June 16, 2026 

 

Travel Tip: Book your hostel early during summer because Vienna gets very busy. 

Discover the charm of Bulgaria's capital and escape to North Macedonia for an unforgettable Balkan adventure.

 

Sofia surprised me. I expected a quiet Eastern European capital, but what I found was a city layered withRoman ruins, Ottoman mosques, Soviet architecture, and buzzing modern cafes — all within walking distance of each other. Add a day trip to North Macedonia, and you have one of the best budget-friendly itineraries in the Balkans.

Here's everything you need to plan your own trip to Sofia, including where to stay, what to eat, and tips I wish I knew before going.

 

Why Visit Sofia?

Sofia is one of Europe's oldest cities, with over 7,000 years of history. It's also one of the most affordable capitals on the continent. You can explore ancient ruins in the morning, visit a communist-era monument in the afternoon, and enjoy a world-class dinner for under €20.

The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Most major attractions are in the center, and the metro system is clean and efficient.

 

A Brief History of Sofia

Sofia sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, which explains its layered history. The Thracians settled here first, followed by the Romans, who built the city of Serdica. You can still see Roman ruins beneath the streets — literally, in the metro stations.

The Ottomans ruled for nearly 500 years, leaving behind mosques and hammams. After liberation in 1878, Bulgaria looked west, building grand European-style boulevards and churches. The Soviet era added brutalist architecture and monuments, many of which still stand today.

Walking through Sofia feels like flipping through a history textbook — except the textbook is alive.

 

Top Things to Do in Sofia

1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This is Sofia's most famous landmark. The golden domes are visible from across the city, and the interior is filled with Orthodox icons, marble columns, and the scent of incense. Entry is free, though there's a small fee to take photos inside.

2. Serdica Archaeological Complex

Located beneath the central metro station, this open-air museum displays Roman streets, walls, and buildings from the 4th century. It's free to visit and a fascinating stop between sights.

3. Vitosha Boulevard

Sofia's main pedestrian street is perfect for people-watching, coffee stops, and shopping. In the distance, you can see Vitosha Mountain — a reminder that nature is never far away.

4. Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to understand Sofia is through a free walking tour. Local guides share stories about the city's history, culture, and communist past. Just tip what you think the tour was worth.

5. Boyana Church

A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the outskirts of the city. The medieval frescoes inside date back to 1259 and are considered some of the finest examples of Eastern European medieval art. Book tickets in advance — entry is limited.

 

Day Trip to North Macedonia

One of the highlights of my trip was a day tour to North Macedonia, which I booked through GetYourGuide. The tour took us from Sofia to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, with a stop at Lake Matka along the way.

Skopje

Skopje is unlike any city I've visited. The government invested heavily in statues, bridges, and neoclassical buildings over the past decade, creating a dramatic (and sometimes surreal) cityscape. The main square features a massive statue of Alexander the Great, and the Stone Bridge connects the modern center to the Old Bazaar.

The Old Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest markets in the Balkans. You'll find Turkish-style coffee, handmade crafts, and delicious burek (flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat).

 Lake Matka

Just outside Skopje, Lake Matka is a stunning canyon lake surrounded by hiking trails, caves, and medieval monasteries. We took a short boat ride into Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest underwater caves in the world. The water is emerald green, and the cliffs rise dramatically on both sides.

Tips for the Day Tour

• Start early. The drive from Sofia to Skopje takes about 3–4 hours each way.
• Bring your passport. You're crossing an international border.
• Pack snacks. Lunch stops are quick, and you may want something for the road.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You'll do a lot of walking in Skopje and at Lake Matka.

Booking through GetYourGuide made everything easy — transport, border crossing, and guided stops were all handled.

 Where to Stay in Sofia

Sofia has excellent accommodation options for every budget. Here are my recommendations:

Budget: Hostel Mostel

A legendary backpacker hostel with free breakfast, free dinner, and a social atmosphere. The location is central, and the staff are helpful with tips and tours.

Mid-Range: Hotel Niky

A boutique hotel near Vitosha Boulevard with clean rooms, friendly service, and a great breakfast. It's walking distance to most attractions.

Luxury: Sense Hotel Sofia

A stylish five-star hotel with a rooftop bar, spa, and modern design. The views of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral from the terrace are stunning.

Where to Eat in Sofia

Bulgarian food is hearty, affordable, and delicious. Here are my top picks:

Hadjidraganov's Houses

A traditional Bulgarian restaurant set in a beautifully restored 19th-century house. Try the shopska salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and white cheese), kavarma (slow-cooked meat stew), and banitsa (cheese-filled pastry). The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is warm.

Supa Star

A cozy soup bar perfect for a quick and healthy lunch. They serve fresh soups daily, along with salads and homemade bread.

Rainbow Factory

A trendy spot near the Women's Market serving brunch, coffee, and creative dishes. Great for a relaxed morning before exploring.

 Raketa Rakia Bar

A quirky bar with Soviet-era decor and an impressive selection of rakia, Bulgaria's national spirit. Order a flight and try different flavors — grape, plum, apricot, and more.

 

Practical Tips for Visiting Sofia

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot, and winter is cold but charming if you enjoy snow.

Currency

Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian lev (BGN), not the euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller shops and markets.

Language

Bulgarian is the official language, and the Cyrillic alphabet is used everywhere. English is common in tourist areas, but learning a few Bulgarian phrases is appreciated.

Getting Around

The metro is the fastest way to travel, and taxis are affordable. Use apps like TaxiMe or Yellow Taxi to avoid scams. Walking is the best way to explore the center.

Safety

Sofia is generally safe for tourists. Pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, so keep your belongings secure.

 

• Arrive and check into your hotel
• Walk along Vitosha Boulevard
• Visit Serdica Archaeological Complex
• Dinner at Hadjidraganov's Houses

Day 2: History and Culture

• Morning free walking tour
• Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Explore the National History Museum
• Evening drinks at Raketa Rakia Bar

Day 3: Day Trip to North Macedonia

• Full-day tour to Skopje and Lake Matka via GetYourGuide
• Return to Sofia in the evening

Day 4: Nature and Departure

• Morning visit to Boyana Church
• Hike or cable car ride up Vitosha Mountain
• Lunch at Supa Star
• Departure 

Marrakesh was one of those places that surprised us in the best way. From colorful markets and beautiful palaces to the peaceful desert and busy city streets, every day felt different. If you are planning a short trip to Morocco, here is how we spent 4 days and 3 nights in Marrakesh, including where we stayed, what we did, where we ate, and some helpful tips.

 

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakesh

We arrived in Marrakesh at night, so we wanted an easy and stress-free transfer to our accommodation. Before our trip, we booked an airport transfer through GetYourGuide, which made everything very simple. Our driver was waiting for us at the airport, (normally, but he is quite late) and we were taken directly to our riad in the Medina.

Where We Stayed: Riad 1954

 

For our accommodation, we booked Riad 1954 through Bookingcom.

From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel welcome. The riad is beautifully decorated with traditional Moroccan design, creating a peaceful atmosphere away from the busy streets outside.

What we liked about Riad 1954:

• Great location inside the Medina
• Friendly and helpful staff
• Clean and comfortable rooms
• Courtyard and rooftop area is under renovated at the time of our stay.

The riad felt like a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. After a long journey, it was the perfect place to relax and prepare for our adventures ahead. 

Belgium may be a small country, but it is full of beautiful cities, tasty food, and amazing history. When I first visited Belgium, I was surprised by how much there was to see. From grand city squares to peaceful canals, every place felt different and special.

If you are planning a trip to Belgium, here are some of my favorite places to visit, things to do, and tips to make your journey easier.

 

Brussels – The Heart of Belgium 

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and often the first stop for visitors. It is a busy city with beautiful buildings, museums, and great food.

 

Highlights:

• Visit the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
• See the famous Manneken Pis statue.
• Explore the Atomium for amazing city views.
• Try fresh Belgian waffles and chocolates. 

 

Things to Do:

• Walk around the city center.
• Visit the Comic Strip Museum.
• Enjoy shopping in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.

 

Where to Stay:

If it is your first time in Brussels, stay near the Grand Place or city center. You will be close to restaurants, attractions, and public transport. 

 

This national park is one of Bavaria's natural treasures. It has crystal-clear lakes, mountain peaks, and beautiful hiking paths. Lake Königssee is especially popular because of its clear water and peaceful surroundings.

 

 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This small medieval town looks like it belongs in a storybook. With its old walls, cobblestone streets, and colorful houses, Rothenburg is one of the most charming places in Germany. It is a great place to walk around and take photos.

 

Fun Things to Do in Bavaria  

Take a boat ride on Lake Königssee.

Ride a cable car up the mountains for amazing views.

Explore castles and learn about Bavarian history.

Visit local markets and try traditional foods.

Enjoy hiking, biking, or skiing depending on the season.

Attend local festivals and cultural events.

 

Bavarian Food You Should Try

Bavaria is famous for its tasty food. Some popular dishes include:

Pretzels – Soft, salty bread twists.
Weisswurst – Traditional Bavarian white sausage.
Schnitzel – Breaded and fried meat.
Apple strudel – A sweet dessert made with apples and pastry.

Many restaurants also serve fresh local cheeses and hearty soups.

Helpful Travel Tips:

Visit castles early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Wear comfortable shoes because many attractions involve walking.

Carry a light jacket, even in summer, as mountain weather can change quickly.

Use trains to travel between cities and towns. Germany's train system is reliable and easy to use.

Book accommodations in advance during busy seasons, especially summer and Oktoberfest.

 

Final Thoughts

Bavaria is one of the most beautiful regions in Germany. Whether you enjoy history, nature, food, or adventure, you will find plenty to love. From fairy-tale castles and mountain landscapes to friendly towns and local traditions, Bavaria offers unforgettable experiences for travelers of all ages. If you are planning a trip to Germany, Bavaria should definitely be on your list.

 

 

 

People usually talk about Berlin or Munich when they think about Germany, but honestly, living here in NRW has always felt special to me. NRW, or North Rhine-Westphalia, has a little bit of everything. Big cities, quiet nature, old towns, football culture, amazing food, and friendly people — all close to each other.

One thing I really like about NRW is that life here feels balanced. You can spend one day in a busy city and the next day relaxing near lakes or forests without driving for hours.

If you are planning to visit NRW, here are some places I always recommend to friends and family.