Sightseeing in Sofia

“Travel to Bulgaria with the city breaks experts”

There is an abundance of places to see on your short break stay in Sofia but the most essential sites on any city tour are listed A-Z below:

The Alexander Nevski Cathedral is the pride of the capital and should be number one on any tourism list. It is located on what is nick named the ‘Yellow Brick Road’ and for a while you can almost imagine you are in a magical scene from the Wizard of Oz as you explore the popular sites. Skilled crafts men and artists from all the globe worked on the cathedral, which took 30 years to complete.

Alexander Nevski Cathedral was built in honour of the Russian soldiers that lost their lives during the wars that saw Bulgaria being liberated from Turkish rule. The church was appropriately named after the patron saint of the Tsar and his family. The church is a standout masterpiece and must be visited on your Sofia break. It’s a place for all tourists to come and see. The golden domes, the frescoed interior and hundreds of mural paintings are all reasons to visit the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The cathedral sits in Alexander Nevski Square, a large and open cobblestone area that plays host to an eclectic and fascinating daily open-air flea market. The area is also often used for huge political rallies. Those on a luxury holidays in Sofia can stay at the SAS Radisson hotel which over looks the beautiful Alexander Nevski Cathedral. Midnight mass ceremonies on Christmas Eve and Easter are recommended holiday experiences, as are hearing the cathedral's choir singing Bulgarian Orthodox hymns.

The Boyana Church is a UNESCO listed monument, which contains more than 700 fresco paintings, which are claimed to be amongst the oldest in Europe. Boyana Church is one of the most important historical treasures to find in Bulgaria, so we highly recommend you mark this religious monument for a proper investigation.

Boyana Church consists of three buildings and they are located in the suburbs of the city. Together they hold invaluable antiquities of exceptional historical and artistic significance, particularly the medieval paintings. This main tourist site is one of the most complete and perfectly preserved monuments of east European medieval art. Make it part of your wonderful Bulgaria holiday experiences.

Underneath St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral is the crypt that runs below the entire interior of the church. The Crypt is a must see museum taking you through Bulgarian iconography. It homes over 1500 items some dating back as far as the 9th century. A superb collection of icons, the best in Bulgaria, can also be seen in the Crypt.

The Dragalevtsi Monastery was founded during the reign of King Ivan Alexander. It is located close to a suburb at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. The Dragalevtsi monastery, named ‘Virgin Mary of Vitosha’, is located about 3 km south of the village of Dragalevtsi (which became formally a quarter of the capital a few years ago), up in the lower parts of the Vitosha mountain.

Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful monasteries; it could be a perfect stop during a weekend break in Sofia. The monastery was founded in 1345 and during the period of Turkish rule in Bulgaria the monastery was a centre of Bulgarian education and culture and took active part in the secret revolutionary activity against the Turks in the mid-19th century. Today, the Dragalevtsi monastery is a well preserved Bulgarian monastery and is place to see, if you like tourist sites off the beaten track.

The Earth and Man National Museum is really a wonderful and intriguing museum to experience. Here you can see an enormous collection of mineralogical exhibits including Giant Crystals, Precious Stones and Earth Minerals. The lovely thing about the museum is that the majority of its collection has been donated by companies and individuals.

For shopaholics amongst you then try Sofia’s three storey Central shopping Hali, which offers a variety of shops, boutiques, bars and chain stores. The Hali has an interesting history. Originally constructed in 1909, at first only men were aloud to shop here; now a days the tables have turned considerably. The site itself was built on the archaeological remains of the Roman baths and parts of Serdica fortress and before that the site acted as a meeting ground and marketplace; ironically the Hali has now resumed that original function. For a colourful and fun shopping excursion, don’t miss the Hali central market. Pick up some great bargains, cheap products and quality souvenirs.

Ivan Vazov was a Bulgarian literary giant and now you can visit a giant monument to the great poet and writer. You can find the monument nearby St.Sophia’s church.

The Monument of the King Liberator otherwise known as Tsar Alexander II can be found opposite the National Assembly. It is a majestic statue which is also worth visiting on your sightseeing tours of Sofia. Many of our past clients take wonderful photographs of this moment. Please send in your weekend break snaps, we love to see Sofia through many eyes.

The National Art Gallery was established in 1948 in the west wing of what was a former Palace. The Gallery offers over 12,000 exhibits from the most prominent Bulgarian artists. The south wing offers modern and contemporary art collections, sketches and watercolours. Admission is free on Sundays but is closed on Mondays. Art & culture vultures will cherish their time in the Bulgaria National Art Gallery. I’m sure it will paint the perfect day for your holidays.

The National History Museum, housed in the stately Boyana Residence has the finest collection of artefacts. It was opened in 1981 to celebrate 1300 years of Bulgaria as a state. The collection includes gold treasures, ceramics, silver ware, medieval carpets and other materials from the National revival period. It now exhibits well over 22,000 pieces of work, undoubtedly the finest collection in Bulgaria. Of special interest are the Thracian treasures, rare weapons, bronze jewellery and unique Panagyurishte gold. The collections also concentrate on the ecclesiastical art of the 19th century Bulgarian National Revival including folk costumes, carpets and typically furnished rooms from that period.

The National Opera House is situated in one of the most impressive buildings in the capital on the corner of Rakovski St. and Dondukov Boulevard. Ten columns are lined up along the main facade, above which a rich wall painting illustrates the struggle of the Bulgarian nation against fascism. The foyers, balconies and large hall are decorated with multi-coloured marble, paintings showing scenes from different operas, and exquisite plaster ornaments. Make an enquiry to our friendly staff about designing a suitable opera holiday package that includes concert, ballet, opera tickets.

The National Palace of Culture is a distinguished and unmistakable building located near the top end of Vitosha boulevard, amidst a beautiful park with a magnificent view of the Vitosha Mountain in the background. This spaceship-like modern building stands out in the cityscape and is the largest multifunctional complex in south eastern Europe. There are several buildings, rooms and halls that host a range of facilities, from open air cafes and shops to cinemas and exhibition spaces. It attracts residents and tourists alike with a variety of cultural events. It is definitely an intriguing sightseeing point for anyone on a weekend break stay in Sofia. Come in the day to shop or the evening to try the night clubs, bowling alleys and bars.

The ‘Ivan Vazov’ National Theatre is one of Sofia’s major cultural centres. The theatre was named after the greatest Bulgarian poet and writer Ivan Vazov. Designed in the style of German classicism, it contains many elements of the then fashionable Secession style. There are two chamber stages and a large hall, which seats 850 people. We have a dedicated department that specialises in theatre breaks abroad, Ballet tickets and many other luxury stays based around theatre performances. Speak to our opera & ballet travel specialist today.

Nezavisimost Square is located in the heart of the city. It is surrounded by a number of prestigious buildings including: The Largo, which is the central department store, the former Communist Party building, the Presidency and the Council of Ministers. A Vamos guide can take visitors around the area and explain in detail about each buildings history. Travel with the Bulgaria holidays specialists, choose from a number of exciting city tours, hotels and special offers.

The Bulgaria Parliament building is another impressive feature of the city. It was built in three stages from 1884 to 1928 on plans of the Viennese architect Jovanovich. A motto inscribed on its main facade reads ‘Union makes strength’.

Another fascinating tourism site is the red bricked Rotunda Church of St. George, one of the oldest buildings in Sofia. Experts estimate it to be built in the 4th Century. Inside it is decorated by frescoes from a cross different generations, which you can enjoy seeing on your city break in Sofia. Saint George Rotunda Church can be found at the back of the Sheraton Hotel.

The Russian Church is one of the most eye catching tourist attractions. It is delicately decorated in beautiful colours and is a joy to visit. The Russian Church was built in 1912 and is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the miracle maker. Its high dome, surrounded by four smaller domes, all made of gold harmonize perfectly with the roof of the church which is covered with green majolica tiles. It’s a beautiful sight to see, as you catch your first glimpse strolling along 'Tsar Osvoboditel' street. More popular than the church it self is the crypt, accessed to the left of the main entrance. Locals come here in there droves to post hand-written wish lists into a box, standing to the right of the tomb. Apparently here, wishes come true. Experience the St. Nicholas church for yourselves, its an important & popular holiday landmark.

St Sophia Church is one of the most architecturally distinguished monuments in the Balkans and is a must see for any traveller. Many legends surround its history but the basilica was actually built during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. Important to note, is that the Bulgarian capital was named after the basilica of St.Sofia in the 14th century. This historical red brown church sits modestly adjacent to the Nevski Cathedral, it is the second oldest building in the capital and is the oldest Eastern Orthodox church. You would be wise not to miss this church during your stay in Bulgaria.

The synagogue is situated in the very heart of the capital. It is the third largest in Europe, next to the synagogues in Budapest and Amsterdam. Designed by Austrian architect Grunander in a Spanish-Moresque style, the temple resembles the Vienna synagogue destroyed by the Nazis. One of the most beautiful architectural monuments to find on a Sofia break, the synagogue accommodates 1300 worshippers.

Sofia-University is a prestigious building and is a main attraction for those visiting on a city break. The University is a grand building that was funded by two brothers Evlogi and Christo Georgiev in the late 19th century. Today it cultivates Sofia’s future professionals as well as playing host for intrigued explorers. St. Kliment Ohridski University is the oldest in Bulgaria and the largest and most advanced educational and research centre in the country.

Slaveikov Square was named after the father and son duo; ‘Petko and Pencho Slaveikov’ who were well known for their writings and poems. The Square can be found outside the main library and holds the biggest book market in the city. As well as enjoying the atmosphere you can have your picture taken with the poets whose statues reside on one of the benches. It is an off the beaten track city break attraction that discerning guests will enjoy finding. We recommend visiting Slaveikov Square on your weekend breaks in Sofia.

The Church of St. Nedelya is located opposite the Sheraton Hotel. It is a lovely and unique church which was reconstructed in the early 1900’s after a bomb explosion destroyed most of its original frame it was painstakingly restored to its former glory. Our tour guides can take you inside the church and describe the history in great detail.

Vassil Levski was the freedom apostle who campaigned against the Ottoman Empire’s oppression. He was eventually hanged by the Turks in 1873 and on the spot of his death he is now commemorated with the Vassil Levski Monument a fascinating place of interest to see during your shortbreak in Bulgaria.

Contact the Bulgaria holiday experts today: 01926 330 223