SHM is small, so it won't take you more than 1-2 hours to see everything. I also highly recommend exploring this part of old Sofia, where the museum is located - inside the beautifully renovated Central Mineral Baths building.
The museum has three floors that take you through Sofia’s history, culture, and everyday life in the past. It features eight halls, arranged chronologically, with a well-curated selection of exhibits.
You will see some really cool things: a real golden chariot from the Palace of Versailles, gifted to King Ferdinand for his wedding; a Mercedes-Benz model from 1905; a retro bicycle with one big and one small wheel; and even a vintage tram where you can snap photos or watch a short film about the city’s public transport.
My favourite part of the permanent exhibition is the Archaeology Hall, which displays artifacts dating back to the Neolithic era. The collection is small but genuinely exciting.
There are also examples of retro fashion, traditional Bulgarian clothing and accessories, a small collection of early 20th-century toys, musical instruments, newspapers, public transport tickets, and all sorts of everyday items from Sofia’s past.
Find your way with 130 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"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
"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
"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
"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
"65 Svetulki" in central Sofia is a bar rapidly becoming a favorite destination for locals. What I love is its terrace and alternative bohemian design...
by
"The Little Things" in Sofia hits the spot for me: this homey restaurant with delicious food really pays attention to the details in every small element...
by
"Franco's Pizza" has definitely the best pizza I have tasted in Sofia so far. The menu here is short and consists of authentic Italian pizzas...
by
"PhotoSynthesis" has grown into one of the biggest photography hubs in Sofia. They have a great gallery and I love their glass-roof bar and the quiet cafe.
by
"Parlenka Gourmet BBQ Bar" is a grill restaurant in Sofia you should seriously stay clear from if you're vegetarian or vegan. But it's good for lunch...
by
"Daflorn probiotics" Sofia is one of the few companies in the world that sell probiotic-functioning food directly, not in capsules. This shop can help...
by
130 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 130 Insider Tips