Sofia Airport, Bulgaria’s main international air departure point is rapidly expanding to become one of the busiest in Europe. Almost five million passengers pass through it annually, and as Bulgaria grows in importance as a financial and tourist destination, that number is set to keep rising annually.

If you are seeking adventure, dreaming of immersing yourself in culture and art or longing to visit your family and friends, Qatar has something for everyone. Now is the perfect time to plan your next holiday and discover an authentic Arabian treasure in the heart of the Gulf.

Qatar warmly welcomes visitors from around the world. Visitors from 102 countries can enter visa-free. Find more information here. 

Sofia Airport, Bulgaria’s main international air departure point is rapidly expanding to become one of the busiest in Europe. Almost five million passengers pass through it annually, and as Bulgaria grows in importance as a financial and tourist destination, that number is set to keep rising annually. 

Located about 10 kilometres from the centre of Sofia, the airport provides a hassle-free experience for international travellers as well as passengers flying from Sofia with Qatar Airways. 

Transportation and parking

Drivers coming in from the centre of the city can use the Orlov Most bridge as their starting point, and then head east and follow the signs first to Hristofor Columb Boulevard, which in turn leads onto the airport. 

A car park that can accommodate up to 400 vehicles is located in front of Terminal 1, while a multi-storey car park provides a further 800 spaces. Both car parks offer short and long-term parking, and are open 24/7.

Public transport also provides links to the airport, with an extended Metro Line 1 service connecting to Terminal 2 at the airport.  while buses run regularly and journey time is approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. 

Some of the larger hotels provide a shuttle service, and there are fleets of taxis available (although it is advisable to book a taxi in advance, especially if you are travelling to the airport early in the morning). 

At the airport

Passengers flying from Sofia with Qatar Airways depart from Terminal 2, which houses 38 check-in desks, seven air bridges and a well-organised customs and security check area that makes the check-in process a stress-free one. However, bear in mind that like all airports, security checks are very thorough, so allow around two hours before your flight is due to board to go through processing. 

A number of lounges are available for passengers in Terminal 2, including a Business and First Class private lounge that can accommodate up to 120 people.

Facilities and amenities

Facilities at the airport are excellent, particularly in Terminal 2. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and the VIP lounge also offers a range of business facilities including faxing and photocopying services. 

There are also two additional business lounges in the terminal, with further business facilities. Banks, Bureau de Change and ATMs are dotted throughout the airport, and the food hall offers a wide choice of snacks, fast food and more substantial meals, as well as beverages. 

Duty Free shops provide the usual luxuries, while other retail outlets sell everything from travel essentials to souvenirs. Terminal 2 provides seamless accessibility as it was specifically designed with disabled passengers in mind.

Book a flight to Doha with Qatar Airways and fly to our hub, Hamad International Airport.

Doha is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Arabian Gulf, where modern innovation meets traditional culture. It is home to an abundance of captivating attractions including mosques, museums, shopping malls and more.

Marked by its crescent-shaped bay, Doha was originally a collection of fishing and pearl diving villages. Today, it boasts a skyline of architectural marvels seen nowhere else in the world.

Tourist attractions

Discover the story of Qatar at Msheireb Enrichment Centre – a barge docked at the Doha Corniche nearby the Sheraton Hotel. It features unique displays that chart the country’s fascinating history and its ongoing plans to build a bright future.

Qatar is also brimming with creative masterpieces, some of which you will find at the Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art. Meander through its hallways to admire a collection of contemporary works from across the Arab world.

Continue exploring Middle Eastern treasures when stopping by Souq Waqif – a charming market at the heart of Doha. Here, you can capture memories at the ancient Al Koot Fort, constructed in 1880.

To bask in panoramic views of the Corniche and beyond, make your way to The Clock Tower, located next to the Grand Mosque. Don’t forget to visit Doha Heritage Village in Al Rumeilia Park, to experience Arabian life in the past.

Travel considerations

Qatar Airways flights to Doha land at Hamad International Airport. You may need a visa depending on your country of origin, length of stay and purpose of travel. Before you fly, check that you comply with all Qatar’s travel and entry requirements.