Is the internet fast enough for remote work in Sofia?

Sofia has excellent internet infrastructure with average speeds of 190 Mbps. This is more than sufficient for video calls, file uploads, and general remote work. Many cafes and coworking spaces offer reliable WiFi for digital nomads.

Is there a digital nomad community in Sofia?

Sofia has a thriving digital nomad community with a Nomad Score of 85/100. You'll find regular meetups, coworking spaces, and expat-friendly venues where you can connect with other remote workers. Facebook groups and Slack communities are active for this destination.

Is Sofia safe for digital nomads?

Sofia is generally considered safe for digital nomads and travelers. Like any city, it's recommended to take normal precautions, especially in tourist areas. The local community is generally welcoming to remote workers.

What is the best time to visit Sofia as a digital nomad?

The climate in Sofia, Bulgaria varies throughout the year. Most digital nomads prefer visiting during the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn typically offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices. Check our detailed climate section for monthly weather data and recommendations.

How long can I stay in Sofia as a digital nomad?

Visa requirements for Bulgaria depend on your nationality. Many digital nomads stay on tourist visas (typically 30-90 days), while some countries offer specific digital nomad visas for longer stays. Check the latest visa requirements for Bulgaria before planning your trip, as regulations may have changed recently.

Sofia Nomad Guide: Cost & Internet 2026

Planning to work remotely from Sofia, Bulgaria? This in-depth guide covers neighborhoods, coworking spaces, cost of living, and local culture, with monthly cost of living around $1,671 and average internet speeds of 190 Mbps. Everything you need to know about living and working in Sofia as a digital nomad.

🌍 Overview

As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Sofia, Bulgaria, my home for several months, and I can confidently say it’s a hidden gem for remote workers. The city has a unique blend of Eastern European charm, rich history, and a growing expat community, making it an attractive destination for Sofia digital nomads. With a nomad score of 85/100, Sofia offers a great balance of affordability, culture, and lifestyle. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the city’s vibrant atmosphere, with its bustling streets, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Sofia has something to offer, making it an excellent choice for digital nomads looking for a new adventure.

🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads

When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live in Sofia, there are several areas that stand out for digital nomads. Here are a few of my favorites:

Lozenets: This upscale neighborhood is located in the southern part of the city and offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lozenets can cost around 800-1,200 BGN (approximately $450-$670 USD) per month.
Ivan Vazov: This charming neighborhood is named after the famous Bulgarian writer and is known for its beautiful parks, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. A one-bedroom apartment in Ivan Vazov can cost around 600-1,000 BGN (approximately $330-$560 USD) per month.
Oborishte: This trendy neighborhood is located in the heart of the city and is popular with young professionals and expats. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oborishte can cost around 500-900 BGN (approximately $280-$500 USD) per month.
Studentski Grad: This neighborhood is home to several universities and is a hub for students and young people. A one-bedroom apartment in Studentski Grad can cost around 400-700 BGN (approximately $220-$390 USD) per month.

Cost of Living Breakdown

One of the main advantages of living in Sofia is the low cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:

Rent: As mentioned earlier, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from 400-1,200 BGN (approximately $220-$670 USD).
Food: Eating out in Sofia can be very affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around 10-20 BGN (approximately $5.50-$11 USD) per person. Groceries are also relatively cheap, with a basket of basic items (milk, bread, eggs, etc.) costing around 20-30 BGN (approximately $11-$16.50 USD).
Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass costs around 25 BGN (approximately $14 USD), while a taxi ride can cost around 5-10 BGN (approximately $2.75-$5.50 USD).
Coworking: Membership at a coworking space can cost around 100-200 BGN (approximately $55-$110 USD) per month.

Internet & Coworking

Sofia has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with average speeds of 49 Mbps. There are also several coworking spaces and cafes with good internet connectivity. Some popular options include:

Sofia Coworking Space: Located in the heart of the city, this coworking space offers membership plans starting from 100 BGN (approximately $55 USD) per month.
Betahaus: This coworking space is located in the trendy Oborishte neighborhood and offers membership plans starting from 150 BGN (approximately $82.50 USD) per month.
Cafe Gallery: This cafe is located in the Lozenets neighborhood and offers good internet connectivity, as well as a comfortable working space.

Digital Nomad Community

Sofia has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Some popular groups include:

Sofia Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other digital nomads and remote workers.
Nomad List Sofia: This group is part of the larger Nomad List community and offers a range of resources and information for digital nomads in Sofia.
Sofia Expats: This group is geared towards expats living in Sofia, but also includes many digital nomads and remote workers.

Culture & Lifestyle

Sofia has a rich cultural scene, with a mix of traditional Bulgarian culture and modern influences. Some popular attractions include:

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
National Historical Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at Bulgarian history, from ancient times to the present day.
Vitosha Boulevard: This lively shopping street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, and is a great place to people-watch and soak up the city’s atmosphere. The food scene in Sofia is also worth exploring, with a range of traditional Bulgarian dishes, such as shopska salad, banitsa, and kebapche. The city also has a lively nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs to choose from.

Visa Information

As a digital nomad, you’ll need to consider visa requirements when planning your stay in Sofia. Bulgaria offers a range of visa options, including:

Tourist visa: This visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be obtained at the border or in advance through the Bulgarian embassy or consulate.
Long-term residence visa: This visa is valid for up to 1 year and requires a range of documents, including proof of income, health insurance, and a police certificate. It’s worth noting that Bulgaria is part of the European Union, but not part of the Schengen Area. This means that digital nomads from outside the EU may need to apply for a separate visa to enter the country.

💡 Practical Tips

Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when living in Sofia:

SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from one of the major mobile operators, such as Mtel or Telenor, for around 10-20 BGN (approximately $5.50-$11 USD).
Transportation: The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. You can purchase a monthly pass for around 25 BGN (approximately $14 USD).
Safety: Sofia is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s a good idea to take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone in dimly lit areas at night.
Weather: Sofia has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing for the winter months (December to February) and light clothing for the summer months (June to August).