Many homes come partially furnished or unfurnished. Most typically foreigners complain about badly equipped kitchens. A compromise can often be reached with landlords to foot part of the bill for any purchases or improvements you want made.

Finding suitable furniture is still quite an arduous task although there has been a vast increase in the number of retail outlets. A lot of time and patience is required in finding what you want as there are very few large shops offering a broad spectrum. Likewise it is very difficult to find companies who have a large stock base. On the Ring Road between Mladost and Dragalevtsi,there is a whole array of home furnishing shops for people with different tastes and budgets.

The nearest IKEA is in Thessaloniki approx 4 hrs drive from Sofia.

Praktiker
323 Tsarigradsko Shosse, Gorublane district (also Lyulin district)
www.praktiker.bg

German DIY hypermarket chain with two outlets in Sofia,and several more across the country. Open 7 days a week 08.30 – 20.00 (9.00 – 19.00 Sundays)

An excellent range and choice of products for everyone from the serious builder to the amateur home decorator or gardener. Check out their website which is in Bulgarian and English for a full range of their products and services.

Praktiker have introduced a customer loyalty programme which is worth using if you plan to shop a lot. Details and applications can be found in the stores.

Carpet House
38 Rakovski St., t.983 6609
www.tchukilim.com

Excellent choice of locally produced carpets and rugs from traditional to modern. Choose from ready made or made to order.

There is no shortage of choice when it comes to finding technical equipment for the home. Everything from DVD players to vacuum cleaners can be found at prices comparative to elsewhere in Europe.