Destination Sofia, Bulgaria
The history of Sofia dates back to 7000 years ago.
Today Sofia is a modern and busy capital. All year-round a rich cultural life is an integral part of the city. There are many theatres, an opera house, operetta, concert halls, museums and galleries with valuable exhibits. And also - busy, boulevards, cozy cafes and restaurants, sparkling stores, picturesque markets, many parks and gardens.
Sofia offers excellent opportunities for international congresses, symposia, meetings, conferences and fairs. Special business centres and luxury hotels are in close proximity to the bustling city centre.
The area surrounding Sofia is rich in natural beauty. The tranquillity and charm of the Vitosha Mountain offers ideal spots for picnics or walking in the summer and superb skiing in the winter.
Shopping in Sofia is quite an experience. There are shining shops offering designer clothes, small antique shops, private art galleries displaying icons, modern art and jewellery, music shops and shops for traditional crafts feast the eyes.
Major landmarks in Sofia include the St George Rotunda, part of a large archeological complex with rare Roman architectural features; the Sveta Sofia Basilica, which inspired the city's coat of arms; the Alexandar Nevski Cathedral, whose magnificent icons and frescoes are world famous; and the Boyana Church - a listed UNESCO building - a fine example of Medieval architecture with unique wall paintings.
Other tourist attractions are the Church of Sveta Nedelya, the Banya Bashi Mosque (16th century) and nearby Turkish baths, the Hall covered market and clock tower Synagogue, the National History Museum, the Sveta Petka Samardzhiiska Church, the Russian Church, the Alexandar Battenberg Square, the flea market.