Sights
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Sofia's landmark and one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Built between 1882 and 1912 as a thank you to the Russian liberators who freed Bulgaria from Ottoman rule in 1878. The golden and green domes dominate the skyline, and the interior impresses with massive mosaics, marble columns, and acoustics that make church choirs sound ethereal. Space for 5,000 worshippers. Admission: free. In the crypt: one of Europe's most important icon collections (admission: 6 BGN/3€).
Church of St. Sofia
The namesake church of the city, built in the 6th century on the foundations of a Roman church. A simple brick building that is more moving in its simplicity than any gold dome. In the basement: fascinating excavations with Roman mosaics and early Christian graves. Admission: free (crypt: 6 BGN).
Rotunda of St. George
The oldest church in Sofia — a small, red round building from the 4th century, hidden in the courtyard between the presidential palace and the Sheraton Hotel. Inside: medieval frescoes overpainted in several layers, uncovered during restoration. Outside: the remains of the Roman city of Serdica. Admission: free.
Banya Bashi Mosque & Mineral Bath
The only active mosque in Sofia (1576) with its distinctive red dome stands next to the former Central Mineral Bath — a beautiful building in Viennese Art Nouveau style, now housing the City Museum. In front: public drinking fountains with hot mineral water (free!) — Sofia's residents fill their bottles here daily.
National Archaeological Museum
Housed in a former Ottoman mosque (15th century), the museum holds Bulgaria's most important archaeological finds: Thracian gold treasures, Roman sculptures, medieval icons. The highlight: the Panagyurishte Treasure — nine gold vessels from the 4th century BC, among the most significant goldsmith works of antiquity. Admission: 10 BGN (5€).
National Art Gallery & Ethnographic Museum
Both housed in the former Royal Palace on Battenberg Square. The art gallery showcases Bulgarian and European paintings, while the ethnographic museum features fascinating costumes, wood carvings, and ritual masks of the Kukeri tradition. Admission: 6 BGN (3€) each.