Sofia City Breaks - Bulgaria 2010

Bulgaria's capital city has retrieved its historic charm and position as an exotic, less visited corner of Eastern Europe. Sofia boasts a colourful and ancient collection of churches, mosques and synagogues; the most famous of which is the Alexanda Nevski Church, which has magnificent frescoes. Other religious buildings include the Boyana Church, Banyi Bash Mosque and the Sofia Synagogue, one of the most beautiful in the world.

Sofia's museums are almost exclusively Bulgarian-orientated and are aimed at chronicaling the conflicting fortunes of this once great empire. They can provide a fascinating insight into the Balkan Peninsula and entrance fees are low priced, so there is no excuse not to visit them. Two museums on the must see list are the Natural History Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. Other sites include Zhensky Bazaar open-air market, Municipal Baths, Royal Palace, TSUM Department Store and Yuzhen Park.

Regent recommends...dinner at Pri Yafata Restaurant on Solunska St. Wit han authentic Bulgarian atmosphere, you can sample such classics as the refreshing Shopska salad, followed by Kavarma, a warming chicken dish served in a clay pot.