Things to do in Bankya

Activities, attractions and tours

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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. 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

What to do in Bankya

Popular places to visit

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

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

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

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.

Sofia Central Mineral Baths
Bulgarian Parliament

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.

Bulgarian Parliament
Mount Vitosha

Mount Vitosha

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
Ivan Vazov National Theatre

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.

Ivan Vazov National Theatre
Sofia Court House

Sofia Court House

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

Sofia Court House
Embassy of the Russian Federation

Embassy of the Russian Federation

After visiting Embassy of the Russian Federation, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Sofia. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Embassy of the Russian Federation

Frequently asked questions

Is Bankya worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Bankya is visit Sofia Central Mineral Baths. Check this leading sight off your agenda, then experience more of this area's history and nature.
How do I spend a day in Bankya?
When you've checked off top attractions like Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd, spend some time enjoying Bankya's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bankya?
Don'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 just want to see the leading sights, three days will be more than enough time for a break in Bankya. Stay for a week or more for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and discover a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Bankya with kids?
If you're looking for tours and attractions for all ages, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Bankya with kids.

What to do in Bankya for adults?
There are plenty 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 top spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in Bankya.