Things to do in Sofia

Activities, attractions and tours

Sofia
Sofia
Sofia
Sofia
Sofia
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Top places to visit

1. Alexander Nevski Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of Sofia’s most emblematic buildings; a Russian Orthodox cathedral of incomparable architectural splendor and captivating religious art. Admire its Neo-Byzantine façade, opulent décor, mosaics and murals. Built in the early 1900s, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral honors the 200,000 soldiers who lost their lives in the Russo-Turkish War, fighting for the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule in 1878.
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Alexander Nevski Cathedral showing heritage architecture and night scenes

2. National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture is one of Sofia’s most recognizable landmarks and an excellent cultural and entertainment center. Here, you can admire modern fortress-like architecture, visit art exhibitions and enjoy live music events. The National Palace of Culture opened in 1981 to commemorate the 1,300th anniversary of the Bulgarian state.
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National Palace of Culture which includes modern architecture

3. Bulgarian Parliament

Visit the Bulgarian Parliament to experience the life of Bulgaria’s National Assembly. Marvel at the impressive 19th-century architecture and then get a glimpse of parliamentary activities during a sitting. The Bulgarian Parliament dates back to 1884, when it was constructed by a builder from the German state of Saxony.
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Bulgarian Parliament which includes night scenes and an administrative buidling

4. Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Visit the magnificent Ivan Vazov National Theatre to admire opulent early-20th-century architecture and attend opera, ballet and theater performances. Enjoy people-watching from the terrace of nearby cafés or relax in the peaceful Gradska Gradina (City Garden). The Ivan Vazov National Theatre has three stages, with a combined capacity of over 1,000, and welcomes some of Bulgaria’s most revered theatrical performers.
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Ivan Vazov National Theatre which includes heritage architecture

5. Vitoshka Boulevard

The broad street of Vitosha Boulevard is Sofia’s main thoroughfare for shopping and dining in the city, stretching from St. Nedelya Square to South Park. Walk down the partly pedestrianized strip to see café awnings jutting out from heritage buildings and splashes of color in the potted plants that line the avenue. Refresh your wardrobe with high-end label names or check out some of the side streets and shopping malls that branch out from the boulevard. Visit some of the street’s notable buildings and palaces. Take a seat in a restaurant with tables spilling out into the street and people-watch or gaze at the views of Mount Vitosha, which soars above the southern end of the street.
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Vitoshka Boulevard showing markets, outdoor eating and street scenes

What to do in Sofia

Popular places to visit

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

4.5/5(71 reviews)

Gaze in awe at this magnificent cathedral and step inside to see a fascinating collection of mosaics, murals and religious icons.

Alexander Nevski Cathedral
National Palace of Culture

National Palace of Culture

4/5(41 reviews)

This impressive castle-like monument is a multipurpose cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, a film festival and concerts by well-known performers.

National Palace of Culture
Sofia Central Mineral Baths

Sofia Central Mineral Baths

4/5(15 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Sofia with a trip to Sofia Central Mineral Baths. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Sofia Central Mineral Baths
Bulgarian Parliament

Bulgarian Parliament

4/5(24 reviews)

Admire the architecture of Bulgaria’s national assembly building and attend a parliamentary session at this elegant government building in Sofia’s city center.

Bulgarian Parliament
Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

4/5(18 reviews)

Sofia’s largest theater combines a fascinating array of art and architecture with a busy schedule of performances by some of Bulgaria’s finest actors.

Ivan Vazov National Theatre
Mount Vitosha

Mount Vitosha

4.5/5(22 reviews)

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mount Vitosha during your travels in Sofia. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its spas.

Mount Vitosha
Vitoshka Boulevard

Vitoshka Boulevard

Stroll along the spacious main shopping street of Sofia and enjoy the mix of heritage façades, renowned retailers, leafy trees and lively cafés.

Vitoshka Boulevard
Sofia University

Sofia University

4/5(18 reviews)

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit Sofia University during your travels in Sofia. Discover the museums and cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Sofia University
Sofia Court House

Sofia Court House

3.5/5(2 reviews)

Behind the classical and Byzantine-inspired façade of this elegant, landmark building are rooms where judicial history has played out.

Sofia Court House

Areas of Sofia

Sofia featuring a house and heritage architecture

Sofia City Center

4/5(180 area reviews)

Noted for its museums and historical sites, there's plenty to explore in Sofia City Center. Top attractions like Ivan Vazov National Theatre and National Archaeological Museum are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Serdika Station or Lavov Most Station to see more of the city.

Sofia City Center
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Lozenets

3.5/5(14 area reviews)

Unique features of Lozenets include the spas and bars. Make a stop by Sofia Zoo or Borisova Gradina Park while you're exploring the area.

Lozenets
Monument to the Liberating Tsar which includes a statue or sculpture, a square or plaza and a monument

Sredets District

If you're spending some time in Sredets District, Monument to the Liberating Tsar and Central Military Club are top sights worth seeing.

Sredets District
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Mladost

4/5(7 area reviews)

If you're spending time in Mladost, check out sights like Inter Expo and Congress Center or Winter Palace of Sports and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Mladost 1 or Business Park Station.

Mladost
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Vitosha District

4/5(4 area reviews)

Vitosha District is noteworthy for its spas, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Mount Vitosha and Boyana Church.

Vitosha District
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Rajon Triaditsa

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

While visiting Rajon Triaditsa, you might make a stop by sights like Vitosha Blvd and National Palace of Culture.

Rajon Triaditsa
Photo by Kelvin Harrison

Samokov

Photo by MIJODO

Pernik

Frequently asked questions

Is Sofia worth visiting?
Known for its history and culture, finding fun things to do in Sofia is simple. Don't forget to add Alexander Nevski Cathedral to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Sofia?
Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd are two great places to start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Sofia while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sofia?
The top tourist attraction in Sofia is Alexander Nevski Cathedral, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Sofia?
Three days in Sofia is enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many travellers stay for three days on average. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Samokov.
Is Sofia a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Sofia is a great destination to visit on foot. Wander between Alexander Nevski Cathedral and Sofia Central Mineral Baths. Then take a stroll around Sofia City Centre, located 0.48 kilometres from downtown, and Rajon Triaditsa, which is roughly 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Sofia with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Sofia with kids.

What to do in Sofia for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Sofia for adults including Vitoshka Boulevard and Arena Armeec.
Are there free things to do in Sofia?
From visiting parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Sofia. If you need inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Alexander Nevski Cathedral is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.