Things to Do in Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Sofia gets overlooked while tourists flock to Prague and Budapest. Bulgaria's capital sits in a mountain-ringed valley with a quiet appeal that sneaks up on you. You'll see this backdrop everywhere—from café terraces to Soviet apartment block windows. Different historical periods coexist here without drama. Roman ruins sit next to Ottoman mosques, which face communist monuments, all within walking distance. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral anchors this mix. The cathedral is both landmark and genuine local gathering spot. Those golden domes are visible from most of the city center, and the surrounding area has become Sofia's unofficial heart. Street musicians play here regularly.

Sofia's food reflects the city's practical character. You'll find hearty, well-prepared meals rather than flashy presentations—traditional mehanas serve shopska salad, grilled meats, and banitsa pastry, often with live folk music. The experience is either charming or overwhelming. The city center has solid café culture. Many places serve decent coffee and light meals, and Sofia has developed an excellent pizza scene for some reason. Small neighborhood places do wood-fired pies better than you'd expect. Street food clusters around pedestrian areas. Banitsa vendors and small bakeries offer quick, cheap meals that locals eat—always a good sign.

May through September gives reliable weather. Warm days and cool evenings make walking around pleasant, though summer can get quite hot. Sofia's elevation keeps things more comfortable than other Balkan capitals. Spring and fall are ideal. You won't mind occasional rain, and the city feels more authentic when not catering to peak tourist season. Winter brings snow and cold but also architectural charm. The surrounding mountains create unpredictable weather patterns. Conditions can change quickly regardless of season, so pack layers and don't trust forecasts completely.