National Palace of Culture (NDK)

We had a fantastic experience on the guided tour of the National Palace of Culture! The guide was knowledgeable and passionate, sharing fascinating facts about the building’s architecture, history, and impressive stage technology. Walking through the grand halls and learning about the cultural significance of the venue made me appreciate it even more. The tour was well-organized, engaging, and offered a unique behind-the-scenes look at one of Sofia’s most iconic landmarks. Highly recommended for anyone interested in architecture, culture, or simply looking to discover something new in the city!

Beautiful and impressive landmark in the heart of Sofia! The architecture is stunning, and the surrounding park is perfect for a relaxing walk. Often hosts concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events — a must-see if you’re visiting the city

Hey, we are Vicky 🇵🇪 and Malte 🇩🇪 from the travel blog Traveling Is Our Passion. For our full one-day Sofia itinerary, check out our blog! The National Palace of Culture is an impressive building in the heart of Sofia. While it mainly hosts events and conferences, its central location makes it a convenient stop on a walking route through the city. Worth a quick look if you’re exploring nearby sights.

If you like that Soviet Era architecture that is brutalist then this is your spot. On spring evening, May 2025, this buildings is among the ones lit up for the LUNAR light festival. Makes for an interesting juxtaposition of old and new. The park surrounding it is flat and filled with young skateboarders during the day and the young adult party goers at night, as the edges of the park are mostly bars and clubs. Overall, worth a visit for to quench your brutalist thirst.

Nice spot for local Christmas market. The decorations towards the Christmas period is absolutely stunning, focussing on eco-friendly stuff. The markets are wide, close to 54 stalls and the pricing is very nominal.

Better to visit in the evening as the lighting makes the experience far better (but no entrance inside). Also there’s another sight underneath the place.

We parked nearby and loved the fountains out front and the architecture.

I watched the Alice in Wonderland circus show on March 31st, 2025. Finding the ticket booth proved very difficult in the rain if you don't read the Russian alphabet! I expected it to be a New circus. But I got disappointed. Pumping pop music, dancers who had fun but honestly there was no theme or storyline. Just some circus performers showing off their traditional skills. I liked the 3 guys on the trampoline and the huge white dress show. Many kids in the audience. Worst of all the signage to find my seat needs some serious improvements. I looked for hall/entrance 18. What a waste of time. And no staff to ask for directions.