GRAND HOTEL SOFIA | Stay downtown in Sofia

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Grand Hotel Sofia Exterior photo The headquarters of the European Anti-fraud Office in Rue Joseph II, Brussels

Grand Hotel Sofia Exterior photo The photo captures a well-lit indoor event space, likely a hotel ballroom or conference room, set up for a formal occasion. The walls and pillars are covered in rich, dark wood paneling, creating a warm and sophisticated ambiance. The ceiling is a st

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Key details

Hotel Overview

1 Gurko Street, Sofia, Bulgaria, 1000

Steps from "Ivan Vazov" National Theater

Great

8.9

9.3

/10

4.5

4.4

Loved by Grand Hotel Sofia guests

Spacious rooms
Comfortable beds
Attentive staff
Central location

"We paid extra to have a terrace room on the top floor which we were glad we had."

howardandhilda from United Kingdom

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"The hotel's location is also very convenient."

Joe H from United States

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"The hotel was comfortable with huge bedrooms, great shower room, temperature control and wi-fi."

Martin

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Amenities

Grand Hotel Sofia offers a range of premium services tailored for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel specializes in dedicating its resources to high-profile events and gatherings, accommodating various international celebrities and dignitaries over the years. Guests will find an executive lounge, a business center, and private dining options catering to exclusive meetings and events.

Rooms

Accommodations include 17 oversized suites and exceptional Panorama suites, all designed for comfort and style. Each room offers modern conveniences and views over Sofia's City Garden and the National Theatre. The hotel provides turndown service, complimentary mineral water, and welcome treats in every room.

Location

Grand Hotel Sofia is located next to the picturesque City Garden and the National Theatre 'Ivan Vazov', placing guests close to Sofia's cultural sites. The iconic Sofia Opera and Ballet are mere minutes away, enhancing the artistic experience during the stay. Vitosha Boulevard, with its array of dining and shopping, is also easily accessible within walking distance.

Dining

Dining at Grand Hotel Sofia is marked by exquisite cuisine offered at the Shades of Red restaurant, which serves traditional Bulgarian dishes and international favorites. In addition, the Grand Café features an open-air terrace perfect for enjoying light meals and coffee. Guests can also indulge in private dining experiences designed for special occasions.

Events and Experiences

The hotel offers a Grand Opera Experience that allows guests to attend performances at the Sofia Opera and Ballet along with a backstage tour. Guests are provided preferential pricing for tickets and can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the cultural institution. This package also includes an overnight stay with breakfast at Shades of Red.

Highlights

Location: Next to City Garden

Rooms: 17 oversized suites

Dining: Shades of Red restaurant

Events: Grand Opera Experience

Transfers: Two-way airport service

Wellness: Health Centre with sauna

Must-do experiences

Visit the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Sofia's icon.
Explore the hidden gems of the Museum of Socialist Art.
Taste traditional banitsa at a local bakery in the city.
Stroll through the vibrant Zhenski Pazar market for local flavors.
Relax in the picturesque Borisova Gradina park for a picnic.

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

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How it felt to stay here

Shine on Socials

“It's a lovely building with a beautiful reception area and lobby bar as soon as you walk in.”

Sarah from United KingdomFebruary 2024

Explorers, Not Tourists

“You can visit the Alexander Nevsky cathedral and the Russian church in the morning and the restaurants at Vitosha boulevard in the afternoon.”

rbyulb963572February 2025

Away at Home

“The Grand Hotel felt like home.”

cu64p7rhy6February 2025

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Choose Your Room

Our listed hotels offer a variety of room types—double rooms, family suites, or deluxe options—all with features like breakfast, flexible cancellation policies, and exclusive deals.

Superior Single Room Garden View

2 persons

270 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Superior Double Room

2 persons

540 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Superior Twin Room

2 persons

540 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Executive Twin Room

2 persons

650 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

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Room Rates & Availability Tracker

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Amenities

Thoughtful hotel amenities for a comfortable stay

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
Hairdresser
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Dinner
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's buffet
Children's play area

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Garden area
Pedicure
Manicure
Facial
Treatment room
Beauty treatment

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Experience a delightful blend of international flavors and local specialties at Grand Hotel Sofia's exceptional dining venues. From the elegant setting of Shades of Red to the inviting atmosphere of GRAND CAFÉ, each choice reflects a commitment to culinary excellence and memorable dining experiences.

Shades of Red

International and Bulgarian fine dining

Ambiance

Elegant dining with garden views, perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include lobster bisque, caviar, and New Zealand lamb, complemented by traditional Bulgarian cuisine and seasonal specials. A magnificent outdoor terrace enhances the experience.

Reservation

Recommended

Lunch and dinner; hours vary

GRAND CAFÉ

International with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options

Ambiance

Family-friendly and traditional, with a cozy and inviting feel for gatherings and special moments

Key Offerings

Offers diverse meal options catering to various dietary needs, creating a warm atmosphere for shared dining experiences.

Reservation

Not needed

Hours vary

Hotel Location

1 Gurko Street, Sofia, Bulgaria, 1000

Map view

1 Gurko Street, Sofia, Bulgaria, 1000

City landmarks

Church

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

3200 ft

Park

Borisova gradina

4700 ft

Museum

Regional History Museum

2400 ft

Market

Central Sofia Market Hall

3200 ft

Event hall

National Palace of Culture

4400 ft

Museum

National Institute of Archaeology with Museum

3500 ft

Bridge

Eagle Bridge

4400 ft

Landmark

National Opera and Ballet of Bulgaria

2700 ft

Mosque

Banya Bashi Mosque

2900 ft

Stadium

Vasil Levski National Stadium

3500 ft

Church

Church of St Petka of the Saddlers

2300 ft

Monument

Monument to the Tsar Liberator

2800 ft

Event hall

Central Military Club

2100 ft

Landmark

Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski

2800 ft

Church

Saint Sofia Church

3500 ft

Landmark

Kvadrat 500

3400 ft

Landmark

Lake Ariana

4700 ft

Nearby

Park

City Garden

300 ft

Theatre

"Ivan Vazov" National Theater

700 ft

Monument

Soviet Army Monument

1600 ft

Gallery

National Art Gallery

1600 ft

3 Tsar Osvobotiel blvd At the intersection of Rakovska and Tsar Osvoboditel Streets

Russian Church St Nicholas

1800 ft

Vitosha boulevard

1700 ft

Museum

National Museum of Natural History

1800 ft

Park

Doctor's Garden

1300 ft

bul. "Vitosha" 2

Sofia Court House

1700 ft

Square

Statue of Slaveikovs

800 ft

pl Sveta Nedelya

Holy Nedelya Church

1800 ft

SofiaBulgaria

Monument to the Unknown Warrior

1500 ft

Church

The Rotunda Church of St George

1600 ft

Restaurants

Happy Bar & Grill Rakovski

1000 ft

Georgi Street Rakovski 145

Emotion Bar & Kitchen

100 ft

ul. General Yosif V. Gourko 2

Shtastlivetsa Vitoshka

1700 ft

Vitosha Blvd. 27 Sofia Center

Umamido

600 ft

ulitsa Stefan Karadzha 12 B

Hadjidraganov's Cellars

1400 ft

Didy's cakes & sweets

600 ft

ul.Dyakon Ignatiy 4

Fresh Bar Kitchen

800 ft

ul.Angel Kanchev 2 Giuseppe Garibaldi square

MEAT Gourmet Sandwiches and Burgers

1000 ft

1 ul. "Angel Kanchev"

Q-ftetaria

1000 ft

ul.Angel Kanchev 1 On The Second Floor

Bitburger Club

800 ft

20 Stefan Karadja

Explore Sofia

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

12 minutes' walk

Iconic Orthodox cathedral known for its stunning architecture and impressive gold-plated domes. Guided tours available.

Regional History Museum

9 minutes' walk

A glimpse into Bulgaria's rich history with artifacts from ancient to modern times. Engaging exhibits and free admission days.

Borisova gradina

18 minutes' walk

Sofia's oldest and most beautiful park featuring a serene lake, gardens, and walking paths. Perfect for a relaxing stroll.

National Palace of Culture

17 minutes' walk

A major cultural venue hosting concerts and exhibitions. Architecturally impressive space with nearby gardens.

Biking at Borisova gradina

18 minutes' walk

Bike rentals available near the park for a scenic ride through picturesque paths. Great for families and couples.

Yoga classes at Emotion Bar & Kitchen

1 minute' walk

Relaxing yoga sessions offered weekly at this café. Perfect spot for those seeking wellness and tranquility.

Hiking Seven Rila Lakes

90 minutes' drive

A thrilling day trip to the stunning Seven Rila Lakes for hiking enthusiasts. Guided tours available.

Emotion Bar & Kitchen

1 minute' walk

Trendy restaurant offering a fusion of Bulgarian and international cuisines in a vibrant atmosphere. Vegetarian options available.

Happy Bar & Grill Rakovski

4 minutes' walk

Casual dining with a lively environment serving hearty Bulgarian dishes. Signature grill items highly recommended.

Shades of red

2 minutes' walk

Charming spot with a cozy vibe specialized in authentic local cuisine. Reservations recommended during peak hours.

National Opera and Ballet of Bulgaria

10 minutes' walk

Sophisticated venue showcasing opera and ballet performances. Known for its exquisite productions and elegant architecture.

Ivan Vazov National Theater

3 minutes' walk

Cultural landmark featuring theatrical performances and concerts. Offers a family-friendly ambiance and diverse events.

Transportation Tips

City Centre

Sofia4 min · 1000 ft

Airports

Sofia (SOF)18 min · 7.1 mi

Train

Sofia Central Bus Station23 min · 1.2 mi

Underground

Serdika8 min · 2000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 12 pm

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site at BGN 58.67 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs BGN 43 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of floors:

116

Number of rooms:

122

Former name

grand hotel sofia - top location, the most spacious rooms in the city, secured underground parking

Guest Reviews & Ratings

What Guests Are Saying?

Review score

Based on 1148 verified reviews

8.8/10

Great

90%

Recommend

Breakfast

8.4/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Comfort

9.3/10

Facilities

8.8/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.3/10

Location

9.6/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.2/10

Staff

8.8/10

Value for money

8.6/10

Pros

Exceptional service

Great breakfast

Spacious room

Helpful staff

Brilliant location

Cons

Air conditioning

Housekeeping issues

Uncomfortable sleeping

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

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Questions of the users

About Grand Hotel Sofia

Is there parking available at the hotel, and how can guests access it?

22 February 2024

The hotel features secure underground parking. Upon arrival, the front desk staff can assist guests in parking their vehicles safely.

Are guests allowed to smoke on the terrace if they book a panoramic room?

7 March 2024

Yes, smoking is permitted on the terrace of the panoramic rooms.

Is the hotel accommodating for pets, and are there any associated fees?

15 April 2024

The hotel is pet friendly and allows pets for a fee of 30 EUR per pet per night.

What are the reception hours for check-in and assistance?

30 January 2024

The reception desk operates 24 hours a day, ensuring assistance is available at all times.

Can guests expect clean and comfortable room options for a family with young children?

11 May 2024

For a family of two adults and two children, it is recommended to book two adjacent double rooms, as the hotel does not have rooms accommodating four persons.

Are there designated smoking areas within the hotel rooms?

20 June 2024

There are no designated smoking rooms in the hotel. However, panoramic rooms and apartments with balconies can be used for smoking.

How far is the hotel from Sofia's main shopping area?

17 July 2024

Vitosha Boulevard, the main shopping street, is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel.

Is there any early check-in availability and associated fees?

23 August 2024

Early check-in is possible starting from 8 AM, with a fee of 10 EUR for every starting hour before the standard check-in time of 14:00, subject to availability.

What kind of dining experience can guests expect at the hotel?

1 September 2024

The hotel features the Shades of Red restaurant, offering a blend of gourmet international cuisine and local specialties, enjoyed in a beautifully decorated setting.

Can guests access wellness facilities or spa services during their stay?

5 October 2024

Yes, the hotel offers a Health Centre that includes a sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi, and various body treatments to enhance guest wellness.