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.
