Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky

What a stunning cathedral! When the doors are open, step inside. Just make sure to do so respectfully. Yes, it's beautiful to look at, but it's still a working cathedral so keep voices down and know when NOT to take photos. Downstairs is a museum of icons. Near the cathedral in the park is a market with vendors selling Soviet-era trinkets and more.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of those places you can’t miss in Sofia. The size and design are impressive, but what I liked most was how calm it felt around the building despite being a popular spot. The golden domes are beautiful, especially when the sun hits them. Inside, the details in the icons and walls are worth taking time to look at. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a place that shows a lot about the city’s history and culture

Wow... beautiful interior, detailed art all around. Really feel the grand scale and presence in this place🙏 Outside? Very grand, and spacious for all amounts of people.... however, I was wondering all the time where all the people are at this site beautiful and wonderful main site?? Just means more room for the locals and anyone who happens to visit I guess🥲

One of Sofia’s most iconic landmarks, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is truly a masterpiece of architecture and spiritual presence. The massive gold dome, elegant arches, and layered Neo-Byzantine design make it a standout from the moment you approach it. Inside, the cathedral feels hushed and reverent. The space is lit with soft natural light, filtered through the domes and windows, falling gently on the dark, rich frescoes and chandeliers. There’s a deep sense of calm here, a place that invites you to pause and take it in slowly. Don’t miss the crypt beneath the cathedral—it houses an extraordinary icon museum, with one of the finest collections of Bulgarian Orthodox icons in the country. Quiet and atmospheric, it adds another layer of depth to the visit—especially if you're interested in religious art and history. This isn’t just a tourist stop—it’s a place of beauty, heritage, and stillness. Absolutely worth visiting if you're in Sofia.

No ticket needed. Marvellous orthodox church. We entered on a rainy day and got some candles. The lady assisted in where to light them. She spoke a bit English and explained where to light the candles for the dead or the living.

The Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky is absolutely breathtaking. The stunning architecture, intricate details, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit in Sofia. A true masterpiece inside and out.

Gorgeous and iconic church in the center of Sofia. Please come here in the morning and also in the evening. For the view in the evening, it looks like a beautiful gold sparkling its light to everyone! The inner part of the church was also amazing and spacious! Must visit it when you come to Sofia!

A very nice and beautiful cathedral with a colourful history. Worth a visit and we recommend taking a Guide. There was a festival going on when we visited so it was somewhat crowded. The next day when we visited there was a college graduation. There are automated public toilets for LEU 1 outside which are helpful. The areas around the cathedral have a lot of history behind each monument hence the recommendation of a Guide. We found the Guides in Bulgaria to be excellent and knowledgeable and unprejudiced which was a welcome change. The cathedral area is quite large so allocating more time for your visit is recommended. If you are a Christian Believer, we recommend spending some time praying in the serenity of this cathedral.