Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a mesmerizing and inviting place that is becoming popular by the day! With the increase of remote workers all over the world, the digital nomad lifestyle is becoming much more common. Places like Sofia allow people a variety of options and it also encourages them to take daring steps.
When you put Sofia in comparison to other European cities, you’ll come to realize that this pleasant city has so much more to offer. Not only is it more affordable but calmer as well.
If this place has intrigued you too then go over this ultimate guide and learn what it’s like to live there as a digital nomad.
Where is Sofia located?
Located in Western Bulgaria, Sofia lies along the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. This city is situated in the Sofia valley, eastern Europe with Balkan mountains to the north.
Fact: Did you know that Sofia is not only the capital city but also the largest city in Bulgaria?
Why Choose Sofia as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
If you are unsure about making Sofia your next digital nomad destination, take a look below. Let’s delve into this city’s pros and cons to dissect whether it’s a good fit for you. Remember that no place is perfect and there are always some flaws! However, some places are worth the leap of faith.
Pros | Cons |
Natural beauty | Dirty |
High-speed internet | Language barriers |
Good food | |
Affordable cost of living | |
Friendly locals | |
Vibrant city | |
Thriving local community | |
Rich local culture |
As you can see, living in Sofia doesn’t have a lot of cons. While there are some concerning factors, the city itself makes up for them by providing alternatives! You’ll find your time here to be quite fulfilling overall.
How to Get to Sofia?
Getting to Sofia isn’t a difficult task per se. For those of you who are traveling from abroad, it is suggested you land directly at the Sofia airport. This airport caters to international flights and offers an easy journey ahead. Once you have landed, here’s how you can get to the city center.
Taxi
One of the best ways of getting to the Sofia city center from the airport is by getting a taxi. A 5-minute ride can effortlessly get you to the city and amount to a comfortable journey. It’ll cost 4-6$ at most.
Subway
You can also access the line 4 subway to get to the city center. Even though this is the cheapest way of traveling, it also happens to be the most time-consuming. A subway ride can take 40-45 minutes which might not be ideal after a flight.
Buses
Buses are the most common and preferred way of traveling from the airport to the city. They are reliable, affordable, and comfortable all at the same time. Make sure to check the schedules and ticket prices beforehand and you’ll be good to go.
Shuttles
Lastly, you can get on a shuttle and get to Sofia city center within 7-10 minutes.
Transportation and How to Get Around Sofia?
Once you have made it to Sofia, here’s how you can get around after settling in.
Metro
Metro is relatively new in this city but it happens to be incredibly reliable. The 3 available lines connect different parts of the city and offer an affordable transport option to people.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in this city and they are a great option. You can hail them on the streets but beware of fraudulent taxi drivers. Other than that, make sure to agree upon a fare beforehand. You can also call taxi services and call them to your destination.
Buses
Public buses and trolleybuses are also viable ways of getting around on a daily basis. The public transport system in Sofia is well-connected so buses are a good way of getting around.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Sofia
The good news is that Sofia has plenty of good options in terms of accommodation. This city is home to a diverse range of neighborhoods and you can find an ideal location that fits your personal taste.
City Centre
If you wish to live in a central location then the city center might be the perfect place for you. You’ll be located at a short distance from major amenities and popular tourist destinations. This centrally located neighborhood will allow you to live near the public transportation and experience hustle. It is also near co-working spaces which makes it a great place for digital nomads.
Studentski grad
Studentski Grad is a great neighborhood that happens to be one of the best places for young people. The abundance of bars and eateries will keep you occupied while the lively atmosphere will keep you entertained. It is one of the most trendy parts of the city and it houses most of the dormitories. You can expect to have a great time here.
Boyana
For those of you who do not necessarily want to be surrounded by hustle and bustle and partying all the time, consider seeking accommodation in Boyona. This residential neighborhood promises a tranquil experience and a ton of amenities.
Internet Connectivity in Sofia
Remote workers and digital nomads will be ecstatic to learn that Sofia has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world. It’s ranked number 11th on the global ranking. You can come here, expecting great connectivity, high speeds, and amazing coverage. The telecommunication system is pretty great and it allows remote workers to keep a healthy work-life balance.
Other than that, there are a bunch of good providers in the city. You can get a local SIM card after arriving to ensure extra reliability. Make sure to compare data packages and prices before making a decision.
Most cafes and co-working spaces offer fast internet as well!
Esim
If you don’t like the hassle of a physical SIM card, then consider opting for Esims. They are a reliable and efficient alternative.
Make sure to compare these data packages before you make a decision.
Holafly
Data | Days | Price |
Unlimited | 5 days | 21$ |
Unlimited | 7 days | 29$ |
Unlimited | 15 days | 51$ |
Unlimited | 20 days | 62$ |
Unlimited | 30 days | 75$ |
Airalo
Data | Days | Price |
2.5 GB | 30 days | 6.50$ |
5 GB | 30 days | 7.50$ |
15 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ |
30 GB | 30 days | 16.00$ |
50 GB | 30 days | 30.00$ |
3 Best Places to Work from in Sofia
Another great thing about this city is the abundance of coworking spaces and work-friendly cafes. If you don’t like working from home, Sofia has got you covered.
Soho
Soho is undoubtedly one of the best coworking spaces in the city. This place is usually crawling with digital nomads but don’t worry, there is plenty of room for everyone. There is high-speed Internet available on the premises along with numerous desks and office spaces. Their contemporary architecture also attracts remote workers.
Betahaus
Another good option is the Betahaus, Sofia. They have 2 locations in the city and both are well-equipped. This co-working space offers a ton of facilities and opportunities. One of the best parts about Betahaus branches is their convenient central locations.
Atrium business centre
Atrium Business Centre is also a good coworking space located in Sofia. Their creative interior and good internet promote productivity among remote workers. Digital nomads will certainly enjoy their event spaces and networking opportunities.
Cafes
If you are someone who prefers working from cafes rather than coworking spaces then consider looking for work-friendly cafes. Thanks to the big cafe culture in the city, there are plenty of great coffee shops and cafes where remote workers can work.
- BOHO
- Lime
- Fabrika Daga
- Salted café Sofia
- Costa café
- Starbucks
Cost of Living in Sofia
One of the things that make Sofia popular among digital nomads is its affordable cost of living. Sofia is strikingly cheaper than some other European capitals and major cities. Here is a rough breakdown for you.
Meal at a restaurant | 8.76$ |
Coffee | 1.71$ |
Beer | 1.75$ |
one-bedroom apartment (in the city center) | 470$ |
Fitness club | 27.68$ |
Internet | 12.29$ |
Basic utilities (per month) | 122.29$ |
As you can see, the cost of day-to-day expenses is highly budget-friendly. However, please note that these prices are mere estimations. Your cost of living will be defined by your lifestyle and spending patterns.
Currency fluctuations may also affect the costs but a normal digital nomad lifestyle will cost as depicted.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Sofia
Sofia is nothing short of a cultural tapestry in Bulgaria. This city has a vibrant culture, depicted in its food, art, and environment. The local culture here is influenced by European colonization as well as the ancient civilizations. The people respect their history and perform several events and activities to celebrate their heritage. In addition, the local people are lively, welcoming, and joyous. As for the cultural heritage, it is best displayed in the local traditions.
Being a hilly area overall, Sofia has an interesting geography. The city is home to breathtaking mountains and exotic wildlife. There are plenty of parks in the city that give you a chance to spend time in nature and observe wildlife. Other than that, you get to witness the stunning views of landscapes from cliffs.
As for food, it is safe to say that Sofia is a foodie city. The best restaurants and cafes are abundant in the city and they offer traditional Bulgarian dishes. In addition to that, the food from street vendors is simply unforgettable. Most food providers still follow the traditional recipes which makes the cuisine here rich and flavorful. However, you can still find international flavors.
Best Time to Visit Sofia
The best time to visit Sofia can be determined by evaluating different factors. Note that your personal preference, availability, and budget play a huge role. However, as per general opinion, the best time to visit is between May and October. This is the time period that offers warm temperatures and sunny afternoons. It’s also a good time for exploring the city since the chances of rain are low. Summer months will surely amount to a great experience.
12 Best Things to Do in Sofia
Despite being somewhat unpopular, Sofia has a lot to offer. You can engage in a range of activities and have a great time. Either way, make sure to do these 12 best things.
1. Enjoy a city tour
Sofia is a city that has a lot to offer. If you happen to find yourself in this mesmerizing place, take advantage of the situation and explore it properly! We recommend you take one of the many guided tours and learn more about the place. Free walking tours are also recommended because you get a chance to learn essential details.
2. Go hiking
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, consider going hiking and spending some time in refreshing nature. Since this city is mountainous, there are plenty of good hiking spots in the west of the city. You can go to the following:
- Boyana Waterfalls
- Black Peak
- Кабинка -вр
- Мусала
- Княжево – Златните мостове
- Златни мостове – Алеко
- Polovrak Peak
- Железница – х
Hiking also allows you to see beautiful and scenic views once you have reached the top.
3. Take a food tour
Sofia has a foodie culture and the only way to experience the best of it is by joining a food tour. You can meet other foodies, interact with people, and enjoy amazing Bulgarian cuisine all at the same time. While it is possible to explore the best food on your own, a professional guide will make it so much more interesting and easier.
4. Visit the art galleries.
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the popular art galleries in Sofia. This city is a creative hub filled with unique talent and innovation! You can visit the art galleries to appreciate art, support artists, and see some of the best exhibitions. Here are some great options:
- Kvadrat 500
- Zelena gallery
- Sofia City Art Gallery
- Art Shop Hand Made
- The Laboratory Village.
5. Visit the museums
If you want to learn about Sofia’s rich history, make sure to visit the historical sites and museums in the city. They are a great way to appreciate the heritage and understand the city. Some of the best options include:
- St. Nedelya Church
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- National Palace of Culture
- Dragalevski Monastery
- The Rotunda Church of St George
- National Institute and Museum of Archaeology
- National Museum of Military History
- Banya Bashi Mosque
6. Attend the cultural festivals
For those of you who want to experience Sofia’s rich culture to its very core, attend the local events and participate in the cultural festivities and community events. This city houses friendly locals and welcoming people who make you feel right at home. You can blend in with them at such events. Some of the best ones include the following.
- Sofia Middle East and North African Region Film Festival
- Sofia Science Festival
- Flamenco Music Ole Festival
- Kvartal Festival
- Sofia Biting Docs
- Sofia Pride Art Week
- Natura Naturans
7. Visit the markets
Sofia’s markets are popular tourist areas and something else entirely. With a bustling environment and colorful aura, the local markets are simply vibrant. Some markets offer delicious street food, fresh produce, and clothing while others are known for their architecture. The popular options include the Zhenski Pazar Women’s Market, Central Hall, Antique and Artisan Fair, and THRIFT ‘N’ SIP.
8. Enjoy the nightlife
Sofia is somewhat famous for its vibrant nightlife so make sure to enjoy that during your time here! You can find amazing bars, tons of nightlife activities, and live music venues in this city. Bulgaria’s bustling environment and cultural diversity make nightlife so much more interesting. Make sure to visit popular spots such as nightclubs, pubs, and rooftop bars.
9. Go cafe hopping
Another great thing to do in Sofia is go cafe hopping. Almost every Digital Nomad and remote worker has a special inclination and liking towards coffee shops. You’ll be happy to learn that this city houses tons of them. The cafe culture is pretty big around here and offers a variety of options.
- Coffee Syndicate
- Galleta Bakery & Cafe
- Mahala Independent Bookstore
- Altruist
10. Go bar hopping
An interesting thing to do in Sofia is go bar hopping. There are tons of good cocktail bars, wine bars, and breweries in the city and each offers a good experience. For a fun night out, consider visiting them and enjoying the lively environment!
11. Connect with the digital nomad community.
One of the best things you can do in any destination is to connect with fellow nomads. They can provide a sense of community and companionship, making your trip much more fulfilling. You can meet digital nomads the old-school way (at coworking spaces and cafes) or you can also join WhatsApp groups or Facebook groups.
12. Take a day trip
When you are done exploring the beautiful city of Sofia, take advantage of your convenient location and visit nearby cities. There is no doubt that Bulgaria is a stunning country that has a lot to offer. Hence, consider taking a day trip and exploring as much of it as you can. You can go to Plovdiv, Velingrad, Kovachevitsa, Melnik.
Is Sofia safe?
When it comes to safety in Sofia, we are confident in saying that this city is very safe. While petty crimes such as pocket-picking and minor thefts are not unheard of, violent crimes are very rare. Tourists, visitors, and digital nomads can travel around with ease of mind.
However, you are still recommended to abide by general precautions in a foreign country. If you encounter any criminal activity, make it a priority to inform local authorities as soon as possible.
No place is perfect which is why you are advised to stay on your guard but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. The locals are very welcoming and their friendliness will make you feel right at home.
As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams.
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighborhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Sofia
One of the main reasons for Sofia’s popularity is Bulgaria’s easy and accommodating visa options. Since it is part of the EU, it is entitled to relevant agreements. Under the Schengen agreement, European Union citizens don’t need a visa to enter and stay in this country. They can come here and enjoy a visa-free entry.
Other than that, US citizens can also enjoy a 90-day visa-free visit in this country. Once that period has passed, visitors will be required to acquire a long-stay visa or residence permit.
While Bulgaria doesn’t have a digital nomad visa just yet, other options and alternatives are just as good.
Conclusion
Sofia is a land of perfect weather and amazing people. If these two things aren’t quiet enough to push you over the edge then you’ll be happy to learn that this city is turning into a digital nomad hotspot! Sofia has gained popularity over the recent years and a thriving digital nomad community can be found there.
Sofia, Bulgaria offers everything a remote worker dreams about; low cost of living, the scope of activities, tons of cafes, coworking spaces, and most importantly that vibrant culture.
Reading this guide, did you like the idea of living in Sofia as a digital nomad? If your answer is yes, we wish you good luck on your adventure. If you have any further queries, feel free to ask.
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