Sofia, which sits on a 545m high plateau in western Bulgaria at the foot of the imposing Mt Vitosha, is the highest capital in Europe. Because of its position at the very centre of the Balkan Peninsula, midway between the Adriatic and Black seas, Sofia has always been at the crossroads of trans-European routes. Sofia has a population of 1.2 million.

Various empires, such as Roman and Ottoman, have left their marks, but some of the city centre was destroyed during WWII air raids. In recent years, the city has benefited greatly from the European Union's ongoing Beautiful Bulgaria Project, which is gradually sprucing up historic buildings and energizing old neighbourhoods.

Sofia is the second oldest city in Europe, founded seven thousand years ago.

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”.

Almost all international flights start and finish in Sofia, and the capital is also the hub of much of Bulgaria's bus and rail transport. So, most travellers will probably end up here for a few days at least, but there are enough museums, churches and art galleries to keep most visitors happy, and it's only an hour or some to excellent hiking and skiing spots. Sofia is also an ideal base for day trips to the nearby countryside.

Sofia offers great shopping, the main shopping street is Vitosha Blvd, however there are plenty of small boutiques located around the city centre. Sofia's main shopping mall is Tsum. There are also plenty of European chains like, Prakitker, Metro, Mr Bricolage and HIT.

Sofia has a great night light with plenty of fantastic restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Pictures from Sofia: