Known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and picturesque scenery, Sofia is Bulgaria’s capital and largest city. Situated at the foot of Vitosha Mountain in western Bulgaria, this ancient city has been a crossroads for civilizations throughout centuries. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Sofia, you’ve come to the right place.
Accommodation Options in Sofia, Bulgaria
The origins of Sofia date back to the 7th century BC when the Thracian first settled in the area. Today, its landmarks tell stories of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. Notable attractions include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Saint Sofia Church, and the ancient Serdica ruins. Tourism is steadily growing in Sofia, with a broad selection of hotels ranging from luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options.
Other notable attractions in Sofia include the National Palace of Culture – a hub for conventions and events; Vitosha Boulevard – the city’s main shopping street; Boyana Church – a UNESCO World Heritage site; and Vitosha Mountain – popular among hikers and nature lovers. The city also has a rich cultural scene with annual events such as the Sofia Film Festival and A To Jazz Festival.
Sofia is an ideal destination for those interested in exploring the history, culture, and natural beauty of Eastern Europe. It presents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity while remaining affordable compared to other European capitals. With various green spaces within city limits and beyond, it offers a laid-back atmosphere while still having plenty of entertainment options.
Continue reading to discover more about Sofia’s fascinating history and top attractions, and find the best areas to stay in the Bulgarian capital.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Sofia?
The best area to stay in Sofia is Centrum. With its convenient location, you can easily access top attractions such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, and the National Palace of Culture. There are many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. The city center also offers shopping opportunities, cultural events, and great transport links.
Find available accommodation in Sofia’s Centrum district.
Best Hotels in Sofia’s City Center
- Best 5-star hotel: Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia
- Best 4-star hotel: Art ‘Otel
- Best 3-star hotel: Art Hotel 158
- Best budget hotel: Central West Hotel
- Best B&B: Social Guest House
- Best serviced apartments: SCA Sofia City Apartments
- Best hostel: Ivory Tower Hostel
Where to Stay in Sofia for Sightseeing, Business and Nightlife
- Sofia’s central district, Centrum, is home to the city’s most prominent landmarks and attractions. This bustling area provides opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and dining in a variety of popular restaurants. Staying in Centrum provides easy access to public transport and close proximity to several cultural institutions.
- Centered around the National Palace of Culture, the NDK area is a lively district offering many entertainment options, such as cafes, bars, galleries, and parks. With its contemporary vibe and ease of transportation access, the NDK Area is an ideal choice for a stay in Sofia.
- The picturesque Vitosha neighborhood boasts stunning views of the nearby Vitosha Mountain. It offers natural beauty and easy access to hiking trails, ski resorts, and numerous cafes and traditional Bulgarian restaurants.
Best Areas to Stay in Sofia: District by District
1. Centrum (City Center)
The best area for tourists in Sofia
The city center is the best area to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria.
-
Why is this the best area to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria:
- Heart of the city
- Best area for sightseeing
- St. Sofia Church
- Vitosha Boulevard
- Government buildings
- Serdica Ruins
- Connected by metro, tram and buses
Centrum, also known as the City Center, is undeniably the most important area to consider when staying in Sofia, Bulgaria. Located in the heart of the city and framed by the boulevards where the city walls once stood, Centrum is not only the geographical center but also the cultural, historical, commercial, and transport hub of Sofia.
One of the most notable historical sites in Centrum is the Serdica Ruins. The ancient city of Serdica was once a thriving Roman settlement, and its ruins are interwoven with modern Sofia. Centrum also houses several government buildings, including the National Assembly, the Presidency, and the Council of Ministers.
In addition to its historical attractions, Centrum offers a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Multiple transportation options connect this district with the rest of Sofia. Key public transit lines include Metro Line 1 and Line 2, with stations such as Serdika and NDK providing convenient access points.
Accommodation-wise, Centrum offers a variety of options, including luxury hotels alongside affordable options. Staying in Centrum provides excellent access to Sofia’s attractions while ensuring comfort and a memorable experience.
Best Hotels in Sofia’s city center
Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia
Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia is in the heart of the city, within walking distance from the vibrant city center area. The hotel features a spa center, five restaurants, a fitness center, bars, and shared lounges.
Art ‘Otel
Located in the heart of Sofia, Art ‘Otel is near Vitosha Street, the main shopping area in town, and the Palace of Culture. The property offers private parking for an extra charge.
Art Hotel 158
Conveniently set in Sofia, Art Hotel 158 provides air-conditioned rooms, a garden, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. The property has a terrace and a bar. Guests can have a drink at the snack bar.
Central West Hotel
Located in Sofia, 1.1 miles from Banya Bashi Mosque, Central West Hotel offers a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge, a bar, free WiFi, and luggage storage.
Social Guest House
The recently renovated Social Guest House provides accommodations with a garden and a terrace in the heart of Sofia.
SCA Sofia City Apartments
SCA Sofia City Apartments offers accommodations in the center of Sofia, a 10-minute walk from the Archaeological Museum and half a mile from Ivan Vazov Theater.
Ivory Tower Hostel
Located in the center of Sofia, Ivory Tower features a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and an optional continental breakfast. Free WiFi access is available on-site.
2. East-Central Sofia (Cathedral Area)
Upscale area to stay in Sofia
The area around Alexander Nevsky Cathedral features a luxury hotels offering top-notch amenities more budget-friendly options.
-
Why is this the best area to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria:
- Heart of the city
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- National Art Gallery
- Sofia Opera & Ballet
- Upscale area
- Luxury hotels
- Connected by public transport
The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral area is a great place to stay while exploring Sofia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Situated in the heart of Sofia, east of the Old Town, this area showcases some of the city’s most significant historical sites, making it an appealing destination for history buffs and art lovers.
The main attraction in this area is undoubtedly the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This awe-inspiring Orthodox cathedral draws visitors with its grand architectural design and intricate mosaics. Completed in 1912, the cathedral was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who perished during the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878) to liberate Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. Besides serving as a stunning work of Neo-Byzantine architecture, it remains an important symbol of the country.
Culture enthusiasts will find notable locations such as the National Art Gallery, Sofia Opera and Ballet, and Ivan Vazov National Theater. These hubs provide an opportunity to explore Bulgarian art and culture through various exhibitions and performances throughout the year.
For those interested in local governance and history, the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria provides an interesting insight into the country’s legislative processes.
Furthermore, getting around the area is convenient, with several transportation options, including the Sv. Kliment Ohridski Metro Station.
Best Hotels around Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Hyatt Regency Sofia
Located in the heart of Sofia, Hyatt Regency Sofia offers a wellness center, a rooftop bar, and the exclusive Regency Club lounge. This 5-star hotel provides its guests with free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange.
Eurostars Sofia City
Conveniently located in the center of Sofia, Eurostars Sofia City provides air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private parking. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a business center.
CityResidence Aparthotel
CityResidence Aparthotel is only a 10-minute walk from Aleksander Nevski Cathedral and the National Opera in Sofia. The well-equipped, air-conditioned apartments feature free internet access.
Central Point Boutique Hotel
Set in Sofia, close to St. Kliment Ohridski metro station, Central Point Boutique Hotel provides free access to a spa and wellness center and a terrace.
3. NDK Area
A modern area great for business travelers
Named after the National Palace of Culture (NDK), this area is known for its cultural events, exhibitions, and conferences that take place throughout the year.
-
Why is this the best area to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria:
- Very central location
- National Palace of Culture (NDK)
- Communist-era architecture
- Lots of hotels
- Shopping opportunities
- Well-connected by metro
The NDK Area, centered around the National Palace of Culture (NDK), is known for its cultural significance and lively atmosphere.
The National Palace of Culture itself is an impressive landmark in Sofia, functioning as a multifunctional conference and exhibition center since its completion in 1981. This iconic structure hosts various events throughout the year, such as festivals, conferences, and concerts.
In the vicinity of NDK, visitors find several attractions worth exploring. The Vitosha Boulevard is a popular pedestrian zone offering numerous shopping options and an exciting gastronomic scene. Close by, the City Garden provides a peaceful retreat amidst bustling city life.
The NDK Area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and nightclubs. The NDK metro station on line M2 connects the area with other parts of Sofia. Additionally, multiple bus and tram lines run through the vicinity.
Best Hotels around NDK
Rosslyn Central Park Hotel Sofia
Rosslyn Central Park Hotel enjoys a central location on the famous pedestrian Vitosha Boulevard, lined with trendy coffee shops, restaurants, artisan shops, and boutiques. The main sights of Sofia are within walking distance.
CityResidence Aparthotel
CityResidence Aparthotel is only a 10-minute walk from Aleksander Nevski Cathedral and the National Opera in Sofia. The well-equipped, air-conditioned apartments feature free internet access.
Family Hotel Agoncev
Family Hotel Agoncev is located in a central yet tranquil area of Sofia. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. The hotel features free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and car hire is also offered.
4. Sofia Central Railway Station
Best area for backpackers
The Central Train Station in Sofia is the main railway hub in the country and one of the best areas to stay.
-
Why is this the best area to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria:
- Relatively central location
- Central Railway and Bus stations
- Cheap accommodations
- Great public transportation
Sofia Central Train Station is a significant hub for domestic and international railway connections. The station was first inaugurated in 1888 and underwent modernization in 2000. The building’s architecture features a mix of socialist-era design combined with recent innovative renovations.
The station serves as the starting point for trips to various Bulgarian cities as well as international destinations such as Belgrade, Bucharest, Istanbul, and Thessaloniki. Travel times vary depending on the route; for instance, it takes approximately two hours to reach Plovdiv and around six hours to Istanbul.
Numerous landmarks and attractions are within walking distance from Sofia Central Train Station. A few steps away is Kniazheska Garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll among its greenery. Equally close is Vitosha Boulevard, offering a range of shopping and dining options where visitors can enjoy Bulgarian cuisine and shop for souvenirs.
As expected, transportation options around Sofia Central Train Station provide easy access to other parts of the city. One of the busiest bus stations in Sofia is right beside the station, making transfers to other parts of the country a breeze. Additionally, Central Metro Station provides links to Line M2.
Best Hotels around the Central Railway Station, Sofia
Best Western Terminus Hotel
Best Western Terminus Hotel, located in Sofia, is in a well-connected area, close to the Central Train and Bus Stations. There are metro stations, as well as tram stations nearby. The hotel features a garden, a restaurant, and a bar.
Hotel Adria
Offering a spa center, Hotel Adria enjoys a quiet location a 5-minute walk from Sofia Central Bus Station and from Sofia Central Railway Station. Free WiFi is available.
Hotel Cheap
Hotel Cheap offers a lobby bar, air-conditioned rooms with cable TV, and free WiFi throughout the entire building.
5. Lozenetz
A quiet and central area in Sofia
Lozenetz is a centrally located neighborhood in Sofia which offers a fine balance between modern city living and historical charm.
Situated southeast of the city center, Lozenetz is in the ideal position for those seeking easy access to attractions while also providing a tranquil area away from the hustle and bustle.
In recent years, the area has undergone a significant transformation, with new infrastructure and developments complementing its existing classical architecture.
Lozenetz is renowned for its numerous parks and green spaces. The Borisova Gradina Park covers an expansive 80 hectares and offers picturesque walking trails, fountains, sports facilities, and playgrounds. Another must-see attraction in Lozenetz is the beautiful Saint Paraskeva Church, an architectural marvel that showcases traditional Bulgarian Orthodox design elements.
Lozenetz boasts a range of dining options showcasing flavors from around the world as well as authentic Bulgarian cuisine. The area also offers a lively bar scene, with many operating late into the night.
The neighborhood’s well-developed network of public transportation makes it effortlessly navigable. The Sofia Metro system has several stations within or close to Lozenetz, such as the European Union Station on Line M2 and the Vasil Levski Stadium Station on Line M1. Additionally, multiple bus and tram lines connect Lozenetz to other parts of Sofia.
Best Hotels in Lozenetz
Maison Sofia – MGallery
Maison Sofia MGallery is a cozy five-star hotel within a 10-minute walking distance of Paradise Mall. Maison Sofia MGallery offers 99 rooms with a view of the hotel’s splendid garden. Restaurant Maison offers international cuisine.
Legends Hotel
Legends Hotel is located within 984 feet from James Boucher Metro Station, and a 5-minute drive to the National Palace of Culture and Vitosha Boulevard in Sofia. It offers individually decorated rooms and apartments with free WiFi and air conditioning.
Hemus Hotel Sofia
Located opposite the City Center Sofia shopping center, Hotel Hemus provides elegant rooms with mini-bars at a surcharge, cable TV, and free internet access. Each of the rooms features individually controlled air conditioning.
California Hotel
Hotel California is located in the central part of Sofia, in the Lozenetz area. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Paid public parking is possible on the streets next to the hotel.
5. Vitosha District
The best area to stay in Sofia for nature lovers
Vitosha District provides an appealing combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and convenient accessibility to other parts of Sofia in a relaxed environment.
Vitosha District is situated near the southern edge of Sofia. It is named after the stunning Vitosha mountain, which serves as a beautiful backdrop for the district and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.
The area boasts landmarks such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Boyana Church. Built in three stages between the 10th and 19th centuries, this structure’s exquisite frescoes provide insight into Bulgarian medieval art and culture.
The area has local bars, traditional Bulgarian restaurants, and modern cafes. While not as bustling as Sofia’s city center, the district provides a more relaxed atmosphere for those wanting a quieter experience during their stay.
Bus lines 98 and 122 service the area and connect it to other parts of the city. Additionally, two major roads – Bulgaria Boulevard (to the city center) and Ring Road – provide convenient access to other districts in Sofia. In terms of accommodation options, Vitosha District has various options to choose from. From comfortable, budget-friendly choices to more luxurious lodgings with amenities such as spas and pools, travelers are sure to find a suitable place that fits their preferences.
Best Hotels in Vitosha
Andesite Boutique Residence Hotel
With free WiFi, this 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Certain accommodations at the property have a balcony with a city view.
Hotel and SPA Moreni
Located in Sofia, Hotel Moreni features accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a spa. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
Jasmin Hotel
Hotel Complex Jasmin is situated at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain in one of the most prestigious suburbs of Sofia. The complex has three individual buildings and two restaurants with various typical Bulgarian and European menus.
Family Hotel Bansko Sofia
Located at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, this traditional, family-run property fuses a warm ambiance with impressive facilities. Free WiFi is available in all areas.
Other Accommodation Guides
- Best area to stay in Plovdiv
- Best area to stay in Bucharest
- Best areas to stay in Brasov
- Best area to stay in Prague
- Best area to stay in Budapest
- Best area to stay in Istanbul
- Best area to stay in Berlin
- Best area to stay in Vienna
- Best area to stay in Bratislava
- Best area to stay in Bucharest
- Best area to stay in Dubrovnik
- Best areas to stay in Izmir
- Best areas to stay in Ljubljana