Sofia is perhaps one of the cities in Europe with the most complicated past. But it also means that the Bulgarian capital has plenty of stories to tell. After the Bulgarian Revival in the late 19th century, in which the country reclaimed independence from the Ottomans, Sredet was transformed into a fast-growing, multicultural, and modern city. It becomes a wonderful place where contemporary buildings mix with Soviet-era architecture and ruins from the Roman Empire. Combine that with the friendly people and the fact that the city is budget-friendly, and you’ll have a perfect destination. So join us, as we’ll unveil some of the hotels in Sofia Bulgaria!
Where to Stay in Sofia, Bulgaria
Most Bulgaria travel guides state that Sofia has more than 90 neighborhoods. This means that choosing between hotels in Sofia, Bulgaria can be quite complicated, since each district has characters that influence each other. It would be impossible to get to know all of them, but at least you can learn some of the most popular among tourists. Have a little idea about what can be done there and adjust it according to your budget.
As always, the central area is always a better choice when booking a hotel. The Center of Sofia is the district with the most attractions, food, and entertainment. All theaters, museums, and galleries (with the exception of the National History Museum, Boyana Church, and the Museum of Socialist Art), are located here. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, as you’ll find at least the top 9 things to do in Sofia here.
For enthusiasts of outdoor activities, looking for lodging in the Dragalevtsi and Simeonovo areas is highly recommended. Both neighborhoods are gateways to the Vitosha Mountain hiking trail. If you feel unfit and still want to embrace Sofia’s natural charm, take the chairlift or cabin lift. Admire a panoramic view of the capital from an almost birds-eye view. There’s a good chance you’ll meet lots of mountain climbers, as this area is very popular with hikers and trekkers.
If exploring the pristine on the slopes of the Vitosha Mountains isn’t for you, then you can at least taste a little of it at Boyana. This neighborhood is nestled at the foot of ancient mountains and is the place where most local celebrities live. It’s also an area that’s home to national historical treasures, including the National History Museum and the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church.
Grand Hotel Millenium Sofia
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If you’re looking for a perfect combination of hospitality in the Bulgarian capital, Grand Hotel Millenium Sofia is the answer. This five-star establishment is a blend of brilliance, innovation, and service at the utmost level. Towering high in the heart of the city, it’s 30-story building contains more than 400 guest rooms with bright decorations and tasteful furnishings. It will also be an exemplary choice for hosting a conference or special event since the hotel boasts no less than 14 multifunctional rooms with a capacity of over 2,000 people.
Re-discover your body and mind in the excellent wellness area of Grand Hotel Millenium Sofia. Their spa welcomes you with a wide selection of treatments and therapies. Leaving the morning routine is out of the question while here, thanks to the hotel’s contemporary fitness center. To satisfy your culinary desires, this lavish construction boasts no less than 10 restaurants and lounges. All offer astounding views, locations, and culinary experiences. Experience the most memorable vacation in Sofia, as you stop by the moon-kissed rooftop bar and lounge on the 30th floor with 360-degree views.
Just like most hotels in Sofia Bulgaria, Grand Millenium offers easy access to some of the city’s top sights. About 600 meters from here is the National Palace of Culture, while the Presidency is just a little over a mile away. Walk for five minutes and you will reach the nearest metro station. Furthermore, the hotel is also very accessible from Sofia Airport, around 12 minutes drive. And for your convenience, a paid shuttle service is available.
InterContinental Sofia
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For those who prioritize luxury, the InterContinental Sofia will be a remarkable option for an unforgettable sojourn in the Bulgarian capital. This lavish hotel is considered by many to be the epitome of contemporary luxury in the nation’s metropolis. The building stands proudly in Narodno Sabranie Square, the heart of the busy Sredet. It presents nothing less than the iconic landscape of Alexandar Nevski Cathedral. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel’s excellent location will help you experience one of Bulgaria’s most authentic vacations.
The InterContinental Sofia guest rooms are something you would define as a classic yet elegant space. All feature contemporary design, with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and coffee/tea makers. As with most of the best hotels in Sofia Bg, complimentary high-speed WiFi access is also available. All the living quarters here will provide you with what you need for an excellent stay, no matter whether you sit back in the seating area with a movie or catch some deadlines at the large desk. Furthermore, pick the deluxe room if you want to enjoy the stunning views of the golden dome of St Alexander Nevski Cathedral or the magnificent Tsar Liberator Monument.
For a fine breakfast, the hotel’s Studio Restaurant is the place to go. You can find this a la mode dining place on the Mezzanine floor, adjacent to meeting rooms. Enjoy some Bulgarian specialties and great coffee here. Furthermore, studios are also an excellent option if you want to have a coffee break, private luncheon, or intimate dinner. Meanwhile, for something more exclusive, you can head to the Club InterContinental Lounge. This exquisite place presents a modish and cozy environment for both business and blowing some steam after a long day.
Hotel Anel
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Hotel Anel is a splendid establishment where you can exchange your ordinary life for an astonishing experience. This five-star property boasts peaceful guest rooms and apartment suites, all adorned with soft pastel tones. They’re all also sprinkled with extra fashionable décor and designer furniture, setting you in the right mood for a lavish holiday in the Bulgarian capital.
Like most hotels in Sofia Bulgaria, Anel has extensive amenities to cater to your enjoyment. Savor some of the finest Mediterranean dishes at the hotel’s on-site restaurant. Enjoy it all in a setting that has been refined to capture all your imagination. Furthermore, step aside from the busy urban life by immersing yourself in Anel Sport, an immense facility with an elegant setting of a different kind of luxury. It boasts a large area containing a swimming pool, jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, infrared sauna, and a steam bath. If that’s not enough, they also have a variety of massage and therapy services. Revitalize your body and mind in a beautiful, harmonious, and peaceful world.
Less than a mile from here is the Mall of Sofia, Saint Sofia Monument, and the Court of Justice Sofia. If you wish to travel further afield, take a few steps from the hotel lobby and you’ll find Serdika metro station. For those who don’t feel like going out, try visiting the hotel’s on-site art gallery. This wonderful place contains dozens of impressive collections of sculptures and paintings from master Bulgarian artists. Heck, Anel might even be the only hotel in Bulgaria with a special museum dedicated to a fine art! This is definitely worth checking out while you’re here.
Rila Hotel Sofia
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The Rila Hotel is perhaps one of the most ideally positioned lodgings in Sofia. It’s sandwiched between the Vitosha Boulevard, the Presidency Building, and the Ivan Vazov National Theater. This unique arrangement provides a massive advantage for exploring the capital. Within a few meters, you’ll find the city’s main historical and cultural sites, as well as several entertainment institutions. A short walk takes you directly to remarkable buildings such as the National Opera, Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and the National Palace of Culture. You’ll also be glad to find that this three-star property is surrounded by many museums, theaters, discos, and restaurants.
As for accommodation, the Rila Hotel tries to satisfy you with fully furnished guest rooms. All come with the amenities required to guarantee an exceptional stay, including a work desk, minibar, complimentary WiFi, and cable TV, just like most hotels in Sofia Bg. For a more memorable holiday experience in Sofia, book the Family or Standard suite. Both feature four balconies with astonishing views of the city and mountains. Meanwhile, if you need extra space, the triple room will be an exemplary choice
For your dining and entertainment needs, Rila boasts one club, restaurant, and bar each. KOTO Restaurant is a remarkable place where you can savor some of Asia’s diverse and dynamic flavors. Furthermore, there’s PM Club which acts as the pivot of the hotel’s nightlife, with colors, music rhythms, and full glasses. But if you’re looking for something more intimate and quiet, Lege Bar & Dinner is the place to go. This contemporary diner offers classic cocktails and diverse culinary experience. It also posses an impeccable panoramic terrace that’s open all year round.
Hotel Marinela Sofia
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Hotel Marinela features unique interiors that make it stick out among the crowd. All are the brilliant work of Kisho Kurokawa, the famous Japanese architect who has laid his hands on some of the most remarkable monuments around the world. Don’t be surprised if you find an unmatched contemporary touch in the hotel’s 400s guest rooms. Whatever your concerns and needs, Marinela will make a foremost effort to make sure everything is fulfilled.
Hotel Marinela’s ballroom and conference hall are equally impressive since both are the largest in the entire capital city. In addition, the hotel also possesses no less than 13 conference rooms and excellent space on the upper floor, which offer a staggering view of the Sofia skyline. Despite the fact that this modern construction stands tall at the epicenter of a busy city, it’s a perfect short escape from busy life and tiring routine.
Heavily inspired by Asian culture is the hotel’s Japanese Garden. This is a healthy chunk of natural space crafted after a 400-year-old Japanese garden. Gain utmost tranquility, as you stroll through its calming shadows. Enjoy a great diversity of flora and fauna, without even having to set foot outside the hotel complex!
As for the rooms, Marinela presents a sea of luxury combined with an impeccable location. Lie down in supreme comfort, while you embrace the silence of green gardens, lakes, and romantic benches near the whispering fountain. Meanwhile, for your culinary desires, the hotel presents no less than 11 dining and bar alternatives. The one that we approve the most is Sakura Lobby Bar & Terrace. With a sun terrace surrounded by a greenery oasis, this is an exquisite spot for entertaining business colleagues or a relaxing afternoon.
Best Western Premier Sofia Airport Hotel
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Best Western Premier Hotel Sofia promises an excellent stay, the moment you arrive in the Bulgarian metropolis. This modern accommodation is ideally situated on Briuksvel Boulevard, less than a mile from Sofia International Airport. Welcome to an ultra-fast premiere life, as the hotel lobby can be reached within minutes from Terminals 1 and 2. Enjoy a blazing fast check-in process, served by Roomy, a sophisticated robot butler. In addition, the hotel also offers uncomplicated access to the downtown area, two highways, and some of the most prominent business centers.
Being an airport hotel doesn’t mean Best Western is lacking in the accommodation department. They have no less than five residence types to choose from, ranging from the modest Business Suite to the immensely lavish Executive Suite. All are well furnished and contain several conveniences to ensure an excellent stay. You got some basic stuff like a flat-screen TV, work desk, and complimentary WiFi, like most of the best hotels in Sofia Bulgaria. For an unforgettable night’s rest, it’s highly recommended to book suites with the iconic landscapes of the Vitosha mountains or Sofia airport.
For your ‘comfort zone’, the hotel presents Barillon 1909. This wonderful diner is a place where you can start the day with a healthy breakfast from a wide selection full of nutrients. Continue by reading the latest published newspaper while sipping a cup of fresh coffee. Come in the afternoon for an enjoyable snack treat. This will be your exemplary site to blow off some steam after a busy day.
Ramada by Wyndham Sofia City Center
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The Ramada by Wyndham Sofia City Center will make a superb starting point for diving straight into the capital’s top sights. Grandly set on Maria Luisa Boulevard, this four-star rated premise offers seamless access to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Opera and Ballet. Meanwhile, the city center can be reached in a 15-minute walk or faster by subway. This makes this grand property an exemplary choice for both business or leisure vacations. If you’re not in the mood to go out, have some fun playing some games of luck at the on-site Princess Casino. And as a bonus, the hotel is also very accessible from Sofia International Airport, only about 15 minutes’ drive.
Enjoy several leisure amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, spa with massage services, and a fitness center. Stay connected, as Ramada by Wyndham provides free WiFi access in all guest rooms and public areas. As with most of the best hotels in Sofia Bg, private parking areas for cars and buses are also available. But please note that you have to pay extra to use both facilities.
Kick-off your day with an enjoyable breakfast at the Oasis restaurant. This modern eatery offers the opportunity to indulge in tasty European dishes. It is also the perfect spot for lunch and dinner, as well as a relaxing moment with a refreshing drink.
For those who want to celebrate special moments, Ramada boasts 11 meeting rooms. Four of them are quite popular for weddings. Make sure your event is a success and flawless, as their conference hall can accommodate up to 700 people. Even better, the hotel can arrange special rates for those arriving with large or small groups!
Ibis Sofia Airport Hotel – Park & Fly
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Secure parking is one of the main appeals of this hotel near Sofia International Airport. They offer no less than 200 parking spaces and all of them are a stone’s throw to Terminals 1 and 2. Park your prized private car without any fuss and fly worry-free! Leave your horseless carriage in safe hands, as you enjoy a truly serene flight. Book your parking spot in advance and experience your plane ride to the fullest.
Safety aside, Ibis Sofia Airport Hotel – Park & Fly boasts rooms with thoughtful amenities. Have some modern conveniences such as a flat-screen TV, soundproof space, and a private bathroom with free toiletries. When it’s time for breakfast, enjoy some rich buffets in the lobby area. But if you want a more fulfilling culinary experience, drop by the hotel’s on-site restaurant. Savor international cuisines while looking at the beautiful scenery of the surrounding gardens. Meanwhile, for your light refreshment needs, get some classic cocktails and snacks at the 24-hour hotel bar.
Thanks to the hotel’s excellent location, exploring Sofia has never been so easy. A short walk will take you to the bus stop, while the airport is only a few minutes away. To discover some of the city’s top attractions such as the Megapark, European Trade Center, and Arena Armeets, you only need to travel less than five miles.
For those who crave some natural alluring, a seven-minute drive from here is Iskar. Bulgaria’s longest river is popular for outdoor activities like kayaking and rafting. If you’re a first-timer, you might want to check out some of our recommendations for the 13 best kayaks for beginners. They’re great for learning all the basics and easy to carry around when traveling.
Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel
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This dazzling lodging presents a paramount location in the epicenter of the capital’s busy life. Rated four stars, the Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel is only 500 yards from Serdika metro station and approximately 10 minutes walk to Vitosha Boulevard. This will make an ideal starting point before you embark on a fascinating journey to discover cultural and entertainment venues in the Bulgarian metropolis.
Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel offers dozens of elegant guest rooms, all with a distinctive authentic design. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay, the hotel also provides several conveniences such as a flat-screen TV, air-conditioner, and a work desk. All living space at this four-star property also comes with a private bathroom, complete with luxury toiletries and the all-important hairdryer. Like most of the best hotels in Sofia Bg, Bristol Hotel also provides complimentary high-speed wireless internet access.
The hotel’s voguish lobby would be a great place to relax a bit before starting to look around. For your culinary desires, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel boasts an on-site restaurant serving international delights in a contemporary setting. It’s perfect, either for an enjoyable breakfast, a romantic dinner, or a business luncheon. Speaking of which, this lavish property also hosts a multifunctional conference hall for meetings, exercises, and presentations. Need to stay in shape during the holidays? Have a quick training session at the hotel’s on-site fitness center to release your urban stress a little.
Rosslyn Central Park Hotel Sofia
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Rosslyn Central Park Hotel puts service of a high standard above all else. This homely atmospheric inn highlights the tasteful amenities of modern living. Their rooms blend Bulgarian hospitality with contemporary conveniences. You’ll get irresistible offerings such as flat-screen TV, work desk, and air conditioner. There’s a comprehensive security system, with an in-room safe and electronic locking system. Have one of the greatest night’s breaks in Sofia, thanks to the soundproofed rooms. As a bonus, most rooms reveal scenic panoramas of the magnificent Vitosha mountains, as do most of the best hotels in Sofia Bg.
Tempting you with brand-new culinary offerings and a completely refined setting is the hotel’s Restaurant 106. This dining venue offers healthy cuisines, combined with modern cooking technology and high-quality products. It also provides an enjoyable atmosphere, with a gorgeous view of the National Palace of Culture. All of which makes this dining place great for informal lunches, special occasions, or private parties.
Right in the heart of the city, Central Park Sofia sits proudly opposite the National Palace of Culture aka Bulgaria’s largest convention center. For something wilder and more natural, a 20-minute drive will take you to the Vitosha ski tracks and the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church. Not in the mood for long-distance travel? Stroll along Vitosha Boulevard and you’ll find some exciting shopping malls. For public transportation, a 15-minute drive from here is Sofia International Airport and Central Station.
Central Hotel Sofia
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Central Hotel Sofia offers a pleasant stay in the downtown area of the capital. This astounding property features dozens of deluxe rooms and lavish apartment suites. For your leisure needs, they also boast an expansive wellness center with hot tubs, steam baths, and relaxation zones. You can also enjoy complimentary valet underground parking and shuttle services to/from Sofia International Airport.
As for accommodation, Central Hotel Sofia offers no less than 70 well-furnished rooms. All contain contemporary conveniences such as high-speed wireless internet, a relaxing seating area, a work desk, and plush bedding. They also provide a private bathroom with toiletries and a hairdryer. But if you’re looking for extra hygiene, we’ve got great recommendations for the 13 best electric power flossers for travel. Those tiny but powerful tools will greatly help your gum situation during a trip, so check out our curated list while you can.
Much like most of Bulgaria’s best hotels in Sofia, Central Hotel Sofia boasts uncomplicated access to some of the top sights in the metropolis. Less than a mile away you’ll find the famous Banya Bashi Mosque and Archaeological Museum. Interested in having a Majestic experience? Join the Panoramic Flight over Iskar Dam near Sofia. For about 25 minutes you’ll have the opportunity to take a panoramic flight over the longest river in Bulgaria. Admire the beauty of the capital from a bird-eye perspective, including green fields and picturesque villages!
Recommended Restaurants/Bars in Sofia, Bulgaria:
- Made in Home – This eatery is one of the most popular in the capital, thanks to its charming rustic setting and mouth-watering slow food dishes. Expect an abundance offering of vegan and vegetarian based cuisine. They also have eclectic menus ranging from Middle Eastern hints to Turkish products. Book in advance is mandatory, especially on weekends.
- Niko’las – Experience great, innovative food, as this dining venue features Balkan dishes with an Asian twist. Grilled seabass with caviar and smoked trout with beetroot and poached pear is just the tip of the nail from the ample of exquisite delicacy that awaits you here. Be up close and personal with the master behind the knife, as this eatery allows visitors to have some nice chatter with the chefs. If you’re serious about dropping by, making a reservation is highly recommended.
- Boho – Local favorites such as hummus, pulled pork, and avocado toast, are all available here – at affordable prices and enjoyable taste. When the weather is favorable, savor your meal with a little nature charm on their back patio. But since it’s one of the city’s favorite brunch venues, booking a place the day before won’t hurt.
Recommended Activities in Sofia, Bulgaria:
- Sofia’s Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl – Follow a charismatic local guide on a 4-hour exciting trip. Uncover some of the drinking venues that many consider Sofia’s hidden gems. Get personal with fellow travelers from all over the world. Have great chatter with other nomads, as you sip on some free beers and local high-quality shots.
- Sofia Afternoon Walking Tour with Wine and Food Tasting – Marvel at some of the top spots in Sofia as you take an afternoon stroll on the captivating streets of the capital. In the middle of your trip, you’ll have the chance to indulge in the cold local Aryan beverages and the reputable traditional Shopska salad. Towards the end, you’ll be invited to stop at a fascinating restaurant for a glass of locally-made Bulgarian wine.
- Paragliding Sofia from Above – Fly like a bird and see all of Sofia’s beautiful charm from the top of the Vitosha Mountains. Glide around while feeling the fresh air of the Bulgarian metropolis. Get some exciting information throughout your air adventure, as you fly in tandem with an experienced instructor.
