Start our green journey with Sofia's two largest parks - Borisova Gradina and South Park. These vast green areas are the true lungs of the city, offering residents and tourists space for relaxation and active recreation.

Borisova Gradina, established in 1884, is the oldest and largest park in Sofia. With an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5, this park is a favorite among Sofia residents. What makes it so special? First of all, its vast space - more than 300 hectares of green areas where you can find shade on hot days. The park offers many attractions, including children's playgrounds, alleys for running and cycling, and even a rosarium. As one reviewer recalls: 'Wonderful. It's a park - more than 300ha, wonderful alleys for walking, running and biking...'. It's worth noting the numerous food and beverage outlets where you can relax and have a snack.

South Park, on the other hand, with an equally high rating of 4.6, attracts visitors with its diversity. It is a place where nature meets urban infrastructure. The park offers many walking paths, grassy areas and partially wooded areas. For the active, jogging and rollerblading paths are available. Families with children will appreciate the numerous attractions and playgrounds. As one visitor notes: 'Quite a large park with many alleys, monuments, grassy areas as well as partially wooded. On-site attractions for children, restaurants, fast food and restrooms.''

Comparing the two parks, it is worth noting that Borisova Gradina has a slightly richer history and offers more secluded areas, ideal for quiet relaxation. South Park, on the other hand, seems more 'urban,' with better food and beverage facilities and more attractions for children. Both parks are easily accessible by public transportation, which is a big plus for tourists.

As for the downsides, some visitors point out periodic cleanliness problems at South Park, while Borisova Gradina is praised for better maintenance. It's also worth remembering that both parks can be quite crowded during summer periods, especially on weekends.

Regardless of the park you choose, both Borisova Gradina and South Park offer excellent opportunities to spend a day outdoors. These are places where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving the borders of Sofia. However, always remember to check for up-to-date information on possible events or maintenance work before visiting.

In the heart of Sofia are two charming gardens that, despite their small size, offer an unforgettable experience - The City Garden and Doctors' Garden. These green enclaves are ideal for those who appreciate the tranquility and atmosphere of the city center.

The City Garden, also known as the City Garden, is a true gem in the old part of Sofia. With an impressive rating of 4.7, it is a place that delights locals and tourists alike. Although relatively small, it offers a unique atmosphere and is extremely popular. As one visitor notes: 'A small park, but very heavily trafficked by the local community. Despite the fact that there are plenty of benches here, it's hard to find something free on a beautiful and sunny day. The City Garden is famous for its beautiful fountain, which attracts attention and creates a pleasant atmosphere. It's the perfect place for a short rest while exploring the city.

On the other hand, Doctors' Garden, also with a rating of 4.7, is a picturesque garden with a rich history. As one reviewer describes: 'The garden is not large, but it is very beautiful and perfectly maintained. A great place to relax and picnic on the grass.' Doctors' Garden is distinguished by its meticulously maintained greenery, beautiful alleys and peaceful atmosphere. It's the perfect place for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

When comparing the two gardens, it is worth noting their unique features. The City Garden is more vibrant, often hosts street performers and is a popular meeting place. Doctors' Garden, on the other hand, offers a more intimate atmosphere, an ideal place for those seeking quiet and contemplation.

In terms of amenities, both gardens offer plenty of benches and shaded areas. The City Garden additionally has playgrounds for children, making it more family-friendly. Doctors' Garden, on the other hand, is famous for its beautiful flower arrangements and is popular with photography enthusiasts.

It's worth noting that due to their central location, both gardens can be quite crowded during peak hours and on weekends. However, their proximity to Sofia's main tourist attractions makes them ideal for a short break while exploring the city.

Both The City Garden and Doctors' Garden are easily accessible on foot from the city center. They are places that can be visited at any time of the year, although they look most beautiful in spring and summer, when the flowers are blooming and the greenery is in full bloom.

All in all, these two gardens, despite their small size, are important green spaces in the heart of Sofia. Not only do they offer a chance to relax, but they also allow you to feel the true atmosphere of the city and its history. Whether you have a few minutes or a few hours, a visit to The City Garden or Doctors' Garden is sure to be an enjoyable experience during your stay in Sofia.

At the end of our green journey in Sofia, we can't leave out the unique place that is the University Botanical Garden. It is not only an oasis of calm in the city, but also a fascinating place to educate and discover the diversity of the plant world.

The University Botanical Garden, with an impressive rating of 4.7, is a true gem among Sofia's green spaces. It is located in the heart of the city, right next to the famous Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, making it easily accessible to tourists. As one visitor notes: 'A magical place. I've been to the garden several times and each time it's just like the first time. For only 6 leva you can enjoy the tranquility in the company of century-old trees, blooming flowers and exotic plants.

The Botanical Garden, although relatively small compared to large city parks, offers an extremely rich collection of plants. According to official figures, there are about 1,500 species here, although some visitors suggest there may be even more. The garden is particularly famous for its impressive collection of succulents and cacti, which can be admired in specially prepared greenhouses.

One of the garden's greatest strengths is its educational nature. Each plant is properly labeled, allowing visitors to learn the names and origins of each species. This makes it an ideal place for both botany lovers and families with children who want to spend time outdoors in an interesting way.

The garden's unique history is worth noting, as one reviewer mentioned: 'I liked the story of the oak tree, from which the history of the garden began in the late 19th century. It seems that the Czar of Bulgaria, when planting it, put a gold coin in the roots of the shrub in the hope that the botanical garden would be strong and prosperous. This story adds additional charm and historical depth to the place.

As for the practical aspects of your visit, there is a fee to enter the garden, but the price is very affordable - about 6 leva per person (as of 2023). It is worth remembering that the garden is open all year round, but it looks most beautiful, of course, during the spring and summer seasons, when most of the plants are in full bloom.

Compared to Sofia's other parks and gardens, the University Botanical Garden stands out for its scientific approach and extensive plant collection. While parks such as Borisova Gradina and South Park offer more space for active recreation, the Botanical Garden is ideal for those seeking peace, education and contact with rare plant species.

In summary, the University Botanical Garden is a place that combines educational functions with the opportunity to relax in beautiful surroundings. It's ideal for people who want to combine exploring the city with learning about the natural world. Whether you are a botany enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet place to relax in the center of Sofia, the University Botanical Garden is sure to meet your expectations.