Reviewing Sofia, Bulgaria.

The city you probably never thought of visiting unless your GPS got confused or you were desperately chasing cheap flights. Yet somehow, it’s quietly charming, surprisingly green, and full of those awkward, slightly awkward moments that make travel memorable. Think of it as Europe’s well-kept secret that doesn’t try too hard to impress but manages to do so anyway.

First things first, Sofia is old. Like, really old. Layers of history stack up here like your messy bookshelf at home. Roman ruins casually sit next to communist-era concrete monstrosities, and churches sparkle in the sunshine as if nothing in between matters. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-see, not just because it’s massive and ridiculously photogenic, but because inside, it’s so ornate it makes you question whether minimalism ever had a chance here. Pro tip: visit early morning to avoid the crowds and also to have a small existential moment about life while staring at gold mosaics.

Walking around the city centre, you’ll notice the streets are a strange mix of ultra-modern cafes, Soviet architecture, and the kind of small shops that sell things you didn’t know you needed until you see them. If you’re into food, Sofia delivers in a quietly smug way. Banitsa, a flaky pastry filled with cheese, is basically the national hug in food form. And yes, you will eat far too many of them while wondering why you don’t see this stuff everywhere. Cafes here are great for people-watching, sipping coffee slowly, and pretending you understand Bulgarian by nodding and smiling a lot.

Vitosha Boulevard is the place to strut your tourist stuff. It’s the shopping heart of Sofia with a hint of Parisian flair, minus the Paris prices. Here you can wander past high-end boutiques, local stores, and cafes that serve desserts so rich they should probably come with a health warning. And if you look closely, the street performers add a layer of quirky entertainment that makes you feel like you’re in a city that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

For the outdoorsy types or anyone pretending to be outdoorsy, Vitosha Mountain looms just outside the city, offering hiking trails, fresh air, and an escape from the city bustle. It’s close enough that you can do a day trip, but be warned: the views are stunning and may make your Instagram followers suspiciously jealous.

Sofia is also weirdly affordable. You can enjoy a full day of sightseeing, food, and coffee without feeling like your wallet just went on a diet. Taxis are cheap, public transport is simple enough to figure out, and locals are friendly if you attempt even a tiny bit of Bulgarian. Saying “thank you” in Bulgarian, which is “blagodarya,” earns you a few extra smiles and maybe even a story about someone’s cousin.

By the end of your visit, you’ll realise Sofia isn’t flashy, it isn’t over-the-top, and it definitely isn’t on everyone’s bucket list yet. But maybe that’s the point. It’s a city that rewards the curious, the patient, and anyone willing to embrace a little awkward charm along the way. So pack your walking shoes, an appetite, and a sense of humour. Sofia is ready to surprise you, whether you were expecting it or not.