9 Best Bars in Sofia for Every Taste [Local's Favorites]

Sofia's nightlife scene is one of Europe's best-kept secrets, and I'm thrilled to share my favorite watering holes with you.

From mysterious candlelit bars hidden in backyard courtyards to trendy cocktail spots with prohibition-era vibes, Bulgaria's capital knows how to pour a good drink.

Whether you're craving Bulgarian rakia, craft beer, or expertly mixed cocktails, these 9 bars will show you why Sofia's bar scene deserves serious attention.

[Photo: Sofia nightlife street scene with bars lit up at night] Alt text: Sofia bars

11 Best Sofia Bars for Every Taste

1. Hambara – The Hidden Gem

[Photo: Candlelit interior of Hambara bar with atmospheric lighting] Alt text: hambara bar

If I could only recommend one bar in Sofia, Hambara would be it. This candlelit speakeasy is tucked away in the backyard of a residential building on ul. 6-ti septemvri 22, and finding it feels like uncovering a secret that only locals know about.

During Communist times, Hambara was frequented by Bulgaria's intellectual elite – artists, philosophers, and writers who needed a safe place to speak freely. The unmarked door would only open if you knew the password. Today, you just need to knock (and maybe wait a bit), but the atmosphere remains deliciously clandestine.

Inside, hundreds of candles provide the only light – no electricity whatsoever.

[Photo of candles] alt text: Candles ambiance hambara bar

The two-level space attracts a wonderful mix of locals and travelers, all drawn to the cozy medieval-barn-meets-modern-hipster vibe. Live music performances happen regularly, and the bar staff are known for surprising customers with creative shots.

• Address: ul. 6-ti septemvri 22, 1142 Sofia, Bulgaria

• Hours: Daily, approximately 9 PM – 3 AM (no fixed closing time)

• Google Maps: View Location

2. Pub Crawl Sofia – Explore the Nightlife Scene

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While not technically a bar, joining Pub Crawl Sofia is one of my all-time favorite ways to experience the city's nightlife and meeting new people. Especially useful for those of you doing a solo trip in Sofia!

These guided tours run every single night and take you to five different venues you'd never find on your own – including some of the hidden gems on this list. You'll visit underground bars with fascinating histories, enjoy complimentary drinks at each stop, and end the night at a popular nightclub with free entry.

What makes pub crawls in Sofia special is the guides. They're knowledgeable locals who share stories about Bulgarian history and culture between drinks, and they make sure everyone in the group feels included. I've joined several times with visiting friends, and we always end up making connections with travelers from around the world.

The standard crawl costs around 30 BGN (about 15 EUR) and includes welcome drinks in most venues + club entrance. It typically starts at 9 PM and runs until around 2-3 AM. Whether you're 22 or 52, if you're social and love discovering new places, this is an absolute must-do in Sofia.

• Meeting Point: Sudebna Palata

• Hours: Daily at 9 PM

• Price: 20-25 BGN (includes drinks and club entry)

• Google Maps.

Make sure to book a crawl online!

3. 5L Speakeasy Bar – Prohibition Vibes

[Photo: Dark speakeasy interior with cocktails on bar] Alt text: Speakeasy bar

5L (pronounced "Petel," which means rooster in Bulgarian) is Sofia's most sophisticated speakeasy, and it never fails to impress my out-of-town friends. Located at ulitsa Tsar Shishman 15, the first challenge is actually getting inside.

The entrance looks like this:

[photo of entrance] alt text: speakeasy bar entrance

And the first thing you see when entering the bar is a set of keys hanging near a locked door. You'll need to solve a simple puzzle to figure out which key opens the door (hint: no hints, go figure it out). Don't worry if you're stumped – other patrons or staff will help you out, but honestly, figuring it out is half the fun.

Once inside, you'll find yourself in a beautifully designed prohibition-era space with dark wood, vintage décor, and mood lighting. There are two levels – the upper level opens on weekends, while weeknights see action only downstairs. The rooftop terrace is particularly lovely in warm weather.

The cocktail menu here is exceptional. We're talking creative, well-balanced drinks made by some of Sofia's best mixologists. Everything I've tried has been delicious, though drinks aren't cheap by Bulgarian standards. Still, for the quality and atmosphere, it's worth every lev.

[photo of 5l cocktail] alt text: speakeasy 5l cocktail

• Address: ulitsa Tsar Shishman 15, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia

• Hours: Daily 4 PM – 2 AM

• Google Maps: View Location

4. Magic Bar – Entertainment Meets Cocktails

[photo of magic bar] alt text: magic bar interior

Magic Bar on ul. Tsar Asen 12 combines two of my favorite things: expertly crafted cocktails and live entertainment. This intimate venue specializes in close-up magic shows performed by talented Bulgarian magicians, and trust me, it's absolutely mind-blowing.

The bar operates Wednesday through Saturday, with different programming each night. Thursdays feature comedy, improv, or just cozy cocktail evenings. Fridays host magic shows in English, while Saturdays feature shows in Bulgarian. Ticket prices are around 22-25 BGN, and the shows are totally worth it.

Even if you skip the show, Magic Bar is worth visiting for the drinks alone. Bartender Hristo has earned rave reviews for his cocktail creations, and several visitors have called them the best in Bulgaria. The intimate, jazzy atmosphere makes it perfect for date nights or special occasions.

The magic shows book up quickly, so I always recommend buying tickets in advance online if you want to catch a performance.

• Address: ul. Tsar Asen 12, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia

• Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 5 PM – 10 PM

• Website: magicbar.bg

• Google Maps: View Location

5. HIGH FIVE Taproom – Craft Beer Paradise

[Photo: Rows of craft beer taps and bottles in refrigerator] Alt text: hi5 craft beer bar

As a craft beer enthusiast, HIGH FIVE Taproom on ul. Hristo Belchev 29 is one of my regular haunts. This compact taproom serves up 12 rotating taps plus two enormous fridges stocked with cans and bottles from breweries across Europe and Bulgaria.

The selection is genuinely impressive – from double-dry-hopped IPAs to barrel-aged stouts to experimental sours. The staff (Denis and Misha get special mentions from regulars) are passionate about beer and happy to help you choose something perfect for your taste.

What sets HIGH FIVE apart is the constantly rotating selection. They frequently host tap takeovers and release parties for new brews, so there's always something new to try. They also serve beer cocktails and snacks to accompany your pints.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, and dogs are allowed (a big plus in my book). Prices are very reasonable for the quality – a draft beer typically costs 5-8 BGN. The only downside is the space can get crowded on weekends, so arrive early if you want a seat.

• Address: ul. Hristo Belchev 29, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia

• Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM – 12 AM, Sunday 12 PM – 11 PM

• Google Maps: View Location

6. Raketa Rakia Bar – Soviet Nostalgia

[photo of raketa rakia bar] alt text: raketa rakia bar

Raketa Rakia Bar at bul. Yanko Sakazov 17 offers something completely unique: a journey back to Bulgaria's socialist past. The entire space is decorated with Soviet memorabilia – old TVs, radios, propaganda posters, and coins embedded in the tables.

This venue specializes in rakia, Bulgaria's beloved fruit brandy, offering over 170 varieties. If you've never tried rakia, the knowledgeable staff will guide you through a proper tasting experience. They also serve excellent traditional Bulgarian food to accompany your drinks.

The retro atmosphere is kitschy but done with genuine love for the era's aesthetic. It's become incredibly popular with both tourists and locals who enjoy the nostalgic vibe and hearty comfort food.

One insider tip: look for the secret door that connects Raketa to its sister bar, Sputnik Cocktail Bar. You can easily move between the two venues, enjoying rakia at one and cocktails at the other.

• Address: bul. Yanko Sakazov 17, 1527 Sofia, Bulgaria

• Hours: Daily 12 PM – 12 AM

• Website: raketarakiabar.bg

• Google Maps: View Location

7. Sputnik Cocktail Bar – Award-Winning Mixology

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Sharing a space with Raketa, Sputnik Cocktail Bar is an entirely different experience with a space-age, geometric design featuring merkabah lights and hexagon carpets. This award-winning bar (Sofia's Best Cocktail Bar 2017-2020) serves up some of the most creative cocktails in the city.

What I love about Sputnik is how they incorporate traditional Bulgarian ingredients like rakia into contemporary cocktail recipes. The bartenders are true mixologists who treat their craft seriously, and it shows in every drink.

The atmosphere is trendy yet relaxed, with excellent music and a crowd that appreciates good cocktails. You can also order food from Raketa's menu while sitting at Sputnik's bar, giving you the best of both worlds.

Service is friendly and professional, and while prices are slightly higher than average Sofia bars, the quality justifies the cost. It's open until 2 AM, making it perfect for a nightcap.

• Address: bul. Yanko Sakazov 17, 1527 Sofia, Bulgaria

• Hours: Daily 6 PM – 2 AM

• Google Maps: View Location

8. The Grumpy Dwarf – Underground Sports Bar

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The Grumpy Dwarf is Sofia's hidden gem for sports fans and craft beer lovers. Located underground at ul. Pozitano 3, this cozy pub offers a completely different vibe from Sofia's trendier bars – and that's exactly why I love it.

Despite the name, the atmosphere here is actually quite friendly. They specialize in craft beers and have multiple screens showing Premier League matches and other sporting events. The underground setting gives it an intimate, clubhouse-like feel.

The staff are excellent, the prices are very reasonable, and the rock music soundtrack adds to the laid-back vibe. It's particularly popular with expats and locals who want a low-key spot to watch the game with a pint.

While it's not the most polished bar in Sofia, The Grumpy Dwarf succeeds at being exactly what it aims to be: a comfortable neighborhood pub where you can enjoy quality beer without any pretension.

• Address: ulitsa Tsar Shishman 12, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia

• Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 2 AM

• Google Maps: View Location

9. A:part:mental (The Apartment) – Hipster Haven

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A:part:mental, also known as The Apartment, is exactly what it sounds like – a bar located in a former apartment building that once briefly served as the Sudanese embassy. The space combines two former apartments into one quirky, homey bar.

The décor features vintage furniture, books, board games, and a piano you can actually play. It feels like hanging out in your coolest friend's living room, if that friend had excellent taste in Belgian beers and natural wines.

Their raspberry wine is legendary (though admittedly an acquired taste – I find it too sweet). But with a wide selection of Belgian beers and regularly rotating wine options, there's something for everyone.

The crowd skews younger and artsy, and the vibe is wonderfully unpretentious. It's a great spot for a casual evening with friends or for meeting fellow travelers. The cozy atmosphere makes it particularly appealing on Sofia's colder evenings.

• Address: Sofia Center (specific address varies – check current location)

• Hours: Daily, evenings until late

• Google Maps: Search "A:part:mental Sofia"

7 Practical Tips for Sofia Nightlife

Before you start hunting down some of my favorite bars in town, here’s some quick tips to make your nightlife journey as smooth as possible!

1. Bring Cash – While some upscale bars accept cards, many smaller venues and hidden bars are cash-only.

2. Start Late, End Later – Sofia nightlife operates on Balkan time. Bars get busy around 10 PM, and clubs don't heat up until after midnight. Restaurants typically serve dinner until 10-11 PM.

3. Carry Photo ID – Some require ID regardless of your age, particularly speakeasies and clubs. Keep your passport or driver's license handy.

4. Don't Judge from the Exterior – Sofia's best bars are often hidden behind unmarked doors or look completely unassuming from the outside. Trust the address and keep looking – it's worth it.

5. Download Taxi Me – Uber doesn’t work in Sofia (sorry!), and there are a lot of scam taxis around town. Use a safe local app like Taxi Me or Yellow Taxi.

6. Thursday to Saturday Are Prime Nights – While many bars open daily, the best atmosphere happens Thursday through Saturday. Sunday through Wednesday tend to be quieter.

7. Try the Local Drinks – Don't leave Sofia without tasting rakia (fruit brandy) and Bulgarian wine. Both are excellent and significantly cheaper than imported spirits.

FAQ About Sofia Bars

1. What time do bars close in Sofia?

Most bars in Sofia stay open until 2-3 AM on weekends and from around midnight to 1 AM on weekdays. Clubs typically run until 4-5 AM on Friday and Saturday nights. Some venues like Hambara don't have fixed closing times and stay open as long as customers keep coming.

2. Is Sofia nightlife safe?

Sofia is generally a safe city with low crime rates. The main nightlife areas around the city center and Studentski Grad are well-lit and busy. Use common sense by watching your drinks, traveling in groups when possible, and using registered taxis or rideshare apps.

3. How much do drinks cost in Sofia bars?

Beer costs 3-6 BGN (€1.50-3), cocktails range from 10-18 BGN (€5-9), and wine by the glass is 6-12 BGN (€3-6). Sofia offers excellent value compared to Western European cities, though upscale cocktail bars charge premium prices.

4. Do I need to make reservations at Sofia bars?

Most bars don't require reservations for regular drinks, but specialty venues like Magic Bar (for shows) and upscale cocktail bars on weekends benefit from advance booking. Hambara operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Are Sofia bars smoker-friendly?

Bulgaria has relatively relaxed smoking laws compared to Western Europe. Some bars have designated smoking areas or allow smoking throughout. If you're sensitive to smoke, check ahead or ask staff about non-smoking sections.

6. Can I find English-speaking staff in Sofia bars?

Yes, most bars in Sofia's city center have English-speaking staff, especially those popular with tourists. Bartenders at cocktail bars and speakeasies typically speak excellent English. In more local neighborhood pubs, English proficiency varies.

7. What's the dress code for Sofia bars?

Most bars in Sofia are casual – jeans and a nice top work perfectly. Upscale cocktail bars like 5L Speakeasy and Sputnik appreciate smart-casual attire. Save your fanciest outfits for clubs rather than bars.

Conclusion

Sofia's bar scene brilliantly combines hidden speakeasies, craft beer havens, and atmospheric cocktail lounges with affordable prices and genuine local character.

From the candlelit mystique of Hambara to the sophisticated mixology at 5L Speakeasy, each bar offers something unique.

Whether you join a pub crawl to discover hidden gems or explore independently, Sofia's nightlife promises unforgettable evenings.

Remember to bring cash, start late, and embrace the local tradition of saying yes to "one more" drink.