Tucked behind the Sheraton hotel, this 4th-century red-brick church is one of the oldest buildings in Sofia—and it’s still in use! Surrounded by Roman ruins and modern buildings, the Rotunda is a perfect example of how Sofia blends old and new. Inside, faded medieval frescoes from the 10th century still cover the dome, offering a peek into Bulgaria's Christian heritage. It's free to enter and rarely crowded, so you can enjoy it at your own pace. Don't forget to walk around the archaeological remains nearby, right in the city center.

Right beneath the city’s main boulevard lies ancient Serdica, a Roman city founded by Emperor Constantine. These ruins are now visible through glass walkways, and you can actually walk through some of them for free. The Largo complex above it includes massive Socialist-era government buildings, perfect for architecture fans. This site truly captures Sofia’s “layered” history. Be sure to walk to the nearby Independence Square for a selfie with the remains of the ancient city wall.

You can’t go to Sofia and miss this one. It’s the city’s crown jewel—a massive golden-domed Orthodox cathedral built in the early 1900s to honor Russian soldiers who helped liberate Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. The inside is just as stunning, filled with iconography, candlelight, and the smell of incense. Just outside, check out the antique flea market for Communist memorabilia and vintage jewelry. 

 For a lighter dose of culture, stroll along Vitosha Boulevard—lined with cafes, boutiques, and locals on weekend walks. A short walk brings you to the Ivan Vazov National Theater, arguably Bulgaria’s most elegant building. If you're lucky, you might catch an open-air performance or a street musician playing Balkan folk tunes. Grab a coffee at the nearby Made in Home cafe—local, artsy, and delicious.

Getting Around:
The metro is clean, modern, and easy to use. Taxis are cheap (just use the Yellow! app to avoid scams). Most sights are walkable if you stay in the center.