Budget Hotels in Sofia

Aris Hotel

Location: F-7, ul. Knyaz Boris 203
Contact: Tel: 931 31 77

Aris Hotel is a small and quiet hotel located on a leafy street. It is very close to Sofia’s main train and bus stations, which makes it perfect for travelers who need easy transport connections.

The hotel offers simple but comfortable rooms. The rooms have soft, relaxing colors and high ceilings that make the rooms feel open and airy. Each room includes a TV and a hairdryer for guests’ convenience.

If you are traveling with family or a group, the apartments with fold-down sofa beds are a great option. These provide extra space and comfort without costing too much.

Brod Hotel

Location: H-8, Simeonovsko Shose 66
Contact: Tel: 968 19 80

Brod Hotel is a suburban hotel recently built to offer excellent value for money. It is located on Simeonovsko Shose, a busy road on the outskirts of Sofia. Although this street is not the most exciting part of the city, the hotel itself is welcoming and comfortable Bulgaria Private Tour.

The rooms are nicely decorated in soft pastel colors mixed with warm terracotta tones. The “luxury” rooms include large bathtubs for relaxing baths, while standard rooms have simple shower units.

The staff at Brod Hotel are friendly and helpful. They will gladly tell you where to find local cafes, shops, and bus stops. Also, taxis from the hotel to the city center are affordable and convenient.

Park Hotel Vitosha

Location: H-8, ul. Rosario 1
Contact: Tel: 816 88 88

Park Hotel Vitosha is a brand new hotel designed in a modern Scandinavian style. The hotel uses light colors and natural wooden surfaces that create a fresh and calm atmosphere.

The rooms come with cooking facilities, which is great if you prefer to prepare your own meals. The hotel is also well equipped with wellness and spa amenities for guests who want to relax and enjoy some pampering.

Located in a peaceful park-like area on the southeastern edge of Sofia, Park Hotel Vitosha offers a quiet escape from the city’s busy streets.

Light Hotel

Location: A-3, ul. Veslets 37
Contact: Tel: 917 90 90

Light Hotel is a modern and stylish hotel located on a quiet, cobbled street. It feels peaceful and far away from the busy center of Sofia. The public areas, like the lobby and lounge, have a clean and modern design. However, the rooms offer a cozy, slightly old-fashioned feeling, which some guests may find charming.

There are different bathroom styles in the rooms—some have shower cabins, while others feature large, comfortable bathtubs. This makes the hotel a good choice whether you prefer quick showers or relaxing baths.

Lion Hotel

Location: A-3, bul. Maria Luiza 60
Contact: Tel: 917 84 00

Lion Hotel is set in a beautiful nineteenth-century building. It stands at a busy road intersection, halfway between Sofia’s train station and city center. If you get a room facing the street, you can watch the lively flow of people and cars below Bulgaria Private Tour.

The hotel has many unique architectural features. Some rooms have bay windows, while others have arched windows, giving a special character you won’t find in many other hotels. The decoration varies a lot: some rooms have soft yellow colors, while others have bright striped wallpaper.

Lozenetz Hotel

Location: E-3, bul. Sveti Naum 23
Contact: Tel: 965 44 44

Lozenetz Hotel is a modern building located in a quiet residential area just south of Sofia’s center. The rooms are bright and spacious, although some bathrooms can feel a little small.

One special feature is a small garden next to the restaurant, which is a nice place to relax after a busy day.

Meg Lozenetz Hotel

Location: D-3, ul. Krum Popov 84
Contact: Tel: 965 19 70

Meg Lozenetz is a mid-sized hotel in a residential area near the City Center Sofia shopping mall. The rooms have warm colors and thick carpets, creating a cozy atmosphere. Many rooms are not perfect rectangles but have interesting, irregular shapes which add character.

The hotel restaurant is decorated like a tropical garden, with wooden floors, rattan chairs, and many plants. There is even a large green parrot living there!

Triada Hotel

Location: G-8, ul. Venera 5
Contact: Tel: 970 67 67

Triada Hotel is a relatively new building with large, bright rooms. The rooms are decorated in soft shades of blue, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

On the top floor, there is a sky bar with fantastic views of Sofia and the surrounding mountains, perfect for relaxing or meeting friends.

Triada Hotel also has excellent facilities for business meetings and seminars, making it popular with business travelers.

Diter Hotel

Location: C-3, ul. Han Asparuh 65
Contact: Tel: 989 89 98

Diter Hotel is located in a carefully restored nineteenth-century house on a quiet but very central street in Sofia. This makes it a real gem for travelers looking for comfort and charm in the city center.

The rooms are decorated in calm, mood-lifting colors like blues and oranges. Each room comes with a minibar, TV, and a safe to keep your belongings secure. A big plus is the large desk space, perfect for business travelers or anyone who needs to work during their stay. The showers are modern, featuring state-of-the-art massage nozzles for a relaxing experience.

Room 302 is a unique, L-shaped single room that will suit travelers who like something a little different and special Bulgaria Private Tour.

Kapri Hotel

Location: G-8, ul. Han Omurtag 76
Contact: Tel: 843 50 73

Kapri Hotel is a medium-sized, friendly hotel located about 2 km east of Sofia’s center in a quiet neighborhood. The hotel is in a converted family house, which gives it an intimate and cozy feel.

The rooms are decorated in soft, calming colors like pale green with light brown furniture. However, the rooms are a bit small because the building was not originally designed as a hotel, so space is limited.

Latinka Hotel

Location: G-8, ul. Latinka 28A
Contact: Tel: 870 08 48

Latinka Hotel looks modern from the outside but is warm and comfortable inside. It is an excellent mid-range choice for visitors. The hotel is about 3 km southeast of the city center, and it is only a five-minute walk to Borisova Gradina, Sofia’s large green park.

Rooms are decorated with bright primary colors that help improve your mood. Each room has a telephone, cable TV, internet connection, and a minibar. For a special touch, ask for a top-floor room with an attic ceiling for a cozy atmosphere.

Legends Hotel

Location: G-7, bul. Cherni Vrah 56
Contact: Tel: 961 79 30

Legends Hotel is located in the Hladilmka district, about 4 km south of Sofia’s center. It offers good business-class comfort combined with the friendly feel of a medium-sized hotel. Prices are reasonable for what you get.

The rooms have a warm bronze-brown color scheme and include desk space and bathtubs for relaxation. Internet access is available, but it costs an extra €5 per day.

While the neighborhood does not have many bars or restaurants nearby, transport is very good. Tram numbers 9 and 10 will take you to the city center quickly. Also, bus number 66 goes up to Aleko on Mount Vitosha, a popular mountain area.

Elate Plaza Hotel

Location: H-8, Mladost-1, corner of bul. Alexander Malinov and bul. Andrey Saharov
Contact: Tel/Fax: 974 49 48

Elate Plaza is a small, cozy, and charming hotel located just a four-minute drive south of Sofia’s airport. It sits in a quiet residential neighborhood, making it a peaceful place to stay for travelers.

The rooms at Elate Plaza come in various shapes and sizes. They have a modern style with warm red colors and bright bathrooms. Suites include bathtubs for added comfort. The hotel has a friendly, “make yourself at home” atmosphere, and the staff are very helpful and attentive.

For guests’ convenience, there is a fitness center with a sauna where you can relax after a busy day. The hotel also offers a conference hall that can hold up to 45 people, which makes it suitable for small business meetings Bulgaria Private Tour.

Bulgari Hotel

Location: A-2, Ul. Plrotska 50
Contact: Tel: 831 00 60

Bulgari Hotel is a small and welcoming place located in a lovely cobbled street in old Sofia. The hotel’s bright tangerine-colored rooms are on the smaller side but come with TVs and usually a small desk.

Bathrooms vary — some have bathtubs while others feature a traditional Bulgarian-style shower without a partition. One special room to request is the ‘Melnik’ room on the top floor, which has a glass-covered balcony that feels like a conservatory and offers great views of the sky.

Breakfast here is served on glass tables decorated with seashells, adding a nice touch to your morning. The hotel is known to be gay-friendly, welcoming all guests warmly.

Central Hotel

Location: B-2, bul. Hristo Botev 52
Contact: Tel: 981 23 64

Central Hotel is a relatively new hotel located in a convenient downtown area. It offers good value for money with comfortable facilities.

Rooms are decorated in a modern and practical style, mostly featuring showers instead of full bathtubs. The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Sofia’s city center.

Central Forum Hotel

Location: G-7, bul. Tsar Boris III 41
Contact: Tel: 954 44 44

Central Forum is a recently renovated hotel located about 1 km southwest of Sofia’s downtown area. It is in a mixed residential and commercial neighborhood, making it quiet yet close to the action.

The rooms are not very large but are decorated in soft, creamy colors designed to reduce stress. Although the hotel calls itself four stars, most rooms have showers, and only the ‘luxury’ rooms have real bathtubs.

One nice surprise is that some rooms have electric kettles, a feature rare in Bulgaria hotels.

Arte Hotel

Location: B-3, bul. Knyaz Dondukov 5
Contact: Tel: 402 7100

Arte Hotel opened at the end of 2005 and is located in a great central spot on a busy boulevard in Sofia. Even though the area can be noisy with the city’s famous screechy trams, the hotel is well soundproofed, so you can expect a peaceful night’s sleep.

The hotel owner loves art and has decorated the halls and restaurant with a beautiful collection of modern Bulgarian paintings. This makes the hotel feel unique and creative, fitting well with its name.

Rooms at Arte Hotel are modern and stylish, with white walls and decorations in warm terracotta or chocolate colors. Every room has a flat-screen TV for your entertainment. Breakfast is not included in the room price and costs an extra €10 per person Bulgaria Private Tour.

Atlantic Hotel

Location: H-8, ul. 19a 2, Simeonovo
Contact: Tel: 961 34 00

Atlantic Hotel is located in Simeonovo, a quiet suburb on the lower slopes of Mount Vitosha. This hotel is perfect for guests looking for a peaceful, luxurious retreat outside the busy city.

The building looks impressive with two fancy turrets and feels very cozy inside. Bathrooms are a bit small, but the rooms are comfortable. One of the highlights is the restaurant on the top floor, which offers lovely views of Sofia.

Best Western Hotel Europe

Location: G-8, ul. Liditse 1
Contact: Tel: 970 15 00

Best Western Hotel Europe is a modern hotel on a quiet suburban street. The rooms are decorated in bright, cheerful citrus colors that create a fresh and happy atmosphere.

Some rooms have large bathrooms with bathtubs, but this is not guaranteed for every booking. The hotel’s top floor has a Sky Bar that offers fantastic views looking west towards the city and south towards Mount Vitosha.

Best Western Hotel Expo

Location: G-8, bul. Tsarigradsko shose 149
Contact: Tel: 817 81

Best Western Hotel Expo is an elegant business hotel located halfway between Sofia’s airport and city center. The hotel has a modern design with stylish details and interesting artwork in the rooms.

The staff is very professional and helpful. However, the hotel is in a plain part of town, so the views from the windows are not very exciting.

Sveta Sofia Hotel

Location: A-2, ul. Plrotska 18
Contact: Tel: 983 17 07

Sveta Sofia Hotel is located in a beautiful old building from the 19th century. The building has recently been renovated and is found on a quiet pedestrian street in the city center. This makes it one of the most pleasant and peaceful places to stay downtown.

The rooms are decorated with bright blue and yellow colors, giving a fresh and cheerful feeling. Bathrooms are light and comfortable. Most standard double rooms have showers, while the luxury rooms include full bathtubs for more comfort.

This hotel has 80 rooms in total. Prices for single rooms range from €75 to €125, double rooms cost between €85 and €135, and apartments range from €144 to €250. It is a great choice for travelers who want to stay close to the city’s main attractions but prefer a calm environment Bulgaria Trips.

Vega Hotel

Location: B-8, bul. G. M. Dimitrov 75
Contact: Tel: 806 60 00

Vega Hotel is a modern 4-star hotel that opened recently in 2005. It is located about 4 kilometers south of the city center. Although it is outside the center, its location at the meeting point of wide boulevards means guests can travel easily by car or taxi.

The rooms have warm coffee-colored decor with neat, modern bathrooms featuring bathtubs. Each room includes a flat-screen TV and a desk for work. The superior rooms and suites come with small terraces and tea and coffee making facilities.

The hotel’s lobby connects to a stylish café and restaurant via a beautiful spiral staircase, making the public areas feel welcoming and social. Guests can also enjoy a state-of-the-art solarium, fitness center, and massage services.

Alexander Palace Hotel

Location: H-7, ul. Nartsis 1, Dragalevtsi
Contact: Tel: 967 32 44

Alexander Palace is a small modern hotel located in Dragalevtsi, a quiet mountain suburb about 20 minutes by car from Sofia’s city center. This hotel is perfect for those who want peace and nature while still being close to the city.

Rooms here are spacious and comfortable. The staff are friendly and helpful, creating a relaxed atmosphere. It is a great option for visitors looking for a calm, out-of-town stay.

Ambassador Hotel

Location: H-8, bul. Simeonovsko Shose 110 A
Contact: Tel: 962 56 02

Ambassador Hotel is a modern four-floor building with heavy, luxurious furniture and elegant decoration. Each floor is decorated in a different color, giving each level a unique style.

Some rooms have views that are affected by nearby building projects, but the service is excellent and the rooms are spacious and very comfortable. The attic rooms on the top floor feel especially cozy.

The hotel also offers a spa and recreational center for guests who want to relax and enjoy extra services.

Residence Oborishte

Location: G-8, ul. Oborishte 63
Contact: Tel: 814 48 88

Residence Oborishte is a very comfortable and relaxing place to stay. The hotel mostly offers two-room apartments that are warm and inviting. Rich colors are used throughout the rooms, creating a cozy and pleasant atmosphere. One of the highlights is the “Just Married” apartment, which features a large bathtub next to a wide double bed — it almost makes you want to rush to the registry office!

The hotel has a friendly, “make yourself at home” feeling, making guests feel very welcome. It is a good choice for travelers who want a peaceful place with a home-like atmosphere.

SkyWay Hotel

Location: H-8, bul. Simeonovsko Shose 166A
Contact: Tel: 819 21 00

SkyWay is a brand-new hotel located in the middle-class neighborhood of Simeonovo, near Mount Vitosha. The building was recently renovated and offers a modern look combined with ethnic-style garden furniture and many houseplants. The hotel’s social areas are bright and welcoming Bulgaria Trips.

Rooms at SkyWay are decorated with bold colors and are almost big enough to play a round of golf inside! Guests can enjoy a cozy restaurant on site and use the business center with free internet and computers. The airport is easy to reach, and the city center is about a 15-minute taxi ride away.

Sofia Plaza Hotel

Location: F-7, bul. Hristo Botev 154
Contact: Tel: 813 79 79

Sofia Plaza is a comfortable, mid-priced hotel near Sofia’s main railway station. It is a tall, narrow building, but the rooms are cozy rather than cramped. The rooms feature blue carpets and peach-colored furniture, with TV, minibar, and enough desk space for a laptop.

Apartments include kitchenettes and extra fold-down beds, making them ideal for families or longer stays.

Sofia Princess Hotel

Location: F-7, bul. Maria Luiza 131
Contact: Tel: 933 88 88

If you like big hotels, Sofia Princess is the place for you. It is the largest hotel in Sofia and also has the biggest casino in the Balkans. The hotel is perfect if you want to enjoy a luxurious and lively atmosphere.

The rooms are decorated in rich red colors with tasseled curtains and fluffy cushions, giving them a very elegant and comfortable feel.

Kolikovski Hotel

Location: C-2, ul. Hristo Belchev 46
Contact: Tel: 980 95 69

Kolikovski Hotel is located on a charming cobbled street just a few seconds from the busy Vitosha Boulevard. The hotel makes a strong first impression with its rich colors and modern baroque design details. The dark purples and matte surfaces create a stylish atmosphere that feels very different from the soft pastel tones you usually see in other hotels.

Although Kolikovski is mainly aimed at business travelers, it is also a great place for a romantic evening after a successful date. The rooms are reasonably spacious and include a TV, minibar, and desk space for work. The superior rooms also come with an electric kettle, perfect for making tea or coffee.

Les Fleurs Hotel

Location: B-2, bul. Vitosha 21
Contact: Tel: 810 08 00

Les Fleurs is a boutique hotel full of style and artistic details. It is in a prime location downtown and looks like it came straight from an Italian interior design magazine. Every part of the hotel has an artistic touch, from the floral patterns in the wooden floors to the glass bead table lamps Bulgaria Trips.

The rooms have flat-screen TVs and modern bathrooms with cylindrical shower cubicles. Rooms on the top floor have balconies with wonderful views of the city center. All rooms have unique shapes, and the hallways curve and twist through the building, adding charm and character. The only odd part is the front desk staff’s uniforms, which look a little old-fashioned.

Olymp Park Hotel & Spa

Location: H-8, bul. Simeonovsko Shose 110
Contact: Tel: 892 00 00

If you want to stay in a hotel surrounded by a full leisure complex, Olymp Park Hotel & Spa is a great choice. It is set in a beautiful landscaped park with swimming pools and gazebos. The hotel’s fresh colors and modern shapes make the rooms bright and cheerful.

Many rooms offer nice views of Mount Vitosha to the south. The hotel is about a 15-minute drive from the city center, but there is plenty to enjoy on site. The restaurant is decorated like a 19th-century Russian parlor, and the glass-roofed café is full of potted plants, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Hotels in Sofia Comfort and Style

Sofia offers a variety of hotels that combine comfort, elegance, and good service. Here are some of the best options in the city for different tastes and budgets.

Crystal Palace Hotel

Location: B-5, ul. Shipka 14
Contact: Tel: 948 94 88

The Crystal Palace is a unique hotel because it was created by adding a large glass and steel structure on top of a historic 19th-century apartment building. Although this change was controversial due to conservation concerns, the hotel is now one of the most elegant and best-rated in Sofia.

Rooms: The rooms are bright and spacious, decorated with reproduction furniture that gives a classic feel. They include all modern comforts to make your stay pleasant.

Health and Fitness Club: The hotel features a cozy fitness club decorated in warm coffee and cinnamon colors. It is perfect for relaxing after a busy day.

Downtown Hotel Sofia

Location: C-3, Blvd. Vasil Levski 27
Contact: Tel: 930 52 00

Downtown Hotel is a solid four-star hotel located in the city center. It offers comfortable rooms with plush carpets and some reproduction furniture that adds a classic touch Bulgaria Trips.

Restaurant: The restaurant is surrounded by a beautiful winter garden filled with greenery, adding a unique atmosphere.

Rooms: The rooms are simple but cozy, suitable for business and leisure travelers alike.

Greenville Hotel

Location: G-7, ul. Atanas Dukov 36
Contact: Tel: 819 19 19

Greenville is a complex of three buildings located in a green park area south of the city center. It offers a mix of standard rooms and studio apartments.

Rooms: Light and luxurious, decorated with flower bouquets and original paintings to create a warm, homely atmosphere.

Ideal for: Travelers who want a quiet and peaceful environment but still close to the city.

Kempinski Hotel Zografski

Location: G-7, Blvd. Dzheims Bauchert 100

Contact: Tel: 969 22 22

The Kempinski Hotel Zografski is a five-star hotel known for its high standards and large size. It may not feel very cozy because of its high-rise design, but it offers excellent luxury and service.

Rooms: Currently decorated in onyx blue and green, some floors are being updated with beige colors.

Special Features: The hotel has a Japanese garden and a pavilion-style Sakura restaurant, reflecting its origins with Japanese investors from the 1980s.

Great Hotels to Stay in Sofia

Sofia has a wide variety of hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and style for all types of travelers. From luxury to boutique hotels, here are some great options worth considering.

Barcelo Festa Sofia

Location: G-7, Blvd. Bulgaria 83
Contact: Tel: +359 2 818 96 18

Located a few kilometers from the city center on busy Bulgaria Boulevard, the Barcelo Festa Sofia is an impressive modern hotel. While the reception area is a bit flashy, the rooms are calm and stylish Bulgaria Trips.

Rooms: Designed in coffee and cream tones, with minimalist, modern bathrooms and full-size bathtubs.

Luxury Category: These rooms are larger, with lounge-style furniture and flat-screen TVs.

Views: South-facing rooms overlook Mount Vitosha, while north-facing ones offer a city view.

Facilities: Wi-Fi, restaurant, spa, gym, conference room, parking

Best Western Hotel City

Location: B-4, ul. Stara Planina 6
Contact: Tel: +359 2 915 15 00

This modern four-star hotel is near Sofia’s historic city center, making it ideal for tourists. Rooms are spacious, clean, and well-maintained. The helpful staff add to the positive experience.

Facilities: Wi-Fi, restaurant, fitness center, air conditioning, business services

Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel

Location: G-6, ul. Ivanitsa Danchev 23, Boyana
Contact: Tel: +359 2 805 08 00

A small and stylish boutique hotel in the peaceful Boyana neighborhood near the National History Museum. The hotel features Italian furniture, bold interior colors, and luxury bathrooms.

Views: Excellent city views from the restaurant windows.

Service: The staff are especially welcoming and attentive.

Facilities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi, parking, quiet location, personal service

Central Park Hotel

Location: C-2, Blvd. Vitosha 106
Contact: Tel: +359 2 805 88 88

The Central Park Hotel enjoys a prime city-center location right in front of the National Palace of Culture. It’s close to Sofia’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife spots.

Rooms: Comfortable and well-equipped, many offering great views of the nearby park or Mount Vitosha.

Dining: The hotel restaurant serves modern European dishes with a good wine selection.

Business Services: Offers full office support and secretarial services for business travelers.

Facilities: Wi-Fi, restaurant, business center, air conditioning, conference services

Top Hotels in Sofia – Where to Stay in Style

Sofia offers a wide range of hotel choices, from world-famous chains to boutique gems with personality. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, these high-quality hotels offer comfort, style, and great service.

Holiday Inn Sofia

Location: H-8, Blvd. Aleksandar Malinov 111
Contact: Tel. +359 2 807 07 07

The Holiday Inn Sofia delivers dependable five-star quality. Located near the Mladost Business Park, it’s a favorite for business travelers, and only about 20 minutes by taxi from the city center.

Rooms: Equipped with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and bathrooms with both a bathtub and separate shower.

Dining: You can enjoy international food at the all-day Brasserie and InCanto restaurant Bulgaria Vacations.

Wellness: There’s a fully equipped gym and a 19-meter swimming pool for guests to relax or stay fit.

Events: With a wide range of conference facilities, it’s a top spot for business meetings.

Radisson SAS Grand Hotel

Location: B-4, Narodno Sabranie Square 4
Contact: Tel. +359 2 933 43 34

Located right across from the Bulgarian Parliament and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Radisson SAS offers luxury and a great view of Sofia’s historical center.

Style: The hotel offers elegant comfort—calm colors, comfortable mattresses, and classy marble bathrooms with bathtubs and showers.

Rooms: All rooms have electric kettles. Standard rooms are good, but Business Class rooms and Junior Suites on the north side come with amazing views.

Nearby: You’ll find bars and nightlife just steps away, including Flannagans Pub and London Casino.

Unique and Artistic Hotels

If you’re looking for something with more character and local flair, these hotels are perfect for a stylish and cozy stay.

Hotel Anel

Location: B-2, Blvd. Todor Aleksandrov 14
Contact: Tel. +359 2 911 99 00

Hotel Anel is a modern hotel just outside the downtown area. What sets it apart is its rich collection of Bulgarian art—you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a contemporary gallery.

Rooms: Designed in bold blue and brown tones, comfortable and spacious.

Spa: A relaxing spa area with a café surrounded by water and accessible via a charming bridge.

Art’Otel

Location: C-2, ul. Gladston 44
Contact: Tel. +359 2 980 60 00

A collaboration between Bulgarian and Spanish designers, Art’Otel is set in a beautifully renovated 1930s apartment building. It’s located just off Vitosha Boulevard, the city’s main shopping and walking street.

Design: Features leather furniture, fireplaces, unique textures, and modern art.

Views: Some top-floor rooms offer fantastic views of the Sofia skyline.

Luxury Hotels in Sofia

Sofia has no shortage of top-tier accommodation. Among the best are internationally recognized names like Hilton and Sheraton, which offer outstanding service, elegant decor, and central locations. Here’s a closer look at two of the city’s finest five-star hotels.

Hilton Sofia

Location: D-2, Blvd. Bulgaria 1

Contact: Tel. +359 2 933 50 00

The Hilton Sofia is a popular choice, especially for business travelers. It has a convenient central location and offers the high-quality service expected from the Hilton brand.

Interior Design: Rooms are decorated in calm tones of blue, yellow, and green, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Bathrooms: Each room includes both a bathtub and a shower cabin—great for relaxing after a long day.

Facilities: Guests can enjoy free access to the indoor pool and gym.

Extras: All rooms come with tea and coffee-making facilities, a nice touch for those who like their morning brew Bulgaria Vacations.

Amenities Available:

Air conditioning

Credit cards accepted

Fitness center

Wi-Fi and internet

Guarded parking

Sauna

Swimming pool

Animal friendly

Facilities for disabled guests

Child friendly

Non-smoking rooms

Restaurant

Nearest metro station nearby

Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan

Location: B-3, Sveta Nedelya Square 5

Contact: Tel. +359 2 981 65 41

The Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan is one of the oldest luxury hotels in the city. Part of the prestigious Luxury Collection (by Marriott), it is located in the very heart of Sofia.

Architecture: The building is a fine example of 1950s architecture, with grand staircases, spacious corridors, and crystal chandeliers.

Room Styles

Classic rooms feature modern interiors with blue and orange themes and elegant bathrooms.

Executive rooms include antique-style furniture, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee facilities.

Public Areas: The hotel has a stylish lobby and a café restaurant that serves gourmet meals.

Amenities Available:

Air conditioning

Credit cards accepted

Non-smoking rooms

Internet and Wi-Fi

Fitness facilities

Swimming pool

Guarded parking

On-site restaurant

Accessible facilities

Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, both the Hilton Sofia and Sheraton Hotel Balkan provide luxurious comfort and top-quality service. Their central locations also make it easy to explore the capital’s cultural landmarks, restaurants, and nightlife.

Trifon Zarezan – Bulgaria’s Winegrower Celebration

Trifon Zarezan, also known as St Valentine’s Day for Wine, marks an important event in the Bulgarian wine calendar. On this day, vineyard workers and wine lovers come together to celebrate the start of pruning season with a lively ritual:

Sprinkling the vines with wine to bless them and ensure fertility.

Pruning the vines by hand, symbolizing the cycle of renewal.

Following the work, families and friends gather for a long feast, filled with homemade wine, traditional dishes, and singing.

When Is Trifon Zarezan?

Figuring out the exact date can be tricky, because different communities follow different calendars:

Some celebrate on February 1, which aligns with the new style calendar Bulgaria Vacations.

Others celebrate on February 14, following the old Orthodox Christian calendar.

If you’re planning to join the fun, a good idea is to prepare for partying throughout February—you’ll meet villagers raising a glass to “Trifon Zarezan!” more than once.

How People Celebrate

Villages and towns host festivals, where local winemakers share their newest wines.

Pruning competitions are sometimes held to see who can work fastest and neatest.

Expect folklore music and dancing, hearty food like grilled meats, banitsa (cheese pastry), homemade bread, and of course, lots of wine.

For wine lovers, it’s a chance to taste fresh vintage, learn about traditional Bulgarian wine, and join in for an unforgettable rural experience.

Sofia’s Hotel Scene – A Wide Variety

Sofia has seen a big growth in hotel options in recent years. You can now choose from budget stays to luxury resorts—and the official star ratings are generally reliable. Most hotels list prices in euros, but you can also pay in Bulgarian leva at the same conversion rate.

Featured Hotel Grand Hotel Sofia

Location: B‑3, ul. Gurko 1 — right in the heart of Sofia

Phone : 811 08 00

Why It Stands Out

Prime location: Next to the National Theatre, City Art Gallery, Bulgaria Hall, and within walking distance of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Professional staff: Welcoming and well-trained at every level.

Spacious rooms: All rooms are large with both bathtubs and showers.

Elegant design: High-quality furniture and solid finishes that feel classic and durable.

Grand Café: Located on the ground floor facing City Garden, famous for serving delicious cakes and pastries.

Why Choose Grand Hotel Sofia?

Excellent location — perfect for touring central Sofia.

Top quality — well-deserved privileges of a five-star rating.

Spacious, charming interiors — ideal for both work and rest.

Nice extras — like the Grand Café and easy access to cultural landmarks.

Winter Traditions Kukeri – Bulgaria’s Masked Dancers

Winter in Bulgaria is not just cold—it’s magical, mysterious, and full of ancient traditions. One of the most colorful and lively customs is the Kukeri Festival, where men dress up in animal costumes, wear cowbells, and perform loud, energetic dances.

These dancers, known as kukeri (also called mummers), appear in small towns and villages, mainly in January. Their goal is to chase away evil spirits and bring health, peace, and fertility for the new year. It’s noisy, it’s strange, and it’s one of Bulgaria’s most unique celebrations.

What Are Kukeri?

Kukeri wear large, often frightening wooden masks and sheepskin or wool costumes. They also wear bells around their waists and carry wooden staffs or sticks. As they jump, shout, and dance, the bells ring loudly—this is believed to scare off bad spirits that hide in the darkness of winter Bulgaria Vacations.

The tradition goes back hundreds, even thousands of years, to Bulgaria’s pagan past, long before Christianity. Even today, Bulgarians keep the ritual alive every winter.

When Does It Happen?

Kukeri rituals usually take place around January 1, but some villages still follow the Old Orthodox Calendar, celebrating on January 14 instead. The biggest and most famous celebrations happen in mid-January in the Pernik region, just 25 km southwest of Sofia.

One of the top spots is the village of Yardzhilovtsi, where local groups of kukeri dance through the streets and gather for a lively final show near the schoolyard.

The International Kukeri Festival in Pernik

Every even-numbered year, Pernik hosts the International Festival of Masquerade Games—the largest of its kind in Bulgaria. This weekend-long event brings together kukeri groups from all over the country, as well as performers from other countries with similar traditions.

Festival Details

Location: Pernik, Bulgaria

Dates: January 25–27

Opening Ceremony: Friday, January 25 at 18:00

Parades Saturday and Sunday (January 26–27) from 10:30 to 17:00

For more info and photos, visit the official site: www.surva.org

Why You Should See It

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Kukeri Festival is a must-see. It’s more than just a show—it’s living folklore, full of energy, tradition, and Bulgarian spirit. It combines costumes, music, dance, and community in a way that few other events can.

So, if you’re in Bulgaria this winter, don’t miss your chance to experience one of the country’s most powerful and unforgettable traditions!

Sofía’s Best Theatres

Sofia has a lively theatre scene offering a mix of comedy, drama, experimental plays, and studio performances. Here are some top venues worth visiting:

Aleko Konstantinov Satirical Theatre

Location: B‑3, ul. Stefan Karadzha 26

Phone : 987 66 06

What to Expect: A mix of classical and modern comedies with a satirical twist. The lineup often includes witty plays that cleverly critique everyday life, politics, and human nature.

Beyond the Canal (Malkiya gradski teatar “Zad kanala”)

Location: G‑8, bul. Madrid 1

What to Expect: A studio theatre hosting small-scale contemporary productions. Expect a mix of cross-genre events, including theatre performances, film projections, and live music gigs Bulgaria Vacations.

Bulgarian Army Theatre (Teatar Bulgarska Armia)

Location: B‑4, ul. Rakovski 98

Contact: 987 23 03

What to Expect: Known for high-quality drama, this theatre offers both classical plays (like Shakespeare and Chekhov) and contemporary Bulgarian works.

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Location: B‑3, ul. Dyakon Ignatiy 5

Contact: 811 92 19

What to Expect: Sofia’s grandest and most prestigious theatre, staging large-scale performances from Bulgarian classics to international hits. The building itself is a majestic landmark in the city.

Sfumato Theatre Workshop

Location: G‑8, ul. Dimitar Grekov 2

Contact: 944 01 27

What to Expect: A cutting-edge experimental theatre with international recognition. Shows combine physical theatre, multimedia, and bold storytelling, perfect for adventurous audiences.

Tears and Laughter (Sala i Smyah)

Location: B‑4, ul. Rakovski 127

Contact: 987 58 95

What to Expect: The oldest theatre in Sofia, offering challenging modern dramas and comedies. Expect thought-provoking productions that encourage reflection and conversation.

Theatre 199

Location: B‑4, ul. Slavyanska 8

Contact: 987 85 33

What to Expect: A contemporary studio space with a 199-seat auditorium. Features experimental and innovative performances, including contemporary Bulgarian and international works. A key venue for discovering fresh, creative theatre.

Why Theatre in Sofia Matters

Affordable Prices: Ticket costs are very reasonable, often far cheaper than Western Europe.

Cultural Variety: From traditional comedies to avant-garde performances, Sofia’s theatres offer something for all tastes.

Support for Local Artists: Many theatres focus on Bulgarian playwrights and new productions.

Central Locations: Most venues are easily accessible in the city centre, making them great for a night out after dinner.

Tips for Theatre-Goers

Book ahead, especially for popular shows at the National Theatre.

Check English subtitles—some theatres offer them, especially for contemporary performances.

Arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and perhaps have a glass of wine or coffee.

Ask about student/senior discounts—many theatres offer them.