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If you are in Bulgaria, you can’t keep Sofia off your travel list. Once you arrive in Sofia, you will undoubtedly be enchanted by the city’s beauty and mystique.
Through this Sofia blog, I will share with you some of the most interesting things to do in Sofia.
Going on a 5 days trip is sufficient to see some of the most interesting places in Sofia. But if you can spare couple of days more that’s even better, you can take the sights more slowly. So, without further ado, let me present you some of the best things to do in Sofia, top things to do in Sofia and some helpful travel tips.
1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a beautiful Cathedral situated in Sofia.
The Church’s front façade has majestic stone columns, beautiful sculptured religious figures and high arched stained glass windows. The inside is truly amazing, with gold decorations, detailed woodwork, frescos, and exquisite paintings on the walls and ceilings.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Alexander Nevsky Cathedral features include a great museum collecing several religious artefacts and iconography.
- The cathedral belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
2. Boyana Church
Don’t forget to pay a visit to Boyana Church, which is regarded to be one of Sofia’s most beautiful churches.
There is so much beauty in this church, from the front facade to the interior that it’s hard to choose a favorite. It is well worth to pay a small donation, as it goes towards supporting the ongoing upkeep of this piece of history.
Quick Facts:
- The church is located on the outskirts of the city.
- The church was built somewhere around 10th century.
- The year 1979 (3rd session) saw Boyana Church being designated as a world heritage site.
- Some of the notable people who are buried here include Eleonore Reuss of Köstritz.
- The church belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
An incredible sight, Boyana Church scores high in the list of the best things to do in Sofia.
Address: ul. ‘Boyansko ezero’ 3, 1616 Bojana, Sofia, Bulgaria
4. Banya Bashi Mosque
Quick Facts:
- Brought to life by the architect Mimar Sinan, historic mosque is a classic example of fine Ottoman architecture.
- Some of the things Banya Bashi Mosque features include big dome.
- The historic mosque was built somewhere around 16th-century.
- The historic mosque was opened on 1576.
With so much to offer, no wonder Banya Bashi Mosque is one of the top things to do in Sofia.
Address: bulevard ‘Knyaginya Maria Luiza’ 18, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
5. Vitosha Boulevard
Quick Facts:
- Easy to get to Vitosha Boulevard is located in central Sofia.
- The pedastrian street stretches for about 2,700 km in length.
6. Church of Saint George
Church of Saint George, the centuries old landmark, is considered to be one of Sofia’s most gorgeous churches.
A quiet looking cemetry adores the church ground. A donation at the entrance is optional but encouraged, since it will go towards the preservation of this piece of history.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Church of Saint George features include frescoed dome.
- The church was built somewhere around 4th-century.
- Built in paleochristian architecture style, it is eye pleasingly pretty site to look at.
Without a doubt this wonderful church is one amongst the top things to do in Sofia.
Address: bul. Kniaz Aleksandar Dondukov 2, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
7. National Palace of Culture
National Palace of Culture is a cultural center which hosts several important concerts, exhibits and events.
The center holds a variety of aorkshops, artistic presentations and musical performances. Check out online to see the events happening here.
Quick Facts:
- National Palace of Culture was opened in 1981.0.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
8. Ivan Vazov’ National Theater
Ivan Vazov’ National Theater is a monumental theater showcasing a variety of stage productions.
The theater plays host to a number of classical shows such as ballets. dramas, musicals and operas. It can easily accomodate around thousand odd people.
Quick Facts:
- Done in Neoclassical architecture style, it was Hermann Helmer, and Martin Dülfer who designed it.
- Easy to get to Ivan Vazov’ National Theater is located in central city.
- The grand theater was opened on 1904.
- Ivan Vazov’ National Theater was opened in 1907.0.
A natural crowd puller, Ivan Vazov’ National Theater is right up there in the list of best things to do in Sofia.
Address: ul. ‘Dyakon Ignatiy’ 5, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
9. Saint Sophia Church
A beautiful addition to city’s architecture, Saint Sophia Church is a pretty old church located in Sofia.
As this is a sacred location, anyone who want to enter are advised to cover their knees and shoulders. There is a cemetry on the church grounds, quite peaceful to walk around.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Saint Sophia Church features include brick interior, and beautiful paintings.
- The church was built somewhere around 6th century.
- The church traces its origin back to the 6th century.
- It doesn’t take an expert to see that it is built in a Byzantine architecture style.
Address: ul. ‘Paris’ 2, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
10. St Nedelya Church
St Nedelya Church, one of city’s medieval church, is one of the city’s many architectural gems.
The adjoining cemetry has got quite a few famous people buried. A special feature of the basilica is its high altar and ceiling, which are both decorated with beautiful artwork.
Quick Facts:
- Brought to life by the architect Ivan Vasilyov, church is a classic example of fine Byzantine Revival architecture.
- St Nedelya Church is also the final resting place of greats such as Stefan Milutin, Joseph I of Bulgaria.
- The church belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
Without a doubt this wonderful church is one amongst the top things to do in Sofia.
Address: pl. ‘Sveta Nedelya’ 20, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
11. Russian Church
Located in the heart of Sofia, Russian Church, is another of the city’s architectural masterpieces.
The Oratory has a plethora of sculptures as well as a variety of exquisite frescoes. The cemetry is where the famous and powerful people of the Sofia are buried.
Quick Facts:
- The gorgeous Russian Revival architecture, Byzantine Revival architecture style that you see is credited to the architect Mikhail Timofeevich Preobrazhenskiĭ.
- Some of the things Russian Church features include colorful tiles on the outside.
- The church is located on Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard.
- The church was opened on 1914.
- The church belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
Address: bul. ‘Tsar Osvoboditel’ 3, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
12. Regional History Museum
Regional History Museum is a museum in Sofia documenting in details the region’s cultural history.
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Quick Facts:
- The highlight of the place includes the mineral springs.
- The regional museum is located near an erstwhile Turkish bath.
- Easy to get to Regional History Museum is located in central Sofia.
A natural crowd puller, Regional History Museum is right up there in the list of best things to do in Sofia.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
13. National Art Gallery
A museum in Sofia dedicated to collecting and showcaing country’s breaakthrough art movements.
The National Art Gallery holds a comprehensive collection of art including sculptures, drawings and paintings by the great artists of the time.
Besides, the museum is located in a grand heritage building which is an attraction by itself. In-fact, National art museum gives you an interesting insight into the nation’s culture heritage.
Quick Facts:
- National Art Gallery is housed in a former palace.
- Some of the top artwork includes The Reaper.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
14. Borisova gradina
Borisova gradina is a beautifully landscaped park spread over a large area in Sofia.
Take a walk through this lovely park and simply enjoy the outdoors.
Amble along on the crunchy gravel path and enjoy the foliage that spreads through the park. Spring is the season when hundreds of flowers are on full blossom.
Quick Facts:
- The park is named after Bulgarian Tsar Boris III.
Without a doubt this wonderful park is one amongst the top things to do in Sofia.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
15. Central Sofia Market Hall
Central Sofia Market Hall is a covered marketplace selling food as well as general items.
Quick Facts:
- The market hall is located on Marie Louise Boulevard.
- Easy to get to Central Sofia Market Hall is located in central Sofia.
- Central Sofia Market Hall was opened in 1911.0.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
16. Dragalevtsi Monastery
Dragalevtsi Monastery is a religious complex founded centuries ago.
There are workshops on candle making and winemaking held by the resident monks. Check out the monastery’s pharmacy, dating back hundred of years, and still in operation.
Quick Facts:
- The christian monastery was built somewhere around 14-century.
- It is Ivan Alexander of Bulgaria who is credited with found this gem of a site.
- The christian monastery belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
Address: 1415 м. Орехите, Sofia, Bulgaria
17. Museum of Socialist Art
This interesting museum in Sofia charts the history of the communist era in the country.
In the basement, you may take a tour of some of the jail areas. It is home to displays highlighting Bulgaria’s history as a communist dictatorship.
Add it to your Sofia trip if you have time.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
18. Sofia Synagogue
Sofia Synagogue is a prominent synagogue located in the older part of the Sofia city.
Sofia Synagogue is undoubtedly a jewel of Jewish heritage. The dome of the Sofia Synagogue adds to the beautiful architecture.
Quick Facts:
- This 31 m high structure was designed by the great Friedrich Grünanger.
Address: Exarch Joseph Street 18, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
19. Church of St Petka of the Saddlers
A beautiful addition to city’s architecture, Church of St Petka of the Saddlers is a house of christian worship located in Sofia.
The cemetry has got quite a few notable person buried. The church’s walls and ceilings are covered with intricate frescoes, and it features works by some of the well-known painters of the time.
Quick Facts:
- Easy to get to Church of St Petka of the Saddlers is located in the very centre of both the modern.
- The church belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Sofia trip.
Address: 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
20. National Museum of Military History
For anyone interested in military history of the region, National Museum of Military History is a good place to start.
There are exhibits in the large outdoor area as well. Some of these include armoured vehicles and anti aircraft guns. The museum boasts of an impressive collection of weapons and military uniforms.
Quick Facts:
- It was in 1916.0 when it was established.
- The Military museum’s collection include uniforms, weapons and medals.
- The Military museum is dedicated to military history of the country.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
21. Eagles’ Bridge
Built centuries ago, Eagles’ Bridge is a historic bridge on the town river.
This famous bridge also serves as a convenient meeting for the town locals. The best way to enjoy Eagles’ Bridge is by taking a slow walk and soaking in the views.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Eagles’ Bridge features include eagle sculptures made of bronze.
- The historic bridge was opened on 1891.
- The historic bridge is built over the Perlovska River.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Sofia trip.
Address: bul. ‘Tsar Osvoboditel’ 33, 1504 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
22. National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum carefully collects and presents various archaeological finds of the area.
Look no farther than Sofia’s superb archaeological museum to properly comprehend the old civilization that once inhabitated this region.
There are whole sections dedicated to weapons, and armours, and as well as hunting equipments like arrowheads.. The abundance of exquisite artifacts that has come from the nearby digs may surprise you.
Quick Facts:
- Easy to get to National Archaeological Museum is located in central Sofia.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
23. Boyana Waterfall
A visit to Boyana Waterfall is warranted for every nature lover.
But if you are going there in rainy season, be cautious you might slip. The sound of gushing water, the chirps of the birds has quite an soothing effect on you.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Sofia trip.
24. Lake Pancharevo
Lake Pancharevo is a calm and beautiful body of water located in Sofia.
With water so clear that you can see through, swimming is a good option. There is also a park on shore, with a playground for little ones too.
Quick Facts:
- The lake stretches for a length of around 3 km.
25. Sofia Zoo
A popular zoo in Sofia, Sofia Zoo shelters a variety of animals.
You’ll meet a wide array of primates including gorillas, orangutans and chimpanzees. The big wild cats are one of the prime draws of Sofia Zoo.
Quick Facts:
- Spreading over an expanse of 36 hectares, it’s difficult to see it all in one go.
Add it to your Sofia trip if you have time.
26. Vrana Palace
Vrana Palace is a beautiful palace located in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Quick Facts:
- Vrana Palace is used as a residence by the former Bulgarian Tsar Simeon II.
- It doesn’t take an expert to see that it is built in a Art Nouveau Architecture style.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
27. Monument to the Tsar Liberator
Erected as a monument, Monument to the Tsar Liberator is a beautifully sculpted statue in Sofia.
Quick Facts:
- Arnoldo Zocchi is the famed artist behind it.
- Easy to get to Monument to the Tsar Liberator is located in central Sofia.
- The site was built to honor the great Russian Emperor Alexander II who freed the country from Ottoman kingdom.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Sofia trip.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
28. South Park
South Park is a large landscaped park, an oasis of greenery, located in Sofia.
It is a good way to reconnect with nature – relax under the shady trees, watch the kids play.
The park has a small lake where you can spot ducks swimming enjoying their day. The South Park is a hub of leisure activities, walk, jog, bike, swim or boat – choose your own adventure.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
29. Muzeiko
Wather you are an adult or with kids satisfy your inner nerd at Muzeiko.
Based on the scientific theme, there are hundreds of displays spread over different zones.
The sheer diversity of topics covered in these galleries will keep you interested throughout. Kids may also learn about their favorite topics such as electricity and magnetism at the Muzeiko.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Sofia trip.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
30. Lions’ Bridge
A bridge of great historical significance, Lions’ Bridge is an experience not to be missed.
During the peak summer season and during the evenings on weekend, many street musicians come here to perform. More than just being a tourist attraction, Lions’ Bridge is an important serving pedestrian thoroughfare.
Quick Facts:
- Easy to get to Lions’ Bridge is located in central Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, built 1889–1891 by Czech architect Václav Prošek, his brother Jozef.
- The historic bridge is built over the Vladaya River.
Address: bulevard ‘Knyaginya Maria Luiza’ 1202, 1202 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
31. National Museum of Natural History
National Museum of Natural History houses exhibits suitable for all ages, and is known for its scientific and educational content.
Kids will love the terrarium, they can even learn how to make one themselves.
Quick Facts:
- The natural history museum is located near the Russian church.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Sofia trip.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
32. Golden Bridges
Golden Bridges is a scenic destination notable for its unique stone formations.
Golden Bridges is also a popular picnic spot. Sculpted by natural forces over millions of years, the unique scenery of Golden Bridges will mesmerize you.
Address: National Culture Palace, Bulevard ‘Bulgaria’, 1463 Ndk, Sofia, Bulgaria
33. National Opera and Ballet of Bulgaria
National Opera and Ballet of Bulgaria is an opera house, a theater of performing art with long history.
Booking a ticket to a performance is definitely worth it. A guided tour of the Sofia is offered during business hours if you can’t make it to a show.
Add it to your Sofia trip if you have time.
Address: 30 Dondukov Blvd, ul. ‘Vrabcha’, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria
34. Seven Saints Church
Don’t forget to pay a visit to Seven Saints Church, which is regarded to be one of Sofia’s most beautiful churches.
The church’s walls and ceilings are covered with detailed frescoes including works by notable painters.
Quick Facts:
- Brought to life by the architect Mimar Sinan, church is a classic example of fine Ottoman architecture.
- Some of the things Seven Saints Church features include bustling adjacent garden.
- The church was built somewhere around a.
- The church was opened on 1528.
- Some of the notable people who are buried here include Petko Karavelov.
- The church belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
Address: ul. ‘Graf Ignatiev’ 25, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
35. Kopitoto
Kopitoto is a soaring TV tower located in Sofia city.
The observation deck gets you the most fabulous views of Sofia. An easy way to get here is taking the hoho bus.
Quick Facts:
- This 186 m high tv tower was the brainchild of the great architects Stefan Tilev, Lyuben Popdonev.
- The tv tower was opened on 1986.
Add it to your Sofia trip if you have time.
Thanks for reading this travel blog, hope now you know plenty of must see places in Sofia. In this Sofia travel blog post, I have listed not just what to see in Sofia but also what to do.
And it’s not difficult to create an itinerary that includes some of the best tourist attractions in Sofia. So what are Sofia sights to see or you have already been here? Let me know in the comments along with your tips and experiences.