Things to do in Bankya

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Bankya must see attractions

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. 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

5. 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

Recommended things to do in Bankya

Number of things to do	195
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Sofia Self Guided Audio Experience: $6
Top 5 things to do	Sofia: Guided Tasting of Local Wines and Cheeses Sofia's Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl Rakia Museum Entrance Ticket Sofia: Discover Bulgaria with Dance Sofia: Guided Street Art & Stunning Graffiti Walking Tour
Under $25	Sofia: Guided Tasting of Local Wines and Cheeses Sofia's Hidden Bars: 4-Hour Pub Crawl Rakia Museum Entrance Ticket Sofia: Discover Bulgaria with Dance Sofia Pub Crawl Tour of The Hidden Unique Bars
With kids	Sofia: Communist Walking Tour From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Asen's Fortress Sofia Small Group City Tour Private & Ultimate Sofia 2,5-hour Walking Tour Admission Ticket to the Museum of Illusions in Sofia

What to do in Bankya

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Bankya? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Bankya

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

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

National Palace of Culture

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

The Central Mineral Baths is a landmark in the centre of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, a city known for the mineral springs in the area. It was built in the early 20th century near the former Turkish bath and was used as the city's public baths until 1986. If you are in Sofia, don´t miss it! #amazing #Sofia #EasternEurope

Sofia Central Mineral Baths

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

Bulgarian Parliament

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

Mount Vitosha

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

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.

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

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.

Sofia University

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Sofia University, during your trip to Sofia. Discover the museums and cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Sofia Court House

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

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Frequently asked questions

Is Bankya worth visiting?

Renowned for its history and nature, finding fun things to do in Bankya is easy. Make sure to add Sofia Central Mineral Baths to your itinerary while here.

How do I spend a day in Bankya?

Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd are two good places to start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Bankya while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Bankya?

You can't leave without visiting Sofia Central Mineral Baths, rated the top tourist attraction in Bankya.

Is three days enough to stay in Bankya?

If you only want to enjoy the leading sights, three days is more than enough time for a getaway in Bankya. Stay for a week or more for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and explore a few hidden gems.

What are some activities to do in Bankya with kids?

If you are after sights and tours for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what to do in Bankya with kids.

What to do in Bankya for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Bankya, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Vitoshka Boulevard or Yellow Pavement.

Are there free things to do in Bankya?

In Bankya, Saint Nedelja Church is a popular spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Bankya.