InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts has brought modern luxury to Bulgaria with the opening of InterContinental® Sofia, an IHG® hotel, in the culture-filled capital city. 

Sofia, an untapped destination for UK travellers, blends history and modernity with its scattering of domed churches and ottoman mosques intertwined with the sheen of new buildings and striking historic architecture.

Steeped in historical charm, it offers travellers a cultural escape as well as the dynamism and energy of a city on the up.

Marking the brand’s debut in Bulgaria but seventh opening in Eastern Europe, the hotel features 194 rooms, including 27 Club rooms and 37 Suites. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding city and its vibrant history, every touch point of the hotel’s interior is designed to deliver exceptional comfort while embodying the unique spirit of Sofia. From the statue of a girl blowing a dandelion that signifies hope and unity in the lobby, through to the rooms that mimic architectural influences of the 1960s, the design of the hotel truly signifies the unique spirit of Sofia throughout.

Nestled in the centre of the city, guests have stunning views of some of the city’s local attractions including Bulgaria’s Parliament building, dating back to the 1880s. The Tsar Liberator Monument, a famous statue in honour of Russian Emperor Alexander II, and the gold-covered domes of the St Alexander Nevski Catherdral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, are just moments from the hotel. Sofia is encased by vast parkland and sits at the foot of Vitosha mountain, the silhouette of which is visible throughout the city and is an inseparable part of Sofia's landscape. Guests looking to enjoy some fresh mountain air, it is open year-round for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. 

All rooms and suites are fully equipped with a flat screen TV, couch to relax on and a large desk for those who are travelling on business. Guests staying in the Club InterContinental Rooms have full access to the Club InterContinental® Lounge, an exclusive area that serves both business and leisure travellers. The lounge allows guests to relax, work and is open all day for light dining with complimentary breakfast or for evening drinks and canapés. 

Home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, Bulgaria is fast becoming high on the agenda for travellers after a luxury escape. Rich in traditions and culture, travel to Eastern Europe is on the rise as guests look for unique experiences and unspoilt locations. The in-house concierge team at the hotel will be able to help guide guests about the fascinating sites of the city and unravel its colourful history and vibrant present. From top attractions and private guided tours, to the top dining experiences in Sofia, their local knowledge supersedes any guide book.

Tom Rowntree, Vice President Brand Marketing, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, IHG, Europe commented: “InterContinental has pioneered luxury travel for more than 70 years, through constant innovation and openings in emerging luxury destinations. The world of luxury travel is evolving and we know our discerning guests want to explore new cities and cultures, including emerging travel hot-spots such as Bulgaria. We are delighted to mark the InterContinental brand’s debut in Bulgaria with such a stunning hotel, and we’re sure our guests will be delighted with such a beautiful addition to our portfolio.”

Stefan Frank, Area General Manager for InterContinental Sofia commented: “This hotel is perfect for both business and leisure travellers and we look forward to showcasing what beautiful Sofia has to offer. Whether it’s with our best in class rooms, service or our signature outlet Floret Social Lounge and Bar, we are confident that guests will enjoy their stay with us and come back.”

For business travellers, InterContinental Sofia is a stone’s throw away from the main financial area and has a dedicated meetings floor which can accommodate up to 240 guests with multi-functional facilities and onsite event planners. The hotel also has a 24-hour business centre, and around-the-clock gym.

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has been helping people enjoy luxury travel for over 70 years. Dedicated to those who appreciate and enjoy the glamour and exhilaration of fascinating places, the brand is in most of the world’s key cities and resort destinations, with 194 hotels open globally and a further 63 due to open. In Europe alone, IHG has 33 InterContinental Hotels & Resorts open with a further four due to open over the next three to five years.