Central Market Hall of Sofia

The Central Market Hall of Sofia is a fascinating blend of history and modern retail that you won't find anywhere else! This beautifully preserved historic building now houses a Kaufland supermarket, but they've maintained the original atmosphere so well that it feels like shopping in a museum. The architecture is stunning and the space is impressively clean throughout. What makes this place unique is how they've transformed each level. The ground floor Kaufland offers an excellent selection of products at standard prices, while the mezzanine level features several restaurants with great views over the main hall. But the real surprise is downstairs - there's a fascinating free museum area showcasing Roman-era ruins, plus additional shops and a comfortable seating area. The location in central Sofia couldn't be better, though parking is limited (typical for the city center). The excellent public transport connections make it easily accessible by metro, bus, or tram. One practical tip: the clean restrooms in the basement require scanning your receipt for entry. This is definitely more than just a shopping trip - it's a cultural experience that combines practical needs with Sofia's rich history. Whether you're grabbing groceries, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying a meal on the upper level, allow extra time to fully appreciate this unique space that successfully marries preservation with modern functionality.

This is such an iconic and historical market Hall. Kaufland managed the ground n upper floor food center. As for the lower ground floor is transformed to a fantastic interactive space to give us an overview of the whole Serdica area. There’s a nice cafe, pizza lab, optician, kids bookstore and etc. Love the colour scheme and design of the whole area. Well done everyone that work on this great project!! Highly recommended to visit and learn more about the different historical era of this beautiful city.

Right in the centre with limited parking for customers, never seen full. Lovely historical market building well preserved. Great selection of food and drink to international standards.

Probably the most interesting and unique Kaufland that you can find 🕵! This supermarket is hosted inside an old building from centuries ago 🏛. It even kept the atmosphere of a museum and doesn't have any branding! Prices are the same as everywhere.

We came two years ago and it felt like a relic of the past. Went back this trip and it’s been transformed into a multiuse center with a supermarket and several specialty food stalls on the upper and lower levels. The architects were thoughtful to preserve the special elements of this location including its famous clock, classic green iron supports, and even better uncovered ruins from old Sofia that are newly available to the public! Would absolutely recommend for a visit if you’re in town. Save your sales receipt for access to the bathrooms and VR archeological experience.

It’s a modern and spacious supermarket plus some restaurants! You can find many items here with reasonable prices!

The construction of the building, which spreads over 3,200 m², began in 1909 after the design of architect Naum Torbov was selected in 1907, and took two years to complete. Until the late 1940s the Sofia municipality let out about 170 shops and stalls in the Central Sofia Market Hall. The rents and the product quality were strictly regulated. The market hall building's interior was significantly altered after the 1950s and the market was closed in 1988 in order to be reconstructed, modernized and once again opened for Easter in 2000, after 75% of it was acquired by the Israeli company Ashtrom, who invested $7 million in it. Today the Central Sofia Market Hall houses a supermarket and only a few other shops.

Kaufland now operates within the Central Sofia Market Hall (Tsentralni Hali). In August 2022, Kaufland Bulgaria acquired this historic building and undertook a comprehensive restoration to preserve its architectural heritage while introducing modern retail facilities. Beyond retail, the market hall now offers cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore Roman-era ruins in the basement, which have been transformed into a free museum area. Additionally, the space hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and features such as a children’s bookstore and a virtual reality zone. The basement provide a clean toilet but you need to bring the receipt to scan for entry.