Discover our locals' 128 hidden gems in Sofia

Да тръгваме! Discover Sofia's hidden gems with Spotted by Locals! From quaint cafes and vibrant local markets to modern concept stores and wine bars, our Spotters share the city’s best-kept secrets. Experience Sofia like a true local.

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Travel Guides by these Sofia Locals!

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Know your way in Sofia like a local!

Spotted by Locals

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Check out our latest hidden gems in Sofia

Things to do in Sofia

MAF

Most beautiful building in Sofia

"MAF", or the Sofia Ministry of Agriculture and Food, does not exist on any tourist map. It's a shame: it's a very beautiful old 19th century building...

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 8, 2025

Maze

Go down to rise up

"Maze" is a music cave under the surface of the city of Sofia, where the heart of live alternative music lies, from traditional Bulgarian music to modern...

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Bars
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Music

by

Simo

Stefanov

Jun 5, 2025

Malkite Pet Kyosheta

Bundle of arts and flavours

"Malkite Pet Kyosheta" in Sofia, literally the Little Five Corners, it a sweet little nickname given to a square where five little streets meet...

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Art & culture
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Bars
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Coffee & tea

by

Yana

Alexieva

Jun 5, 2025

Hambara

Candlelit drink

"Hambara" would probably win the 'most hidden bar in Sofia' award. It used to be only known by the 'intelligentsia', locked behind a closed door...

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Bars

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Sofia zoo

The oldest in the Balkans

The "Sofia zoo" is the largest and oldest one in the Balkan peninsula. I really enjoy going there with my kid - the whole environment is very relaxing...

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Relaxing

by

Bogomil

Alexandrov

Jun 5, 2025

Military Academy Park

New in town

"Military Academy Park" Sofia is a former military academy park that is now opened to the public and serves as my favorite spot in town to relax at...

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Relaxing

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

The backyard of the palace

Behind the scenes

I try to always hit the 'pause' button as often as possible while in Sofia. One of my favoirte places to do that is the backyard of the Royal Palace...

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Relaxing

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Korali

Mineral water pool

"Korali" in Sofia on Pancharevo lake is one of the best and most popular places to experience the city's spring waters! I like going in the evenings...

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Relaxing

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Villa Rosiche

Sweet memories

"Villa Rosiche" in Sofia makes Elderberry syrup. I have the relevant grandmother experience and can tell you this bar deserves to call things 'homemade'.

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Dream House

A vegetarian's dream come true

"Dream House" is not the only veggie restaurant in Sofia, but it's probably the oldest. The food there is very cheap and incredibly delicious!

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Restaurants

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Sense Rooftop Bar

High class view

"Sense Rooftop Bar" is a rooftop bar on one of Sofia's most posh and expensive hotels. I recommend you check it out earlier in the evening...

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Bars
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Coffee & tea

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Archaeological Museum

A time machine

The Sofia "Archaeological Museum" has the biggest gold treasure ever found by Bulgarian archaeologist. I like that everything is labelled in English...

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Art & culture

by

Boyko

Blagoev

Jun 5, 2025

Heading to Sofia?

128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Going to Sofia?

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✓ Authentic Stories

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What to expect?

Authentic & Unbiased Content

Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!

Go off the Beaten Path Gems

We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.

Responsible Travel

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

Hi! Nice to meet you.

We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.

Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.

With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.

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