[2024 Sofia Attraction] Travel Guide for Saint Alexander Nevsky Patriarch's Cathedral (Updated Dec)

Sofia is an interesting city 🏙️

#travelchecklist I just spent a few days in Sofia, Bulgaria, and it was an enriching experience! 🇧🇬 The city is a beautiful blend of history and modernity, with stunning architecture at every turn. I visited the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is free to enter, and it took my breath away with its golden domes and intricate frescoes. Strolling through Vitosha Boulevard was a highlight—it's lined with charming cafés and shops. I enjoyed a delicious meal at a local restaurant for around 25 BGN, where I tried traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa and shopska salad. 🍽️ I also made a day trip to Vitosha Mountain, just a short drive from the city, where I hiked some lovely trails and enjoyed breathtaking views of Sofia below. The public transport is easy to navigate, making it simple to explore. If you’re looking for a destination rich in culture and natural beauty, Sofia is definitely worth a visit! #trip #Sofia #ExploreBulgaria #CulturalJourney #VitoshaMountain #TravelDiaries

The Cathedral in Sofia - A Must-See

The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia is a stunning example of Orthodox architecture. Its grand golden domes and intricate mosaics draw visitors from all over the world. Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive with its vast nave and beautiful iconostasis. Take a moment to light a candle and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this iconic landmark. Add this #beautifuldestination to your #travelbucketlist 🌎

#sofia

The most famous attraction in Bulgaria

Here it is: the famous Cathedral Saint Aleksandar Nevski. It is HUGE and beautiful. ☺️ It was the biggest one when it was build. The colors are very impressive and you can see the yellow even you being very away from the church. It is FREE to enter it and it is very beautiful inside but you can’t pictures if you don’t pay a high fee. It is located in Sofia downtown and you can easily reach to it by walking from anywhere you are in the city. It is unlikely any cathedral I have ever seen and the most memorable I have ever visited. It completely worth the visit! Book your trip now and visit Sofia! Give yourself a trip to this beautiful Cathedral! 👏🏻 #culturalattractions

[Travel around Eastern Europe] Sophia leave the Western Balkans, to the foot of the Balkan Mountains in Bulgaria. When I first arrived in Sofia, I felt that the citys appearance was much less developed than that of Croatia. The residential houses were somewhat run-down, the commercial street was sluggish, and many old people on the road who looked like disability and homelessness...but huge Soviet style Buildings, heroic monuments, closed intersections and underground passages make me feel that there are many similarities with China. Even the supermarkets on Sunday are still open as usual. It can be said that it is not very European. The taxi driver told me that I was Chinese and you said, you know, the ancient Bulgarians are your neighbors! I said that I know that in the morning, I have just made up the history of Bulgaria. The ancient Turkic branch came from Asia to the land between the Black Sea and the Aegean Sea, and merged with the Thracians and the Slavs to form a modern Bulgarian. Alexander Nevsky Church is like a huge space fortress, shining in the setting sun, every side is so beautiful. At the dusk of the Soviet Army Monument Square, the children are playing with skateboarding bicycles, and adults are dancing here in the square ballroom dance. This scene touched me. They are a group of people who are trying to be happy even if they don't have any money.

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Gem in the heart of Sofia

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is absolutely stunning, especially when visited in the evening. We explored inside, admiring the grand frescoes and chandeliers, then stayed until nightfall to see it beautifully illuminated. The glowing golden domes and tranquil atmosphere were unforgettable. Best time to visit at sunset to capture amazing photos and enjoy a serene, magical vibe as the lights come on. #travel #thingstodo #sofia #bulgaria #cathedral

Sofia, Bulgaria - Experience the romance of Eastern Europe.

Sofia, the pearl of Eastern Europe, is not big, but the attractions are concentrated in the city center, where you can easily shuttle and feel its unique charm. 🚶‍♀️ 🕌The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a landmark building in Sofia. The magnificent exterior is breathtaking. The golden dome shines in the sun, as if telling the history and glory of this city. 🌟 🏛️The National History Museum is also a must-visit place. It houses a wealth of cultural relics and historical materials, which can deepen your understanding of Bulgaria's past. Walking in the museum, it seems to travel through time and space, feeling the vicissitudes and changes of this country. 🎓 🌳Sofia also has many beautiful parks with shady trees and blooming flowers. Walking in the park, breathing fresh air, feeling the beauty of nature, is refreshing. 🌸 🍖Of course, food is also an indispensable part of Sofia. Traditional Bulgarian food, such as yogurt, barbecue, bread, etc., let your taste buds enjoy. In a local restaurant, tasting authentic Bulgarian food and feeling the hospitality of the locals will definitely leave you with unforgettable memories. 😍

Sofia: Discover the Soul of Bulgaria

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and an ancient city which has been inhabited by human since 7000 BC. It is a beautiful city with unique European architecture that is so different from other parts of Europe. Getting Around - There is metro in the city and pretty convenient to get around everywhere. Attractions - Key highlights to visit include the iconic St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St George Rotunda Church, Roman ruins etc. Visit Regional History Museum of Sofia to understand more about Bulgarian and Sofia history. You will also be able to see the beautiful Vitosha mountain from Sofia city. Hotels - Recommend to stay in main areas such as near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or Vitosha Boulevard. Food & Restaurants - So many delicious local food options like stews and Shopska salad in Sofia. Highly recommend you to book a local restaurant which also offers traditional music and dance, which is such a unique experience and good chance to understand local culture. Of course, there are other food options like delicious Italian food too. Shopping - The main shopping area is Vitosha Boulevard, which is a long vibrant stretch filled with local restaurants, bars and shops. You can buy local souvenirs like rose oil and rose derived products! #europeanarchitecture #europetrip #ancienttown #100waysoftravel #photolocation

On the go to Eastern Europe: Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria

It is about 110 kilometers from Rila Monastery to Sofia, and the road conditions are very good. 📜 Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is an ancient city with a long history in Europe, formerly known as "Serdica". It was built and settled by the Thracian Serdi tribe from the 8th to the 7th century BC, and has a history of more than 2800 years. Many of the city's historical monuments are well preserved. The main attractions include the three major churches, the Parliament building, the Presidential Palace, and the trams. Bulgarian rose water and perfumes are very famous and are favorites among many girls. 1⃣ Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: It is a Neo-Byzantine architecture and also one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. It is also one of the symbols of Sofia. It can accommodate 10,000 people and is the second largest cathedral on the Balkan Peninsula after the Saint Sava Cathedral in Belgrade. (Picture 6) 2⃣ St. Nicholas Russian Church: Its official name is St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker Church, and it is a Russian Eastern Orthodox church. The church was built on the original site of the destroyed Saray Mosque in 1882, serving as the official church of the Russian Embassy in Bulgaria. The five domes on top of the church are all wrapped in pure gold. (1/4 of the collage in Picture 1) 3⃣ Saint Sophia Church: The Saint Sophia Church is the second oldest church in Sofia, dating back to the 6th century. Its exterior is not very noticeable nor can it be considered beautiful, as it was built on the foundations of several existing churches. In the 2nd century, it was a Roman theater. There are many cemeteries around, and many people hold funerals here, so we did not get too close. (Picture 7) 4⃣ There are many trams on the streets of Sofia, in yellow, green, and blue, which occasionally pass by, creating a picturesque scene. The taxis in Sofia have almost the same color and design as those in Chongqing. If you don't look at the advertisements and company names, you might think you are in Chongqing hailing a taxi . ❤️ Warm tips: The local currency in Bulgaria is the Lev (лев), with 1 Lev being approximately equal to 0.5 euros. The price of 95 octane gasoline is roughly more than 10 yuan, and the prices in supermarkets are a bit higher than in North Macedonia. Larger stores accept card payments and euros, but the change might be given in Levs.

Beautiful Cathedral🏛️

#2024wish Just had an unforgettable visit to the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – a hidden gem in Sofia! 🇧🇬 The entrance fee, only 10 leva, was a steal for the awe-inspiring beauty inside. #SofiaGems #AlexanderNevskyCathedral The cathedral's architecture is mind-blowing – those golden domes are like a beacon against the skyline. Inside, the intricate details and stunning mosaics make it a true masterpiece. 🕌✨ After soaking in the spiritual vibes, take a short walk to the National Gallery for more cultural delights. The collection of Bulgarian art is fascinating and provides a deeper understanding of the country's heritage. 🎨🏛️ Feeling peckish? Head to the nearby Rakia & Co for some authentic Bulgarian cuisine. The flavors are a perfect reflection of the local culinary scene. 🍲🥂 To sum it up, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-visit in Sofia, offering a perfect blend of spirituality, art, and culture. It's a true symbol of Bulgaria's rich history. #SofiaAdventures #CulturalHeritage

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 🗺️

#fallingseason The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria, is a magnificent sight that takes on an even more enchanting appeal in autumn. As the leaves change colors, the stunning gold and silver domes of this Orthodox cathedral glisten against the backdrop of the clear blue skies, creating a truly mesmerizing scene. Visiting this architectural masterpiece in the fall season is a serene experience. The interior of the cathedral, with its intricate mosaics and religious artwork, provides a sense of spiritual tranquility amidst the crisp autumn air. The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a symbol of Bulgaria's faith and history, and it's also conveniently located near other cultural attractions, like the National Palace of Culture and the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. In autumn, the city often hosts cultural events, including classical music concerts and art exhibitions. Exploring the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in autumn is a culturally enriching and visually captivating experience, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and the charm of the season. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking to discover Sofia's cultural and religious heritage in the beauty of autumn. #sofia #bulgaria #europe

Embracing Autumn Vibes in Sofia, Bulgaria

It seems I'm fashionably late to the autumn party, but hey, better late than never, right? 😉 I'm absolutely thrilled that I managed to immerse myself in the autumnal vibes, complete with golden leaves and that intoxicating scent that follows a refreshing rain shower. All of this I experienced right here in Europe. In a matter of a single day, I made the spontaneous decision to jet off to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, and it's safe to say it was the best decision I made all season. I have a trove of posts queued up to share, so if you have any burning questions about Europe or Bulgaria, feel free to ask; I'll be answering them in the upcoming photos.

The most beautiful place in Sofia

#bucketlistreboot Saint Alexander Nevsky Patriarch’s Cathedral is certainly a highlight of the Bulgarian capital Sofia. This is a Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral and serves as the cathedral church of the Patriarch of Bulgaria. This is also the largest cathedral in the Balkans and one of Sofia’s symbols and primary tourist attractions. You can’t go to Sofia and not pay a visit here. Have you been there? If not, you should definitely add this to your bucket list. If you are travelling by plane, you will be arriving at Sofia Airport (SOF). Flights from London to Sofia tend to be in the £100 return pp point but you can find cheaper ones in the off peak months. Otherwise, train or car can be viable options depending on where you call “home”. #bulgaria #mountainview

St.Alexander Nevsky Cathedral This Orthodox church is named after the Russian prince Alexander Nevsky. It was built in 1882-1912 to commemorate the Russian-Turkish War of 1877-1878. 200,000 Russian, Ukrainian, Belarusian and Bulgarian soldiers sacrificed to help Bulgaria liberate from the Ottoman rule. When it is said that religious festivals, there are often long queues at the entrance of the church, and devout people take flowers into the temple and participate in church activities. But even if you don't understand the meaning, the ethereal chanting that echoes in the church sounds solemn and beautiful. You may also want to marry such a sacred ceremony, but unfortunately I don't understand whether this is a routine or an encounter. I can only give time for your reference. It was entered at around 4 pm on the working day, just to see. The priest also came, and the ceremony began around five o'clock, after which the priest left. But even without religious ceremonies, the church itself is well worth visiting. The empty hall hangs a number of beautiful chandeliers, looking up and looking slightly dizzy, beautiful. church opening time 7:00-19