Sofia’s very own mountain resort, Mount Vitosha is extremely popular, both during the summers and the winters, when it gets converted into a ski resort. Vitosha is only about 20 km from downtown Sofia, and there are regular buses to the resort. The resort has comfortable hotels, lots of restaurants, and surprisingly green surroundings. The mountain and the nearby area one of cool coniferous forests, meadows full of wildflowers, and clear mountain streams- excellent for hiking, trekking or picnicking. A chair car carries visitors to the top of Vitosha, which offers a fabulous view of Sofia. During the winter, Mount Vitosha becomes a good ski resort, with varied ski runs and a well-known skiing school.

The medieval church of Boyana is situated about 10 km from the city centre of Sofia, and is reputedly the oldest church in the capital. There are regular buses from Sofia to Boyana- and it’s definitely worth the time and money you spend getting there. Boyana is on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List, and although parts of the building are undergoing renovation at the moment, you can take a peek at some of its treasures- especially the exquisite wall paintings that decorate the interiors.