Explore Sofia: 3+1 Walking Routes from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels
Explore Sofia: 3+1 Walking Routes from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels Sofia is a city with a very rich history and culture. The capital of Bulgaria embodies thousands of years of heritage. The reasons to visit Sofia do not end there. Entertainment and sightseeing blend together to provide an unforgettable experience. If you decide to trust Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels for your stay, here are some ideas for spending quality time in Sofia. There is no need to ask yourself “What to do in Sofia?” or, “Where to go and what are the best things to do near me?” We got you covered! Check out these four walking routes starting from the hotel if you are in a mood to explore Sofia. A walk along Vitosha Boulevard and National Palace of Culture, Sofia This is undoubtedly the best walking route, and a must-see for any visitor to Sofia! Therefore, we recommend Vitosha Boulevard, which is bustling with lovely coffees and fancy restaurants, souvenir and book shops. It will take you only about 5 minutes to walk from the hotel to Saint Nedelya square, where this route begins. The Saint Nedelya Church and the Courthouse are located on the square. The sculptures of two massive lions in front of the Courthouse will undoubtedly capture your attention. You may take a stop at Vitosha Blvd. to enjoy a brunch or coffee while diving into Sofia’s multicultural atmosphere. Going along Vitosha Boulevard (pedestrian zone) and crossing Patriarh Evtimii Blvd. you’ll find yourself in the lovely park in front of the National Palace of Culture, or NDK as people in Sofia call it. The National Palace of Culture is one of the symbols of the city and a favorite place for meetings and walks. The fountains and flower gardens make it an ideal location for photos as well. National Theatre Ivan Vazov → Eagles’ Bridge (Orlov Most) → Borisova garden You know the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. So, when in Sofia, do as the Sofia citizens do. Take a walk to the Ivan Vazov National Theater. It is a popular walking spot among Sofia residents. You can spend pleasant moments in the shade of centuries-old trees or in local cafes. Following this route, you can stop and enjoy the chess play of the older enthusiasts beneath the majestic chestnut trees. Virtuoso street musicians complete the atmosphere. There is also an ice cream craft shop nearby. After all, who can say “no” to an artisan ice cream? If you have a keen interest in art, you can drop by the National Art Gallery, located just around the corner of the theater. After the National Theater and the gallery, you can continue your walk towards the Borisova Garden. We recommend that you cross Eagle Bridge. Its name is derived from the bridge’s bronze eagle statues, which serve as symbolic patrons. The Borisova Garden is the largest park in Sofia. And any time you feel tired, you can easily walk back to the hotel or take public transport. Regional History Museum → Triangle of Power → Alexander Nevsky Cathedral For those of you who are curious to learn more about the history of Sofia and the region, we recommend a visit to the Regional History Museum. It is located 200 meters from the hotel, and the most intriguing fact is that the museum is home to more than 120,000 historical artefacts. After exploring the museum (or if you decide to skip it), you can head to the so-called Triangle of power. We recently informed you that the buildings of the Parliament, the Council of Ministers and the Presidency are located in one place and form the shape of a triangle. From there you can head to the temple-monument “Saint Alexander Nevsky”. This is the largest active Orthodox church in Bulgaria and the symbol of Sofia. You are welcome to enter and admire the interior. You can also light a candle for health. BONUS: Graf Ignatiev Street → Holy Heptads Church → Saint Sophia Church And finally, one more bonus route from us. Graf Ignatiev is another emblematic street in the Bulgarian capital. Just like on Vitoshka, there are numerous coffees and gift shops there. The Orthodox church “Holy Heptads” is located nearby. From there, you can head to Saint Sophia – a late antique basilica, which gave Sofia its name. Nearby is the temple-monument “Alexander Nevsky” as well. We hope you have found some inspiration. Now you know where to go if you want to explore Sofia. Check out our blog for more useful information and tips. see more Related Posts
What To Do in Sofia In Spring?
What To Do in Sofia In Spring? If you have planned a visit to the Bulgaria’s capital and are wondering what to do in Sofia in spring and summer, this article is for you. Sofia offers a variety of entertainment and walking options during the warmer spring and summer months. The cultural calendar is full of a wide variety of events that you can attend. Let’s have a look together at what you can do in Sofia during this time of the year. Go for a walk in one of the parks in Sofia Spring is the perfect time for walks. Nature is blooming, providing countless opportunities for beautiful photos. Borisova Garden, South Park and Zaimov Park are some of the places preferred by Sofia residents for a walk. Colorful greenery, tranquility and probably a beer or ice cream in hand – isn’t this the perfect combination for relaxing after a day of sightseeing? Visit Sofia Zoo The zoo in Sofia is the oldest and the largest on the Balkan Peninsula. Founded in 1888, today it is one of the most popular attractions in Sofia. If you love animals, make sure to pay a visit. You will be able to seeanimals typical for Bulgaria along with some exotic specimens. When it comes to Sofia zoo opening hours, you should know it is open every day from 8:30 to 16:30. The zoo works without a day off, including holidays. Visit Vitosha mountain Unlike most of the European capitals located on rivers, Sofia is located near a mountain. 20-30 mins away from the city center you may find numerous hiking trails of various difficulties, waterfalls, picnic spots and some great restaurants to finish your mountain tour. For the record – Vitosha is Bulgaria’s fourth highest mountain, with Cherni vrah peak at 2290 meters. Visit Sofia Botanical Garden The Botanical Garden in Sofia offers a unique opportunity to see a collection of more than 4,500 plant species. The garden serves as a base for practical classes for students and pupils, but it is also open to general public. Please, note that the Garden is closed on Sundays and that it is located in the foots of Vitosha mountain, some 20-30 mins taxi ride from the city center, depending on traffic. Some plants can be purchased at the greenhouses. Prices vary between BGN 5 and BGN 10. Enjoy city sightseeing and explore Sofia In spring and early summer, the city’s average temperatures are wonderful for exploring Sofia on foot, as well as the location of Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. Get to know some of the most popular landmarks in Sofia – the “Alexander Nevsky” cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the “Ivan Vazov” National Theater are among the greatest treasures of the city. Vitosha Boulevard, lined with chestnut trees and trendy cafes and restaurants offers a spectacular view towards the Vitosha mountain and is just a few steps away from our hotel. Attend one of the upcoming festivals or concerts in Sofia From May 9 to 12, 2024, Sofia hosts the third edition of LUNAR – Festival of Lights.. Throughout the four evenings, the central part of Sofia will be transformed into a glamorous open-air night gallery. Artists from all over the world will amaze the audience with 3D mapping projections and light installations. Works of light art will illuminate some of Sofia’s most famous buildings, squares, and parks. From June 21 to 23, Sofia Live Fest will take place. The event brings together local and international artists from different genres on same stage. The organizers have announced that this year the audience will see the American hip-hop duo Atmosphere, the American hip-hop DJ Shadow and the Australian Dub FX. The event takes place in the Borisova Garden and the Arena Sofia Hall. In early July, Aniventure Comic Con will bring together thousands of fans of anime, manga, gaming, cosplay and comic culture. The festival will be held on July 6 and 7 at the Inter Expo Center. If you are interested, hurry up and get a ticket – one-day or two-day pass. Sofia will also welcome Emeli Sandé this summer. The British-born singer will perform for the first time in Sofia on July 11 /Wednesday/. The concert begins at 20:00 and the venue is the National Palace of Culture. Tickets are now on sale, with prices ranging from BGN 100 up to BGN 200. If you are into metal music, we have good news for you, too. This year’s edition of Sofia Metal Fest will take place on July 27 /Saturday/ at 18:30. The organizers promise that the 2024 edition will be “more spectacular, more powerful, more shocking”. The headliner is Behemoth. Aside from them, Testament and Pestilence will also perform on stage. We hope you found inspiration for a trip to Sofia in the coming weeks! Follow our blog for more interesting articles and useful information about Sofia. see more Related Posts
Where to eat in Sofia? – Dining Options
Where to eat in Sofia? – Dining Options In part one of the article, we told you about some traditional Bulgarian foods. Now let’s see how much it will cost and where to eat in Sofia. Prices in Bulgaria for food and drink Compared to other Bulgarian cities, life in Sofia can be more expensive. However, when compared to other European cities, the Bulgarian capital offers reasonably priced accommodation and dining options. Prices can be higher in the central areas and upscale establishments, but there are still plenty of places where you can enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices. The price of a salad is around 5-6€, a main course on average costs around 10-11€ and desserts are usually 4-5€. Alcohol in Bulgaria is among the cheapest in the European Union. A small rakia costs about 3 euros, and the price for beer is similar. Where to eat in Sofia? Here are some recommendations where you can try traditional Bulgarian dishes near Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. We do not aim to distinguish the best Bulgarian restaurants in Sofia. We don’t claim to list the absolute best Bulgarian restaurants in Sofia, but we’re happy to introduce you to places where you won’t go wrong if you decide to eat there. Popular restaurants in Sofia Stastlivetsa Restaurant – This restaurant on Vitosha Blvd. is the closest to Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. After a walk along Vitoshka, you can stop by for a delicious meal. The restaurant features an indoor hall and a summer garden. Happy Bar & Grill – The chain enjoys great popularity throughout Bulgaria. There are 23 restaurants across the country. The closest restaurant to the hotel is located on Sveta Nedelya Square. Traditional Bulgarian Restaurants in Sofia If you are in the mood for experimenting with new flavors, you should taste the traditional Bulgarian dishes.Below we are suggesting some places where you can try typical Bulgarian food. Hadjidraganov’s Houses – It takes an 11-minute walk from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. The restaurant is located in restored houses from the Bulgarian Revival era of 1866. A lunch menu is available on weekdays. Manastirska Magernitsa – It will take you 20 minutes to walk to this restaurant. It offers a rich menu of traditional Bulgarian recipes, complemented by carefully selected Bulgarian rakia. Hadjidraganov’s Cellars – The walk to the restaurant takes 14 minutes in the best part of the city center. Besides typical dishes, there is live folklore music every night from 20:00 to 23:00. Life is short, so eat good food There’s no better way to start your day than with homemade goodies. For those times when you’re craving for something sweet, pay a visit to one of the pastry shops listed below. Sofiyska banitsa – The nearest location is a 15-minute walk from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels in the direction of the Mall of Sofia and Vazrazhdane Park. The bakery offers a variety of baked goods, including banitsa, and desserts. Dutch Bakery JoVan – If you are headed for a walk towards the NDK (National Palace of Culture), we recommend you get something for breakfast from the JoVan bakery. Freshly baked snacks, desserts, and a variety of breads are available. The bakery is a 15-minutes walk from the hotel. Villa Rosiche – This pastry shop is located in an old house across the street from Vitosha Blvd. And there is a lovely seating in the yard for the spring and summer. Stopping by the patisserie guarantees a sweet ending to your walk down the famous boulevard. The cakes are homemade and delicious and the pieces are large. It will take you 20 minutes to get back to the hotel afterward. Brunch is always a good idea Brunch, as you may know, is a combination of breakfast and lunch. For a satisfying start to the day, you can visit any of these three places. Cafe 1920 – It is located on Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd., the same as our hotel. It will take you exactly 5 minutes to reach it. It gets busy, especially on weekends, but it’s well worth the wait. The menu is diverse and the food is delicious. Rainbow Factory – Here is another place located meters away from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels, very famous for local hipsters in the weekends. And when we say meters, we mean 350. Rainbow Factory has been named Sofia’s Best Brunch Place for 2023 and offers desserts, coffee, and salty delights. Boho – Our most recent recommendation is Boho restaurant, which caters to those for whom boho is a way of life. In this restaurant, you will find great egg specialties, vegetarian dishes, excellent cocktails, and aromatic coffee. It’s the perfect choice for brunch or dinner and it’s also conveniently located just a kilometer from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. We hope that you found inspiration for where to eat in Sofia and that our recommendations were useful. Would you like to get to know Sofia like a local? Don’t miss out on our latest blog articles. see more Related Posts
Traditional Bulgarian Food: Local Cuisine
Traditional Bulgarian Food: Local Cuisine You are wondering what not to miss during your stay in Sofia, Bulgaria? Today we will be telling you about some traditional Bulgarian food options you should try. We all know that the cuisine is an important part of a nation and its culture. The Bulgarian cuisine is a combination of centuries-old traditions, an abundance of flavors, and recipes passed down from generation to generation. The influence of the various civilizations that have passed through the Balkans has shaped the modern Bulgarian cuisine. So, let’s take a look together at some traditional Bulgarian foods and local dishes that are associated with the Sofia region. In the second part of the article, we will give you recommendations for places to enjoy some specialties. Traditional dishes from the Sofia region Of course, we will begin with a few dishes typical of the Sofia region that you can try. Each region of Bulgaria is known for its distinctive dishes, which reflect the richness of the local culinary tradition and are inextricably linked to the region’s cultural heritage. Shopska salad – Contains sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, parsley, peppers (roasted or raw) and white brine cheese. If you are in Sofia in the summer, you should definitely try this salad. Dishes with beans – Bean salad, bean soup… This region of the country offers a wide variety of bean-based dishes you should definitely try. Shopski-style white cheese – This is cheese roasted with tomato, pepper, and egg in a clay pot. It is often served with hot pepper. You will undoubtedly enjoy it if you are a fan of spicy food. Traditional Bulgarian Food Kebapche and Kyufte (Meatball) – Finely ground minced meat is well-seasoned with spices, and then grilled. The difference between the two is in their shape – the meatballs are round and are prepared using onions; while kebapche is oblong. Both are typically served with a side dish of potatoes or vegetables, but they pair just as well with lutenitsa. Lutenitsa – Speaking of lutenitsa, let’s clarify what it is. It is prepared from ground roasted red peppers, tomatoes, onions, carrots, in some cases eggplant, and of course, spices. Red peppers are the source of its red color. Stuffed peppers – The name of this dish pretty much suggests how it is prepared. Peppers are hollowed out and filled with stuffing, which is typically rice and minced meat, but there are also vegetarian options – vegetables, beans or eggs and cheese. Moussaka – In the Bulgarian interpreting, this traditional Balkan dish consists of diced potatoes, minced meat, and vegetables (carrots, onions). A special topping of eggs, yogurt, and a little flour for thickening is also prepared for the dish. Sarmi – They are most often present on the table during the Christmas and New Year holidays. They are prepared from finely ground meat and rice and wrapped in cabbage or vine leaves. It is also possible to prepare lean sarmi, with raisins, prunes, and mushrooms typically used for the filling. Meatball soup – This traditional soup is made from broth, vegetables (carrot, onion, celery), and pre-formed small balls of minced meat and spices. Tarator – Another traditional Bulgarian soup, this time cold. Perfect for hot summer days. Grated or cubed cucumber is mixed with yogurt, water (to the desired thickness), garlic, oil, and crushed walnuts (optional). Banitsa – This is rolled out dough or ready-made thin crusts with filling. There are countless varieties when it comes to stuffing. The fillings can be with cheese, meat, vegetables (e.g. spinach, lapad), etc. The banitsa can also be prepared with sweet stuffing, such as a pie with Turkish delight. Mekitsa – Pre-mixed dough is fried in hot oil. Although it doesn’t sound very healthy, we can assure you that it’s very tasty. Mekitsas are typically served in the morning for breakfast. They can be sprinkled with powdered sugar or combined with cheese and blackberry jam. Ayran – Let’s see what ayran is. This is a traditional beverage made with yogurt and water. Yogurt is mixed with water to the desired consistency. If prefered, a pinch of salt can also be added. Banitsa and ayran make the ideal breakfast pair. Boza – Boza is a fermented beverage with a negligible amount of alcohol. The drink is well known throughout the Balkans, and in Bulgaria, it is typically savored alongside a salty banitsa. Rakia – Among the alcoholic beverages, wine, and brandy are very popular. Bulgarians have long traditions of producing the grape beverage, and rakia is typically consumed as an aperitif before a meal. It is a strong liquor from the brandy family. see more Related Posts
Why choose hotels in Sofia center for your stay?
Why choose hotels in Sofia center for your stay? You’ve probably heard of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. But did you know it is the European Union’s second-highest capital? It’s a destination that blends history and culture. Are you planning to visit Sofia? When planning a trip to Bulgaria’s capital, it is essential to find an accommodation that provides a unique experience while also providing convenient access to key landmarks. Hotels in Sofia center have become a popular choice for tourists since they offer these advantages. Let us show you why choosing a hotel in the center is the best decision for you and your stay. 1. Proximity to historical heritage The central part of Sofia is saturated with history and cultural wealth. It is sufficient to highlight the emblematic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the National Theatre. Choosing hotels in Sofia center allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the city while taking advantage of their close proximity to these significant sites. 2. Easy access to entertainment The central part of Sofia is saturated with history and cultural wealth. It is sufficient to highlight the emblematic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the National Theatre. Choosing hotels in Sofia center allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the city while taking advantage of their close proximity to these significant sites. 3. Convenient public transportation Sofia’s center is well connected by public transportation, which makes it easy and convenient to move around the city and visit Vitosha mountain, too. Guests of centrally located hotels can quickly and easily reach any point in Sofia using the metro, buses or trams. The metro ticket costs 1,60 levs (€0.80), while the bus/tram ticket costs 1,60 levs or 2 levs (depending on whether you buy it from the driver or pay by card in the vehicle). 4. A wide range of hotels to choose from The central part of Sofia offers a variety of hotels. From classic and luxurious to more affordable options – regardless of preference and budget, everyone can find the perfect place to stay here. Many hotels offer modern equipped workspaces that are ideal for digital nomads seeking comfort and fast Wi-Fi. What to do in Sofia? We recently recommended places to visit in Sofia. Take a peek here if you missed the article. If we had to name some things you should not miss while visiting Sofia, here are our ideas: Explore the National Palace of Culture Walk around Vitosha Boulevard Visit St. Alexander Nevsky and local churches Check out galleries and/or museums Visit Sofia Zoo Take a walk in Vitosha Mountain Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels – Hotel in Sofia Center Find serenity in the heart of Sofia by choosing Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. Beyond providing you with the perfect location for city exploration, we are delighted to offer you: Digital check-in and check-out to ensure you a stress-free arrival and departure Private co-working areas where you can perfectly blend pleasure and work Comfortable accommodation where you can rest after a long day of exploring Free soft drinks and coffee to keep you refreshed and energized throughout the day. Playstation lounge where you can have fun and make new friends Library zone in case you need some time alone Functional gym & yoga where you can maintain your fitness routine or just enjoy the views from the top-floor balcony of our gym area. Final words Choosing to stay in a Sofia center hotel provides a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant pulse. Whether you prefer to take a stroll through the charming streets or explore the city by public transportation, hotels in Sofia center ensure easy access to a number of landmarks and entertainment. see more Related Posts
Sofia Landmarks: Top 10 (+1 BONUS) places
Sofia Landmarks: Top 10 (+1 BONUS) places Visit Sofia. The city offers everything you need to work remotely. Fast Wi-Fi, affordable lifestyle, rich cultural and historical heritage, and countless attractions – these are just a few reasons why Sofia is a prime destination for digital travelers. In a recent article, we highlighted why you should add this city to your bucket list. Today, we’ll be exploring some of Sofia’s fascinating symbols. Make sure to read this article till the end, as we’ll reveal which places you simply can’t miss during your visit. Sofia Landmarks: Historical & Cultural Heritage Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (15 mins walking distance from Introvert Maria Luisa Hotel)The Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is one of the most popular landmarks in Sofia. If you’re looking for historical and cultural attractions, this will undoubtedly be at the top of your list. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this magnificent Orthodox cathedral is a cultural monument. The Cathedral impresses tourists from all over the world with its architecture and golden domes. Saint Sophia Church (next to Alexander Nevski, 15 mins walking distance to hotel)This church in Sofia dates back to the 4th or 5th century and holds the distinction of being the oldest in the city. Interestingly, it also gave the city its name. By the end of the 14th century, the church had become so strongly identified with the city that people began to refer to it as simply “Sofia” rather than saying “I am going to the church Saint Sophia”. Boyana Church (located outside the city center, 30 mins by taxi)Sofia is also proud of the church “St. Nicholas and St. Panteleimon”, included to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. The church’s medieval frescoes make it unique. The construction began in the 10th century. Since the church is located in the “Boyana” district, it became known as the Boyana church. National Theatre “Ivan Vazov” (15-20 mins walking distance from hotel)Talking about Sofia gems, we can’t miss mentioning the National Theatre “Ivan Vazov”. Crossing the Yellow Brick Road (read till the end to find out what this is), you will find yourself in a nice park known as the Garden of the National Theater among the capital’s residents. You can drink a cup of coffee or simply enjoy pleasant moments in the artistic environment of the area. Must see Sofia: For nature lovers Borisova GradinaIt is a picturesque urban park that covers 3 sq km. Lush greenery, charming pathways, and ponds – all these await you in one of the oldest parks in Sofia. Its playgrounds and sports facilities make it the perfect place for outdoor activities such as jogging, picnicking, and leisurely walks. Vitosha MountainIrrespective of the season, a visit to Vitosha Mountain is always a delightful experience. During the warmer months you may take strolls away from the hustle and bustle of the city (yet only 30 minutes away). If you want to challenge yourself, you may visit the highest peak of Vitosha – Cherni vrah. During the winter season, skiing is a popular activity if there is snow. There are some nice restaurants up in the mountain. Stroll through the city: Ideas where to go Vitosha BoulevardThis is the city’s main street, lined with an abundance of shops, cafes, and restaurants. No matter what time of day you pass by “Vitoshka” (as the locals refer to it), you will see that life never stops. National Palace of CultureOnce you reach the end of “Vitoshka” and cross over, you will encounter another emblem of the capital – the National Palace of Culture (NDK). It hosts numerous concerts, festivals, exhibitions, conferences, and events, and also features a cinema, a literary club, art bars, and a theater. BONUS: The Yellow Brick Road & The Triangle of Power After Bulgaria’s Liberation from the Ottoman Empire in 1878, Sofia became the capital of the newly formed country. Martin Todorov, Sofia’s then-mayor, believed that the city’s central streets deserved a unique aesthetic. He advocated for the placement of new ceramic pavement in a vibrant yellow color. Since Bulgaria was not able to produce ceramic cobblestones at the time, they were imported from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, the Council of Ministers, Presidency, and National Assembly (Parliament) buildings stand on the so-called yellow paving blocks. These three buildings form the Triangle of Power in Bulgaria. We hope we provided you with some ideas for what to see and where to go in Sofia. Follow our blog to never miss out on more inspiring content. see more Related Posts
What To Do in Sofia in Winter – 5 ideas
What To Do in Sofia in Winter – 5 ideas What is your first association when you hear “winter”? Snow, ice, frost? In fact, winter is not only cold and frost. It is comfort, warmth, adventure. Winter is about games on the ski slopes, cheerful smiles on faces, hot drinks in the hands. Next time you think of winter, recall not just the cold, but also all the warm moments we enjoy during those months. If you happen to visit Sofia in, January, or February or early March, you may be wondering what to do in Sofia during the winter. What types of entertainment are available throughout the winter months? We will look for the answers to these questions together today. We’re going to share with you some ideas on how you can have a good time even when it’s snowing outside. 1. Visit museums If you are a lover of culture and history, you should definitely make time to visit museums. Here are 3 of them worth visiting. The National History Museum (40 min. away) is the largest museum in Bulgaria. Its collections include over 650,000 cultural monuments and a vast archaeological and historical archive. If you want to learn more about the history of the country, there is no better place than this. We hasten to share with you about another interesting place – the “Dolls” art house and museum (9 min. away by tram or 15 min. away on foot). This museum, unique in its nature, has over 3,000 dolls, including porcelain, antique, ritual, contemporary, marionettes, and souvenirs from Bulgaria, as well as near and far countries. The museum is located in the center of Sofia in a 100-year-old aristocratic house which is an architectural monument. Another super fun place to visit is the Museum of Illusions in Sofia (just opposite Introvert Maria Luisa Hotel, you just have to cross the street). It spans over an area of 400 square meters and is divided into several sections, including a historical hall with various paintings, a hall with optical illusions, a room with phosphor wallpaper where you can paint with light or leave an imprint of your shadow on the wall, and even an inverted room. 2. Go to a ballet performance Elegance, grace, plasticity – it is challenging to describe ballet with just one word. Dance becomes a language that tells stories, that excites, that conveys emotions. Ballet productions are always exciting. Therefore, if you’re wondering what to do in Sofia in winter when it’s freezing outside, you have already got an idea. 3. Hit the slopes at Vitosha Mountain Vitosha is a wonderful choice for snow adventures. Sledding, skiing, snowboarding fun… doesn’t the idea of it all make you want to pack your bags and head to the mountains right now? The total length of the Vitosha ski slopes is 29 km. The terrains are of different difficulty levels. Some are suitable for complete beginner skiers and snowboarders. Others are suitable for experienced skiers or snowboarders only, but in any case, fun is guaranteed! Both ski lovers and those looking to take their first steps on the slopes – everyone is welcome. 4. Try ice skating in the city If you want to indulge in snow games in the city, try ice skating. There are quite a few places in the city where you can skate. The Yunak Ice Rink is only 10-15 minutes away from the Introvert Maria Luisa Hotel by metro or bus. The Ice Rink awaits skating enthusiasts every day during the winter season. Are you one of them? 5. Enjoy a day out on the tourist Vitosha Street A walk on Vitosha street is a must-do experience for everyone, visiting Sofia! It is lined with numerous trendy thematic restaurants and coffee shops, bookshops, souvenir shops and last, but not least – scenic views towards either (snow-covered) Vitosha Mountain or St. Nedelya Church (5 min. walking distance from Introvert Maria Luisa Hotel). Should you have other interests or ideas, feel free to contact us pre-arrival or on spot, our friendly hosts will guide you to visit places as per your personal interests. We hope we have given you some ideas on how to spend the winter months in Sofia. Follow our blog – every month we publish useful information for travelers who want to visit and learn more about Sofia. see more Related Posts
New Year, New Adventures – Add Sofia to Your Bucket List
New Year, New Adventures – Add Sofia to Your Bucket List 2024 is finally here! What does this mean to you? For us, it is time for stocktaking and new plans. It is time to reflect on the previous 365 days and think about how to make the most of the upcoming ones. It is time to embark on new adventures, visit new places, and meet new people and cultures. As the calendar flips, we hear the call of new adventures. If you are also a travel enthusiast searching for your next destination, consider to pay a visit to Sofia. In this article, we will explain why Sofia should be on your bucket list and why you should choose our hotel in Sofia, Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels. Why Sofia? – Our Top 4 Reasons. 1. Affordable travel Compared to many Western European capitals, Sofia offers a budget-friendly experience. Accommodation, food, and transportation are affordable, making the Bulgarian capital attractive to those looking to avoid spending a fortune on their trip. The public transportation system in Sofia includes both surface and underground routes. Ground transportation comprises of buses, trams, and trolleybuses, while the underground system is served by the Metro. The Metro Sofia ticket costs 1.60 levs (€0.80). The cost of ground transportation is 2 levs (€1.00) if purchased from the driver and 1.60 levs (€0.80) when paid with a credit or debit card in the vehicle. 2. Super fast internet access Bulgaria is a popular destination among entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers due to its fast internet, in addition to its affordable prices and friendly attitude. The country has a reason to be proud. It ranks as one of the top 10 countries in the world with the fastest mobile internet. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a location with fast internet access. Are you one of them? Come and explore Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital and largest city. 3. Rich history and culture Sofia is an ancient city. It is believed that people first settled in the region in the 1st century BC. The city’s rich history is narrated through its architecture, which spans from Byzantine churches to Ottoman mosques and ancient Roman ruins. The architecture and landmarks are heavily influenced by Byzantine, Ottoman, and Roman styles. It only takes a stroll through Sofia’s streets to discover a fantastic blend of the old and the new. Historic treasures are nestled among modern buildings. What to see in Sofia? There are numerous places worth visiting in the capital of Bulgaria. Here is a short list of some of them. Follow our blog because very soon we will tell you more about places you should not miss. St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (10 min. walking distance from Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels) Banya Bashi Mosque (just opposite the hotel) Vitosha Boulevard, Main Street in Sofia (5 min. walking distance away) Museum of Illusions Sofia (just opposite Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels) 4. Charming cityscape and a mountain one step away This is Sofia: spacious parks for recreation, beautiful gardens, and majestic mountains in the background. Sofia offers breathtaking views and chances for outdoor activities such as hiking, and skiing. The capital of Bulgaria is nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, and it is probably one of the very few European capitals with a mountain so near to its downtown – 20 min. drive from the city center and you are up in the mountains. You can go to Vitosha using public transportation. Why Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels? – Innovative Hotel in Sofia with Modern Concept & Hospitality A happy travel experience depends on selecting a hotel that suits your taste. Finding the best hotel in Sofia might be challenging. Designed with the traveler in mind, Maria Luisa by Introvert Hotels provides an environment that encourages rest and privacy. • Your peaceful stay is guaranteed in our cozy rooms. • You will experience a modern stay with our convenient digital check-in and check-out services. • We offer free coffee & soft drinks. • Enjoy some quality time with friends and family at our free of charge PlayStation lounge. • Reach new heights of efficiency and focus in our quiet co-working spaces. • Maintain a healthy work-life balance with our functional gym, and yoga facilities. see more Related Posts
