Hotel Lion Sofia is a straightforward, good-value base in the heart of the city, on Maria Luiza Boulevard close to the junction known as Lavov Most. The Lavov Most metro and tram stop is only two minutes away on foot, and the Sofia Central Station is about eleven minutes, which makes the hotel convenient for arrivals by train or bus. The Central Market Hall and the Central Mineral Baths are about seven minutes on foot, the Church of St George ten minutes, and the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral about fifteen. The hotel is an intimate property with air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi. Rooms are offered as Double or Twin rooms of around twenty-four square metres, sleeping up to three, with either two single beds or a queen bed, and as larger Deluxe Double rooms of around thirty square metres with a city view and a queen bed. These are comfortable, simple rooms that give you what you need for a short city break without frills. The hotel has a restaurant and bar, as well as a small café on site, and cooked-to-order breakfast is available for an extra charge. Pets are welcome, which is helpful for travellers who bring a dog, and the hotel offers sports massage and other spa services. There is no pool, and the property does not list a gym or parking, so it is best for visitors who plan to spend most of their time exploring rather than relaxing at the hotel.
Living in it
The area around Maria Luiza Boulevard is lively and local, with shops, cafés and bakeries, and the Central Market Hall is a short walk away for a pastry or a look at the produce. The Banya Bashi Mosque, the synagogue and the Serdica ruins are all within a short stroll. In the evening the Serdika area and Vitosha Boulevard are easy to reach for dinner.
Who it suits
Budget-conscious travellers, solo visitors and couples who want to put their money into tours, meals and day trips instead of the room. It is also a practical option for anyone with an early train or bus, thanks to the proximity of the central station and the transport interchange at Lavov Most.
Trade-offs
The hotel is modest, and the hotel is simple, so expect functional rather than stylish interiors. Breakfast is charged separately, and the boulevard can be busy with trams and traffic, so request a quieter room if you are a light sleeper. Facilities such as a pool, gym or on-site parking are not available, and the airport is about twenty-one minutes by car.
Good to know
Lavov Most is a major junction, so noise can be present at times, but it also means transport options are excellent. A taxi or metro ride to the airport is straightforward and inexpensive. Check the room type and bed configuration when you book, since a Deluxe room gives noticeably more space and a city view. This is a good choice for those who value location over luxury.
Why stay here
- ✓Restaurant and bar
- ✓On-site café
- ✓Cooked-to-order breakfast
- ✓Sports massage and spa services
- ✓Air conditioning
- ✓Free WiFi
- ✓Pet friendly
- ✓Transport stop two minutes away
Good questions
Where is Hotel Lion Sofia?+
On Maria Luiza Boulevard, two minutes from the Lavov Most stop and about seven minutes from the Central Market Hall.
Does it accept pets?+
Yes, the hotel is pet friendly; check the terms when you book.
Is breakfast included?+
Breakfast is available for an extra charge, so check your rate.
