Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria. With a population of around 1.3 million, it's one of the biggest cities in Southeastern Europe. Sofia has a long and storied history going back thousands of years, which makes it a fascinating destination for history buffs and culture vultures.

As a capital city, Sofia is the political, economic, and cultural heart of Bulgaria. It's home to the government buildings, foreign embassies, universities, opera houses, museums, and more. The city seamlessly blends old and new, with ancient ruins and medieval churches standing alongside modern high-rises and shopping malls.

One of the main things Sofia is known for is its wealth of historical sights. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Sofia has ruins dating back to the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Some of the top attractions include the 4th century St. George Rotunda, the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the Russian Church.

Sofia also has a thriving contemporary art and nightlife scene. Young people flock to the city for its hip bars, clubs, galleries, and festivals. The city has a progressive, youthful vibe and is much more international than other parts of Bulgaria.

Some of the main pros of visiting Sofia are:

- Incredible range of historical sights from different eras
- Lively nightlife and cultural scene
- More cosmopolitan than other parts of Bulgaria
- Excellent museums and galleries
- Vibrant cafe culture with trendy restaurants
- More budget-friendly than most European capitals
- Easy to get around on foot

However, there are some downsides to keep in mind:

- Pollution can be bad, especially in winter
- Not as picturesque as smaller Bulgarian towns
- Can feel chaotic with traffic congestion
- Some sights are run-down and need renovation
- Venturing away from the center reveals poverty
- Cold and icy in the winter months
- Summer can get uncomfortably hot

Overall though, Sofia is an underrated city break destination that history lovers, culture vultures, and night owls will appreciate. It manages to straddle the line between old world charm and new world dynamism. There's a palpable energy and creativity in Sofia that comes through in its thriving cafe culture, arts scene, and youthful vibe.

With ancient ruins, magnificent cathedrals, intriguing museums, and pumping nightclubs - not to mention delicious Bulgarian cuisine and affordable prices - Sofia has something to offer every kind of traveler. It may not be as glamorous as Paris or as famous as Rome, but Sofia is an up-and-coming European capital that's definitely worth discovering.