The National Art Gallery

Bulgaria’s National Art Gallery is a cultural gem, blending grandeur with intimacy. Its halls showcase vibrant paintings, intricate icons, and striking sculptures that capture the nation’s spirit. The building itself, a former royal palace, adds a sense of majesty without overshadowing the art. Each room feels like a journey through history and imagination, offering both inspiration and quiet reflection in the heart of Sofia.

beautiful gallery. amazing curation and place is beautiful inside and out. not a lot of people, staff is kind and helpful. went with my mom, really recommend to see if visiting bulgaria. just great atmosphere as well, overall amazing

I had a fantastic visit to the Sofia National Art Gallery and the National Ethnographic Museum, both located in the beautiful former royal palace. You need two separate tickets to visit both, but it’s absolutely worth it. The ladies at the ticket offices were very kind and helpful. The art gallery has a great mix of classical and modern Bulgarian works. The ethnographic museum was a highlight — I had a lovely conversation with a passionate staff member who explained the meanings behind rug motifs like the butterfly, scorpion, and scissors, and even mentioned Turkish names for some of them. I hope she can visit Cappadocia one day, as we discussed! Don’t miss the Cosmos-themed floor in the ethnographic museum — it’s unique and fascinating. Both museums are well-presented with English descriptions, and together they offer a deep look into Bulgarian culture and heritage. Highly recommended!

Honestly disappointing, I've been to art museums all over the world. This one seems small, you can see everything quite quickly. Part of the building is dedicated to another museum. I think the other national gallery down the street is better. More over, when I entered the limited gift shop. The lady that works there stands up and WATCHES you as you are browsing the store. I found it quite rude and unsettling. The saving grace is that the entry is cheap, and there are a few pieces of art I loved.

a delectable art gallery with three exhibits included in the ticket - 4 lev for students. these are some of my favourite pieces, the artists self-portrait, a bulgarian lady, and a still life. I also liked the one of the evening star but unfortunately google wont let me post it as the women are nude in the painting. definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in sofia and it’s in a prime location with parks, theatres and other attractions nearby

Beautiful place both for the interior and exhibitions they do. The lady working at reception was unkind. Maybe she should change the workplace.

If you are in Sofia, this gallery is definitely worth a visit. You can also see the contemporary art exhibited in the same building.

The gallery was fairly empty when we came in. Great experience to learn from. As far as I know, one of the most famous paintings here is Titian's Bacchus and Ariadne which illustrates a story told by the classical authors Ovid and Catullus. The gallery is a true treasure trove of masterpieces and a testament to the enduring power of human creativity.