Time Zone |
Europe/Sofia |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+2 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+3 |
Time Zone |
Europe/Paris |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+1 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+2 |
Sofia, the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, is located in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula at the foot of the Vidosha Mountains and boasts a history of over 1,300 years. As one of the oldest capitals in Europe, Sofia combines a rich historical heritage with a modern cityscape. Known for its mild continental climate with four distinct seasons, the city is an important political, economic and cultural center.
Dating back to Roman times, Sofia boasts a number of iconic sights, such as the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, the Church of Boiana, and relics from the Roman period. The city is also dotted with spas and museums showcasing the diverse cultural heritage from Thrace to Rome to the Ottoman Empire. With a low cost of living, Sofia is a popular tourist and study destination.
Sofia's economy is dominated by services, IT and tourism, and is easily accessible with an international airport and a well-developed metro system. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Vidosha Mountains or sample traditional local cuisine. The city is safe and friendly, offering a great nightlife and shopping experience for short visits or longer stays.
Located in the Hauts-de-France department of Haines, Laon is an ancient medieval city standing on volcanic rock 188 meters above sea level, known as the "Castle overlooking the Plain". This 1,000-year-old city is famous for its well-preserved walls, its Gothic architecture from the 11th to 13th centuries, and its Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Laon, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, with its magnificent west façade and five spires, which are a testament to the mastery of medieval engineering. The winding stone paths and half-timbered houses in the old town, together with the ruins of the fortress at the top of the hill, make you feel as if you have traveled back to the prosperity of the Middle Ages. As an important historical and cultural heritage site in France, Lançais attracts many history lovers and architects every year to explore its deep cultural heritage and unique charm of the mountain town.