Erasmus Experience in Sofia, Bulgaria by Vicky

Why did you choose to go to Sofia, Bulgaria?

Sofia is a big city with many opportunities for development and growth not only career-wise but also culturally. You meet a lot of new people everyday and you can always visit the different events organized. This all made Sofia very appealing to me, especially the fact that there are so many different people of different social classes, style and culture.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I am not on scholarship.

What is the student lifestyle like in Sofia?

The student lifetyle in Sofia is very diverse. You have everything and everyone, from underground rock bars and hip hop parties for the more social of students to herbal tea shops for people who prefer spending their time reading or drinking tea while discussing Hamlet in hushed voices. You can never get bored in Sofia if you are a student.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Sofia to other students?

Of course I would. It's the best city and University in Europe.

What is the food like?

Well you can find anything in Sofia, from traditional Bulgarian food which ranges from "banichka" (like a cheese pie but better ) or "guiveche" ( vegetables and meat stew ) to Sushi or Tacos. And let's not forget one of the students favorite "Diuner" which is basically like your Greek Kebab but a whole lot greasier for those nights of wild partying in Studentsi Grad.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Sofia?

The only thing that costed me was my time as it took some to make the arrangement but if you have the means or good searching skills you should be good.

How much does it cost to live in Sofia?

This question can be answered by how much you spend and how much you can afford to spend. If you are good with money you can easily survive with 200 leva if you only go out on weekend and of course this does not include your bills. But on average i would say 500 leva, leisurely which is about 250 euros a month.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are a lot of Bulgarian courses in Sofia University offered to students. Also the Bulgarian students themselves are really helpful, correcting you and not making fun if you do mistakes.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Sofia from your city?

Airplane,

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Sofia?

The good thing about Sofia is, you can move around fairly easily. Therefore when you go out on a night out you don't have to be stuck in one place for hours at a time.
For the rock fans I would recommend visiting the Irish pub Murphys for a pint of beer, then going to the Art Hostel where you will be surprised by not only the interior by how friendly and diverse are people there and then hitting Rock N Rolla where you can stay until the morning.
For the hip hop lovers I would recommend Club Sugar or Jim Beam but beware that there may put some traditional Bulgarian pop-folk around 3-4 am.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Sofia?

Definitely try Pizza Palace located around the middle of Vitoshka street. Not only is the food tasty and freshly prepared but it's also cheap and you will love the interior.
If you are going home from a night out and you want something fast and not so healthy I would suggest Mimas, located on Popa where you can have the best "Diuner" or "Fallafel Sandwich".
Also for fresh soup go to Soupateria.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You only need to go to the center and you will be surrounded by many cultural sites, museums and statues.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Sofia in the future?

Get ready to have one of the best times in your life.