Things to do in Novi Iskŭr

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 Novi Iskŭr

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 Novi Iskŭr worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in Novi Iskŭr.
How do I spend a day in Novi Iskŭr?
After you've visited major attractions like Sofia Central Mineral Baths and Vitosha Blvd, spend the rest of your day enjoying Novi Iskŭr's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Novi Iskŭr?
Alexander Nevski Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Novi Iskŭr and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Novi Iskŭr?
Book a break in Novi Iskŭr for three days and you'll comfortably be able to check out its leading sights and get a taste for the local way of life. For the chance to visit attractions in nearby areas and get off the beaten path, consider hanging around for a week or longer.
What are some activities to do in Novi Iskŭr with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our ideas for what to do in Novi Iskŭr with kids.

What to do in Novi Iskŭr for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Novi Iskŭr for adults including Vitoshka Boulevard and Arena Armeec.
Are there free things to do in Novi Iskŭr?
In Novi Iskŭr, The Center of Folk Arts and Crafts is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Novi Iskŭr.