Things to do in Gorna Malina

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sofia is a city home to many fine examples of ancient architecture and the Church of St. George stands out as one the most impressive. Admire the simplicity of the church’s architecture, marvel at frescoes that date back to the 6th century and look for the remains of an ancient city street. First built by the Romans in the 4th century, the Church of St. George is one of Sofia’s oldest buildings.

Escape the bustle of Sofia’s city center and relax amid the peaceful confines of the glorious Borisova Gradina (Boris Garden). Wander along tree-lined walkways and enjoy picnics on large green lawns. Check out an interesting collection of statues and monuments or attend soccer matches and open-air concerts. Opened in the 1880s, Borisova Gradina is one of Sofia’s oldest and most-loved parks. It takes its name from Boris III, Tsar of Bulgaria.

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.