Sofia by Night – Safe, Vivid & Beautiful

Posted on December 15, 2014 by Geri Vladeva

Explore SOFIA, the Bulgarian Capital, by Night

Sofia by night is a beautiful place to discover. It is not because it is where I live. It’s more because of its rather provincial than metropolitan charm. The slow pace of life can be felt right out of the plane – at the airport. The classical architecture of some buildings reminds the passenger of Sofia’s old history and Bulgaria’s connection with the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. Now the city is a home of many young students, green living enthusiasts, unknown but gifted artists and musicians that make the atmosphere on the streets and in the small coquette restaurants and cafes alive and interesting.

Sofia-Alexander Nevsky Cathedral from Sense Rooftop Bar

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral from the terrace of Sense Rooftop Bar

More and more foreigners are discovering the beauty of Sofia. Still not very known to the usual tourist, one is surprised when visiting the city. What I can personally advise the visitors is to walk at night in the city center. It has a very special atmosphere and especially if your visit is not in winter, you will enjoy staying outside more than you have expected. Not coincidentally it is the favorite pastime activity for many of the locals too.

The Archaeological Museum

The beautiful window of restaurant Bodega

A favourite meeting point for many is the pedestrian part of Vitosha Boulevard where you will find many restaurants and cafes, all with a European atmosphere and quality of service. My favourites are:

Cafe Memento for the best coffee & social environment in the city
Restaurant Shtastlivetsa for unusual setting & good food
Raffy for quick service and most dynamic atmosphere

Saint Nedelya Church

Sofia-Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church - entrance

The entrance door of Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church

Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church

Walking at dark, you will have the chance to see Sofia in a different, more mysterious way; especially if you walk around the impressive Orthodox churches, and in Sofia’s city centre you have a good choice of them. The Russian Church is the most decorative one but Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church has the charm of the Roman time buildings. Their discreet lighting makes these churches a spectacular sites to see.

Sofia-walking is always better in a company

It is safe to walk at night in Sofia as far as you stay in the central part and use your common sense. Don’t go near the Mosque and further it toward the Central Station. This part of the city is not safe or pleasant for a woman to walk at night.