Souvenirs & What to Buy in Sofia, Bulgaria
1. Boiled Wax Figures (Балабани)
Intricately designed figurines made from beeswax and colored with natural dyes. Unique as they are handmade and each figure tells a story.
- Handcrafted: Made by local artisans, each figurine is unique
- Natural Ingredients: Made from beeswax and natural dyes, eco-friendly souvenir
- Storytelling Art: Each figurine represents a different story or character from Bulgarian folklore
2. Rosenitsa (Rose Oil Perfume)
Fragrant rose oil perfumes made from the famous Rosa Damascena roses. A quintessential Bulgarian product showcasing the country's rich floral history.
- Natural Extract: Extracted directly from the Rosa Damascena rose
- Aromatherapy Benefits: Known for its calming and therapeutic properties
- Unique Scent Profile: The scent profile varies based on the specific rose variety used in production
3. Shopska Salad Set (Съд за шопска салата)
Traditional wooden bowl and ladle set for serving Shopska salad, a popular Bulgarian dish. Perfect for foodies and lovers of authentic cuisine.
- Authentic Design: Designed based on traditional Bulgarian wooden craft
- Versatile Usage: Can be used for serving various dishes, not only Shopska salad
- Durable Material: Made from high-quality wood for longevity and durability
4. Kapama Dolls (Капами)
Handwoven Kapama dolls representing the traditional Bulgarian costumes. A fun and colorful addition to your souvenir collection.
- Handcrafted: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Colorful Designs: Each doll showcases intricate patterns and vibrant colors
- Cultural Representation: Symbolizes the rich Bulgarian cultural heritage through traditional costume designs
5. Bulgarian Ceramic Pottery (Керамика)
Beautifully designed pottery pieces made from local clay. Each piece showcases unique patterns and colors inspired by Bulgarian art and nature.
- Handmade: Each piece is handcrafted, ensuring a unique design
- Durable Material: Made from high-quality local clay for longevity and durability
- Authentic Designs: Inspired by Bulgarian art, culture, and nature
6. Rakia (Ракия)
Traditional Bulgarian spirit made from various fruits. Rakia showcases the rich tradition of distillation in Bulgaria.
- Variety of Flavors: Available in multiple flavors, including plum, apricot, and quince
- High Alcohol Content: Typically around 40% alcohol by volume
- Strength in Tradition: Traditionally served during celebrations and important occasions
7. Martenitsi (Мартеници)
Red and white woolen charms worn as a symbol of health, prosperity, and fertility during the spring festivals. A charming tradition to bring home.
- Symbolic Meaning: Represents health, prosperity, and fertility in Bulgarian culture
- Handcrafted: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Colorful Designs: Featuring red and white, the colors of life and death in Bulgarian folklore
8. Bulgarian Woolen Carpet (Козмец)
Intricately woven wool carpets showcasing traditional Bulgarian patterns and designs. A beautiful addition to any home.
- Handwoven: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Intricate Designs: Each design tells a story or symbolizes aspects of Bulgarian culture and nature
- Durable Material: Made from high-quality wool for longevity and durability
9. Bulgarian Felted Wool Accessories (Кожухарство)
Unique felted wool accessories such as hats, bags, and slippers. Perfect for keeping warm during chilly Bulgarian winters.
- Handmade: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Warm Material: Felted wool is naturally warm and insulating
- Colorful Designs: Available in a variety of colors and patterns inspired by Bulgarian art and nature
10. Bulgarian Walnut Oil (Лозов оцет)
Premium quality walnut oil made from cold-pressed walnuts. A healthy addition to your kitchen and a taste of Bulgaria.
- Health Benefits: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health
- Natural Extract: Extracted directly from walnuts using cold pressing technique
- Unique Taste Profile: The taste profile is rich, nutty, and slightly sweet
11. Bulgarian Folk Costumes (Народни носии)
Beautifully embroidered traditional Bulgarian folk costumes. A must-have for those who appreciate cultural heritage and fashion.
- Handcrafted: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Unique Designs: Each costume represents a unique region and culture in Bulgaria
- Intricate Embroidery: Embroidery showcases intricate patterns and symbols of Bulgarian folklore
12. Bulgarian Traditional Clothing Accessories (Носии и аксесоари)
Traditional clothing accessories such as scarves, belts, and brooches. Perfect for adding a touch of Bulgaria to your wardrobe.
- Handmade: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Colorful Designs: Available in a variety of colors and patterns inspired by Bulgarian art and nature
- Symbolic Meaning: Symbolizes aspects of Bulgarian culture, traditions, and folklore
13. Bulgarian Crystal Jewelry (Кристални Накити)
Elegant crystal jewelry pieces inspired by Bulgarian art and nature. A stylish addition to any jewelry collection.
- Handmade: Made by local artisans using traditional techniques
- Quality Crystal: High-quality Bohemian crystal for a luxurious feel
- Unique Designs: Designs inspired by Bulgarian art, culture, and nature
14. Bulgarian Wine (Български Вина)
High-quality wines produced in various regions of Bulgaria. A great way to sample the local flavors.
- Variety of Grapes: Produced from a variety of local grape varieties
- Unique Taste Profiles: Each region offers wines with unique taste profiles
- Rich Wine History: Bulgaria's wine-making history dates back thousands of years
15. Sofia Postcards (Пощалки от София)
Postcards featuring iconic landmarks and beautiful landscapes of Sofia. A perfect way to remember your trip and share memories with friends and family.
- Iconic Landmarks: Featuring popular landmarks such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church, and Vitosha Mountain
- High-Quality Printing: Printed on high-quality paper for a lasting impression
- Affordable Memento: An affordable way to remember your trip and share memories with loved ones