ISSN 1311-9753 I COMPLIMENTARY MONTHLY GUIDE + MAP I JUNE 2013 I ISSUE 240
Bulgaria in Brief 1
2 Bulgaria in Brief
4 Bulgaria in Brief 18
BUSINESS
20
Sofia Overview
28
Accommodation
p. 4
38 Bars AND Restaurants 52
Shopping
54
night life
p. 58
58 Culture 70 Useful Numbers p. 68
72 Index For Advertising, Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: (before 10th of the preceding month, please!) Postal Address: Phone: Cell: E-mail:
Bulgaria, 1504 Sofia 31, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. 02 980 85 01 0896 717 225 sofiacityguide@gmail.com cityinfoguide@gmail.com
Sofia City Info Guide All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior permission. Monthly circulation: 20 000 www.cityinfoguide.net www.cityinfoguides.com
Sofia City ® Info Guide Publisher:
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Lyudmila Mladenova
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Rumyana Karakachanova Rositsa Georgieva Fany Bancheva Petar Marinov Turkish Airlines ALLIANCE PRINT
Bulgaria in Brief 3
4 Bulgaria in Brief
OBZOR City Hall The city - winner of the annual award for development of the destination for 2012 of “Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association�
www.obzorcity.com Obzor is a small, quiet and comfortable resort situated on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast with large beaches, clean air, hospitable people, numerous opportunities for recreation and entertainment, which thanks to its wonderful natural resources is one of the most attractive summer destinations An extremely favorable combination of price and quality of tourist services. Various accommodation options in town - cozy guest houses, and four three-star hotels, large luxury hotel complexes, ready to satisfy the needs of the most demanding guests. Numerous opportunities for entertainment, bars, restaurants, clubs, cafes, pubs and intimate family establishments. Obzor is located near the biggest seaside towns on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast - the seaside
capital of Varna - 53 km and the city of Burgas - 79 km. The town has well developed infrastructure and proximity to the airports and the train stations of Varna and Burgas. The transport in the town is provided by buses, taxis and cabs. With the growth of tourist needs the town has developed into a modern seaside resort. One can find here many restaurants, bars, shops and night clubs along with the new luxury hotel complex, the renovations and the improvements made in the private sector. The town boasts a nearly 10 km long, wide and secure beach with fine golden sand that is considered one of the longest beaches along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The guests of the town can hike in the easternmost Balkan mountains descending towards the
Bulgaria in Brief 5 The guests of the town can hike in the easternmost Balkan mountains descending towards the sea where they can enjoy the cool air and tranquility. It has a unique combination of maritime and mild mountain climate that is suitable for the treatment of various lung diseases and offers leisure opportunities during all seasons. The green paths in the woods allow tourists to enjoy the pristine views and the area called “Kaleto” where the remains of a Medieval fortress are preserved. There are mineral springs with healing properties in the nearby woods. Comfortable conditions for holidays with children – a favorable health-giving climate, a calm and relaxing resort. The resort offers at the same time a funfair, playgrounds and attractions, large parks and lanes with cool air. Plentiful options for exercise and sports – hiking, jogging, cycling, volleyball, basketball, football, swimming, surfing, diving, jet skiing, water skiing, off-road and so on. Rich History - different tribes and people - Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, proto-Bulgarians, Slavs, Turks – coexisted here in ancient times whose customs and traditions left a rich historical and cultural heritage. The archaeologists have discovered many Roman and Byzantine coins, column caps, pottery and other articles some of which are exhibited at the Archaeological Museum in Sofia and others can be seen in the central park of the resort. You can see parts of the walls of an authentic Roman bath dating back nearly 2,000 years ago in the archaeological excavations opened at the end of 2011. Culture and Festivals - authentic folklore, good food, rich cultural life, museums, traditions and customs. The international festivals of music, dancing and folklore will entertain you almost every day. Obzor is a town with rich history, traditions and culture, where the sea, the golden beaches and the endless green hills come together in a blissful embrace. At this place blessed by God you can spend a memorable once-in-alifetime holiday and we know that if you visit Obzor once you will come back again every summer. With kind support of Obzor City Hall
6 Bulgaria in Brief Welcome to bulgaria Welcome to one of the oldest European states with 6000-year old gold treasures, a centre of ancient civilisations, a country that hosts the sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and gave the world the first Slavonic letters. Bulgaria is a small country by area and population, but it was this precise piece of land that God blessed with unearthly beautiful nature, a proud people and rich culture. Bulgarians are a hospitable nation – they will greet you like dear guests, will open their hearts and home for you and will see you off with sincere wishes for you to come back again...
FACTS & FIGURES Population: 7 364 570 Area: 110 993 sq. km Language: Bulgarian Religion: Orthodox Summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C Winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C Time zone: GMT +2 (Apr-Sept GMT +3) Country dialing code: 00 359 Internet country code: .bg President: Rosen Plevnevliev Administrative division: 28 regions 263 municipalities Capital: Sofia (pop. 1 291 591) Major Cities: Plovdiv (671 918), Varna (468 220), Bourgas (409 018), Rousse (230 847), Stara Zagora (327 576), Pleven (266 144), Sliven (193 609), Dobrich (186 016), Shumen (180 452), Pernik (133 750), Yambol (129 156), Haskovo (242 030).
Location and Territory Bulgaria is located in South-Eastern Europe and occupies the Eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. To the North, the country borders with Romania via the Danube River, to the East it touches the Black Sea, its southern neighbours are Turkey and Greece, and to the West it borders with the Republic of Macedonia and Serbia. The total territory of the country is 110 993 sq. km and Bulgaria ranks 15th in size among the other European countries.
History The Bulgarian state was founded in 681 as a union of new-settled Proto-Bulgarians, Slavs and with the participation of the local Balkan people and Thracians. The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited
a vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They were known for making filigree gold and silver jewellery. The great Homer described a Thracian king in Iliad, having “the biggest and handsomest horses I ever saw,/whiter than snow and swifter than the winds/and a chariot finely wrought with silver and gold.” The so called proto-Bulgarians came to the Bulgarian lands from the steppe region of the Volga River basin. They were nomads and in IVc. AD were associated with the Huns. Although being a tribe of equestrians proto-Bulgarians, in VII c. AD they allied with the sedentary people of the Slavs, who had spreaded all over Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans in 6th century, mainly shepherds and farmers, to form the The First Bulgarian State. It gained political recognition from the Byzantine Empire in 681 A.D. The state was ruled by Khan Asparuh, the leader of the proto-Bulgarians, and its capital was Pliska. This First Bulgarian State stretched from Transylvania in the north to the Aegean Sea in the south and from the Black Sea in the east to the Adriatic Sea in the west. It fell to the Byzantines in 1018. During that period, in 855 was created the Slavic alphabet. It was named Cyrillic alphabet, named after St. Cyril, and corresponded perfectly to the phonetic riches of the Slavonic-Bulgarian language. As of today more than 250 million people in Europe and Asia use the cyrillyc alphabet for their national languages, half of them are in Russia. With the accession of Bulgaria in EU, Cyrillic became the third official alphabet of the union. It is in 864 that Tsar Boris I converted the state to Orthodox Christianity. The Second Bulgarian State, established in 1185 at Veliko Tarnovo, reinstated the borders and a Golden Age began during which Bulgaria bordered on three seas. From 1396 to 1878 the country was under the rule (the so called ‘yoke’) of the Ottoman Turks. Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria after the Veliko Tarnovo Constitution was accepted in 1879. From 1878 (liberation from the Turks) to 1944, Bulgaria enjoyed a brief but unstable period of freedom. After 1944 the Communist Party, led by Georgi Dimitrov,
Bulgaria in Brief 7
NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., phone: +359 2 9 630 308, cell: +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com
8 Bulgaria in Brief took power and proclaimed Bulgaria a People’s Republic in 1946. The Communist regime lasted till November 10th, 1989 when Bulgaria peacefully ousted the Party leader Todor Zhivkov. One of the first sign of Bulgaria’s democratization after 1989 was the establishment of a multi-party system. The new Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria, adopted on July 12, 1991, proclaims the country as parliamentary republic. On March 29, 2004 Bulgaria joined NATO, and on January 1, 2007 the country became a member of the European Union.
State System
State power in Bulgaria divides into three branches: legislative (represented by the National Assembly), executive (represented by the Bulgarian Government) and judiciary legislative (represented by the Supreme Judiciary Council and the Supreme Court of Cassation). The National Assembly of Bulgaria (Narodno Subranie) consists of 240 deputies, elected for 4-year terms. The parliament enacts laws, approves the budget of the country and ratifies international treaties and agreements. Currently there are six parties in the 41st National Assembly. The largest one is Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria, having 116 seats, followed by Coalition for Bulgaria, with 40 seats and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, with 38 seats. The president of Bulgaria is elected for a 5-year term and is the head of state and the commander in chief of the armed forces.
Economy
Before the changes in Eastern Europe, the country was entirely dependent of the Soviet Union and the socialist block. A positive change began in 1997, when the currency board system was introduced in Bulgaria, i.e. the national currency (BGN) was fixed to the German Mark, and later to the Euro. Thanks to the strict monetary discipline of the currency board in combination with a series of reforms, the economic system was stabilized and the restoration process was initiated. The years of development of the national economy, seeing an average GDP growth of 4.5% between 1998 and 2005, were followed by steady growth of GDP. In 2005, GDP growth reached 5.5%, in 2006 – 6,1 %, 2007 – 6,2 %, 2008 – 6,6% . This growth has been driven by increased foreign investments, domestic consumption and exports. In 2009, Bulgaria’s GDP fell by 5.1 %, ending
a three-years growth pattern. However after the economy’s stagnation in 2010, in 2011 and 2012, the real GDP growth reached 0.2% and 1.7%. Currently Bulgaria ranks 59th (out of 183 world economies) in the Doing Business 2012 report of the IFC and the World Bank, measuring business regulations and their enforcement.
Currency
Bulgarian Lev is pegged to the EURO (EURO 1 = BGN 1,95583). Presently coins in circulation are issued in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki and 1 lev. Paper currency comes in 2, 5,10, 20, 50 and 100 leva.
Banking System
Currently 30 banks are functioning in the country, serving their consumers through well distributed and balanced network of 2929 branches. They are stable, have excellent capital adequacy and liquidity indicators and the banking supervision is operating properly. The banking system work according to the European legislation and world standards, and 80% of it is formed of top-rate banks of the Euro-zone. The three biggest banks – Unicredit Bulbank, DSK Bank and the United Bulgarian Bank, possess over 40% of all bank assets and generate over a half of the profit in the sector. The Bulgarian consumer is still conservative and prefers to pay in cash. However, the bank payments are developing fast in the past years.
Religion
Full freedom of the religious denominations is proclaimed in the Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria. According to the census from 2011, 76% of the population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, 10 % are Muslims, 0.8% - Catholics, 1.1% are Protestants and 0,2 % are from other religions.
Population and Ethnic Groups
Bulgaria is a country with a population of almost 8 millions people. Until the middle of the last century three quarters of the population lived in the villages. At the end of the century, as a result of the last industrialization and the migration to the cities, the ratio has reserved and today 70% is urban population. With its 1,5 million residents the capital city Sofia is the biggest in Bulgaria. There are seven cities with more than 100 thousand population where nearly a third of the entire population of the country lives. Another 14 towns have between 50 and 100 thousand residents. The proportion between women and men in Bulgaria is 51,4 % to 48,6 %.
Bulgaria in Brief 9
10 Bulgaria in Brief The smaller share of men is due to their shorter life expectancy, and therefore is sharper in the age groups of over 50 years. According to the 2001 census, 83,9 % of the people in Bulgaria are ethnic Bulgarians, and the biggest minorities are the ethnic Turks (9,4%) and the Roma (4,7%). The remaining 2% include smaller minorities like Armenians, Russians, Romanians, Ukrainians, Greeks and Jews. The majority of the adult Bulgarians have secondary or higher education and among the people between 25 and 64 years of age their share is over twothird.
Official Language and Alphabet
The official language is Bulgarian and the official alphabet is Cyrilic. The Bulgarian language belongs to the group of the Slavonic languages. SerboCroatian and Russian are the most similar languages to it. Other languages as English, German, French, Russian and Spanish are spoken by 40 % of the population.
Topography
The country’s relief is varied (from 0 to 2,925 m above the sea level) and about 60 percent of the territory are hilly and mountainous. The most famous mountains are: Rila (with the highest mountain peak on the Balkan Peninsula Mussala – 2 925 m), Pirin (Vihren Peak – 2 914 m), the Central Balkan (Botev Peak – 2 376 m), the Rhodope Mountains (Golyam Perelik Peak – 2 191 m) and Vitosha Mountain near Sofia (Cherni Vrah Peak – 2 290 m). Numerous natural phenomena are scattered across the country: mountain passes and gorges rockpyramids and bizarre rock formations, numerous caves and waterfalls, beautiful lakes. Some of the most famous are: the Melnik Pyramids, the Fossil Forest, the Belogradchik Rocks; the gorges of the rivers Trigradska in the Rhodopes and Erma near the town of Tran, Vratsata; the valleys of the rivers Iskar, Struma and Mesta, the canyon of the Roussenski Lom River; the Srebarna Lake; the rock monastery Aladja off the city of Varna, etc. There is a great diversity of karst forms, among these some 4,600 caves. The deepest cave in Bulgaria is Raichova Dupka (387 m deep), and the longest is Duhlata (17,600 m long). The best known are: the Ledenika, the Magurata and the Saeva Dupka Caves in the Balkan range; the Snezhanka, the Yagodinskata, the Dyavolsko Garlo, and the Uhlovitsa Caves – in the Rhodope Mountains.
Climate
The climate is moderate continental with Mediterranean influence to the South. The average annual temperature is 10,5 degrees Celsius. Four seasons are distinctly expressed – winter, spring, summer and autumn. January is the coldest month of the year. July and August are the hottest summer months and sometimes temperatures go above 30 degrees Celsius. Bulgarians enjoy 2000 to 24000 hours of sunlight per year.
Waters
Bulgaria boasts a huge variety and number of mineral springs of different chemical composition, suitable for prophylaxis and treatments of many diseases. There are about 600 mineral water deposits in Bulgaria with more than 1,600 springs, located mainly at the foothills of mountains. There are many spa resorts in Bankya, Velingrad, Sandanski, the mineral baths of Stara Zagora, Narechen, Sliven and Haskovo, as well as in Kyustendil, Varshets, Hissarya, Merichleri, Momin Prohod and Kostenets. Beautiful lakes lie hidden in the cirques of Rila and Pirin Mountains. There are also dams, surrounded by impressive nature, such as Iskar, Batak, Dospat and many others.
Flora and Fauna
Bulgaria is rich in places where nature has been preserved almost unspoiled and vegetation demonstrates remarkable diversity. A total of 12 360 species have been found in its composition. There are more than 12 National parks across the country with various natural reserves on their territory. The Bulgarian endemic plants, which are to be found nowhere else in the world, number more than 250 species: Rila Primrose, Balkan Violet, Bulgarian Blackberry, Rhodope Tulip, etc. Forests abound with various wild fruit – all of them of proven flavour. There is also a great diversity of herbs. Bulgaria’s fauna numbers more than 13,000 species. Rare mammal species are also to be found in the country.
Communication
The country offers a highway network, including six international highways, which meet the international standards and link Europe with the Orient, and the North with the South. Four out of the ten TransEuropean corridors cross the territory of Bulgaria
Bulgaria in Brief 11 – IV, VIII, IX and X. The first airline in the country, Sofia-Burgas, was opened in 1947. Today there are four Bulgaran airports, servicing commercial airlines: Burgas Airport (BOJ), Plovdiv Airport (PDV), Sofia Airport (SOF) and Varna Airport (VAR). Inter-city and long distance bus transport are also well developed. Urban transport services are provided mainly by bus lines, trolley buses, subway and tramways. Petrol stations on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria offer petrol with octane numbers 92, 98 and 95 H-unleaded, as well as diesel fuel. There are petrol stations at each FCPP, along international and secondary roads, and in towns and villages. Railway roads – 6 500 km, the better part of which are electric power operated.
Border and Customs Regulations
On the 1st of January 2007 Bulgaria joined the European Union. Visitors arriving from the EU don’t need a visa, but should carry a passport or other valid identity document confirming the nationality of the bearer. Citizens of some non-EU countries may travel to Bulgaria for tourism and business purposes without a visa if the planned stay in Bulgaria does not exceed 90 days. For further information visit the website of the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country. All other foreigners may cross the border of the Republic of Bulgaria if they hold a valid passport and an appropriate visa (Airport Transit Visa, Transit Visa, Regular Visa or Work Visa). As of 2012, Schengen visa holders have the right for a stay of up to 30 days within 6 months period, withut a short-stay Bulgarian visa. Visitors must have proof of sufficient funds (according to the duration and the conditions of the stay) and onward or return tickets in addition to other documents needed for the next destination. Valid health insurance is required. All visitors to Bulgaria, other than EU nationals, must register as foreigners at the passport directorate on 48, Maria Luisa Blvd. (9th–12th Counter) within five days of arrival. This registration is usually done as a matter of course through the hotel or accommodation establishment. Immigration and entry regulations are very strictly enforced. Passports of all visitors should be valid for at least six months on entry for those requiring a visa, and three months on entry for visa exempt nationals other than those from EU countries, whose passports must be valid for the period of stay.
Traffic Regulations
Traffic rules on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, as well as road signals, are in compliance with European Standards. If you enter Bulgaria in a private vehicle, you must have your driving licence, all original registration and ownership documents (including logbook) as well as insurance valid in Bulgaria. If you have hired a car you must have the original contract document, which should state that the vehicle can be brought into Bulgaria. Participants in a road accident driving a car with foreign registration are obliged to remain on the site and wait for the traffic police to come.Drivers are banned from driving after consuming alcoholic drinks (over 0.5 percent per 1000 in the blood) and/or when they are under the influence of other intoxicating substances.The use of a mobile phone while driving is permitted but only with the help of a hands-free device.Travelling around the country, drivers should not exceed the following limitations in km. per hour:
4
Vignette System
The Vignette system is valid for the National Road Network, except for the ring roads and by-pass roads of populated areas as well as the roads within populated areas. Buying a vignette, you have the right to use over 300 km of motor ways and over 18 000 km of roads for the period specified in the vignette. Where to buy a vignette from? There are more than 3000 points of sale, incl. gasstations, post offices and points of sale.You can also buy a vignette from all border-crossing points (BPCs) of the Republic of Bulgaria. There you will find the units of REA (designatead with the relevant mark). These units are open 24 hours. The prices of vignettes are in Euro (EUR). ATTENTION: Driving road vehicles on the Vignette Network without a valid vignette, is a violation and subject to sanctions in accordance to the Road Traffic Law. Assess carefully the duration of your stay
12 Bulgaria in Brief and buy appropriate vignette. Prices in EURO of vignette types by categories: Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” annual – 665; monthly – 110; weekly – 38; daily – 7 Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” annual – 511; monthly – 85; weekly – 30; daily – 7 Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” annual – 348; monthly – 60; weekly – 22; daily –7 Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” annual – 268; monthly – 46; weekly – 17; daily –7 Category C3 annual – 34; monthly – 13; weekly – 5
Press and Radio Foreign Press
Foreign language newspapers and magazines can be found in the newsstands, as well as at the receptions desk of every hotel.
Foreign Radio
BBC World Service 91.0 MHz Sofia
Bulgarian Radio
Horizont: 103.0 MHz Sofia; 100.9 MHz Varna; 102.5 MHz Bourgas Classic FM Radio 89.10 MHz Sofia JAZZ FM Radio 104 MHz Sofia Darik Radio 105 MHz Sofia
Telephone Services
M-tel, Vivatel and Globul are GSM operators providing digital cellular telecommunication services in Bulgaria. Europe, America, Near East, Japan, Africa and Australia can be dialed directly. All the operators offer prepaid vouchers. For those countries that cannot be dialed directly you must order the call by dialing & 0123. For any other kind of international operator assistance dial & 0123. For some useful telephone numbers please turn to back pages of this guide.
Tourism
Bulgaria is a small country (2% of the territory of Europe), but it is blessed with magnificent nature and offers unique opportunities for various types
of tourism. The temperate climate makes Bulgaria a perfect destination during all four seasons of the year. Virgin natural beauty, ancient cultures, picturesque villages frozen in time, where life marches in the rhythm of centuries long past – these are only some of the visions and emotions you will be able to store forever in your memories. 37 mountains can be found on a territory of only 110 879 sq.km, each different from the others, with its own charm and attractions. Thousands of opportunities to study the wild flora and fauna and tempting hiking trips await all those wishing to enjoy the beauty of Bulgarian nature. In Bulgaria you will witness the colorful traditions, preserved in many parts of the country, taste local culinary specialties and wines or even master some traditional craft. With that many opportunities for an exciting tour of this small country with rich history and culture, the village, spa, ecological, mountain, adventure, religious, and cultural tourism are the fastest growing branches of tourism over the past few years.
Black Sea Coast
Bulgarian sea resorts offer excellent accommodation at five, four, three, and two-star hotels, both seasonal and working all year round, offering a variety of sports and fun activities. The following Bulgarian sea resorts were awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award: Roussalka, Albena, Golden Sands, Riviera, Sunny Day, Elenite, Nessebar Beach, Sunny Beach, Pomorie Beach, Duni, and the International Youth Center in Primorsko. Various harbours and piers provide opportunities for yachting, surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, motor driving. For more info, look for Varna City Info Guide and Burgas City Info Guide, www.cityinfoguide.net
“Bulgaria in miniatures”- a mobile guide A unique information system was launched on the Bulgarian National Holiday (3 March) 2006, which cannot be found anywhere else in Europe. Bulgarian and non-Bulgarian visitors alike can now receive information about some of the most popular historical monuments and natural phenomena in Bulgaria. “Bulgaria in miniatures” is a mobile
Bulgaria in Brief 13
Taste the Difference!
3A, Nikolay Haytov Str.
Tel. +359886 700 269, www.este-restaurant.com
14 Bulgaria in Brief guide created with the support of the three largest mobile phone operators in this country. The most significant historical monuments and natural sites in the capital and other towns have now been sign-posted with the number the visitors could dial in order to find information about them in Bulgarian and English languages. The sites in Sofia include: Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Saint Sophia Basilica, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Monument of Tsar Osvoboditel, National Arts Gallery, National Foreign Art Gallery, Sofia City Hall, Ivan Vazov’s House-Museum, National Theatre of Ivan Vazov, Parliament Building, Unknown Soldier Monument, Saint George Rotund, Sofia University of Kliment Ohridski, Bulgarian National Bank, Boyana Church, National Library of Cyril and Mehtodius, Vasil Levski Monument, Vasil Levski Stadium, and The Russian church of Saint Nicolas. The price for the service is 1.20 leva per minute incl. VAT with the call duration varying between 3 and 5 minutes depending on the site.
Ski Resorts
The winter tourism develops even more intensively. More than EUR 500 million investments were allocated to the Bansko resort, and even more are planned for other traditional winter resort like Borovets and Pamporovo in the coming year. The sustained growth stimulates investments in the branch. The facilities are being renovated while the prices in Bulgaria remain considerably lower than in competitive countries. The capacity of the winter resort increases. During the summer Alpslike mountains offer opportunities for mountain, rock climbing and caving in the 4300 caves (12 are supplied with electricity). Higher mountain areas provide excellent conditions for different sport, e.g. ski mountaineering, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.
Unesco Heritage
The UNESCO List of World Heritage now features over 300 landmarks. Nine Bulgarian wonders seven cultural and two natural sites – are included among them: Rila Monastery, Nessebar, The Kazanluk Tomb, The Sveshtari Tomb, The Madara Horseman, The Boyana Church, The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries, Pirin National Park, Sreburna Lake.
Village Tourism
Village tourism in Bulgaria in recent years successfully competes with that in other European countries. The stay in a Bulgarian village provides a unique opportunity to submerge in a traditional environment and lifestyle, which span times and
cultures. Imagine magical views, charming villas, guest houses and family hotels, organic food, hospitable local people, over 600 mineral springs, the scent of rose oil and you will gain only a glimpse of what is in store for you.
Adventure Tourism
Adventure tourism in Bulgaria is gaining momentum because all regions of the country are equally suitable for high-adrenaline thrills. In most of the mountains you can enjoy incredible rock caves, climb amazing peaks, and finally, soar in the skies with a paraglider. Some of our famous resorts such as Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo offer opportunities to practice winter extreme sports.
Bulgarian cuisine
Bulgarian cuisine consists of plenty of fresh vegetables, eaten raw, roasted or stewed with meat in terra-cotta pots, lots of garlic, onions, oil and spices. Influences of Bulgaria’s neighbours, Turkey and Greece are also present in dishes such as ‘sarmi’ (stuffed vine leaves), moussaka and baklava. A salad and rakia (Bulgarian schnapps) are the obligatory start to the meal. Listed below are traditional Bulgarian Dishes, well worth a try:
Salads
Shopska salata – chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and peppers sprinkled with Bulgarian white cheese Snezhanka – thick creamy yoghurt with chopped cucumber or gherkins, walnuts and garlic Kyopolou – roasted aubergines, peppers, loads of garlic, parsley
Soups
Bob chorba – traditional bean soup with plenty of herbs Shkembe chorba – tripe soup with garlic, vinegar and chilli, quite tasty if you can bring yourself to try it Tarator – cold yoghurt and cucumber soup.
Meat Dishes
Kavarma – meat and vegetable stew, usually served in individual pots Kyufteta – spicy meat balls Kebaptcheta – spicy minced meat, sausage shaped, grilled.
Vegetarian Dishes
Kashkaval (or sirene) pane – fried yellow (or white) cheese Chushki byurek – fried peppers stuffed with egg
Bulgaria in Brief 15
16 Bulgaria in Brief and cheese Sirene po shopski – white cheese, egg, tomatoes and peppers baked in a pot.
Desserts
The garash torta is the Bulgarian equivalent of the Sacher Torte, made from eggs, walnuts and cocoa.
Snacks
Snacks (‘zakuska’) are available all over town in tiny shops or from stands on the street. Banitsa – fillo dough pastry filled with white cheese Gevrek – like a very dry bagel, sold from big bags on street corners For the really adventurous, try Boza – a thick malt drink with a distinct smell. (It’s said to be an acquired taste!)
Tips Business Days
All Government offices are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Most of the private sector companies however have their weekend on Saturday and Sunday too.
National Holidays 1 January – New Year’s Day 3 March – National Holiday /Bulgaria’s Liberation from the Ottoman Empire/ 1 May – Labour and International Worker’s Solidarity Day 6 May – Gergyovden (St. George’s Day), and the Bulgarian Army’s Day 24 May – Bulgarian Education and Culture, and Slavic Script Day 6 September – Unification Day 22 September – Independence Day 1 November – Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners (Holiday for all educational institutions) 24 December – Christmas Eve 25, 26 December – Christmas Days Easter Holidays – 4 days /Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday and Monday
Beggars
As in other big cities, Sofia is also a place where one can meet beggars and homeless people. Although they might be disturbing, ignoring them is the most effective way of coping with the situation. On the other hand there are the predominantly gypsy gangs with small babies who usually have to
hand over their earnings at the end of the day.
Crime
Bulgaria has a middle crime rated compared the other European countries. It make good sense to stick with sensible anticrime measures that you would normally carry out in your home country, such as leaving valuables and passports in the hotel safe and being discreet when handling cash in crowded areas. If you are the victim of a crime here, contact local police to report the incident and hire a translator to accompany you to the police station. (&166) Common European Emergency call number &112 (emergency, police or fire company)
Drugs
All narcotic substances are illegal in Bulgaria and their possession is punishable by law.
Street Dogs
Generally they are harmless and friendly. Should you be unfortunate enough to be bitten, seek medical advice even if the incidence of rabies in the city is minimal.
Ethnic Tolerance
Bulgaria has long been a model of ethnic tolerance on the Balkans and can be proud of the peaceful coexistence between the various ethnic groups.
Gay Scene
Bulgaria is not a destination well-known for diverse gay and lesbian scenes, but still there is a number of gay-friendly places here and homosexual practices are tolerable by the Bulgarian society. However, Bulgaria has not recognized same-sex couples in its legislation.
Features About Bulgarians
• One unique feature is that Bulgarians most often nod for ‘no’ and shake their heads for ‘yes’. Watch out! It can lead to a great confusion. • It is common courtesy to take flowers when invited to someone’s home. These should be an odd number i.e. 3, 5 or 7 stems. 2, 4 or 6 stems are taken only at funerals. • Many public places charge small fees to use their washrooms, usually 0,50 leva. Some of them still have porcelain ‘squat pots’ instead of real toilets. • Bulgarians are a hospitable nation and they will lay a rich table for you. Do your best not to leave anything on your plate or you will hurt your hostess who has slaved over a hot stove for hours to surprise you. If your hosts have young children, remember to bring a bar of chocolate or some treats for them.
Bulgaria in Brief 17
18 BUSINESS IN BG
30 years CAD R&D Center PROGESS Ltd.
is one of the leading Bulgarian companies with more than 30 years experience in the sphere of Information Technologies. Since 1991, the Center is an official partner of the companies DELL™ Inc. and Microsoft® Corp., as a system developer and integrator. At present, the company holds status of Microsoft® Gold Partner, Microsoft® Large Account Reseller, Microsoft® Authorized Education Reseller, Microsoft® IT Academy and was recognized as a 2010 and 2012 Partner of the Year Award Winner – award category Microsoft® Country Partner of the Year at the Microsoft® Worldwide Partner Conferences (WPC) in Los Angeles and Toronto. The Center is one of the initiators and founders of the Bulgarian branch of the International Association of Microsoft Certified Partners (IAMCP). According to the partnership with Dell™ Computer Corporation, CAD R&D Center PROGESS is the first partner of DELL® Inc. on the Balkan peninsula, holds status of Dell™ Enterprise Architecture Certified Partner and offers the world-class service Dell ProSupport™. The main company’s operational activities are trading with technical equipment and software for Information and Communication Technology / ICT/, development of information systems, databases and integrated ICT solutions. CAD R&D Center PROGESS, also delivers services like design, development, installation and maintenance of computer infrastructure and software systems based on Dell™ and Microsoft®. Last but not least, CAD R&D Center PROGESS had always invested in education and qualification of its employees. During the years the company had acquired different major licenses for training and testing of Microsoft® and Dell ™ products. Based on its activities and investments, The State Agency of Accreditations authorized Training and Recreation Centre Progress – Durankulak as official professional education unit in addition to the existing DELL™ Training Center, Microsoft® IT Academy, TCC PROGESS – CTEC (Training and Certification Center – CTEC), ECDL® (European Computer Driving Licence), Prometric® Testing Center, Pearson VUE® Testing Center and Center for professional training.
BUSINESS IN BG 19
If we can define the benefit of partnership with DELL™ Inc. and Microsoft® Corp. in one sentence it would be: „Partnership with Dell and Microsoft is strategic for us and we believe this is the right direction to design, identify the high impact opportunities on the market and offer solutions that are right for focused markets. We see enlarging opportunities to develop our business further together into support and services of cost effective solutions, developed using Microsoft® tools, technologies and products on Dell™ manufactured hardware platforms.”
(Mr. Plamen Mateev – President and CEO of CAD R&D Center PROGESS Ltd.)
Major clients of CAD R&D Center PROGESS Ltd. are: Council of Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria, State Administration of the Republic of Bulgaria, National Electricity Company, Prosecutor`s Office of the Republic of Bulgaria, National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria, Bulgartabac Holding Group, MOTO-PFOHE, Central Cooperative Bank, VIVACOM, Bulgarian Red Cross, etc.
For more information:
www.progress.bg 1574 Sofia; 69A, Shipchenski prohod Str. Tel.: +359 2 870 41 59; +359 2 870 35 56; +359 2 870 91 11 Fax: +359 2 973 38 53
20 overview ACADEMICA 2011 www.academica2011.com
The sport complex offers excellent conditions for practicing football in its two variants – standart field and small pitch or the so called futsal. Come to play sports in the modernized complex covered with the latest generation artificial turf. It is the place where your sporting dreams may come true! Come to 125 “Tsarigradsko Shosse” or slot a match by phone: 0887 500 711 For more information visit our website:
www.academica2011.com
Office: ACADEMICA Ltd. Geo Milev Distr., Students House - Bl. 3 Entr. A, Fl. 1, phone 02 489 44 73
overview 21 promotional prices during the summer 2013
Stadium Akademika - 4km offers top price 50 leva per hour
for each of 4 playgrounds for football fans
FOOTBALL ¼ playground - till 18.00h ¼ playground - after 18.00h ½ playground - till 18.00h ½ playground - after 18.00h Whole playground - till 18.00h Whole playground - after 18.00h Football game - till 18.00h Football game - after 18.00h
35 leva per hour 50 leva per hour 80 leva per hour 100 leva per hour 120 leva per hour 200 leva per hour 150 leva per hour 300 leva per hour
22 overview SOFIA CITY REGION
Population: 1 291 591 Area: 1 310,8 sq. km (1.2% of the national territory) Area dialing code: 00 359 2 Main city: Sofia (capital) Sofia population: 1 202 761 The capital city of Bulgaria is situated in the geographic center of Southeastern Europe thus serving as a natural entrance to Middle East. The city is easily accessible being two hours away by plane from the Central European capitals Vienna and Budapest, and providing easy connection to the other big European cities. The tourists and business travellers have a smooth way into the city whose airport services 295 regular flights per week operated by 20 foreign and 6 Bulgarian airlines to about 40 destinations in the world.
Land
The region occupies the central part of the Sofia Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) encircled by the Balkan Mountains (in the north) and the Vitosha Mountain and the Lyulin Mountain (in the south). The area abounds in curative mineral springs (Gorna Banya, Ovcha Kupel, Bankya). The Vitosha Mountain is an international winter sports center.
Climate
The capital city enjoys moderately hot summers, snowy winters and beautiful springs and autumns.
Through the Centuries
Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the second oldest city in Europe. It has been given several names in the course of history and the remnants of the old cities can still be seen today. Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. It bore that name when it became part of the Bulgarian state at the beginning of the ninth century and was soon recognised as one of the most important feudal towns, acquiring the Slavic name Sredets. Near Sofia lies Boyana church, which is one of the most valuable memorials of Bulgarian and European culture. The church boasts frescoes, acclaimed by specialists as “the best examples of eastern mediaeval art during its twelve century history”. The decline of Sofia during the Ottoman Empire was followed by the rejuvenation after the liberation
Sofia Municipality 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) & 02 937 73 03 www.sofia.bg in 1879, when Sofia was chosen as the capital of Bulgaria at the First National Constituent Assembly. The plans of 1881-1882 were followed by a brisk and straight-forward period of construction. In 1900 the City Council approved the emblem of Sofia and the motto “It Grows but Does not Age”. During the years of the totalitarian regime (9 September 1944 – 10 November 1989) Sofia became the major national economic, academic and cultural centre. From its years of socialist growth, however, the capital inherited a great deal of problems, which are at present the priorities of the democratically – elected council of Sofia.
People, Towns and Culture
The population of Sofia is almost 1,3 million people with high average population density. In the past couple of years the unemployment rate in the city has been the lowest in the country. The workforce in Sofia is highly educated, motivated and flexible. The city creates and develops 80% of the intellectual recourse in the country with 19 universities situated on its territory. Sofia has been the capital of the Republic of Bulgaria since April 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National Assembly (the Parliament), the President, The Council of Ministers, the central governing bodies of various agencies, political parties and public organizations. Sofia accommodates the largest scientific and cultural institutions in Bulgaria.
Economy
Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of the economic life in Bulgaria. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), generated in Sofia forms 29% of the national GDP. Half of the foreign direct investments in Bulgaria are concentrated in the capital. One third of the annual tax revenues in the national budget come from Sofia. The service sector is far more developed than the production one. Industry plays a secondary role
overview 23 and the most developed sectors are machine tool engineering and metal processing, metallurgy, food and beverage productions, paper and textile industries. The private sector in Sofia is forming 90% of the city economy.
Banks and Exchange
Money can be exchanged safely at most banks and also at reputable exchange bureaux. (Hotels and airports tend to give less favourable rates). Exchange bureaux are required to display clearly the exact exchange rates and they are no longer allowed to charge a commission for money exchange, so check this first. As regards exchange rates, at the time of writing BG lev is worth EURO 1.95583; USD 1.39; GBR 2.24. Banking hours run from 08.30 to 16.30 Monday to Friday. Some are also open till 17.00. Exchange bureaux are usually open from 09.00 until 17.00 or 18.00 and stay open later in the summer. Some of them are open 24 hours throughout the summer. Sofia has plenty of ATMs, with particular concentration in the city center. All major European and North American debit cards are accepted in the country.
Airport Information For flight information: www.sofia-airport.bg Located 10 km (6 miles) east of the city centre, the busy two-terminal airport is linked to the most of the capitals in the world. The bright, modern and smoke-free Sofia Airport has the capacity to serve 2.5 million passengers. A new “Terminal 2” building, designed with special attention to disabled passengers was opened in December 2006. A large parking lot is located in front of the old terminal building. A new multi-level parking garage providing 820 parking spaces is linked to the departures area of the new passenger terminal. The car parks are open non-stop and parking fee is 2 to 3 leva per hour. Avoid taking airport taxis other than “O.K. Supertrans” providing services to the city centre for BGN 10/ Euro 5. The regular N84 bus line cover the route Sofia Airport–Sofia University. Tickets cost BGN 1.
Transport
The names of all streets are written in Cyrillic, which might make finding your bearings harder,
therefore if the map is not sufficient, please ask a local to show you the way. In many places around the city centre are erected large billboards with a public transport city map in English, which may also serve as a point of direction. Driving in Sofia maybe a traumatic experience particularly, during rush-hour (8.00-10.00 h and 17.00-19.00 h). Traffic jams are inevitable along the central city roads and the busier peripheral capital boulevards. A common occurrence along the A1 and A2 motorways, and the international E 79 route, are the Friday night and Sunday afternoon queues of traffic as a lot of capital residents drive in and out into the countryside. In the event of an accident, the traffic police (KAT– & 165, 02 982 49 01) should be called and a report filed. The process is lengthy but necessary for any insurance claims. (Check with your car hire company about formalities!) In the event of a breakdown, there is a 24-hour Road Assistance service: & 02 91 146, from cell phone: &146. The central dispatch office is open 24 hours a day and is located at 3, Pozitano Str. (& 02 980 33 08). English and German are spoken. Charges for towing range are a base fee of Euro 10 plus Euro 1.40 per km. Usual waiting time is between 5 and 30 minutes.
Car Parks
The main car parking areas in the centre are: • Makedonia Sq. • TZUM (Maria Luiza Blvd.) • Corner of Evlogi Georgiev Blvd. and Gurko Str. • Corner of Evlogi Georgiev and Yanko Sakazov Blvd. • Corner of Frityof Nansen and Bulgaria Blvd. (NDK, underground) • NDK (Vitosha Blvd.) You can park for up to 2 hours in the city centre, in the designated “blue zones”: opposite the Parliament, by the National Art Gallery, off Rakovski Street near the Cathedral, etc. The fee for up to one hour parking is 1 lev. Vouchers are usually sold by attendants in these locations and they will help you fill them out. (Please note: some car parks are privately run and prices vary). Use your common sense and don’t park in restricted zones even if everyone else seems to be doing so. Sofia City Council are hot on the heels of their Western counterparts with yellow wheel clamps, and if that’s not bad enough they’ll even tow your car away, usually to the car park
24 overview near the Hilton Hotel or the one next to the Central Railway Station.
Railway
Central post station – 6, Gen. Y.V. Gurko Str. (7-20.30h) Main postal rates: small letters - 0.60lv. (for BG) Package (parcels) 0-1kg - 2.15lv. (for BG), 23.70 - 46.90lv.(for EU) to 5kg - 3lv.(for BG), 43.20-179.90lv.(for EU).
Central Railway Station (Tsentralna Gara), www.bdz.bg This is the main railway station with regular daily services to Bulgaria’s main cities, towns and abroad. Train travel is relatively cheap if you are prepared to put up with longer travelling times but for those who feel daunted driving–it is a more relaxing way to see the country. First class is quite affordable. You must book your seats.
Public Transport
Taxi
Postal Services
Sofia offers cheap and extensive public transport. There are trams, buses, and trolley buses as well as a short section of the city subway (please see map for details) which cover most of the city. There is also a fleet of privately run “Marsh-route taxis”, which covers the more obscure routes. (Ticket price 1.50 lv. Pay the driver as you get on.) Public transport runs daily from 5.30 till 23.00 for buses and trams. Tickets: single use, for any distance on any tram, bus or trolley-bus line. Price: 1 lev. Transit Cards: One day, all lines – 4.00 leva; Five days, all lines – 15.00 leva; One month, all lines – 50.00 leva Single trip tickets are sold at kiosks and newspaper stands at the major stops or by the driver of the vehicle. You have to punch them inside the vehicle (look for the metal punch on the walls). If you transfer you must use another. If your luggage exceeds the size 60x40x40 you have to punch a second ticket. It’s the same if you travel together with your pet. Tickets are inspected at random by conductors. The fine is 20.00 leva.
Bus Lines
The Central Bus Station is a modern transport complex with covered area 7 173 sq. m. The building is air-conditioned and secured. There is also a pharmacy, room for mothers with children, medical center and special equipments for people with disabilities and physical infirmities. Eight shops, a restaurant, cafes and bank branches are situated on the first floor. There are eight toilets and two with features for people with disabilities. At the three up levels are situated carter’s offices. At the ground floor are situated waiting room (1500 sq. m. total area) and 57 ticket desks. About 2 250 travelers per hour pass through the waiting room. The tickets payment can be done cash or by debit and credit cards.
All legal and registered taxi cabs must be yellow and operate by meter. Rates per km (between 0.79 – 0.96 leva), any starting and call-out charges must by law be displayed on the windows.
02 810 810 0878 810 810 www.greentaxi.bg Travellers with Disabilities Sofia isn’t one of the best places in the world to visit if you have mobility problems or other physical disabilities. Although all public buildings are required to be wheelchair-accessible and provide suitable toilet facilities, this is still a matter of future.
Daily Cost
By Western European standards, Sofia is very reasonable priced, with most basic items – from food to clothing. As for dining and drinking, the sheer number of restaurants and bars keeps prices down. On the other hand, accommodation in Sofia is generally more expensive than in the rest of the country and prices are analogous to the average European ones. If you are prepared to buy your own lunch, stay in hostels and stick to the least expensive bars and restaurants, you could scrape by on around BGN 70/Euro 35. Staying in a good B&B, eating out in medium-range restaurants more nights and drinking often in bars, you’ll go through at least BGN 150/Euro 75. If you are planning to stay in the best hotels and
overview 25
Phone: 02 871 00 69, 02 971 71 62
Phone: 02 871 00 69 02 971 71 62
Sping Summer
03 June - 21 June 08 July - 26 July 05 August - 23 August
Phone: 02 871 00 69 02 971 71 62
to have a big night out, expect to spend at least BGN 500/Euro 250. As always, if you are traveling alone you’ll spend much more on accommodation than you would in a group of two or more, most hotels do have single rooms, but they’re fixed at about 70-80 percents of the price of a double. Sofia offers fantastic choice of restaurants at comparatively modest prices. Our recommendation is to avoid the extras and concentrate on the main courses, which start around BGN 10/Euro 5. Tipping at a restaurant is expected – around 10-15 %, even when the service has been dire. Taxi drivers expect a tip too, in the same percentages.
Entertainment
The city is a pleasant location to live and have fun in. Sofia’s appeal is in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and various opportunities for entertainment and tourism. The citizens and visitors of the city can choose from more than 3000 restaurants, cafes and bars which offer an excellent cuisine and a wide variety of good quality wines. The prices are among the lowest in Europe for sure. (See the Daily cost section above). Sofia is also the focal point of cultural and artistic life in the country and boasts 31 movie theatres, 23 theatres, 27 museums and numerous art galleries and exhibition halls. The city hosts a series of international concerts
and festivals with the prices of tickets being significantly lower than in Central and Eastern Europe.
Medical Services
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the full period of your stay in the country. If you are EU citizen, you need to take a EHIC with you. The card gives access to state-provided medical treatment only. You will not be covered for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. Standards of medical care are excellent. The Accident and Emergency Hospital for Sofia is the Pirogov hospital at 21, Gen. Totleben Blvd., opposite the Rodina Hotel (& 02 915 44 11). There is a ward for foreigners in the University Hospital “Sv. Anna” in Mladost-1 (& 02 975 90 00). Your Embassy may be able to refer you to a doctor who speaks your language. For emergencies: Ambulance - &150 Other useful numbers: 24-hour pharmacies: & 178 Private polyclinic:
IMC - & 02 944 93 26
26 overview
WALKING TOUR DISCOVER SOFIA IN 60 MINUTES
9.
1 We are starting with a visit to the church “St. Nikolay Chudotvoretz” (St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker), also known as the Russian Church, which was built 1913. In the crypt of the church is the sepulchre of Archbishop Seraphim, referred to as the miracle-maker. The church has five small gilded domes, and a 19 meters high central dome. The church bells are a donation from the Russian Tsar Nicholas II (1868-1918).
9.
This month our tour continues with several more intriguing places of interest which one must see, among the many other sights in Sofia.
8
2 In a very close vicinity to the church is the building of the Military club, erected in 1907. By itsside is Rakovski street along which we gradually walk on to the intersection with Moscovska street, where the oldest residential building of cooperative ownership is situated.
9.
3 It is called House “Saint Sofia” and was built back in 1929. Part of street Moscovska is covered with thefamous yellow pavement, donated by Emperor Franz Joseph of Tsar Ferdinand.
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18
2 6
8
4
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overview 27 4 5 From here we continue our trip, leaving the church St. Sofia and Alexander Nevski Cathedral on our right. 6 Walking along Rakovski street we reach the building of the Opera, which had been designed in 1921, but was completed in 1953. 7 Then on Dondoukov Boulevard we turn right and walk straight, until we get to the Roman amphitheater of Sofia – the Arena of the Serdica amphitheater. It is 60.5 m long and 43 m wide, only 10 meters smaller than the Coliseum, and used to gather more that 20 000 spectators.
8 Finally we take the small street, called Budapest, and we are off to the former royal palace of Bulgaria, situated in downtown Sofia, at Battenberg square. This is our last stop and the place from where, next month, our tour will take you to even 11 more interesting and full of history sights. 20 4 3
28 Accommodation Room Service TV in All Rooms Minibar in All Rooms Airconditioned Rooms Restaurant Bar Business Facilities Swimming Pool Fitness Facilities Casino Hotel Parking Credit Cards WiFi Handicape Room with good view Please note: Number of stars according to the Bulgarian classification
hotels
1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str. h 15 map D3 fax: +359 2 811 0801 Public transport: Reservations: Tb-9; Tm-12,17 & +359 2 811 0800 e-mail: reservations@grandhotelsofia.bg Room rates: EURO 100-510 Located in the very city center, overlooking the City garden on the doorstep of the National Theatre and the City Art Gallery. The hotel features 105 unique spacious rooms of over 50 sq.m. At guest’s disposal are also 17 comfortable oversized suites including 2 Grand suites and 3 Panorama suites with balcony, providing the finest lodging in Sofia. All rooms have air condition with individually controlled temperature, satellite and pay TV, inroom safe and electronic lock system, separate bathtub and shower cabin, bathroom telephone. Direct international dial telephones, voicemail messaging and high speed Internet access. Conference facilities seating from 10 to 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, Private Lounge, Sofia club, health centre, indoor parking.
111, Alexandar Malinov Blvd. h 36 map back & 02 807 07 07 Public transport: fax: 02 807 07 08 B-413,113,213, 214 e-mail:info@holidayinnsofia.bg www.hisofiahotel.com Room rates: from EURO 70.00 The hotel offers luxurious bedrooms with flat screen television, Hi-speed & Wi-Fi internet access & separate bath & shower. International Executive Chef providing variety of dining experiences ranging from informal all day Brasserie to “InCanto” Fine Dining offering Mediterranean Cuisine. 9 state of art conference suites for between 10 to 300 delegates at highly competitive rates. ESPRIT Fitness & Spa including 19 m indoor swimming pool & gym with latest “Technogym” equipment. In close proximity to airport and downtown. Substantial parking available. 130 rooms (116 double/ twin/ 10 Executive/ 4 Suites).
Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia
Hilton Sofia 1, Bulgaria Blvd. h 4 map C6 & 02 933 50 00 Public transport: fax: 02 933 51 11 Metro, B-72, 604, 76, 94 www.sofia.hilton.com The 8-storey urban business hotel is centrally located e-mail: sofia.information@hilton.com 245 rooms (includes 54 executive & 16 suites), 2 handicapped rooms: free access, 2 special rooms, non-smoking rooms, fitness centre, swimming pool. Enjoy award-winning cuisine and mountain views at Seasons Restaurant or pampering at the Health Club or beauty salon.
100, J. Bourchier Blvd. h 1 map C8 Public transport: & 02 969 22 22 fax: 02 969 22 23 Tm-9 e-mail: reservations.zografski@kempinski.com www.kempinski.com Situated on posh Lozenets hill overlooking the bustling city and with a panoramic view on Vitosha Mountain. 446 rooms and suites, 4 restaurants, 3 bars, most extensive catering facilities in Sofia, pool & fitness, bowling alley, shopping arcade, casino, landscaped party gardens. Comprehensive 5-star services.
Accommodation Accommodation 29
Radisson BLU Grand Hotel
Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan
4, Narodno Sabranie Sq. h 7 map E4 & 02 933 43 33 Public transport: fax: 02 933 43 35 Metro e-mail:info.sofia@radissonblu.com www.sofia.radissonblu.com Room rates: EURO 120 - 145 Enviably located in the most attractive part of the city centre, on the famous yellow paved square, overlooking Parliament and Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The hotel is in close proximity to the business district as well as many of Sofia’s captivating tourist attractions, making it ideal for business and leisure travellers. 136 rooms, including Economy, Standard, Superior, Business Class rooms & suits and Junior suits, non-smoking rooms and rooms with facilities for handicapped people. All they are equipped with high-quality amenities including Free wireless Internet access (WiFi). Fitness Center, Restaurant & Bar on Mezzanine, Irish Flannagans Bar, in-house London Casino. The seven fully-equipped meeting halls accommodate business meetings or special events for 400 guests.
5, Sveta Nedelya Sq. h 3 map C3 & 02 981 65 41 Public transport: fax: 02 980 64 64 Metro; Tm-9,10, 12, 18 e-mail: sofia.sheraton@luxurycollection.com Room rates: EURO 135 - 225 Located in the heart of Sofia, it is ideally situated just a stroll from the business and commercial district. Recognized as one of the city’s grandest hotels and architectural landmarks, the Sheraton Sofia offers guests an exceptional experience of Bulgaria’s finest culture and service. Archways of ceiling-high columns, distinctly constructed doors and moldings, and imported Italian marble floors outline the lobby of the hotel. Offers 184 splendid, soundproof rooms and suites, including one Presidential Suite, 17 spacious suites, 17 smart rooms and 71 non-smoking rooms. Highlights include a complete 24-hour business center, shopping, hairdresser/beauty salon, 24-hour concierge and room service, butler service, laundry, and dry cleaning available seven days a week.
30 Accommodation
les fleurs & 02 810 08 00 Public transport: fax: 02 810 08 01 Tm-1,7 Room rates: EURO 130-250 www.lesfleurshotel.com Situated in the heart of Sofia’s main shopping, business and historical attractions. The hotel features exquisite decor, intuitive service and an extraordinary blend of luxury and convenience in style with its floral surroundings. Hotel offers a floral setting of unmistakable grandeur, ideal for business or leisure. A panoramic lift leads to 31 room across 7 floors. For the culinary at heart, Le Bouquet Restaurant offers delicious food,greatHOTEL stakes and has a special wine selection. Best Western Plus City Hotel Sofia
Best Western PlusStr.City Hotel Sofia 6, Stara Planina phone +359 2 915 15 00 cell +359 885 650 665 www.sofiacityhotel.com Planina Str. h reservations@sofiacityhotel.com
6, Stara 12 map E2 & 02 915 15Enjoy 00 your stay! Public transport: fax: 02 986 20 00 Tm-20,22 office@sofiacityhotel.com Metro www.sofiacityhotel.com Room rates: EURO 69-169 First-class hotel right in the city centre, close to the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, restaurant, 2 conference rooms, currency exchange office, sauna, massage center, hair-dresser, laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden.
Best Western Hotel Expo 149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h30, map back & 02 817 81 00 Public transport: fax: 02 974 30 90 B-114, 1, 2, 3 e-mail: reservations@hotelexposofia.com www.hotelexposofia.com Room rates: EURO 103-183 Located only 7 minutes from the Sofia Airport and City Center, and a step away from the Inter Expo
Center, the hotel offers a wide range of facilities and services. 90 luxurious bedrooms and 9 exclusively decorated suites, equipped with: mini bar, direct dial telephone, Wi-Fi Internet, satellite TV, self-controlled air-conditioning, in-room safe, bathtub, hairdryer and telephone in the bathroom. Free hot drinks in the room. Non-smoking floors. Four meetings rooms, Lobby and Mezzanine Bars, Restaurant, Fitness Center, Casino.
106, Vitosha Blvd. h 43 map B5 & 02 805 81 81 Public transport: fax: 02 805 87 8 Tm-1,7 Reservations: & 02 805 88 88 e-mail: reservations@centralparkhotel.bg www.centralparkhotel.bg Room rates: EURO 150-220 A new hotel in the heart of the city, close at hand to the National Palace of Culture and the finest shopping area of Sofia. 74 elegantly appointed rooms (8 single, 60 double/twin, 6 DeLuxe) with free high speed internet access. 3 Panorama suites with splendid view on Vitosha mountain and the central city square. 2 non-smoking floors available. 2 conference halls with 40 and 70 seats, Business centre, Restaurant, Lobby bar.
Metropolitan Hotel Sofia 64, Tsarigradsko shosse Blvd. map back & +359 2 42 74 900 Public transport: fax: +359 2 875 70 00 Metro, B76, 84, 213 E: reservations@metropolitanhotelsofia.com www.metropolitanhotelsofia.com Room rates: EURO 108-176 Rooms: Single - 31, Double - 141, Suits - 11, Corner Studios - 16, Panorama apartments - 2 Stylish urban hotel with unconventional design welcomes you at the eastern gate of the capital city – 3 km away from Sofia Airport, 4 km from Business Park Sofia and within a walking distance from the International Expo Centre (IEC) and The Mall shopping centre. Discreet and thoughtful service, feel-at-home sensation and varied entertainment make your stay a memorable experience.
Your complimentary copy of the Sofia City®Info Guide is available from hotel rooms, hotel receptions and other public areas at the following top-class Hotels & Services Apartments:
êêêêê Grand Hotel Sofia Hilton Hotel Holiday Inn Sofia Hotel Kempinski Hotel Zografski Les Fleurs Hotel Radisson BLU Sheraton Hotel Best Western Hotel Expo Best Western City Hotel Plus Best Western Pemier Thracia Hotel Casa Boyana Hotel
Anima M Real Estate Apartment House Sofia Be My Guest Hostel Bulgarimo Prime VIP Appartments
Legends Hotel Meg-Lozenetz Hotel Niky Hotel Park Hotel Moskva Rila Hotel Rotosar Hotel Sofia Place Hotel Sofia Plaza Hotel Slavyanska Beseda Hotel Villa Boyana Hotel
Amfora Hotel Arte Hotel Astra Hotel California Hotel Favorit Hotel Hemus Hotel
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APARTMENT RENTALS & HOSTELS
Central Park Hotel Downtown Hotel Maria Luisa Hotel Metropoliten Hotel Novotel Sofia Hotel Princess Hotel Rodina Hotel Triada Hotel
SUBSCRIPTION DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS: Austria Canada Germany Hungary
Malta Netherlands USA
COMMERCIAL AND ECONOMIC SECTION OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA IN: FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, KAZAKHSTAN, MONTENEGRO, MACEDONIA, ROMANIA, RUSSIAN FEDERATION, SERBIA, SLOVAK REPUBLIC, SLOVENIA, THE NETHERLANDS, UK
The House Hotel
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easyHotel Madrid Hotel Pop Bogomil Hotel
OTHERS Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2 Airline Companies Business Centres Car Hire Companies Central Bus Station Cultural Institutes Inter Expo Center Information Center Sofia Galleries Real Estate Companies Top Restaurants and Bars Travel Agencies
& 02 980 85 01
HOTELS
www.cityinfoguide.net
Accommodation 31
32 Accommodation
Hotel Sofia Plaza 154, Hristo Botev Blvd. & 02 813 79 79, 02 813 79 12 office@hotelsofiaplaza.com www.hotelsofiaplaza.com Room rates: EURO 30-75 Business Hotel Sofia Plaza**** was built in 2007. Situated in a prime downtown location on Hristo Botev Blvd., one of the capital’s main boulevards, the hotel is in immediate proximity to the Central Train and Central Bus stations, with local and international schedules. Right on the door step we have a subway station and a bus and tram hub that will take you directly, in no time, to all the parts of Sofia and to the financial and business quarters, to government institutions, to the commercial district and to the tourist sights. They are only 20 minutes’ walk away as well. Sofia airport is situated 9 kilometers away from the hotel and 20 minutes’ drive. Hotel Sofia Plaza offers comfortable accommodations for business and leisure at competitive prices. We offer a variety of seasonal discounts and special offers for accommodation.
Sofia Princess Hotel 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. h 13 map C0 & 02 933 88 88 Public transport: fax: 02 933 87 77 B-60,78,213,305,404 www.bgprincess.com Metro; Tm-3,9,18 e-mail: reservations.sofia@bgprincess.com rates: EURO 93-114 The traditional hospitality meets with its guest at Sofia Princess Hotel. 601 rooms enjoys a superlative position right in downtown facing the most atractive local historical attraction. The hotel has 564 air-conditioned twin and single rooms, 20 connected rooms and 13 suites, 1 Presidential Suite, 3 Disabled Room. Meridien Restaurant, Lobby Bar, Lobby patisserie. Indoor swimming pool, fitness centre. 7 multifunction conference halls and Casino “Princess”.
27, Vasil Levski Blvd. h 17 map C5 & 02 930 52 00 Public transport: fax: 02 930 53 00 B-94, Tb-9,1, 2, 5, 8 hotel@hotel-downtown.net GPS: N 42.696895, www.hotel-downtown.net E 23.319111 offers a perfect setting for business and leisure. 59 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms, including 12 suites, all being a harmonious blend of the cozy comfort of a home and luxurious amenities of a hotel. Free Internet; Meeting facilities up to 60 persons; Restaurant and lobby bar; Fitness, sauna, solarium and massage for maximum guest comfort.
29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 9 map C3 & 02 980 55 77 Public transport: fax: 02 980 33 55 Metro; Tm-20,22 e-mail: reservations@marialuisa-bg.com www.marialuisa-bg.com Room rates: EURO 75-135 The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite building dating back to the turn of the last century and considered one of the national cultural monuments. It is situated in the very heart of Sofia in close proximity to significant business and administrative centers, Ministries and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5 suites, restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking. All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury in-suite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, direct telephone connection, internet access.
Novotel Sofia 115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd. h 55 map back & /Fax +359 290 43 000 Public transport: www.novotel.com Metro; B-84, 204, 604 Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the most important business districts of Sofia and is only 10 min from the historical city e-mail: reservae-e-
Accommodation 33 airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to The Mall, Sofia’s biggest shopping and entertainment center. Either you come for business, for a meeting or with your family, you will be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge in all hotel spaces. Take advantage of the restaurant and the bar or relax in our fitness where massages are also available. Parking is free for all hotel guests.
e-mail:reservations@hotel-astra.bg www.hotel-astra.bg The complex is located in a tranquil but a communicative area, in close proximity to Vladimir Vazov Blvd. and the main roads to Burgas and Varna. The complex has a modern equipped conference hall with capacity of 50 people, designed for the organization of conferences and special events. Astra Hotel offers to its guests 50 rooms Room rates: EURO 55-90 The price includes breakfast, VAT, insurance and tourist fee. The restaurant is the preferred setting for holding weddings, banquets, business cocktail-parties, private celebrations and parties. The Hotel offers excellent conditions for the organization of meetings and events.
5, Venera Str. h 34 map back & 970 67 67; fax: 970 67 10 Public transport: e-mail: info@hoteltriada.com B-9,72 www.hoteltriada.com Room rates: EURO 60-123 Modern and elegant, “Triada” is a 4-star hotel, situated nearby the city center of Sofia, easy accessible with public transport, just in front of the beautiful “Geo Milev” park. The hotel complex features: 62 spacious rooms including 5 luxury apartments, 2 conference halls, business center, modern restaurant with summer garden and a SKY Bar, that offers a splendid view to the city, revealing the night light of the capital! We are expecting you!
California 30, Bigla Str. h 48 map D9 Lozenets Distr. Public transport: & 02 962 93 00 Metro line 2 - J. Bourchier St. fax: 02 962 55 42 Tm - 10, B - 88, 98, 120 e-mail: info@hotelcaliforniasofia.com www.hotelcaliforniasofia.com 1 km away from NDK. 14 standard rooms, 4 deluxe rooms, 3 superior deluxe rooms, 3 suites, 1 penthouse. All bathrooms equipped with Jacuzzi, some with steam shower. Sauna, ADSL, Internet access. Tavern in traditional Bulgarian style, lobby-bar. Credit cards accepted.
193, Knyaz Boris I Str. h 52 map C0 & + 359 2 931 93 91 Public transport: fax + 359 2 803 50 43 Metro, B-213,214 cell: + 359 885 85 89 85 info@hotelfavorit.bg www.hotelfavorit.bg 5, Knyaz Al. Dondukov Blvd. h 11 map D3 & 02 402 71 00, 02 402 71 12 Public transport: fax: 02 402 71 09 Tm-20, 22 www.artehotelbg.com Room rates: Euro 110-130 Just around the corner of the Presidency and the Ministry Council buildings. The guests live together with Bulgarian art & world’s classical music masterpieces. The chamber-size restaurant with 50 seats provides sophisticated Italian food and artistic atmosphere.
108, Besarabia Str. & 02 945 50 80 fax: 02 945 59 55
map back Public transport: Tb-1
The newly opened Hotel Favorit is situated on a quiet street in downtown Sofia - close to Lavov Most metro station and at a walking distance from the Central Bus and Railway Stations. The hotel offers a warm and cosy atmosphere in 19 rooms and 5 suites elegantly furnished and comfortable. They come with free Internet, flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, central heating, private bathroom and a minibar. Stylish restaurant.
56, Cherni Vrah Blvd. map back & 02 961 79 30 Public Transport: fax: 02 961 79 33 Metro; Tm – 10 B - 88, 120 LEGENDS hotel is situated in Lozenets district, 1,5 km away from Sofia center, and the metro station
34 Accommodation is 300 m away. The hotel offers a unique combination of high-quality of service, luxury and comfort. LEGENDS hotel features 43 double rooms and 4 apartments. Its rooms are spacious and bright with beautiful finishing touches. All of them have luxurious furniture and impress with their comfort. The rooms and apartments have large and cozy beds, mini-bar, TV set with satellite programs, telephone, WIFI internet, air-condition with individual adjustment, bathroom with a bath-tube, 3 pairs of blackout drapes, 8 rooms have a balcony. The hotel offers a restaurant, a lobby bar and 2 conference halls, all with WIFI internet. The superb restaurant is with capacity up to 120 people, a perfect place for official lunch or dinner, wedding celebrations and other events. In the tylish restaurant the guests can enjoy the creative cuisine designed by our Chef. The conference halls are with maximum capacity up to 100 people, with natural daylight, coffee breaks space, balcony, extra space for team work.
Meg-Lozenetz
84, Krum Popov Str. & 02 965 19 70 h 26 map C7 fax: 02 965 19 71 Public transport: & 02 963 35 23 (restaurant) Tm-6,9; B-94 e-mail: reservation@meg-lozenetz.com www.meg-lozenetz.com Room rates: EURO 75-150 It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia Airport. The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double and triple rooms. Rooms offer internet connection, AC, mini bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, room service. Restaurant, international cuisine, newly opened lobby bar with special menu, parking.
25, Nezabravka Str. h 28 map G8 & 02 971 10 24 Public transport: fax: 02 963 20 41B-413; Metro www.parkhotelmoskva.net e-mail: marketing@parkhotelmoskva.net Room rates: EURO 63-83 Located in the greenest part of Sofia – Borisovata Gradina (The Boris’s Garden). The unique park view, a convenient infrastructure and a high quality service make it suitable not only for large scale business events but also for a refreshing stay in the capital of Bulgaria. The hotel offers 354 rooms (572 beds). Three restaurants, congress centre with 7 modern equipped halls and an open-air parking lot are available for the guests.
Rotasar Liditse Str. & Kosta Lulchev Str. h 42 map back & 02 971 45 71 Public transport: e-mail: hotel@rotasar.com B-72; Tb-4,8 rotasar@abv.bg www.rotasar.com Room rates: EURO 30-50 Small modern hotel, situated in a reputable residential area, not far from Tzarigradsko Shosse. 8 suites, 12 rooms, restaurant. Credit cards accepted – Visa, Eurocard, Electron.
Hotel Rila Sofia
16, Neofit Rilski Str. h 27 map B4 & 02 952 30 58, 02 953 01 10 Public transport: fax: 02 951 60 91 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8 & 02 851 19 15 – restaurant e-mail: office@hotel-niky.com Room rates: EURO 35-105 16 Suites, 3 Single and 4 Double rooms. All rooms offer free of charge Internet accesses, cable T.V., direct telephone line, kitchenette (coffee, tea making facilities), room service, airconditioning, own heating. BBQ restaurant-garden with authentic bulgarian cuisine.
6, Kaloyan Str. h 56 map C3 & + 359 2 93 79 100 Public transport: Fax: + 359 2 988 13 70 Tm-10, 12, 18, 20, 22 Cell: + 359 895 490 447 Metro E-mail: reservations@hotelrila.bg Room rates: EURO 34 – 65 The Rila Hotel is located in the very centre of Sofia close to the Presidency, the Council of Ministers, the Court House, the Bulgarian National Bank, Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the National Art Gallery and the city garden. The guests of the hotel enjoy the convenience of its closeness to the main administrative, financial and trade institutions, provided at competitive prices.
Accommodation 35 separate bath-room, cable TV, Wi-Fi, refrigerator. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access.rooms, wireless internet, cable TV, air-conditioning.
Slavyanska Beseda Hotel 3, Slavyanska Str. h 57 map D4 & 02 935 98 35, 02 935 98 33 Public transport: fax: +359 2 935 98 32, 981 25 23 Tb-9, Tm-12,18 cell: +359 885 02 02 21 Bus-84, 284 e-mail: reception@slavyanska.com Metro www.slavyanska.com Slavyanska Beseda Hotel offers a fantastic location and an ideal accommodation for both business and leisure travelers looking for budget and affordable lodging but who will not sacrifice balanced quality and fair service. Nested in the heart of the financial, business and government city quarters. Comfortable and spacious rooms. All rooms have street view and some balcony. 92 rooms distributed in 5 floors and serviced by one elevator. Some rooms have experienced significant upgrades and renovations but, in all cases, rooms are in proper and correct working condition.
29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 25 map C4 & + 359 2 4811400 Public transport: fax: + 359 2 4811401 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 reservation@sofiaplacehotel.com www.sofiaplacehotel.com Room rates: EURO 50 – 90 Located in the heart of the city, near the major business and shopping centres as well as cultural monuments Sofia Place Hotel offers 20 modern designed rooms equipped with telephone, mini bar, air-condition, Wi Fi, cable TV and central heating. But our best quality is the staff! Personal attention to every guest is our “speciality”!
4, Verila Str. h 21 map B5 & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: &/fax: 02 951 57 60 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 cell: 0886 51 35 82 e-mail: kashtata@gmail.com www.hotelthehouse.com Rooms rates: EURO 31-43 Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the National Palace of Culture. All rooms are designed according to European standards - air-conditioning,
easyHotel Sofia - LOW COST 108, Aldomirovska Str. h 39 map back /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3. 8,10 fax: 02 822 82 15 e-mail: enquiries@sofia.easyhotel.com www.easyhotel-sofia.bg www.easyhotel.com Room rates: EURO 19 - 34 EUR easyHotel Sofia is part of the British BUDJET hotel chain easyHotel.com, which is unique for offering modern facilities and impeccable service at unusually low rates. The brand new hotel is on just 5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. All the 57 rooms (48 small, 8 standard, 1 special needs room) are with windows, bathroom, double bed, TV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning. The earlier you book, the less you pay. Check in-3.00pm; Check Out-10.00am; Check best rates and book at www.easyhotel.com
12, Dragovitsa Str. h 34 map back & 02 944 89 52 Public transport: fax: 02 943 34 71 B-11,305,413,72 e-mail: hotel@madridbg.com B- 404; Tm-20,22 www.madridbg.com Cosy and quiet family hotel, situated close to the city center and Poduyane railway station. 14 rooms (2 single, 10 double, 2 double deluxe) and a suite. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access.
Pop Bogomil 5, Pop Bogomil Str. h 29 map D1 & 02 983 11 65 Public transport: fax: 02 983 70 65 Tb-9, 6, 7; B-53, 309 cell: 0886 953 582 e-mail: hotelpopbogomil@dir.bg Room rates: EURO 30-35
36 Accommodation Hostels
Be My Guest Hostel
13, Ivan Vazov Str. h 44 map D4 & 02 989 50 92, 02 980 21 42 Public transport: fax: 02 989 00 92 Tb-9, 1, 2, 5, 8 cell: 0889 979 749 Tm-12, 18 e-mail: bemyguest@abv.bg www.bemyguesthostel.com Room rates: EURO 10-15 Shared and private rooms ensuite. Located just behind the “Ivan Vazov“National Theater. Easily accessible from the airport by bus number 84 or taxi, and from central bus and railway station by tram number 18 and 12.If you are looking for simple, comfortable and clean accommodation, then this hostel is the place for you.
Apartment Rentals
40, Antim I Str. map B2 & +359 2 490 2435 Public transport: cell: +359 879 122 133 Metro, Tm 20,22 e-mail: v@PrimeRentalsBG.com www.PrimeRenalsBG.com Situated in different locations close to Sofia’s main attractions, the cozy and comfortable Prime Rentals in Sofia provide excellent, newly renovated accommodation paired with independence and privacy of your own apartment that combine communicative locality and stylish interior. With a taste of luxury, away from the vanity of the expensive hotels, we are offering you a cozy home environment during your business travel or vacation.
VIP Apartments Sofia 4, Golo Bardo Str. h 46 map back Lozenets Distr. Public transport: & 02 960 28 88 Tm-9 fax: 02 960 28 37 e-mail: info@aphouse-sofia.com Rates: EURO 100-200 Located in the fashionable neighborhood of Lozenets, the complex is only 2 km away from the ideal center of Sofia. Furnishing – luxury category, Internet access, air-conditioning, cable TV with 60 programs, non stop security of the building, restaurant (catering), medical services (by order) Brand new, located in the city center – close to the banks and administrative buildings of the public institutions. It Brand new, located in the city center – close to the banks and administrative buildings of the public institutions. It offers 14 apatments, all equipped with kitchens, direct telephone, Internet access, laundry, dry-cleaning, cable TV, air-conditioning, security guaranteed. Credit cards accepted.
28, Neofit Rilski Str. h 53map B4 & +359 2 989 59 69 Public transport: cell +359 896 865 800/ 801 Tb 1,2 5,8,9 www.vipapartsofia.com info@vipapartsofia.com VIP Apartments Sofia – book online fully furnished serviced apartments and get a 60-80sq.m. flat for the price of a hotel room. Excellent value for money, homely environment, free Wi-Fi, DVD, cable TV, A/C. Rila Monastery Shuttle, tours and transfers provided.
Real Estate Agencies Anima-M Ltd. 75, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd. map B5 & 02 852 06 53, &/fax: 02 953 17 66 cell: 0888 839 516 anima_m@realtor.bg;office@anima-mbg.com www.anima-mbg.com
Ognian Apartments
Sleeping accommodations 38, Opalchenska Str. cell: +359 896 695 067 & +359 2 832 73 30 ognian_48@abv.bg www.ognian-nikolov.com 6 apartments, located in the central part of Sofia, near the Mall of Sofia. All apartments are in the same building, located opposite the lovely park, very close to the subway station “Opalchenska”. The apartments can accommodate up to 4 persons. They are supplied with cable TV, Wi-Fi, and all modern conveniences. Good transport connections to all parts of the city.
21, Misia Str. cell: + 359 878 29 76 60 +359 896 08 86 08 info@bulgarimmo.com bulgarimmo.com BULGARIMMO Estate Agency - our Expat Department agents fluent in English and French will assist you both in finding the right property and settling in Sofia.
Accommodation 37
oUTSKIRTS
Sofia has the unique advantage to be surrounded by a green mountain belt. The residential quarters Boyana, Dragalevtsi, Gorna Banya, Knyazhevo, Vladaya and Pancharevo with their closeness to the city can be a very interesting alternative choice for your stay. There you can combine the dynamics of the city with relax in beautiful nature and fresh air and all these at quite competitive prices. There are a lot of churches, monasteries and other sightseeings to be visited, which will make your impressions of Sofia unforgettable.
Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel 23, Ivanitsa Dantchev Str., Boyana District h 16 map back & 02 805 08 00, fax: 02 805 08 05 Public transport: e-mail: hotel@casaboyana.com fax: 02 805 08 05 www.casaboyana.com Room rates: EURO 75-175 The new hotel is nestled in the most peaceful airy residential area of the Sofia – Boyana, just steps away from the Boyana Church, National History Museum, Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel 10 min. from the city center and 20 min. drive from the Sofia International Airport. 14 luxury rooms and 2 elegant suites with Jacuzzi, splendid city or mountain view.
Montecito Hotel & Restaurant 357, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. e-mail:reservations@hotelmontecito.bg restorant@hotelmontecito.bg Phone: +359 2 973 62 60 h 16 map back Fax:+359 2 973 62 46 Public transport: cell: +359 888 004 820 B-5,6,7,7B,8 One of the most popular restaurants in Sofia - Restaurant “Gorublyansko hanche” completely changed its image. Changed modern and luxury restaurant with unique vision open for its guests under the name “Montecito”.The restaurant offers 300 seats arranged so that guests have a view from every corner of the central area, dance floor and roof panel. The garden has a capacity of 140 seats and charm with lots of greenery and cozy corners. With its great atmosphere that exudes romance and coziness restaurant is very suitable to celebrate birthdays, name days, family celebrations, banquets, cocktail parties, business meetings or dinners. Do you dream of a wonderful holiday? “Montecito” will make that true!
409, Tsar Boris III Blvd. h 37 map back Knyazhevo District Public transport: & 02 957 15 09, fax: 02 857 06 1 B-58,59 cell: 0888 81 89 38, www.hotelamfora.dir.bg Room rates: EURO 20 (Suites: EURO 70) 14 rooms and 3 suites. The Amphora family hotel offers you the opportunity to combine your business engagements in the Bulgarian capital with a nice rest on the slopes of the Vitosha mountain. The hotel is situated on the main road from Sofia to the towns of Knyazhevo and Vladaya and is only 5 min. on foot from the public transportation. At the hotel a guarded parking lot is also available. Boyana District 5, Sborishte Square &/fax: 02 959 05 29 h 22 map back www.villa-boyana.com Public transport: e-mail: villa.boyana@mail.bg B-107, 64 Room rates: EURO 40-50 Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few minutes from “National History Museum”, a few meters away from the world famous “Boyana Church” and only ten minutes by car from the downtown of Sofia. Comfortable well-appointed bedrooms. Special welcomes by request.
38 bars & restaurants
Happy Delivery with tWO prizes from forbEs bulgaria For the first time “Forbes Bulgaria” magazine gave E-VOLUTION AWARDS at a special ceremony at the Paradise center - awards for the most successful business practices in e-business and information technology area. The magazine defined a total of 22 categories, divided into two groups: companies engaged in e-business and companies that provide IT services. The entries were judged by an independent jury which consisted of experts from the IT business, chaired by Sasha Bezuhanova. Happy Delivery received two of the prizes: for “Customer experience” and “Innovation”. This is a great recognition for the delivery company which celebrated its third birthday in May and it is already the largest company delivering food to any home and office in Bulgaria. Happy Delivery offers delivery of food and drinks from the menu of the Happy Bar & Grill restaurant chain in several Bulgarian cities: Varna, Bourgas, Plovdiv, Sofia and Rousse. Since its creation, the site of the service - www.dostavka.happy.bg – has registered 46 visits from various countries. It is unique for the customers not only with the possibility to order food online, but also to have fun. Thanks to the special modules for orders, designed to meet the individual preferences, visitors of the site are able to make their own menu by combining products in the dishes.
bars & restaurants 39
www.happy.bg www.dostavka.happy.bg 0700 19 000
40 bars & restaurants Please note: the price guide is an approximate dinner cost s - up to 25 lv per person; ss - up to 40 lv per person sss - over 40 lv per person
Bar & Dining
Maraia Classic
Club of Architect
Evlogiy and Hristo Georgievi Blvd. (map D6) ss & Hristo Smirnenski Blvd. - the corner & 02 865 85 05 Open: 00.00-24.00 This trendy place is highly popular with Sofia’s young and business elite.
11, Krakra Str. (map F4) ss Open: 12.00-24.00 cell: 0888 880 979 Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest salad, dishes, desserts & rich list of wine. Summer & winter garden: 110 seats Credit cards: accepted
Maraia Fusion
ss
123, Rakovski Str. (map D3) & 02 980 62 60 www.barmaraia.com
Bolkan Tarkan
91, Tsar Ivan Asen II Str. (map G5) cell 0876 91 91 88 tarkan.bg@abv.bg www.tarkan.bg Welcome to the new Bolkan restaurant Tarkan.
www.happy.bg www.dostavka.happy.bg 0700 19 000 145, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D4) cell: 0888 181 071 4, Sveta Nedelya Sq. (map C3) cell: 0888 181 070 Mladost 3 Distr., Complex Asko Denitsa (map back) cell: 0888 181 072 101, Al. Stamboliyski Blvd., Mall of Sofia, floor 3 (map A2) cell: 0886 666 029 53,Todor Kableshkov Blvd. (map back) cell: 0884 990 914 36, Bogatitsa Str. (map B9) cell: 0888 181 068 12-14, P.Slaveykov Blvd. cell: 0884 990 919 6, Jawaharlal Nehru Blvd. cell: 0884 805050
s
Beerhouse
Die alte Lampe
Niky Beerhouse
s 16, Neofit Rilski Str. (map B4) & 02 851 19 15 open: 12.00-24.00 A real green paradise in the center of Sofia. A great variety of Bulgarian cuisine, wines and draft beers. Perfect place for any occasion.
Pri Kmeta /Mayor’s pub/ Paradise Center (map back) 100, Cherni vrah Blvd. cell: 0882 999 004
ss
2, Kotel Str. (map A8) & 02 964 03 86, cell: 0885 63 53 23 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.fenerite.com All credit cards accepted.
3, Parizh Str. (map E3) & 02 981 33 99 Open: 11.30-04.00 www.prikmeta.com Own Brewing Systems.
s
bars & restaurants 41
42 bars & restaurants Bulgarian
Bulgary
ss 71, Dondukov Blvd. (map D3) & 02 843 54 19, cell: 0887 45 50 50 www.restaurant.bulgary.bg Open: 12.00-24.00 One of the most authentic Bulgarian restaurants offers a unique ambience of original photographs and paintings documenting Bulgarian his www.restaurant.bulgary.bg Open: 12.00-24.00 One of the most authentic Bulgarian restaurants offers a unique ambience of original photographs and paintings documenting Bulgarian history. Culinary temptations for every palate and substantial wine list. Beautiful summer garden.
NDK - Prono 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map B6) ss Open every day: 12.00 - 00.00 & +359 2 9 630 308 cell: +359 885 630 308 e-mail: chevermeto@chevermeto-bg.com www.chevermeto-bg.com Restaurant Chevermeto combines authentic atmosphere, dishes prepared according to old receipts and a folklore show. Every evening a whole lamb is roasted on fire as “cheverme”, where the name of the restaurant comes from. If you want to try all these take your friends and bring them to Chevermeto, the way it is done by ministers, presidents, royalties and celebrities.
Grozd ss 21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map F4) & 02 944 39 15 cell: 0888 609 602 Open: 11.30-24.00 The fairly small, but emblematic restaurant has been in that exact spot for 10 years now. An extensive menu of hearty food to suit all tastes.
Manastirska Magernitsa s 67, Han Asparuh Str. (map C5) & 02 980 38 83, 980 33 03 Cell: 0899 949 400 Open: 11.00 - 24.00 “Manastirska Magernitsa” Restaurant offers traditional Bulgarian dishes with great taste. There you will find a variety of salads, dishes, delicious meats and other food, prepared on embers using special home recipes. By combining modern facilities with authentic traditions, meeting all European standards, restaurant “Manastirska Magernitsa” has become a favorite place for relaxing and eating quality traditional Bulgarian food.
40, Pozitano Str.(map B3) s & 02 471 65 77 cell: 0894 312 131 Open: 10.00 - 02.00 Tavern in the heart of Sofia, where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes to indulge in bit atmosphere of the background of our folk music. Here you will found comfort, excellent menu and first class service.
Pod Lipite /Under the Linden-Trees/
ss
Lozenets Distr. (map E7) 1, Elin Pelin Str. & 02 866 50 53 02 866 50 59 Open: 12.00-01.00 www.podlipitebg.com Should you wish to combine an all-in-one tasting of typical Bulgarian dishes and sensing the artistic spirit of Old Sofia, book a table at this place. An authentic folklore programme every evening.
Pri Yafata 29, Kn. Al. Dondukov Blvd. (map E2) & 02 980 02 50 Open: 10.00-24.00 The table of the old Bulgarians! Traditional Bulgarian domestic interior, Balkan live music, Charcoal grill
ss
bars & restaurants 43
44 bars & restaurants Fast Food
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) KFC Garibaldi Garibaldi Sq., 2, Angel Kanchev Str.
s
KFC Stamboliyski 28, Alexandar Stamboliyski Blvd. KFC Lavov Most Lavov Most Sq., 172, Slivnitsa Blvd. KFC Lyulin Lyulin 7 area, Dzhavaharlal Neru Blvd. KFC CCS Arsenalski Blvd., City Center Sofia, 3 fl. KFC Arena Mladost Business Park, Mladost 4 area, 2 fl. /food court/ KFC Saharov Mladost 1 area, 25, Andrey Saharov Blvd. KFC Serdika Center 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., Serdika Center, 2 fl. KFC The Mall 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., The Mall, food court www.kfc.bg
McDonald’s
100, James Bourchier Blvd.(map C8) ss (Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia) cell: 0882 999 001 www.captaincook.bg Open: 11.00-24.00 An unique approach to the modern fish-orientated cuisine.
Teacher Ivan’s House ss Lozenets Distr. (map D9, California Hotel) 30, Bigla Str. & 02 962 55 42 Open: 12.00-24.00 Cozy, old fashioned, Bulgarian atmosphere, a rich variety of Black Sea fish: scad, baby blue fish, blue fish, turbot, gar fish (our own catch), as well as a choice of Mediterranean Sea fish. Delicious national dishes. Open fire place for further coziness. All major credit cards accepted.
French
s
69, W. Gladston Str. (Slaveykov Sq.) (map C4) cell: 0884 000 307 Open: 07.00-23.00 23, Knyaginya Maria Luisa Blvd. (map C2) cell: 0884 000 302 Open: 07.00-23.30 cell: 0884 000 302 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map C6) cell: 0884 000 305 Open: 00.00-24.00
Fish Restaurant Barbados 34A, Gen. E. I. Totleben Blvd. (map A4) s (in Hotel Shipka building) & 02 954 12 34 e-mail: reservation@barbados-bg.com www.barbados-bg.com A round bar in the middle of the main hall is the natural centre of aquatic décor. The restaurant’s calling cards – “Good to the last fish” forecasts the meal.
78, Tsar Simeon Str. (map D2) ss & 02 983 14 17 cell: 0887 52 33 76 The oldest french restaurant Provides a comfortable yet “familiale” atmosphere, always welcoming and always friendly. French food, French mood. Closed for lunch Saturday. Sundays off. Dinner reservation necessary. Offers lunch menu.
21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Phone: 02 944 39 15 02 946 34 90 Typical Bulgarian Cuisine Open: 11.30 - 24.00 Seven days a week
bars & restaurants 45
46 bars & restaurants Greek Kumbare
ss
14, Saborna Str. (map C3) & 02 981 17 94 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.kumbare.com This Mediterranean gem in the heart of Sofia serves wonderful, traditional favorites. Widely regarded as one of the city’s best places for Greek cuisine, tends to get packed, so it’s best to show up early.
La Vitta e Bella ss 6, Stara Planina Str. (map E2, Best Western Plus City Hotel Sofia) & 02 989 70 07 Open: 12.00 - 23.00 The interior and lyrical Mediterranean music transports you under a climbing vine in a typical Sicilian courtyard. The food prepared here is simple, nourishing and tasty, in the best traditions of Italian cooking. Friday&Saturday live music.
Japanese
Kohinoor
s
3, Han Asparuh Str. (map C5) Reservations & Deliveries: cell: 0882 532 541 Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 12.00 - 22.30 Saturday: 17.00 - 22.30
Italian
56, Bigla Str., Lozenets Distr. (map E9) ss & 02 962 32 75, cell: +359 89 550 06 06 Open: 11.00-22.00 5, Lachezar Stanchev Str., Dianabad Distr. (map back) Sopharma Business Towers & 02 967 66 21, cell: +359 89 550 06 05 Open: 08.00-24.00 www.lapastaria.net Fresh pasta, pizza, seafood, home-made desserts - You can taste all these dishes with a delight when visitingour Italian restaurants La Pastaria. We have gathered all the important ingredients for a class and successful restaurant- the comfort, the polite and discreet service, the class wines, the homemade pasta and desserts, the tasteful dishes, the light and unobtrusive music. We are not just cooking a food, we are creating a taste, a vision of every dish with love and pleasure. That’s why the food prepared in La Pastaria is ... an emotion! La Pastaria… where the food is emotion!
96, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D3) cell: 0882 999 012 The Mall, 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. (map back) cell: 0882 999 013 100, James Bourchier Blvd.(map C8) Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia cell: 0884 80 40 40 www.happysushi.bg www.sushi.happy.bg, 0700 19190
ss
Korean
Korean Restaurant YUN
s Izgrev Distr. 34, Elemag Str. (map G9) & 02 963 03 65 Open: Every day 12.00 -11.00 Karaoke with Korean, Japanese and English music. Reservations after 6.00pm Is one of the few places in Sofia where you will find authentic Korean food, setting and ambience. Everything here is redolent of the exotic East, from the genuine Korean products, vegetables and fruits to the sauces and spices imported from Korea.
bars & restaurants 47 AUTHENTIC BULGARIAN CUISINE
Restaurant POD LIPITE
1, Elin Pelin Str. phone: 02/ 866 50 53 02/ 866 50 59 cell: 0886 80 12 27
Restaurant Pri Yafata & 02 980 02 50
29, Kn. Al. Dondukov Blvd.
Balkan live music
Charcoal grill
Traditional Bulgarian domestic interior & Garden
The table of the old Bulgarians
48 bars & restaurants Local and International RESTAURANT AQUARIUM Aquarium s 17, Denkoglu Str. (map B3) For reservations: cell: 0882 484 599 www.restorantaquarium.com Aquarium Restaurant is designed in an unusual and not very typical for Sofia, style, with very interesting interior solutions. This unique design is combined with diverse choice of foods from the Mediterranean and European cuisine. Dishes are prepared from high quality fresh products, following the rules of most elaborate culinary traditions. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of salads, fish, squids, meats and desserts prepared by our chefs. Our sophisticated dishes will be a real pleasure for you and your friends. Concept
s
12, Ivan Vazov Str. (map D4) cell: 0893 414 412 & 02 981 60 80 www.conceptrestaurant.bg Credit cards: accepted
Este Restaurant
Continental Plaza
ss Restaurant & Sushi Bar (map B6) National Palace of Culture - PRONO 1, Bulgaria Square Open: 11.00-24.00 For reservations: 02 951 54 30 / 0882 999 902 E-mail:office@continentalplaza-bg.com www.continentalplaza-bg.com Top Center, a beautiful Garden Credit cards: accepted
Sky Plaza
ss Restaurant - Panorama (map B6) National Palace of Culture, 1 Bulgaria Sq., floor 8 Open:11.00-24.00 For reservations: 02 916 62 01; 0888 313 171 E-mail: office@skyplaza-bg.com www.skyplaza-bg.com The best View in Sofia Credit cards: accepted
The House
s
3A, Nikolay Haytov Str. (map H9) cell: 0886 700 269 www.este-restaurant.com Taste the Difference!
ss 4, Verila Str. (map B5) & 02 952 08 30, 02 951 57 60 cell: 0888 800 376 Open: 12.00-24.00 No matter which of the main dining areas you sit in at this friendly and comfy house, you’ll receive amiable service and variety of tasty treats.
Outskirts Boats Restaurant
s
231, Samokovsko Shose Str. (map back) For reservations: 0888 000 052 Open: 10.00 -22.00
Plana Restaurant s 85, Inzh. Ivan Ivanov Blvd. (map back) & +359 2 920 03 90 www.hotelplana.com The restaurant has cozy atmosphere, excellent service and varied cuisine. The garden, with its freshness and exotic is a perfect place for a nice lunch or dinner, business meetings and organization of cocktails.
The Boats Restaurant on the Lake of Pancharevo brings the rich local flavors and seasonality to the menu and your table, and for this reason, the menu changes based on what is currently in season.
bars & restaurants 49
Open daily for lunch and dinner, this cozy spot is found only 10 km away from the central part of Sofia. This delicious delight brings the eclectic tastes of both food and entertainment to you in the form of boating and walking with water wheel in the lake. After your walk stop by and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that this place has to offer.
Dragalevtsi District (map back) ss & 02 967 10 58 fax: 02 967 50 07 Open: 12.00-24.00 www.vodenitzata.com One of the top ranked restaurants due to its magnificent scenery. During the winter months 2 fireplaces illuminate the stone walls. The impression of the programme show can be multiplied by tasting traditional Bulgarian specialities and splash them with the excellent rakia and wine. Reservations by all means.
83, Samokovsko Shose Str. & 02 992 11 11 Open: 12.00-24.00 Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo lake. 2 halls and splendid garden, whose Mediterranean style and natural beauty make the atmosphere really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich collection of selected beverage.
Pizza
Pizza & Grill 1, Bulgaria Sq. (map B6) NDK, opposite Lumier cinema & bTV Cell: 0888 660 404 Open: Monday - Sunday: 10.00 - 22.30
s
50 bars & restaurants Mamma Mia
s
1, Shipka Str. (map E3, behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral) & 02 988 55 05 cell: 0879 11 33 44 Open: 08.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 39
77, Alexandar Malinov Blvd.(map back) ss Princess Outlet Center, fl. 2 For reservations: & 02 884 00 42 Facebook: Turkish Restaurant Nikol Turkish Restaurant Nikol - Magic of the Orient. Bosphorus breeze. Soft and cozy atmosphere. The ending of this magnificent picture are our exceptional dishes. Welcome to view... ... to dive ... ... to feel ... ... to taste ... We wait for You!!!
Tsar Ivan Shishman Str. (map D4, behind Sv. Sedmochislenitsi Church) & 02 981 27 27 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 Strelbishte Distr. 19-21, Dede Agach Str. (map back) & 02 958 61 06 Open: 10.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 Borisova gradina, National Tennis Center cell: 0885 148 504 Open: 09.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 www.mammamia.bg Credit cards accepted.
365 Bar food music 1, Shipka Str. Behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral
s (map E3)
Lozenets Distr. 38 a, Cherni Vrah Blvd. 02 868 83 78 0888 297 457 3, Verila Str.
Turkish
34, Yuri Venelin Str. (map E5) ss For reservations: & 02 989 12 12 Cell: 0896 79 49 62 www.tmturkishrestaurant.com T&M restaurant has been serving turkish traditional food in a historical atmosphere at the center of Sofia since 2000. We introduce delicious tastes of fabulous turkish cuisine with the best service without any compromise of our quality. We provide 100% customer satisfaction with our experienced staff and Turkish hospitality.
/ Vitosha Blvd. opposite NDK/
02 988 82 58 0888 297 454 3, Vasil Levski Blvd. 02 988 20 24 0888 297 454 49 B, Bulgaria Blvd. Home delivery:
0700 44 777
Only with us pizzas from original Italian receipes.
90, Bukston Blvd. (map back) ss & 02 855 11 00 Cell: 0878 155070 Open: 10:00-24:00 www.turquoise.bg Two halls inside and a summer garden, own parking. Situated at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, TURQUOISE is here to welcome you with the famous Turkish hospitality. Delicious and authentic Turkish cuisine in a cozy and relaxing atmosphere and all this combined with excellent service – it’s everything that you have dreamt for. Come and be our guests, but don’t forget to make a reservation – we get easily full!
bars & restaurants 51
52 SHOPPING Art Shops
fASHON
Art shop Souvenirs & Bulgarian rose 50, Alabin Str. /after Mc Donalds/ cell: 0888 504 866 Mon - Fri: 10.00 - 19.30, Sat - Sun: 11.00 - 18.00 The shop offers various cosmetics with Bulgarian rose – aromatherapy oils, bath salts, candles. Here you can find traditional souvenirs, embroidery and national costumes – hand-made, icons, paintings, gifts of wood, ceramics, dolls etc.
KENSOL STORE Mall of Sofia,101, Al Stamboliyski Blvd. KENSOL STORE - 96, Vitosha Blvd. KENSOL STORE Sky City Shopping Mall, 52, Kosta Lulchev Str. KENSOL OUTLET - 1, Makedonia Square
MALLS The Mall
Piccadilly is a chain of supermarkets with more than 10 key locations in Sofia. Excellent and varied selection of grocery, fresh fruits & vegetables, bakery produce, fresh meat, fresh fish and seafood, bio products and counters for freshly cooked meals to take home. At most locations there are special service facilities – banks, cafes, pharmacies. Very popular with local expats. Usually open 08:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. www. piccadilly.com
Piccadilly City Center Sofia - 2, Arsenalski Blvd. Piccadilly Mall of Sofia - 101, Al. Stamboliiski Blvd. Piccadilly Serdika Center - 48, Sitniakovo Blvd. Piccadilly Koziak - 21A, Koziak Str. Piccadilly Izgrev - Izgrev, 30, Elemag Str. Piccadilly Sopharma - 5, Lachezar Stanchev Str., Sopharma Business Towers Piccadilly TZUM - 2, Maria Luisa Blvd., TZUM Piccadilly Strelbishte Strelbishte Neighbourhood, Petko Todorov Blvd. Piccadilly Jerusalem - Mladost 1, 22, Jerusalem Str. Piccadilly NDK - 1, Bulgaria Blvd. Piccadilly Nadejda Overbridge 21, Istoria Slavyanobalgarska Str. Piccadilly Solunska - 2, Solunska Str. Piccadilly Hristo Botev - 117, Hristo Botev Blvd.
115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. Situated on 66,000 square metres THE MALL is the largest shopping centre in Bulgaria with 178 stores featuring international brands, a 9000 sq meters Carrefour hypermarket, the ten screen Arena Cinema, various entertainment venues, a fitness centre, restaurants and cafes. This combination of world famous brands, services and places of recreation and entertainment makes THE MALL an exciting place to shop.
Shops Over 25,000 appliances and accessories for home, office and car • Free Delivery • Free parking • Ability to purchase on credit www.technopolis.bg National consumer phone 0700 12340 See map back: Mladost 4, 265, Okolovrastno Shose (opposite The Bells) & 02 921 11 11 Lulin 8, Tsaritsa Joanna (the metro station Lulin) & 02 921 00 92 Nadezhda, near overpass Nadezhda & 02 803 59 99 Serdika Mall - 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., 1st floor & 02 892 79 27 The Mall - 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., Ground Floor & 02 807 64 64 Bulgaria Mall - 69, Bulgaria Blvd. & 02 903 59 59
SHOPPING 53
54 NIGHT LIFE
The one and only AYO for the first time in Bulgaria On June 6th at Hall 1 of National Palace of Culture the young German with Nigerian origins AYO arrives for her first concert in Bulgaria by invitation of Sofia Live Club and Art Studio. The charming singer who became famous worldwide in 2006 with her single “Down on My Knees” will bring her entire band to present to Bulgarian fans her latest, third studio album “Billie-Eve”. Colorful in styles and very emotional the album goes through reggae, rock, blues and soul. Named after her daughter she sets it to be the most important in her career and much more different than the first two due to electrical guitars giving its characteristic rock sound. Tickets for the AYO concert in Sofia are available in the network of Eventim priced from 30 to 80 BGN.
About AYO Her real name is Joy Olasunmibo Ogunmakin. Ayo, literally translated from Nigerian means “joy”. She grew up in Germany, the music was close to her since childhood thanks to her father who was a DJ. After trying to play the violin and piano she finds her true love – the guitar. At the age of 15 Ayo writes her first song. Her vocal talent was discovered by her father thanks to whom she records her first demo album. In 2001 the singer decides to leave Germany and move to London and then goes to Paris and New York. In 2002 Ayo is finally noticed and receives an offer for her first solo concert in Paris. In 2006 in Europe comes out Ayo’s first album titled „JoyFull” becoming double platinum in France, platinum in Germany and Poland. The album characterizes with warmth and emotional sound, acoustic piece of work where noticed are slight motives of reggae and blues. While she takes part in the well-known “Late Show” of CBS, Ayo presents one of her songs “Down on my knees” which turns out to be her emblematic piece. Her second studio album „Gravity at Last” comes out on the market in September 2008. On February 4th, 2009 the president of UNICEF France Jacques Hintzy announced that the singer was named patron of UNICEF to promote the right to education for all children in the world. Recorded in New York the third album of the talented singer comes out in 2011 and is named after her daughter „Billie-Eve”. Organized by Sofia Live Club and Art Studio
NIGHT LIFE 55
56 NIGHT LIFE
12, Ivan Vazov Str. Takes Reservations: 087 999 3216 Drinks, snacks and very good music Mon - Sat: 22.00 - 4.00
bARS & cLUBS Bar Road 66
2, Marko Balabanov Str. (map A3) cell: 0887 222 028 Facebook: Bar Road 66 Strong whiskey, scent of wood and adrenalin lifting rock – that is what wait for you in the new Bar Road 66, inspired from the legendary american highway. The club is at the center of Sofia and it’s a binding place for true fans - for those who listen blues and rock and recognize it not only as a music, but as a mode of life.
Candy Club
100, James Bourchier Blvd. (Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia) cell: 0884 706 060
Princess Sofia 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) (Sofia Princess Hotel), & 02 933 88 88
Princess Rodina 8, Gen. totleben Blvd., & 02 953 25 32
Viva Casino Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01, cell: 0893 729 190 www.groupviva.com
Erotic bars (map C8)
CLUB ROCK’N’ROLLA
1, Graf Ignatiev Str. cell: 0888 13 13 18 rocknrolla.bg Three years ago in Sofia opened the first rock bar. The lack of affected manners, the casual atmosphere and nice music were immediately appreciated by foreigners who became a big part of our regulars. Here hidden talents can shine in a special karaoke hall.
ROCK’N’ROLLA SPORTSBAR
Casinos
15, Tsar Asen Str. cell: 0888 13 13 18 sportsbar.rocknrolla.bg Sports Bar Rocknrolla is located on 15 Tsar Asen Street downtown of Sofia. On the huge 70 and 55 inch screens you can watch your favorite sports programs.
Club Fetish 4, Vitosha Blvd. (map C3) & +359 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 www.FetishStripClub.com Open every day: 9PM - 4AM The only and unique FETISH club in Sofia. Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 highly attractive and hottest girls in most pleasant atmosphere. Do not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring all your fantasies to life!
ESCORT SERVICES Enigma agency 24, Vrabcha Str. & 02 944 50 70, cell: 0898 845 571, 0887 800 184
Hight - CLASS - Girls cell: 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552 www.hight-class-girls.com
NIGHT LIFE 57
Erotic bars
4, VitoshaSERVICES Blvd. ESCORT
(map C3)
& +359 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70
Enigma agency
www.FetishStripClub.com 24, Vrabcha Str. every50day: &Open 02 944 70 9PM - 4AM The0898 only 845 and 571, unique FETISH cell: 0887 800 club 184 in Sofia. Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 highly-attractive hottest girls in most pleasant Hight CLASSand - Girls cell: 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552 atmosphere. www.hight-class-girls.com Do not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring all your fantasies to life!
58 CULTURE Jaime Hayon - product design and art - Spain
Sofia Design Week (21 - 30 June) is an international festival for design and visual culture. It takes place every June in Sofia. It features a professional forum with prominent speakers from all over the world, as well as an extensive program of open events aimed at the broader audience - exhibitions, workshops, discussions, talks, screenings, parties, book openings, events for children, etc. Sofia Design Week strives to serve as a platform which stimulates and supports the development of design professionals in Bulgaria. At the same time the festival aims to present and promote sustainable and sensible practices for better and beneficial visual environment from around the world. FB: https://www.facebook.com/ SofiaDesignWeek?fref=ts
Formafantasma - product design - Italy
David Carson - graphic design - USA
Studio Glithero - product design and art - UK
Company - product design, art and entrepreneurship - Finland
CULTURE 59
22 June The lectures at the Forum National Palace of Culture
Reto Wettach / IxDS - interactive design - Germany Javier Mariscal - design and art - Spain
Gerard Unger - typography - Netherlands
23 June The Balkan Talks Union of Architects in Bulgaria Hall 2
Vladimir Palibrk Elektrika collective - Serbia Aleksandar Velinovski and Marta Naumovska – Grnarova Skopje Design Week - Macedonia Özlem Yalım Özkaraoğlu and Deniz Ova Istanbul Design Biennial - Turkey Maja Lalić - Mikser - Serbia Dimitar Traychev Stalker - Bulgaria Ljudmila Stratimirović European Centre for Culture and Debate GRAD - Serbia Christopher Çolak - İstambul- Turkey
60 CULTURE Galleries Finesse Gallery 37, Tsar Samuil Str. (map B4) cell: 0898 669 120 Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 19.00 Sat: 11.00 - 18.00 www.facebook.com/AbsintheAquarelleGallery
17, Hristo Belchev Str. (map C4) & 02 986 25 90 cell: 0887 853 285 Tue – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00 gallery.finesse@email.bg mtabakova@altacommerce.com Nomad African Art Gallery
19, Tsar Asen Str. (map B4) bayta_art@abv.bg facebook.com/bayta.art cell: +359 888 720 610 Mon-Sat: 10.30 -19.30
34, Tzar Samuil Str. (map B4) cell: 0888 86 09 34 & 02 893 45 63 45 e-mail: ozarenie@abv.bg www.arthouse-kuklite.com
Art – House “The Dolls”
Nomad Gallery
Classica Gallery-Museum 32, Yuriy Venelin Str. (map E5) & 02 988 24 72 classica.gallery@gmail.com www.classica.art.bg Sun – Mon: 12.00 - 20.00
100, G.S. Rakovski Str. (map D3) /Corner with Aksakov Str./ & + 359 2 980 62 77 cell: + 359 89 662 11 12 www.GalleryCrystal.com contact@gallerycrystal.com Mon – Fri: 10.30 - 18.30, Sat: 11.00 - 15.00 Fine Art and Antiques, Collectables, Antique Furniture
2, 6-ti septemvri Str. (map D4) cell: +359 882 487 308 www.galerianomad.bg www.facebook.com/GaleriaNomad Wed – Fri: 14.00 - 19.00 Sat: 11.00 - 18.00, Sun: 12.00 - 16.00
2A, Krakra Str. (map F3) & 946 30 56 Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 19.00 www.galleryseasons.com e-mail: office@galleryseasons.com
The Gallery 3, Lege Str. (map C3) cell: 0894 34 17 24 www.artgalleryeurope.eu artdaniela.eu@gmail.com Mon – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00
8, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map D3) cell: +359 877 975 000 +359 877 972 000 www.valerart.com www.facebook.com/thegalleryinsofia Mon - Sun: 10.00 - 19.00
CULTURE 61 Palette Absinthe Aquarelle Gallery From 29th May till 15th June - Exhibition by Dimitar Deliyski – watercolor small format
Bayta Art shop In Bayta Art Shop you will find unique handmade jewelry, paintings, scarfs, ceramics
Classica Gallery-Museum From 15th till 30th June - Exhibition by Tanya Ivanova, Viktorya Andonova, Elitsa Karabashlieva, Ilina Dargova - Four worlds
Absinthe Aquarelle Gallery
Crystal Gallery Fine Art and Antiques, Collectables, Antique Furniture
Europe Gallery From 5th June till 5th July - Exhibition by Bozhidar Hadzhistoyanov – Painting Permanent original exhibition by contemporary Bulgarian artists
Finesse Gallery From 6th till 29th June – Exhibition by bulgarian contemporary artists – With the scent of summer
Europe Gallery
Nomad Gallery Besides diverse bronze, leather and wooden artwork, Nomad Gallery offers unique hand-made jewelry and other treasures from West Africa and the Sahelian semi-desert
Seasons Gallery From 30th May till 17th June – Child Drawing exhibition From 30th May till 17th June – Fine Art
Seasons Gallery
The Dolls - art house From 1st February to 15th July - Exhibition of porcelain dolls from the collection of Nelly Kapralova “In the world of dolls” Besides collectible dolls, the art-house “Dolls” will look at unique original dolls, paintings, lamps, sculptures
The Gallery Permanent original exhibition by contemporary Bulgarian artists The Gallery
62 CULTURE Culture Centers - Programs Goethe-Institut
Budapesta-Str. 1 1000 Sofia Bulgaria & +359 2 939 0100, 0101 fax +359 2 939 0199 mail: info@sofia.goethe.org www.goethe.de/sofia
29.05. - 14.06., Goethe-Institut – PARABOLE.V, Exhibition series in the Media Art Project ArtUp! 3.06., 18.00, Goethe-Institut – Ulrich Beck, one of the most important sociologists in Europe and worldwide 4.06., 11.00, University of Sofia – Ulrich Beck, Doctor Honoris Causa of the University of Sofia 3./4.06., Goethe-Institut – Master class with Karl Geibel (only for Journalist-Students) 5./6./7.06., Goethe-Institut – Presentations to the 10. anniversary of the Goat Milk Festival Bela Rechka 10.06., 18.00, Goethe-Institut – Rüdiger von Fritsch, “Die Sache mit Tom” (Reading and book presentation) 13.06., 20.30, Sofia Live Club – Jazz concert TRIO SOLEA (also in Plovdiv – 11.06., 20h00, Studio 1, Radio Plovdiv) 17.-22.06., Goethe-Institut – Thomas Lehmen, Choreographer, “A piece for You” (participation only after pre-registration)
Polish Institute in Sofia
22nd and 23th of June, 10 am - 5 pm Polish Institute in Sofia Workshop “Design of “Sofia” chair” with Tomek and Malgorzata Rygalik Free entry
12, Veslets Str. & +359 2 981 09 07 Fax +359 2 981 57 44 sofia@instytutpolski.org Twitter: @PLISofia Web: www.institutpolski.org FB: http://www.facebook.com/polski.institut.sofia
24th of June until the 31st of August Polish Institute in Sofia Exhibition Young Polish Design – Polska Folk! Free entry The events are part of the Sofia Design Week program. Details on our webpages: www.institutpolski.org and http://edno.bg/sofia-design-week-2013/festivalat
CULTURE 63 Events Snooker stars in Sofia Bulgaria will host again the event at the World Series of Snooker PTC (Players Tour Championship). The competition will be held between 7th and 9th of June. All matches will be at Universiada Hall. The tournament has a prize fund of 125 000 EUR and will be called again Victoria Bulgaria Open. The ministry of physical education and sports will support the prestigious race. It’s very likely the legendary Ronnie O’Sullivan to take part in the action.
Exhibition
Absinthe Aquarelle Gallery presents Tenderness and strength Watercolor exhibition of small format by Dimitar Deliyski /1933-2012 / 29.05 - 15.06.2013 Opening: 29.05 /artist’s birthday/ from 16.00 to 19.00h
During the last decades of his life Dimitar Deliyski (1993 - 2012) creates his lyrical pieces of art in town of Zemen, along the picturesque flow of Struma River. In the words of the painter Ivan Stratiev – “among the poplars, willows, mists and blooming apples and plums - for him art is a way of life.” Much tenderness and at the same time the enchanting power of colors can be found in the watercolor pieces of art of Dimitar Deliyski.
64 CULTURE Programme
National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia
1st, 11.00 – THE SNOWHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS – musical for children and adults 4th, 19.00 – CONCERT by national dance art school’s students 5th, 19.00 – OPERA GALA – concert by docent Ivanka Ninova students 6th, 19.00 – THE BAT – operetta by Strausse 7th, 19.00 – ALADIN – musical for children and adults 8th, 16.00 – ALADIN – musical for children and adults 11th, 19.00 – CONCERT by private school Veda – dedicated to its 15th anniversary 14th, 19.00 – CHICAGO – musical 15th, 19.00 – CHICAGO – musical 20th, 19.00 – ZORRO – last performance 21st, 19.00 – ZORRO – last performance 22nd, 19.00 – BULGARIAN FROM OLDEN TIMES – Operetta by Karastoyanov, dedicated to 120th anniversary of Karastoyanov’s birth 27th, 19.00 – THE CSARDAS QUEEN – operetta by Imre Kalman 28th, 19.00 – CHICAGO – musical 29th, 19.00 – ONE NIGHT IN VENICE – Operetta by J. Strausse
100, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 943 19 79 www.musictheatre.bg Arabesk Ballet 13th, 19.00 – CARMEN COLLECTION 27th, 19.00 – BOOM-BUST OF LOVE - Arabesk Ballet and National theatre Ivan Vazov – by B. Bogdanov
CHICAGO
Theatre Bulgarian Army 98, Rakovski Str. & 02 987 23 03
The plays begin at 19.00 1st – VRAZHALETS by Kostov – guest theatre Melpomena 3rd, 18th – SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK’N’ROLL by Bogosiyan 4th – CHRISTENING by Donev 5th, 21st – SCISSORS KILLER by Jordan and Abrams 6th – MUCH ADO ABOUTH NOTHING by Shakespeare 8th – CABARET EVENING WITH ALFRED DORFER – The Embassy of Germany 13th – APOCALYPSE WHEN? – by M. Milkov guest theatre Kiystendil 17th – THE HONNOR SPANISH by S. Moham 19th – THE SLAVES COMEDY by T. Moskov 24th – GOLEMANOV by Kostov
www.tba.art.bg facebook.com/armytheatre
SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK’N’ROLL
20 years on stage Satire Theatre Aleko Konstantinov SCENE SHTASTLIVETSA 4th, 11th, 29th – ART by Yasmin Reza 5th – THE INFIDELITY’S BEAUTY by V. Krasnogorov 6th – MILD FORM TO SEVERE DEPRESSION by Stratiev 12th, 30th – DINNER FOR FOOLS by Weber 16th – LOVE BY SCHEDULE by Mark Kamoletti 21st – ONE MORE TIME FROM BEHIND by Frane 23rd, 27th – SPINACH WITH POTATOES by Z. Egreshi 25th – CRAZY FAMILY by Rey Kuny 26th - A SMALL RADIO solo with Maya Novoselska
26, Stefan Karadzha Str. & 02 988 10 60 www.satirata.bg
CULTURE 65 Programme
Sofia Puppet Theatre HALL GURKO 14
14, Gen. Gurko Str. 02 988 54 16 19, Yanko Sakazov 02 944 14 24 www.sofiapuppet.com
1st, 12.00 – Three little pigs 1st, 16.30 – PUSS IN BOOTS 2nd, 12.00 – A story about the Priest and its servant Glupan 6th, 12.00 – Mercury 8th, 12.00 – PUSS IN BOOTS 9th, 12.00 – Mowgli 15th, 12.00 – Oh, how nice is in Panama 16th, 12.00 – Who has donkey ears? 20th, 19.00 – Holy 22nd, 12.00 – The curious elephant 23rd, 12.00 – Goldy – the golden girl
HALL YANKO SAKAZOV 19 1st, 12.00 – Oh, how nice is in Panama 2nd, 12.00 – Aladin and the magic lamp 8th, 12.00 – The Tale of the Elves 9th, 12.00 – About the Pea and the Princess 15th, 12.00 – One Little Fairytale Town 16th, 12.00 – The Snow White 22nd, 12.00 – The tinderbox 23rd, 12.00 – PUSS IN BOOTS
Oh, how nice is in Panama
Theatre Vazrajdane 1st, 11.00, 12.30 - THE DWARF LONGNOSE 1st, 17.00 - MAX AND MORITZ by Hristo Botev after W. Bush 2nd, 22nd, 11.00 - THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD after Charles Perrault by Keva Apostolova 2nd, 19.00 - TABOO 4th, 19.00 - THE DUEL by Ivan Vazov 5th, 6th, 19.00 - A FAIRY BALL - guest theatral school Vedna 7th, 19.00 - I DON’T KNOW YOU ANY MORE 8th, 11.00 - MAX AND MORITZ by Hristo Botev after W. Bush 8th, 22nd, 19.00 - ALLO ‘ALLO! by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft 9th, 30th, 11.00 - PUSS IN BOOTS after Charles Perrault and Brothers Grimm by Nina Stoycheva 9th, 18th, 29th, 19.00 - THE LAST FREDDIE MERCURY’S SECRET 11th, 19.00 - THREE TERRIFIED MINIATURES 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 19.00 - A GIRL FOR GOODBYE - guest theatral school Vedna 14th, 19.00 - THE MISUNDERSTOOD CIVILIZATION by Dobri Voynikov 15th, 11.00 - SNOW-WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES by Hristo Botev after Brothers Grimm 15th, 19.00 - QUARTET FOR TWO by A. Krim
4, P. R. Slaveykov Sq. & 02 987 24 31 www.theatrevazrajdane.com 16th, 11.00 - THE DWARF LONGNOSE 16th, 19.00 - SWINDLERS (CON MEN) by Zvonimir Basic 21st, 19.00 - MOUSETRAP by Agatha Christie 23rd, 11.00 - THE SLEEPING BEAUTY 23rd, 19.00 - CONCERT OF OM-ART FORMATION 24th, 19.00 - THE BLUE ROOM by Sir David Hare 25th, 19.00 - THE BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE 26th, 19.00 - A WEDDING ROOM - guest theatral school Vedna 28th, 19.00 - CLOSER by Patrick Marber 29th. 11.00 - GRANDMA’S CAKE by V. Mirchovski 30th, 19.00 - SHERLOCK HOLMES AND A GHOST FOR A COMPANY
No late spectators are allowed in the hall once the performance has begun In Theatre Vazrajdane each last Sunday of the month you can enjoy a 50% discount on the tickets for our 7-pm performances!
66 CULTURE Programme National academy for theatre and film arts Krastyo Sarafov
108 A, G. S. Rakovski Str. & 02 923 12 85 www.natfiz.bg www.facebook.com Education is what gives opportunity for expression of youth’s dreams. Education is what helps young people find themselves. Education is what makes people rich and successful. The National Theatre and Film Academy is a factor in the cultural life of Bulgaria to which many other have remained indifferent. Its establishment is an expression of the understanding that these arts are necessary for the national identity. Today the Academy is a modern educational institution, an integral part of Bulgarian education being one of the symbols of Bulgarian spirit. The Academy has a solid and well-equipped material and technical base: Educational Drama Theater, three chamber scenes, Educational Puppet Theatre, Educational Audio-Visual Complex with Cinema and video halls (big – 50 seats and small – 12 seats. Educational Movie Studio, Educational Television Center, Digital Multimedia Center, Academic Library and an Archive, dance halls, modern auditoriums, studios, laboratories and diversity of highly professional ateliers completing its image of a place when professionalism can be handled.
Youth Theatre Nikolay Binev 8-10, Knyaz Dondukov & 02 939 40 59 02 988 17 53 www.mlt.bg
MAIN Stage 1st, 23rd, 11.00 - THE SLEEPING BEAUTY 4th, 11.00 - BEAUTIFUL BODIES 5th, 19.00 – WORLD THEATRE – STORM /Slovenia/ 7th, 19.00 - WORLD THEATRE – RETURN /Spain/ 13th, 19.00 - THE WOLFS HOUR 16th, 11.00 – THE TREASURE ISLNAD 18th, 19.00 - MISTER BALKANSKI 19th, 20th, 19.00 - ALMOST PERFORMANCE 21st, 19.00 - BEYOND THE PRINCIP OF PLEASURE 22nd, 11.00 – KARLSON 23rd, 19.00 - AN AIRPORT 26th, 19.00 - AWESOME GUYS
MISTER BALKANSKI
LITTLE Stage 1st, 19.00 - NORDOST – story about destruction 6th, 21st , 19.00 – WALLED 8th, 19.00 – DARK BLUE ALMOST BLACK 22nd, 19.00 - LOVE AND MONEY 25th, 19.00 – FRIDA 27th, 19.00 - LOVE SONG
CULTURE 67 Programme
Sofia Philharmonic 1, Aksakov Str. Ticket Office & 02 987 76 56 www.sofiaphilharmonie.bg
01 June, 19h – Children’s Day Concert Quarto quartet, Percussion and Vaya Dance Studio Programme: Bizet – Shchedrin - Carmen Suite– ballet 02 June, 11h – Chamber Hall Teddy Phil and Books – Concert for children and their parents SOFIA Quartet and Diana Gerova, actress 02 June, 19h Permanent guest conductor: Shungo Moriama, Japan Soloists: Mary Yamanashi, piano; Takako Hoshino, soprano; Yoshimi Tsubaki, piano Programme: G. Gershwin, J.Strauss, S.Rachmaninov, R.Leonkavalo 06 June, 19h - Subscription Cycle World PremieresSixth Concert Permanent guest conductor: Young Chill Lee, Republic of Korea Soloists: Sungkyu Park, tenor, Republic of Korea; Hyeong Suk Kim, korean flute- piri and Jihoon Kim, singer With the participation of “Cosmic Voices” Choir, Conductor Vania Moneva Programme: A.Atanasov, G. Puccini, A.Lara, M.Lee, Kwangjin Kim, P.I. Tchaikovsky 09 June, 17h – International Festival Sofia Music Weeks - Subscription Cycle Sunday Classic II – Fifth Concert
Conductor: Wolfgang Seeliger, Germany Soloist: Yukiko Okuno, flute, Japan - Nominated as The Best Musician at Workshop 2012 for Japanese Mucisians Programme: W.A. Mozart; Carl Reinecke 13 June, 19h – International Festival Sofia Music Weeks - Subscription Cycle Romantic Evenings – Fourth Concert Principal Conductor: Martin Panteleev Soloist: Stefan Tarara, violin, Germany Programme: J.Sibelius; S.Rachmaninov 20 June, 19h – Chamber Hall Subscription Cycle Sonic Dialogues – Second Concert National Philharmonic Choir “Svetoslav Obretenov”, Conductor: Ilia Mihaylov Programme: “Evergreens and Masterpieces” – G. Verdi, G. Puccini, G. Gershwin, L. Bernstein, A. L. Webber and Queen 24 June, 19h – “Meyerbeer in France” Conductor: Didier Talpain, France With the participation of National Philharmonic Choir “Svetoslav Obretenov”, Conductor: Ilia Mihaylov 27 June, 19h - Subscription Cycle Romantic Evenings – Fifth Concert Principal Conductor: Martin Panteleev Young stars from National Musical Academy
Sofia Opera and Ballet Event in support of the candidature of Sofia for European Capital of Culture in 2019 www.Sofia.bg
1, Vrabcha Str. & 02 987 13 66 www.operasofia.bg 2nd, 29th, 16.00 – THE TWILIGHT OF THE GODS 22nd, 18.00 – REYNS GODL 23rd, 16.00 – WALKURE 26th, 16.00 – ZIGFRID
OPERA IN THE PARK Park of the Military Academy G. S. Rakovski 20th June - 14 July 2013 20th, 28th, 20.00 – Carmen Rhapsody In Blue /The performance is on recorded music/ 21st, 21st, 20.00 – La Dame Aux Camellias / The performance is on recorded music / 29th, 19.00 – The Sleeping Beauty /For Children/ 5th, 6th, 7th , 20.00 – Don Carlo 12th, 13th, 14th, 20.00 – Eugene Onegin
68 CULTURE Concerts the British sTAr Jessie J Arena Armeec Sofia will meet the British singer Jessie J for her first independent concert in Bulgaria. The event will be held on June 29th, 2013 in the biggest concert hall in Bulgaria, the starting hour is 20.00. Jessica Ellen Cornish, better known as Jessie J is an English singer and text writer. In the beginning of 2011 she issues her debut album – Who You Are. She became popular with writing several songs for Chris Brown and Miley Cyrus among which Party in the U.S.A. On January 7th, 2011 Jessie J is on top of BBC Sound of 2011 chart as well as she took the Critics Award of BRIT Awards. Going through various genres the pop singer is known for her eclecticism of soul vocals and R&B references mixed with pop, electric pop and hip hop rhythm. To 2012 she has sold 11 million singles and over 2.5 million albums all over the world.
The legendary British funk band Jamiroquai in Sofia On June 28th at Arena Armeec a concert for all the fans will be held by the legendary funk band Jamiroquai. The event is part of their tour titled Symphonics’Concerts. The legendary British funk band will perform a concert at Arena Armeec in Sofia on June 28th. The artists had to be in Bulgaria in 2011 but then the concert was canceled due to injury of the lead singer Jay Kay.
Two voices, two destinies KAAS CHANTE PIAF The voice of France Patricia Kaas and her latest project honoring the legendary and great Edith Piaf will be presented on our stage. On June 21st, 2013 at Hall 1 of National Palace of Culture sang will be 21 of the most emblematic songs of Piaf performed by the contemporary icon of world musical stage Patricia Kaas. The French see her as a world ambassador of France because she’s the one provoking interest to French songs once again. Stylistically her music is a mixture of pop and jazz. In the formula of her world success are her performances – she is practically also on tours over borders. With innovative stage design this show aims to be contemporary and urban. It includes installations and lighting different from anything on stage nowadays – something absolutely new. Unpublished, unique and unseen pictures of Edith Piaf will be in the center of this spectacular event.
CULTURE 69 Museums Archaelogical Museum
Permanent and temporally exhibitions at: Prehistory Hall, Vault, Central Hall, Middle Ages Hall. The famous Vulchitrun gold treasure is among the most precious exhibits in Bulgaria’s oldest museum.
2, Saborna Str. (next to the Bulgarian Nat. Bank) & 02 988 24 06 www.naim.bg Open: Tue-Sun, 10.00-17.00 Admission: 10 leva
4, Cherni Vrah Blvd. & 02 865 66 39 Unique mineralogical museum keeping more than www.earthandman.org Open: Tue-Sat, 10.00-18.00 20 000 samples collected all over the world. Admission: 2 leva
Earth and Man National Museum
National Art Gallery The National Art Gallery is housed in the former Prince’s Palace at the Kniaz Alexander Battenberg Square in the capital. Today it is in possession of the largest collection of pictorial art in the country.
1, Knyaz Al. Batenberg Sq. & 02 980 00 93 www.nationalartgallerybg.org Open: Tue-Sun, 10.00-18.00 Admission: 6 leva
Boyana, 16, Vitoshko Lale Str. (Residence Boyana, Palace 1) Museum contents more than 650 000 exhibits and is & 02 955 42 80 one of the largest history museums on the Balkans. www.historymuseum.org Amazing recent Thracian gold discoveries. Open: Mon-Sun, 09.30 -18.00 Admission: 10 leva
National History Museum
National historical-archaelogical church museum Museum contents more than 11 000 shrines and Square Sveta Nedelya historical monuments such as icons, prints, carvings, & 02 989 01 15 02 988 39 50 books, liturgical utensils, models of ancient churches, photo albums temples and manuscripts of bishops Open: Mon-Sun 09.00 - 17.00 and leaders, including Exarch Antim I, Exarch Joseph I, Metr. Clement of Tarnovo, Neophyte Bozveli and etc.
Sofia City Art Gallery The gallery possesses some of the richest collections in Bulgaria: 8000 works of art by Bulgarian artists from the end of the 19th century till present.
1, Gen. Y. V. Gurko Str. (Entr. from Kn. Al. Batenberg Str.) & 02 987 21 81, www.sghg.bg Open: Tue-Sat 10.00-19.00 Sun 11.00-18.00 Free Entrance
National Museum of Natural History - BAS
1, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (near the Russian Church) www.nmnhs.com & 02 987 41 95 Open: Mon–Sun, 10.00-18.00 Admission: 4 leva
National Military - History Museum
92, Cherkovna Str. & 02 2 946 18 05 mail: m.museum@bol.bg www.militarymuseum.bg Open: Wed-Sun, 10.00-18.00
Museum of the Socialist Art
Izgrev Distr. 7, Lachezar Stanchev Str. & 02 902 18 02 www.nationalartgallerybg.org Open: 10.00-17.30
National Polytechnic Museum
66, Opalchenska Str. & 02 931 80 18 Open: Mon-Fri, 09.00-17.00
The richest museum of natural history on the Balkans. Over a million specimens of animals, plants and minerals.
The richest Bulgarian state collections of weapons, uniforms, insignia, flags, military seals, photographs.
is the first institution in Bulgaria in order to collect, preserve and present examples of Bulgarian art created during the period 1944 - 1989, the thematically related to the era of socialism.
Permanent expositions: watches, safety lamps, surveying equipment, physical appliances, automobiles, communication equipment, communication equipment
70 Useful Numbers Airline Companies
Car Rentals
5, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) & 02 980 22 12 Luggage and Flying Blue claims: www.alitalia.bg fax: 029 800 865 Ticketing desk at the airport: & 02 937 32 11
53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) & 02 439 02 22/ 23 fax: 02 439 12 25 e-mail: office@hertz.bg Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217
& 02 402 04 00 e-mail: callFB@air.bg For sales and reservations: & 02 402 04 05, 02 402 04 06 e-mail: tickets@air.bg Internet reservation: 02 402 04 61 e-mail: online@air.bg www.air.bg
Mladost-1 25 Distr. Entrance B, Office 1 Near to The Mall on Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. & 02 423 57 98 cell: 0896 68 68 51 0896 68 68 49 www.rotto-bg.com e-mail: office@rotto-bg.com
Emergency Number Single European Emergency Call Number: &112
Info Center For reservations & ticketing: Office - 14, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Landmark Centre Sofia, Office 01-14 Phone: 00 359 2 947 4006 / 00 359 2947 4007 Fax: 00 359 2 9804151 E-mail: sofsales@thy.com Working Hours: Weekdays: 09:00-17:30 Airport - Terminal 2 1, Bruksel Blvd. Departure Hall Phone: 00 359 2 9373121 Fax: 00359 2 945 91 45 Email: ekarabasoglu@thy.com www.turkishairlines.com
Bus Lines
www.centralnaavtogara.bg 138, Vasil Levski Blvd. (map E1) &/fax: 02 945 39 39 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 028 133 100, 028 133 101 www.etapgroup.com
CENTRAL BUS STATION
100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 0900 21 000 www.centralnaavtogara.bg
Underpass of St. Kliment Ohridski Univercity of Sofia and Metrostation St. Kliment Ohridski Open: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.30 & 02 491 83 44/ 45
Language Courses
ONE TO ONE BULGARIAN
through English call A.D.D. 0877 66 08 11 e-mail: tonnie_d@hotmail.com facebook: Antoaneta Dimitrova
Locksmith assistance Lozenets District 27, Tsvetna gradina Str. (map C8)
0888 41 92 88 & 02 963 00 66
Useful Numbers 71 Diplomatic Missions ONE TO ONE BULGARIAN contacts phones Austria 4, Shipka Str. Canadian Honorary Consulate 9, Moskovska Str. Germany 25, Fr. Joliot-Curie Str. Sovereign Order of Malta 92, V. Levski Blvd., fl.2 Netherlands 15, Oborishte Str. United States of America 16, Kozyak Str.
Lost Properties On plane – at information desk to the air company At the airport – information desk in terminal or security & 02 937 35 54, 02 937 35 55 On the public transport – office Vazrazhdane, small hall - & 02 987 334 6 (7-20h), Vazrazhdane sq. On train – at Central railway station, & 02 932 30 42 In a taxi – contact with taxi company
& 02 932 90 32 & 02 969 97 10 & 02 918 38 00 & 02 843 98 61 & 02 816 03 00 & 02 937 51 00
additional information www.bmeia.gv.at/botschaft/sofia e-mail: general@canada-bg.org www.sofia.diplo.de e-mail: info@smom-sofia.com www.netherlandsembassy.bg www.usembassy.bg
Translations
Medical Services
ISO 9001:2000 Translation and Legalization Agency (Department “Consul’s Relationships” at the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contract 997/2005 authorizes the agency) 68, V. Levski Blvd. (map D5) & 02 980 60 52 fax: 02 980 01 34 e-mail: office@artedoc.com www.translationservicebg.com
IMC International Medical Center
Fides Interconsult Ltd.
Family Medicine & Pediatrics; Physiotherapist; Ultrasound, Gynecology, Laboratory; Adults & Children Dental Care; English, French and Russian Speaking Doctors & Staff. Credit cards accepted. 28, N. V. Gogol Str. (map G4) e-mail: imc@gbg.bg www.imc-sofia.com For appointments and house calls: & 02 944 93 26, 02 944 93 17 (8.30-20.00 h) or 0886 532 551 (24 h)
ISO 9001:2008 Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Translation, document legalization 4, Sv. Kliment Ohridski Str. (map F4) (next to SU “Kliment Ohridski”) & /fax: 02 946 13 92 02 943 86 65 cell: 0887 792 282 e-mail: office@fides.bg www.fides.bg
Railway
Tourist Services
Central Railway Station Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33
ATPOH
www.bdz.bg
ASTRON-S Ltd.
Real Estate
National Palace of Culture /NPC/ Tickets center
75, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd. (map B5) & 02 852 06 53, & /fax: 02 953 17 66 cell: 0888 839 516 e-mail: anima_m@realtor.bg; office@anima-mbg.com www.anima-mbg.coms.com
& + 359 2 953 11 15 & 953 11 20 Fax: + 359 2 980 10 19 e-mail: info@astron-s.com www.astron-s.com AIR TICKETS, BUS TICKETS, HOTEL RESERVATIONS Medical Insurances, Seminars, Conferences, Cruises, Excursions & Holidays Open: Mon - Fri 9.00 - 18.00 Sat 10.00 - 14.00
72 index A Alitalia..........................................70 Anima M Real Estate.............36,71 Antique Art France.......................56 Apartment House Sofia...............36 Arte.doc Translation agency.......71 Arte Hotel....................................33 Aquarium Restaurant...................48 Astra Hotel...................................33 Astron S......................................71 B Barbados Restaurant...................44 Bar Road 66................................54 Be My Guest Hostel....................36 Best Western City Hotel..............30 Best Western Hotel Expo............30 Boats Restaurant.........................48 Boutique hotel Les Fleurs............30 Bulgary Restaurant......................44 Bulgaria Air..................................70 Bulgarimo....................................36 C California Hotel............................33 Candy Club..................................54 Captain Cook Restaurant ...........44 Central Park Hotel........................31 Chevermeto...............................42 Concept.......................................48 Continental Plaza.........................48 Club of Architect .........................40 D Die Alte Lampe Restaurant..........42 Diplomatic missions....................70 Downtown Hotel.........................32 E easyHotel....................................35 Enigma Agency...........................54 Este Restaurant...........................48 Etap Adress.................................70 F Favorit Hotel.................................33 Fetish Club...................................54 Fides Interconsult Ltd..................71 G Galleries......................................60 Grand Hotel Sofia........................28 Grozd Restaurant........................42 H Happy Bar&Grill..........................42 Happy Sushi..............................46 Hemus Hotel..............................34 Hertz Rent-a-car.........................70 Hilton Sofia.................................28 Holiday Inn Sofia.........................28 Hight class girls...........................54 I Information Tourist Centre Sofia..70 IMC............................................71 K Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia.28 Kenzol.........................................52 KFC Fast Food...........................44
Use our index!
Korean Restaurant.....................46 Kohinoor Restaurant..................46 Kumbare Greek Restaurant.......46 L La Cubanita...............................42 La Pastaria.................................46 La Vitta e Bella Restaurant.........48 Legends Hotel...........................33
M Madrid Hotel..............................35 Mamin Kolio Mehana................42 Mamma Mia Pizza.....................50 Manastirska Magernitsa............42 Maraia Club...............................46 Maria Luisa Hotel.......................32 McDonald’s...............................44 Meg-Lozenetz Hotel...................34 Metropoliten..............................30 Montecito..................................37 Mr.Pizza.....................................48 Museums..................................69 N Niky Beerhouse.........................42 Niky Hotel..................................34 Nikol Restaurant....................... Novotel Sofia..............................32 O Ognian Apartments....................36 One to One..................................71 Outskirts...................................37 P Park Hotel Moskva....................34 Peep Show Bar..........................52 Plana Hotel /Restaurant..............48 Pikadili.......................................52 Pizzarela Pizza&Grill...................49 Pod Lipite Restaurant 1............42 Pop Bogomil Hotel.....................36 Prime Rentals.............................36 Pri kmeta...................................40 Princess Casino International....54 Princess Hotel............................32 Pri Yafata...................................44 R Radisson BLU Grand Hotel.......29 Rila Hotel....................................34 RockNRolla...............................54 Rotasar Hotel.............................34 Rotto rent-a-car.........................70 S Sheraton Hotel...........................29 SkyPlaza....................................48 SlavyanskabesedaHotel............35 Sofia Place Hotel.......................35 Sofia Plaza..................................32 T 365 bar food music .................50 T&M Restaurant........................50 Teacher Ivan’s House Restaurant.44 Technopolis...............................56 Tell Me.......................................54 The House Hotel........................35 The House Restaurant...............40 The Mall.....................................56 Triada........................................33 U Useful Numbers...................70-71 V Versus Club...............................54 Viva Casino................................54