Sofia serves as the capital city of Bulgaria, renowned for its rich historical background and captivating attractions. Established approximately seven millennia ago, it ranks as the second oldest city across Europe. Over time, the city underwent several name changes, with historians uncovering a wealth of evidence about its former identities. Originally known as “Serdica,” this name is derived from the ancient Thracian tribe called the “Serds,” who were the original inhabitants of the region. Subsequently, the settlement became part of the Great Bulgarian Kingdom. By the early 9th century, it stood as one of the most prominent feudal towns, at which point it was renamed “Sredets.” In the 14th century, the city assumed its current name, Sofia, inspired by the Saint Sophia Basilica, which continues to exist in the heart of Sofia today. Since that time, Saint Sophia—whose name translates from Greek as “Wisdom”—has served as the city’s guardian, shielding it from misfortune.

During the time of the Ottoman Empire, the city experienced a decline. However, following its liberation in 1879, Sofia was designated as Bulgaria’s capital. This pivotal choice stemmed from the inaugural national assembly, coinciding with an era marked by swift reconstruction and recovery from previous adversities. In 1900, city officials proclaimed Sofia’s emblem and motto: “Ever growing, never aging.” Throughout the socialist era in Bulgaria (1944–1989), Sofia emerged as a major hub for administration, culture, economy, nationalism, and academia. Notably, in 1992, the Bulgarian government established September 17 as Sofia Day, honoring Holy Great Martyr Sofia.

Today, visitors can explore an extensive array of archaeological treasures that span various historical periods in Sofia. These remnants showcase influences from Ancient Rome, Byzantium, and the Ottoman period. These archaeological sites vividly illustrate the city’s ancient past, with millennia-old streets, majestic palaces, towering Serdica structures, temples, public edifices, and more.

Notably, these fascinating landmarks are situated at significant distances from one another. To experience all that Sofia has to offer, transportation becomes a crucial consideration. While options like buses or fixed-route taxis are available, they can be less than ideal for you and your family. Rigid schedules, crowded vehicles, and inflexible routes may undermine your overall experience in our beautiful city. Fortunately, there’s an appealing and convenient alternative: renting a car in Sofia through Avacar car rental services. For over a decade, we have proudly delivered exceptional car rental services in Sofia, as demonstrated by the countless positive testimonials from our satisfied customers. We encourage you to discover the quality and efficiency of our offerings by choosing to rent a car with us.

To get started, simply follow a few straightforward and quick steps. Reach out to our team via the phone numbers or email provided on our official website. Indicate your desired make and model. If you’re still undecided, our knowledgeable managers are ready to assist you in selecting the ideal rental car in Sofia that aligns with your preferences and budget. Next, reserve your chosen vehicle and confirm the time and location for pickup. A representative from our car rental service will be there to greet you at your scheduled time and place. Thus, thanks to the dedicated service of Sky Rent A Car in Sofia, securing a hire vehicle in the heart of Bulgaria becomes simple, affordable, and efficient. Our rental car documentation takes just minutes, prioritizing your safety and comfort during your travels. When you opt for a rental car in Sofia from Sky, rest assured that the vehicle you receive is meticulously maintained and technically reliable. Avacar rental cars in Sofia won’t let you down as you journey across Bulgaria. Additionally, all of our rental vehicles come with unlimited mileage, allowing you the freedom to explore extraordinary attractions without concerns about distance.

Sofia presents a remarkable blend of architectural styles, showcasing both compactness and diversity. Following significant destruction during World War II, the city underwent a comprehensive reconstruction. Like any capital, Sofia faces its share of challenges, but these are gradually addressed with time and effort. Home to an extensive array of museums, Sofia features several notable institutions such as the National Bulgarian Museum of History, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Ethnographic Museum. These establishments provide an engaging journey through the rich history of both the city and the Bulgarian people. Visitors can discover a treasure trove of rare exhibits, including bas-reliefs, ceramics, ancient gold and silver artifacts, traditional costumes, exquisite jewelry crafted by skilled artisans, and everyday household items. Additionally, the city hosts numerous private galleries, highlighting the immense appreciation for fine arts within Bulgaria. Among the most esteemed public art institutions are the National Gallery of Foreign Art and the Bulgarian National Gallery of Art, known for their inspiring collections.

Established in 1981, the National Museum of History in Sofia features an impressive assortment of artifacts. This museum was founded to celebrate the 1300th anniversary of the Bulgarian State and is a testament to Bulgaria’s status as a global leader in historical and cultural heritage. Within this museum, visitors can marvel at the extraordinary Golden Treasure of the ancient Thracians, a highlight of the collection.

The Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, commonly referred to as the Russian Church, carries a rich and storied past. Following the Russian-Turkish War of 1877-1878, a significant Russian community established itself in Sofia, primarily made up of Russian professionals. They initiated plans to create a dedicated temple for the local Russian populace. In 1882, city officials granted a plot of land measuring 1400 square meters on the site of a former market mosque. A special committee was formed to raise funds for the church’s construction. Although the groundwork for the temple was intended to commence in 1902, various factors, mostly political, delayed the project. Ultimately, the church’s foundation was laid in 1907.

In the wake of the 1917 revolution, numerous Russian intellectuals and military personnel sought refuge in Bulgaria, contributing to the church’s growth and vitality. In 1921, Bishop Seraphim Sobolev arrived from Russia, overseeing the church’s operations until 1949. Following his passing, he was canonized, recognized for the numerous miracles attributed to him during and after his life. Today, the church warmly welcomes its devoted congregation, with the relics of St. Seraphim housed in the crypt, continuing to perform miraculous acts. Individuals visit to leave prayers and heartfelt desires near his sarcophagus, where he is believed to grant their most cherished wishes.

The variety and richness of historical, archaeological, and cultural sites in Sofia offer an impressive experience for all who visit.

When starting your journey in Bulgaria from the city of Sofia, opting to rent a car in Sofia stands out as the best transportation choice. You have the option to secure a rental vehicle from Avacar Rent A Car Bulgaria. By selecting our services, you are ensuring your comfort is prioritized by skilled experts and experienced drivers, who are ready to take you to any location within the city or beyond. At Avacar Rent A Car, we provide a remarkable convenience with our vehicle delivery service, bringing your reserved car directly to your desired location. You can have the rental vehicle brought to you at a time that suits you, eliminating the need to visit our office to rent a car in Sofia. This delivery service significantly enhances the overall experience of our car rental offerings in Sofia for our valued customers.

The Saint Sophia Church holds the title of the most ancient Orthodox church within the city. It stands as a stunning representation of Christian architectural brilliance throughout Bulgaria and the broader Balkans. During the era of Ottoman rule, this church was transformed into a mosque, a testament to its historical significance. Local folklore suggests that the church harbors wondrous and spiritual energies that safeguarded the city against adversities like invasions, oppression, and calamities. Just outside Sofia lies the historic Boyana Church, a key landmark of European heritage. Experts worldwide recognize the cultural value of the frescoes adorning this church, lauding them as “the most remarkable examples of medieval Oriental art throughout its long history.” Sofia experiences a temperate continental climate, featuring mild winters, pleasantly cool summers, and prolonged springs. The city is celebrated for its abundance of cold and thermal mineral springs, widely recognized for their healing benefits. Additionally, Sofia boasts a rich tapestry of history and breathtaking mountain vistas. The Bulgarian capital is bursting with attractions and cultural events, making it an enticing destination for those who truly appreciate travel.

Experience the convenience of Avacar’s Rent A Car in Sofia services. For those exploring the city for the first time, we highly suggest opting for a vehicle equipped with GPS navigation. This feature ensures you effortlessly reach all the attractions you intend to visit. Count on Avacar Rent A Car in Bulgaria to cater to your needs. Regardless of whether it’s day or night, our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your transportation requirements in our stunning city, so you can easily rent cars in Sofia under excellent conditions.