Sofia, Bulgaria, more than yogurt

Following a smooth four-hour journey from Skopje, Macedonia, I reached the lively city of Sofia, Bulgaria. I found an excellent rate at the Hilton, ideally situated in the city center, providing the perfect starting point for my adventures.

Day 1: Joyful Bike Tour On my initial day, I chose to set off on a bike tour to gain an overview of the city. This four-hour journey took me through Sofia's most prominent attractions. Although we didn't linger long at each location, the tour was a fantastic way to immerse myself in the ambiance. From renowned landmarks to tranquil parks, I explored the city in an enjoyable and thrilling manner.

Day 2: Exploring Further and Savoring Local Cuisine On the second day, the focus was on exploring by foot. I strolled down the charming Vitosha Boulevard, a bustling street lined with shops and cafes. Later, we took part in a local food tour guided by an expert who introduced us to Sofia's culinary treasures. It was intriguing to observe how local families dine and the traditional dishes they serve, and the wine tasting was exceptional. Tasting a range of local specialties provided me with a richer insight into Bulgarian culture.

Day 3: My journey through history and memory lane continued. I easily navigated the local transportation system and made my way to the renowned Museum of Socialist Art.

The museum is a rich collection of communist propaganda from the Cold War era, reflecting the challenging life of the Bulgarian people. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the grounds and absorbing the history. That evening, my wife and I delved into Bulgarian culture by attending a local folk dance performance and savoring traditional dishes at a local spot. I even tried "pigs' ears" for the first time—an experience I won't soon forget!

Day 4: Ancient Ruins and Historic Churches On the fourth day, I used local transport to reach the Serdica Archaeological Complex, discovered during subway construction. The area is steeped in history, and wandering through the ruins while exploring various historical churches was both enjoyable and informative. This place is remarkable as the ruins are situated right in the heart of a modern city. I walked through the remains of the Roman bathhouse, visited the Rotunda church, and explored the third-largest Jewish synagogue in Europe, admiring its architecture and importance.

Day 5: A Perfect Ending On our final day, we revisited the enchanting Serdica area. I explored the Sofia history museum, and afterwards, we wandered across the "Lion Bridge," absorbing the surrounding sights and sounds. It was an ideal way to conclude our journey, giving us the chance to savor the atmosphere of this stunning city one last time.

In Conclusion My trip to Sofia offered a wide array of experiences, from biking through the city streets to enjoying traditional cuisine and delving into its rich history. I departed with a deepened appreciation for Bulgarian culture and its hospitable people. If you're looking for an engaging and educational vacation, Sofia should definitely be on your travel itinerary!