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The City Garden: Sofia's Green Heart

Discover Sofia's oldest park: a vibrant oasis blending nature, culture, and history in the heart of the city.

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The City Garden, Sofia's oldest and most central public garden, has been a beloved gathering place since 1872. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a blend of nature, culture, and history, attracting locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to The City Garden

Local tips

  • Visit the City Garden to experience open-air chess games, a popular pastime among locals.
  • Enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafes surrounding the park.
  • Check for scheduled events, such as fairs, concerts, or exhibitions, to enhance your visit.
  • Take a stroll to admire the architecture of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and the Sofia City Art Gallery.
  • Visit the nearby Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker, a Russian church with unique architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The City Garden is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many major landmarks. From the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, walk southwest along Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard. The garden will be on your left, adjacent to the National Theatre. From Vitosha Boulevard, walk north towards the National Palace of Culture, then continue north, the City Garden will be on the right. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The City Garden is accessible via the Serdika Metro Station on lines 1 and 2. From the station, walk approximately 10 minutes towards the garden. Alternatively, numerous trams and buses stop near the garden. A single ticket for public transport costs 1.60 BGN. You can pay with a contactless card directly at the blue validators in the vehicle.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sofia. You can hail a taxi on the street or book one through a mobile app. A short taxi ride to the City Garden from a nearby location, such as the Sofia Central Railway Station, typically costs between 7 BGN and 12 BGN, depending on traffic and the taxi company. Ensure the taxi has a visible meter and tariff sticker.

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Discover more about The City Garden

The City Garden, also known as Gradska gradina, is Sofia's oldest and most central public garden, established in 1872. Situated in the heart of Sofia, the garden is bordered by Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard, Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Street, and Joseph Vladimirovich Gourko Street. Originally designed during the Ottoman rule, the garden was transformed after the Liberation of Bulgaria in 1878, with architect Antonín Kolář reorganizing the alley network and adding new plants. It was initially named the Alexander II Garden. Throughout the late 19th century, gardeners like Karl Betz, Daniel Neff, and Iliya Todorov shaped its appearance. Today, the City Garden is a vibrant hub, home to the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and the Sofia City Art Gallery. Visitors can relax by the large fountain, enjoy the meticulously maintained lawns and flowerbeds, and admire the various sculptures and art installations. The garden hosts annual fairs, cultural events, and live performances, making it a dynamic space for socializing and experiencing Sofia's creative spirit.

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