The Only One: InterContinental Sofia Retains Coveted Michelin Key

InterContinental Sofia celebrates new milestone. For the second year in a row, the prestigious hotel has earned a Michelin Key, a distinction that only a small group of properties receives. What makes the news even more impressive is that it remains the only hotel in Bulgaria to hold onto this recognition for 2025.

InterContinental Hotel awarded Michelin Key. Photo: InterContinental Sofia

The Michelin Key isn’t given out lightly, as inspectors look at far more than a nice lobby or good amenities. The focus falls on the details that shape the whole experience: how the building is designed, how the rooms feel, whether the hotel has a clear personality, and how consistent the service is from the moment a guest walks in.

They also consider whether the stay feels worth the price and how the hotel fits into the life of the city around it. It’s a holistic view of hospitality, and earning a place in the guide means the property excels in all of those areas.

For InterContinental Sofia, keeping the Michelin Key is a sign that the team has managed to build something that resonates with travelers and locals alike. Guests often talk about the balance the hotel strikes between comfort and a sense of place. The design leans into Sofia’s character without feeling themed, and the staff is known for being attentive without being overly formal.

General Manager Aboubakr Hennou says the recognition speaks to the daily effort behind the scenes. “This award is a great honor of the dedication of our entire team. We continue to strive to provide an exceptional service for each and every one of our guests,” he says. It’s a sentiment that fits with the property’s approach: steady improvement rather than dramatic reinvention.

The fresh recognition may help the hotel, which has been recognized as the "Best Luxury Hotel in Eastern Europe" for the sixth consecutive time, attract even more international travelers who use the Michelin Guide as a benchmark for quality.