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Sofia
Bulgaria
Once touted as Europe’s most affordable capital, Sofia is an
ideal weekend break for those wishing to explore more of Eastern
Europe. While it hasn’t completely rid itself of its Soviet past,
peel back the brutalist block buildings to reveal golden-domed,
Neo-Byzantine architecture, while a surge of independent
restaurants and galleries that have recently taken root. Head to
the Central Market to try a steaming plate of Bulgaria’s national
dish, musaka, full of gloriously rich aubergines. For dinner, snag
a table at Made in Home, a modern eatery
serving up a mix of Middle Eastern, Turkish and vegan fare. After
dinner drinks should be taken up on the trendy Sense hotels rooftop with views
across Mt. Vitosha. Ask for a shot of rakia; Bulgaria’s national
drink is an eye-winching 40% fruit liqueur that’s often, somewhat
oddly, served with salads.