A Pregnant Traveler's Guide to Exploring Sofia's Must-See Attractions

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I was seven months pregnant with my second child, navigating the delicate phase of pregnancy, and longing for a serene getaway during my baby moon. Unlike my first pregnancy, when we embarked on an adventurous trip to Nepal, this time we opted for a more tranquil destination - the enchanting Bulgaria.

Our journey took place in October, when Europe was cloaked in the warm hues of autumn 🍂. It was a poignant time for me because my little one, Kiu, was about to celebrate his third birthday, and I couldn't help but feel emotional watching him grow so quickly. As I entered the third trimester of my pregnancy, it felt like the perfect moment for us, second-time parents, to embark on a baby moon. We meticulously planned a five days itinerary to explore the beauty of Bulgaria, out of which we spent 3 days in Sofia and 2 days in Plovdiv.

Exploring Sofia with my little adventurer in tow

In this blog post, I'll share my experiences from our time in Sofia, followed by a separate post detailing our adventures in Plovdiv.

Zdravey, Sofia!

Sofia is the capital of the beautiful country of Bulgaria. Embracing influences from Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Soviet eras, this place should definitely be on every history and cultural buff's list. When you have reached your heart's content seeing museums and archeological sites, prepare for an overflow of joy, as Sofia reveals its lively neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and delectable cuisine. This city is always waiting to captivate the hearts of wanderlust travellers. So why not pay a visit?

How to reach Sofia?

Sofia is easily accessible through Sofia Airport, offering direct flights to major European cities. The city maintains strong air connections with hubs like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome, Amsterdam, and Vienna. Sofia also has international train and bus services connecting it to neighboring countries, providing alternative travel options. You may also choose to drive in Sofia as the city has well-developed roadways.

Weather and What to Wear in Sofia

Sofia's Summer: Hot at 25-30°C, opt for lightweight clothing, shorts, tees, sunscreen, and a hat.
Spring Delight: Mild at 10-20°C, dress in layers with a rain jacket.
Winter Chill: Cold at 0-5°C, bundle up with warmers, coats, scarves, gloves, and waterproof boots.
Our Fall Escape: Cool daytime (17-19°C), colder nights (7-9°C), dress in layers, sweaters, and a lightweight rain jacket. Stay comfy, stay stylish!

Day 1 : Free Walking Tour in Sofia

It was already 5:30 pm and about time for our walking tour. We grabbed a tasty doner each and bought a pack of chopped veggies for Kiu and started walking towards the Palace of Justice (Sofia City Court) for our walking tour. The walking tour is a guided tour through the charming attractions of the city. Participating in a free walking tour is among the finest ways to delve into Sofia's historical heritage and explore the city's central attractions. You can choose between the 10 am, 11 am, 2 pm or 6 pm Free Walking Tour, a 2-hour experience that immerses you in Sofia's ancient wonders. With frequent stops during the tour, I found it convenient to take breaks, sit when needed, and continue at my own pace. While our guide provided insightful answers to many of our questions and shared valuable information we wouldn't have otherwise known, it was a bit challenging to keep Kiu quiet throughout the tour. Fortunately, we had brought along his felt book, which helped us keep him engaged as he enjoyed pulling out the animals and placing them back in. This is when we realized that we'd prefer exploring the city independently, at our own tempo, while keeping Kiu engaged with us rather than having to distract him with toys. Consequently, we decided to explore the other attractions of the city by ourselves for the next 2 days.

The Free Walking Tour has 20 points of interest, however I have highlighted below only the main attractions on the walking route that are typically MUST-DO in Sofia, so you may choose to explore them in depth after your tour. You may also spend more than 3 days in Sofia and tour these attractions at your own time leisurely or you may also view these attractions on your Free Walking Tour in 2 hours straight!

Interested in learning about the communist history of Bulgaria? Book the Sofia Communist walking tour here.

Before I commence, I'd like to acknowledge a very important aspect of Sofia - the name of The Triangle of Religious Tolerance. The city has earned the name 'The Triangle of Religious Tolerance' due to the proximity of three significant places of worship from three major world religions - Christianity, Islam and Judaism. These include the Sveta Nedelya Church (the largest Orthodox temple in the Balkans), the Banya Bashi Mosque (one of the peninsula's largest mosques), and the Sofia Synagogue (the largest synagogue in the Balkans).

Our first stop on the walking tour was the Sveta Nedelya Church.

1.1 Sveta Nedelya Church

I was deeply moved by the serene and peaceful ambiance of Sveta Nedelya Church during my visit to Sofia. Completed in 1867 in a stunning Neo-Byzantine style, this magnificent Orthodox temple features intricate frescoes and ornate decorations, a true visual delight. Remarkably, the church has been reconstructed multiple times due to various incidents, including a tragic bombing in 1925 during a royal wedding, which resulted in significant damage but couldn't diminish its enduring importance. Today, Sveta Nedelya continues to be a place of worship and reflection, offering its worshippers a place to seek spiritual support. I returned next day to offer my prayers at this church. Among all the places I explored in the city, praying in this church helped me relax and find solace.

Note: It's customary to remove hats and sunglasses when entering the church as a sign of respect.

Timings: Every day - 7 AM to 7 PM

1.2 Statue of Sofia

In another 2 minutes, we were all facing the Statue of Sofia, standing proudly in the heart of Bulgaria's capital. Its location in the heart of the city, at the intersection of key boulevards, serves as a prominent symbol of Sofia's identity and cultural heritage. It's a striking monument measuring 24 meters in height and was unveiled on September 3, 2000. Erected to commemorate the city's 2,000th anniversary, this colossal figure of a woman represents the spirit and essence of Sofia, the city's namesake. Notably, the Statue of Sofia is constructed from over 300 pieces of bronze and weighs approximately 20 metric tons, making it an engineering marvel. With outstretched arms, she symbolizes wisdom, protection, and the nurturing embrace of the city.

One can climb the steps leading up to the statue. However, I avoided it as these steps can be steep and may pose a risk, especially during pregnancy when balance can be affected.

1.3 Banya Bashi Mosque

The tour next took us to the second significant places of worship in the The Triangle of Religious Tolerance - the Banya Bashi Mosque, an Ottoman-era mosque located in the city center close to the hot mineral springs on Maria Luisa Boulevard. It was built in 1576 during the Ottoman expansion. In the past, Sofia had a total of 70 mosques, but as of today, only the Banya Bashi Mosque remains in operation.

Now, let's delve into the cathedral's nomenclature, shall we? The name 'Banya Bashi' comes from the Turkish words 'Banyo' (meaning bath) and "Baş" (pronounced Bash, meaning 'head' or 'main'), so a more logical translation of the name would be 'Head of the Bath Mosque' due to its location.

Now, the pièce de résistance— its design and structure. The mosque was created by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who lived in the 16th century and is famous for his architectural contributions, particularly to mosques, in the Ottoman Empire during that era. One of the mosque's most unique features is that it was constructed directly above natural thermal spas, with steam rising from vents in the ground near the mosque walls. It is known for its sizable dome, measuring 15 meters in diameter, and its minaret.

Note: We did not enter the mosque, however if you plan to do so, it is important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. For female visitors, scarves are available to borrow and cover their heads, and it is customary to remove shoes before entering.

Timings: Every day - 6 AM to 10 PM

1.4 Sofia Synagogue

And the last on the Triangle of Religious Tolerance, the majestic Sofia Synagogue, which is an architectural gem. It was constructed in the heart of Bulgaria's capital and completed in 1909 under the guidance of the esteemed Austrian architect Friedrich Grünanger. With its Moorish and Viennese architectural influences, it stands as one of the largest Sephardic synagogues in Europe, adorned with ornate interior decorations and a stunning dome. The synagogue not only serves as a place of worship for the Jewish community but also as a symbol of religious tolerance and cultural diversity in Sofia. Notably, the building can accommodate over 1,000 worshipers, and its stunning chandeliers are known to be among the largest in the world. Additionally, the synagogue houses a rich collection of Jewish artifacts and documents, offering visitors a glimpse into Bulgaria's Jewish heritage.

Note: We did not enter the synagogue either, however if you plan to do so, it is important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. It is customary to remove shoes before entering.

Timings: Sun to Fri - 9 AM to 5 PM; Saturday Closed.

1.5 Sofia Central Mineral Baths is 'NOW' The Sofia History Museum

Established in 1913, the Sofia Central Mineral Baths once stood as a beloved public bathhouse in the city. Unfortunately, the challenging postwar era took its toll, leading to a somber chapter in 1986 when the deteriorating building faced closure due to the dangerous condition of its roof. For nearly thirty years, it was abandoned, until a controversial decision was made to transform it into the Sofia History Museum in September 2015. This transformation brought forth a new purpose, as the museum now proudly showcases an impressive collection of over 7,000 artifacts, offering captivating glimpses into the rich history of Sofia.

In a striking Neo-Renaissance style, featuring elegant arches, ornate facades, and decorative elements. Their history dates back to the early 20th century when they served as a luxurious spa and wellness center, harnessing the healing properties of Sofia's mineral springs. Signifying the city's dedication to well-being, the baths have played a significant role in the social and cultural life of Sofia, offering relaxation and rejuvenation to its residents and visitors. At the time of its construction, the baths were a technological marvel, being the first public building in Bulgaria to have both central heating and electricity, showcasing Sofia's modernization. The baths originally utilized Sofia's mineral springs, which were renowned for their healing properties, adding to the significance of the facility.

Sofia Public Mineral Baths — Sofia History Museum - past Sofia Central Mineral Baths

Timings: Every day - 10 AM to 6 PM

Clear The Confusion: The Sofia History Museum and the National History Museum in Sofia are two different buildings. The Sofia History Museum is housed in the building which used to house the Sofia Public Mineral Baths, while the National History Museum is located in the former residence of the dictator Todor Zhivkov. These are separate buildings with distinct collections and exhibits, although both focus on preserving and showcasing Bulgaria's historical heritage.

1.6 The Presidency

The Bulgarian president's office is in the Presidency building at 2 Dondukov Boulevard, known as 'The yellow pavement.' What goosebumps I had seeing the The National honor guard stationed there. They change hourly and officially on the first Wednesday of each month at 12:00, with music and ceremony. Within its courtyard lie Sofia's oldest preserved structures, including the Rotunda church of St. George, ancient ruins, and Emperor Constantine the Great's palace.

Built during the communist era in 1950, this place had some seriously impressive interior design skills up its sleeves. Inside, it's like a Swiss Army knife of rooms, each with its own official duty: there's the 'Coat of Arms Hall' for hosting international VIPs, the 'Red Room' for cozy gatherings, the 'Mirror Hall' for fancy feasts, and the 'Blue Room' for everyday business – and guess what? The president's chambers have a front-row seat to an archaeological museum. I'm definitely cribbing some design ideas for my next office space from here! 😉

Timings: Mon to Thu - 10 am–12 pm, 2:30–5 pm; Fri to Sun - Closed.

1.7 St. George Rotunda (Rotunda of St. George) and Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex

It was already approaching darkness when we arrived at a red brick rotunda dating to the 4th century. It is one of the oldest buildings in Sofia and is famous for its well-preserved medieval frescoes. The Rotunda's historical and architectural significance has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the "Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak," highlighting its importance in Bulgaria's cultural heritage. Originally constructed for uncertain purposes, it underwent a transformation into a Christian church during the early Christianisation of the Roman Empire. Its central dome bears a fusion of architectural influences, including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.

The Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex includes the St. George Rotunda. Below the Rotunda's ancient foundations, archaeologists have found remnants of Roman structures and a Roman street. These discoveries help us learn more about the ancient city of Serdica, the precursor to modern Sofia. The archaeological complex encompasses a wide area in the heart of Sofia, Bulgaria, where the ancient city of Serdica once stood.

Note: If you're pregnant and going to the St. George Rotunda and Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex in Sofia, watch out for the ground because it can be bumpy, and there might be steps that can be hard to climb. Make sure to wear comfy shoes and take your time when you walk around to avoid getting tired.

Timings: St. George Rotunda Church - Every day - 8 AM to 7:30 PM

Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex - Sun to Sat - 10 AM to 6 PM

1.8 Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Prepare to be captivated by the grandeur of Bulgaria's largest, oldest, and most remarkable theatre - the "Ivan Vazov" National Theatre. Established in 1904 and inaugurated in 1907, this iconic institution stands as a cornerstone of Bulgarian intellectual society. It boasts a stunning Neo-Baroque façade and a lavish interior, adorned with exquisite frescoes and chandeliers.

As Bulgaria's national theater, it has played a pivotal role in the country's cultural history, hosting countless dramatic performances, opera, and ballet productions. With great pride, the theatre has dedicated itself to the advancement of national playwriting, solidifying the importance of theatre not only within Bulgaria but also on a broader scale.

The theatre complex includes several halls and stages, totalling over 1,000 seats for various performances. Notably, the theater's auditorium is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, enhancing the audience's experience. Adding to its allure, the Ivan Vazov National Theater is among the oldest continually operating theaters in Southeastern Europe.

Timings: Every day - 7 AM to 10:30 PM

The doors of the National Theatre are open to all, whether you possess a theatre ticket or not, and admission to the building is completely free. From Monday to Saturday, visitors are welcome to explore its magnificent halls and immerse themselves in the world of contemporary and classical plays.

1.9 National Art Gallery

For Art Enthusiasts, The National Art Gallery in Sofia has set up shop in the Former Royal Palace, affectionately known as the Royal Palace of Sofia, to showcase a splendid assortment of Bulgarian art, encompassing everything from paintings and sculptures to an array of other artistic marvels.

Former Royal Palace - National Art Gallery Sofia

Do not miss these specific examples from each of the above categories mentioned:

‘The Wounded Bulgarian’ by Ivan Mrkvička - a painting depicting a wounded Bulgarian soldier during the Russo-Turkish War, symbolizing the struggle for Bulgarian independence.
‘The Monument of Tsar Samuil’ by Ivan Lazarov -a sculpture representing the medieval Bulgarian ruler Tsar Samuil, known for his resistance against the Byzantine Empire.
The ‘Kolyo Ficheto Woodcarving Collection’ - the intricate woodcarvings by the renowned Bulgarian master craftsman Kolyo Ficheto, featuring ornate furniture, architectural elements, and decorative objects.

Timings: Tue to Sun - 10 AM to 6 PM; Mon closed.

1.10 St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

When you Google "Sofia," the top image you'll see is the magnificent St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the city's standout attraction. This cathedral is a must-visit, offering a rich history and enduring significance.

Named after Russian Prince Alexander Nevsky, it was built to honor Russian soldiers who fell in the 1877-1878 Russo-Turkish War, a pivotal conflict leading to Bulgaria's independence from the Ottoman Empire and strengthening ties between Russia and Bulgaria. Construction took 30 years due to ongoing wars, with its official opening delayed until 1924. It suffered damage during World War II bombings.

The cathedral, covering 3,170 sq. meters (34,100 sq. feet) and accommodating 5,000 people, ranks among the world's ten largest Eastern Orthodox churches and is the Balkans' biggest cathedral. Expect some walking when exploring. Avoid peak tourist hours to minimize crowding and jostling.

Its Neo-Byzantine style features iconic onion-shaped domes, intricate decorations, and a 45-meter-tall central golden dome with 700 sq. meters of gold. Nearby is a bell tower, housing Bulgaria's largest bell, 'The Great Bell,' weighing 12 tons. Visitors can climb it for panoramic Sofia views. Inside, admire stunning frescoes, intricate mosaics, and a lavishly decorated iconostasis.

Russian Orthodox cathedral St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Free Entry to the cathedral.

Timings: Every Day - 7 AM to 7 PM

1.11 Vitosha Boulevard

After our tour, we headed back to Vitosha Boulevard, and to our surprise, we still had plenty of energy left to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. We opted for a traditional Bulgarian dinner at one of the boulevard's many restaurants, while Kiu settled for his favourite Spaghetti Pomodoro. Since I wasn't drinking alcohol at the time, Sidd decided to explore the various flavors of rakia, a local spirit, after our meal. I joined him in this adventure at a traditional Bulgarian bar called Rakia & Co. There, he savoured the spirit and I learned about its history and cultural importance, all while soaking in the lively ambiance. Fortunately, Kiu, was peacefully asleep in his stroller, undisturbed by the surrounding sounds, enjoying his angelic slumber.

Interested in experiencing the pub crawl in Sofia's vibrant nightlife? Book your Pub Crawl tour here.

Day 2 - Sofia Zoo

We organized a day at the Sofia zoo as a birthday celebration for Kiu, which he thoroughly enjoyed, especially because it involved interacting with animals. While I personally have reservations about the concept of zoos and animals being kept in captivity, I see it as an opportunity to educate children about the importance of animals, raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the incredible diversity of species in the world. While I support zoos that actively contribute to conservation efforts and the protection of endangered species, I remain skeptical about the true motivations of all zoos in this regard. I hope they are not solely focused on entertainment and profit.

Face-to-Face with a Majestic Bear at Sofia Zoo!

Sofia Zoo, in particular, houses a fascinating array of unique animals, such as red pandas, Amur leopards, Przewalski's horses, snow leopards, and African penguins. It was such an exciting and educational experience for us along with Kiu to explore and learn about these captivating creatures. I particularly appreciated the spacious enclosures for the animals at the zoo, as it didn't give me the usual feeling of confinement that I've experienced in some other zoos. In my case, it turned out to be a lovely experience, and the cherry on top was that it wasn't too crowded. I made sure to wear comfy shoes, took little breaks whenever I felt like it, and the weather was just perfect. Important to consider the weather, as extreme heat or cold might not be ideal during pregnancy. It was a beautiful birthday celebration that we will always remember.

Timings: Everyday - 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Day 3 - Other Top Attractions of Sofia

3.1 Presidential Palace of communist dictator, Todor Zhivkov is 'NOW' the National Museum of History

Looking to fulfill your peculiar desire of exploring the abode of a communist dictator? Well, you're in luck! Sofia presents you with the extraordinary opportunity to embark on a tour of the magnificent dwelling belonging to Bulgaria's last communist dictator, Todor Zhivkov. I havent seen a residence as perfect as this, boasting breathtaking views of the city on one side and a terrace overlooking the majestic Vitosha mountains on the other ! Do not forget to check out the awe-inspiring artwork and the ornate ceiling adornments, capture some stunning Instagram worthy pictures with the opulent marble staircases and the dazzling chandeliers.

The reason to visit the Presidential Palace is not just getting a glimpse into the captivating world of Communist Bulgaria. But today the presidential palace is home to the National Museum of History, established in 1973 and relocated here in 2000. For history buffs, this museum showcases Bulgaria's rich history, from ancient times to the present day. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, including Thracian treasures, medieval art, and communist-era exhibits.

Timings: Every day - 9:30 AM to 6 PM

Note: Please remember that the Presidential Residence is a government facility with great importance. Please show due respect for its significance and the ongoing activities. Ensure you have proper identification, like your passport, as it may be necessary for entry and verification purposes. Pregnant women be cautioned that you might have to go through screenings such as metal detectors to enter the facility.

3.2 Public Bath in Bankya (near Sofia)

Are you expecting and thinking about taking a dip in the Sofia Public Mineral Baths? It's like a soothing oasis, but is it a go-to treat during pregnancy? You can surely now dwell more on that thought as after a long time of being abandoned, the bath has reopened to the public on September 30th, 2022. These natural thermal waters have a long history in Sofia, dating back to Roman times. King Ferdinand of Bulgaria even built grand bathhouses in the early 1900s. However, during communist rule, these baths fell into disrepair. Now, the restoration of Bankya's bathhouse signals a revival of Sofia's spa culture. Is it a good idea during pregnancy? That's something you can ponder.

Timings: Every day - 9 AM to 8 PM

3.3 Sofia Central Market Hall

My must-visit spot in any city I explore! It's the ultimate destination for traditional arts and crafts shopping, where I make sure to leave room in my suitcase to bring back the city's delectable culinary delights and cultural handcrafted treasures. The Sofia Central Market hall is a place that will entice you with an array of tempting items just waiting to be purchased.

Despite hotel limitations, I grabbed seasonal fruits, veggies, and herbs. Top picks: Bulgarian yogurt, 'sirene' cheese for my hungry family. Meaty delights and sweets teased our taste buds. We even sampled local wines and took home rakia for celebrations. Indulging our sweet tooth, we treated ourselves to mouthwatering pastries like banitsa and mekitsa, seemingly placed there just to satisfy our sugary desires. I always reserve half a day for such markets, offering culinary treats, mementos, crafts, and souvenirs. Stalls brim with traditional crafts, pottery, and textiles, making it a charming place to wander for hours.

3.4 Vitosha Mountains

During our search for day trips on GetYourGuide, we discovered the one-day tour of Vitosha Mountain. This destination is perfect for adventurous and outdoorsy travelers, as it offers breathtaking hiking trails and stunning views of Sofia, just outside the city. However, it's important to note that for pregnant women, the terrain and elevation can pose challenges and potential risks. Therefore, it is advisable for pregnant women to engage in more relaxing activities in the Vitosha mountains, such as scenic walks on easy trails, enjoying picnics amidst the beautiful surroundings, taking a cable car ride to admire the stunning views, and simply appreciating the tranquility of nature.

To Experience a Private Hiking Tour to Vitosha Mountains, Book your tour here.

As I conclude this journey through Sofia's enchanting attractions, I hope you enjoyed navigating wanderlust in Sofia, Bulgaria with some much-needed pregnancy tips. Leaving you with images of a few more top attractions in Sofia for you to explore, if you have the time.

Other top attractions of Sofia:

Accommodation

The best is to avail a hotel, airbnb or apartment in the main bustling neighbourhood of Sofia, Vitosha Boulevard. If you find the connecting rooms in hotels exciting, then Rosslyn Central park Hotel Sofia offers that option or if you fancy a private suite, then Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia on Vitosha Boulevard is a highly recommended place. We booked an airbnb in one of the several buildings on the main street and it was very convenient for us with our toddler.

Below are few hotel options:

In the city centre, tastefully done rooms, extremely comfortable and priced between Euros 300 and 500 per night for a family of four.

Juno Hotel Sofia
Grand Hotel Sofia
Intercontinental Sofia, an IHG Hotel
Hyatt Regency Sofia
Art 'Otel

Between Euros 100- 300 per night for a family of four.

Art Hotel 158 (In City center)
Adella Boutique Hotel (4 kms away from city center and free parking available)
WN LAB Hotel (5 kms away from center, parking available and cowering space)

Looking for accommodations in Sofia? Book your hotels or apartments here.

Tips for traveling when pregnant:

The cool weather might make you forget to hydrate, but it's crucial for expectant moms. Carry a water bottle and stay refreshed during your visit.
Europe's cobblestone streets mean comfy shoes are a must. Loose clothing adds to comfort while strolling.
Turn your journey into a romantic escape. Pause on a bench, hold hands, and soak in the surroundings with your loved one. 💑
Holidays can be thrilling, but remember to take breaks to rest and recharge before your next adventure.
Check the weather forecast before heading to Vitosha Mountains. Avoid extreme heat or cold for a comfortable visit.
Always keep a hat and water bottle handy. Don't forget sunscreen; it's your new best friend for sun protection. 🧢🥤🌞

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