This may sound unconventional, but while most people visit the beach to unwind, I prefer the Intercontinental Hotel. Living by the seaside can be overwhelming in the summer months, and this hotel provides the perfect escape from the crowds. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the reception manager, who exemplified exceptional customer service. She recognized me from a previous stay, a rarity in my extensive travels across Europe. Her attention to detail was impressive, and she ensured I received a room with a stunning view of the cathedral and parliament building, which I greatly appreciated. The check-in process was warm and genuine, making me feel instantly welcomed and confident that my stay would be enjoyable. At her recommendation, I visited the hotel's spa. Coming from a culture where massage is integral, I have high standards, but the treatment exceeded my expectations. The therapist was highly skilled, alleviating all the tension in my shoulders and lower back. The overall spa experience was enhanced by the friendly and professional staff. Breakfast at the hotel was of exceptional quality. My criteria for a great breakfast include made-to-order eggs, good espresso, and proper croissants. The croissants were warm and fluffy, the espresso was perfect, and the selection of breakfast items was impressive. The attentive staff provided classic five-star service. One noteworthy aspect of the hotel is its commitment to sustainability. I didn't see any single-use plastics or paper towels, which aligns with my environmental values. If you value high-quality products delivered with excellent service and have an appreciation for sustainable practices, this hotel is an outstanding choice.

Absolutely nothing

The location initially appealed but the quality of the hotel and the exceptional service made the world of difference. Sayda and the team at the front desk couldn't be more helpful. Wonderful room facing the cathedral and square (and the same view I had 39 years ago when it was a very different hotel). The two restaurants were excellent; the bell staff and cleaners very friendly and responsive, A very special hotel. Little things were special too: extra drinking water; ability to open the window; bedside charging; walk in shower; good reading lights; a good desk to work at etc etc.

Absolutely nothing

We were surprised at how beautiful the hotel is and attention to details on the facade of the hotel and by the staff. It was the most comfortable stay we have had in Bulgaria. Breakfast was great! The options and requests to our needs were always met. The staff was exceptional - especially concierge! They were so wonderful in accommodating our requests. The room service menu was wonderful. The location of the hotel was fantastic with the metro line a 3 minute walk from the hotel. It is located at the University area so close proximity to the sites There are many shops and restaurants around within walking distance. I would 100% recommend this hotel to first time travellers to Sofia who was to enjoy a luxurious treat to their holiday.

There was nothing in particular that I didn't enjoy. Everything about the hotel fit into what we wanted from a property like this.

So this was a birthday present for my sister-in-law, and wow did the Intercontinental do an amazing job. Thanks so much for going above and beyond by placing a nice birthday treat in there for her. She kept messaging us with how wonderful her two day weekend stay was. I didn't ask for this, but they placed a nice dessert and thank you note in the room when she arrived. I got about 1,000 pictures of the view from the room. She absolutely loved everything about the hotel. She loved the bed and kept saying how nice the pillows were. She loved the breakfast and the bathroom and the housecleaning staff. I live one metro stop away from the hotel, but it made me jealous and want to spend a weekend there myself. If I can bring a well behaved labrador dog, I will really consider it, rofl.

The location, the cleanliness and the comfortable room I got ( not from the beginning!). The excellent breakfast together with the kind staff supporting breakfast.

The attitude of the lady in the reception upon our arrival was, for this class of hotels (5*), at least unacceptable. Smileless, without any sense of humour and hardly responsive to the customers' initial questions regarding the premises of the hotel and its surrounding environment. Additionally, I was given, perhaps, the worst room of the establishment facing the central cooling machinery and the noise coming out of it. Upon my expressed dissatisfaction and complain, I was given a nice room, I assume, within the category I had opted for.

I loved the location, the cleanliness, the room size, the quality of the amenities and the breakfast. The blackout curtains really worked and they responded to request promptly.

The pillows were not comfortable, the comforter was queen size while the mattress was king size. So one of us didn't get a comfortable amount of comforter to sleep. The staff was very professional but cold and not friendly.

Excellent service; spacious rooms; the location of the hotel is very central and convenient. The Ador restaurant downstairs has among the best quality food I have had in Sofia, and its patio is ideal for relaxing after a busy day!

The 'hot' water didn't really get hot. It wasn't cold, but it wasn't 'hot' either. That was the only disappointment as someone who enjoys hot showers.

BAD VIEW FROM THE WINDOW

THE RECEPTION WHEN WE REACH AS MOST OF THE HOTELS TRIES TO GIVE YOU THE WORST ROOM

Location is excellent. Parking is a big problem. Room is very good however AC not strong enough and made a lot of noise. Hotel restaurants are exceptional. Staff is very helpful. Overall hotel offer very good service

AC in room noisy and not strong enough as it was hot. There is nothing to complain about

The property is in a great location in the center of the city, within walking distance of many historic sights and businesses. The staff is professional and friendly. Rooms are in excellent condition and well apportioned. The beds are large and comfortable. The restaurant is very good, not too expensive.

If anything, I could mention to improve is the heating in the rooms - it is too high. When I entered the setting was at 24 degrees C. I had to open the windows to bring down the heat.