NDK Sofia
National Palace of Culture
The National Palace of Culture (NDK) was built in the beginning of the 80s. It is a huge building in the center of Sofia and there is no chance you could miss it if you visit Sofia. It is located in the middle of Vitosha boulevard.
NDK is the largest congress center on the Balkans and it has 12 halls in total. Each of the halls is a different size and they are used for concerts, theatre and cinema festivals. The largest hall is Hall No. 1 which is very modern for the time when it was decorated and furnished. Today it has a bit of a retro look but it is still very nice and spacious.
I really like the long square with beautiful fountains in front of the main entrance of NDK ending with a waterfall. Currently the square in front of NDK is being fully renovated and is expected to return to its previous glory in 2015. There are also many cafes, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and entertainment places in and around NDK, including a bowling hall, a cinema (Lumiere cinema), a live concert stage and even one of the largest TV stations in Bulgaria - bTV. The live stage even has stand-up comedian shows. I think of NDK and its surroundings as a mini city that has the most essential things you would expect to find in a city center.
Find your way with 126 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Sofia
Sofia City Art Gallery
Two for the price of one
"Sofia City Art Gallery" has exhibition halls with a huge collection, free entrance. Before the war it was a huge casino, but also hosted political meetings.
by
Boyko
Blagoev
Zona Urbana
Recycled art
At "Zona Urbana" Sofia you can buy a fabulous, unique bag or wallet made from old newspapers or paper maps. It's a shop perfect for recycle freaks!
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Free Sofia Tour
The best intro to the city
It's been the same spot for 13 years now. Palace of Justice, next to the lion on the corner. Rain or shine, tour guides are there, you just have to show up.
by
Boyko
Blagoev
Made in Blue
The Instagrammable restaurant
"Made in Blue" is a popular, unique restaurant for meetings and good food in Sofia. You can't miss it - the whole house is painted in blue...
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Western Serdica Gate
Hidden Archaeological Park
Need a peaceful break in central Sofia? Discover the quiet charm of the hidden Archaeological Park Western Gate of Serdica with its rich in history.
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Pura Vita
Best croissants in town
A Belgian bakery with an Italian name in the heart of the Bulgarian capital. Yet another example of how Sofia is getting more and more cosmopolitan.
by
Boyko
Blagoev
Marashlian Pastry
The true pâtisserie
Honestly, the shop looks more like a lab. Clean, minimalist, and luxurious. You can order whole cakes for special occasions or choose a treat from the beautifully-arranged showcase.
by
Boyko
Blagoev
Skaptoburger
King of burgers
"Skaptoburger" is located in the heart of Sofia and won the King of Burgers award for 2016. This restaurant, its monthly offers, some ale... what more?
by
Simo
Stefanov
Antep Baklava
Bites of heaven!
"Antep Baklava" in Sofia is a small pastry shop that makes the best baklava and other Turkish desserts in the city! You have to try the Shobiet...
by
Yana
Alexieva
Gifted
Talents and presents
"Gifted" in Sofia is a shop that aims to bring together artists and offer unique souvenirs and gifts that go beyond the ordinary. It keeps surprising me!
by
Boyko
Blagoev
Boyana church
A UNESCO world heritage site
"Boyana Church" in Sofia is one of my favorite temples in the city. It's a UNESCO heritage gem of a site from the 11th century, next to giant sequoias...
by
Yana
Alexieva
Heading to Sofia?
126 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Sofia?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 126 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Sofia
Get to know our other Spotters from Sofia
As featured on:
