Sofia Tourism Guide
Sofia is the Capital city of Bulgaria. It is easily reached, as it has it's own international airport and good coach and rail links from all over europe.
For those arriving by plane with a rucksack, you can either get a taxi into the centre which will cosy 10 - 15 bulgarian leva. Or you can purchase a ticket from a newspaper kiosk for 0.50 leva and take the 84 bus from the stop on the right hand side when you leave the airport entrance.
Be warned that taxi touts may approach you as you head towards the airport exit. These guys will probably charge much more than the going rate.
If getting a taxi you should go to the office at the back of the airport and book a taxi from 'OK Taxi'
They will hand you a ticket with a number on it. You can wait just outside the doors, and the taxi driver will find you when they are ready.
If you wish to head of to other parts of Bulgaria then you need to head for the International coach station, which is next to the railway station in Sofia. You are probably looking at 10-15 Leva by taxi.
Coaches are slightly more expensive than rail, but quicker, more modern and generally more comfortable. In fact the one I have just taken from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo was the most modern and best coach I have ever been on.
For more adventure, and an insight into how poor some parts of Bulgaria are, the train is a good bet. From your train window you may see rusted steam trains, crumbling buildings and desolate countryside.
If you decide that you want to hang out in Sofia, then a good base is Mostel Hostel in the centre. There you will find friendly people and a good atmosphere as well as trips to the historic Rila Monastery.
Sofia itself feels quite safe, and although you need to be sensible, I have walked the streets late at night with no problems.
Personally I felt my spirit fall slightly as I arrived back in Sofia from Triavna. Bulgaria is best experienced in the countryside and out of the way small towns, like Veliko Tarnovo.
