Sofia History Museum Sofia

Get to know the city

Tsvetomira from Sofia

"SHM in old Sofia offers a compact but rich look into the city's past — golden chariot, vintage tram, and more in just a few hours."

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.

Art & culture

Buy one, Give one!

Share your 💚 this December

*on all products

Sofia Spotter Tsvetomira

About me Hello! I am a digital marketing specialist, blogger, craft consultant, amateur photographer, and former archaeologist. I have lived in Sofia my entire life and have witnessed significant changes in the city's culture, society, and landscape. I have a passion for creating a map of Sofia's art, craft, and inspirational locations. If you're searching for places like these, feel free to explore my articles here. Why Sofia? Sofia has always been my place - I grew up, I studied and now I work here. Sofia has many different faces and can off...

About this spot

1, Banski Sq.

Ticket:

BGN

Website

29854455

Oct 10, 2025

Our Sofia City Guide

Find your way with 130 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Sofia guide.

Loved it? Join us!

Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Sofia

Magazinche.com

Local handcrafted goods

"Magazinche.com" in Sofia is a popular shop for local handcrafted stuff, such as cosmetics & accessories. I recommend visiting their shop in Lozenets...

Shopping

Tsvetomira

Filipova

Nov 17, 2025

Swimming Pool

Art space with a view in Sofia

"Swimming Pool" in Sofia is one of the art galleries I really enjoy visiting - people often go there more for the view and vibe than the art itself!

Art & culture

Tsvetomira

Filipova

Nov 17, 2025

Mekitsa & Kafe

Best local breakfast in Sofia

"Mekitsa & Kafe" is a cozy little place in Sofia for a fast snack of Mekitsa, a type of traditional Bulgarian pastry. My favourite is honey and walnuts!