly natural settings, and an endless list of sights to see, it also has a fantastic Bulgarian cuisine you and your taste buds are sure to love! Join in on the free Balkan Bites food tour and try delicious and traditional foods while learning about both the history and preparation behind each one.

Website: http://www.balkanbites.bg/

Guide

The Best Restaurants & Cafes to Try in Sofia

May 1, 2016 No Comments

If it’s not for the rich history and culture, or the magnificent architecture that brings you to Sofia, Bulgaria, then it must be for the ridiculously amazing food found there; especially the food in the following restaurants and cafes…

Made in Home

The name says it all. With the perfect combination of welcoming and friendly staff, absolutely fantastic Bulgarian food to choose from, and an overall fun atmosphere, you cannot go wrong with a visit or two to Made in Home.

Address: Angel Kanchev 30A, Sofia, BG, Sofia 100

Raketa Rakia Bar

raketa-rakia-bar A great little spot where a cool and modern atmosphere and design tie it all together to make it a great hangout spot right near the university and close distance to plenty of other city attractions. Get ready for plenty of refreshing draft beers while here!

Address: Qnko Sakuzov 17, Sofia 1000, Bulgaria

Villa Rosiche

Don’t quite need a full meal but wouldn’t mind some delicious pastries and appetizing desserts paired with a nice cup of coffee or tea? Well, Villa Rosiche has that and a whole lot more! Be sure to try the cheesecake!

Address: 26 Neofit Rilski Street, Sofia 1000, Bulgaria Chevermeto Your typical Bulgarian restaurant with all the wines, breads, and dishes you have been imagining since before you arrived in Sofia. Not only will you get to taste an abundance of flavors, but you will enjoy a fun cultural experience while there as well, making it a definite must!

Address: NDK- Pronoto, 1 Bulgaria Blvd, Sofia 100

Moma Bulgarian Food & Wine

Currently taking the top spot on TripAdvisor’s Top Restaurants in Sofia list, you really cannot go wrong in paying a visit to Moma’s. Enjoy a lovely atmosphere, friendly service, and of course a great list of tasty foods and wines to keep you fully satisfied all night long.

Address: 28 Solunska Street, Sofia, Bulgaria

1 2 Next »