Bulgaria Sofia Central Sofia Park

City Garden

About

The City Garden in Sofia is the capital’s oldest public park, dating back to 1872. Nestled between the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and the former Royal Palace, it has long been a cultural and social hub. Originally laid out during the final years of Ottoman rule, the garden was transformed after Bulgaria’s liberation in 1878, evolving into a refined urban space under the guidance of architect Antonín Kolář. Over the decades, it has seen numerous redesigns, yet it retains its charm with elegant pathways, fountains, and seasonal flowerbeds. The garden is a favourite gathering spot for locals—chess players, artists, and performers often animate its shaded corners. A central fountain and open-air events lend it a lively atmosphere, while its proximity to major cultural institutions makes it a natural meeting point. Whether for a quiet stroll or a spontaneous concert, the City Garden remains a timeless retreat in Sofia’s historic heart.

Sofia Bulgaria

Location

The City Garden, known locally as Gradska gradina, is the oldest and most central public park in Sofia, Bulgaria. It is located right in the heart of the city, directly in front of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and surrounded by some of Sofia’s most significant landmarks and institutions. The park is bordered by the National Gallery, the Sofia City Art Gallery, and Bulgaria Hall, making it an ideal starting point for tourists interested in culture and history. Nearby, you’ll find Alexander I Square, the Bulgarian National Bank, the Ministry of Defense, the Grand Hotel Sofia, and the Presidency building. The pedestrian street Vitoshka, known for its shopping and dining, is also just a short walk away, as are the Rotunda and St. Nedelya churches, two of Sofia’s most notable religious sites. The City Garden’s central location places you within easy reach of the National Assembly and Sofia University, as well as the former royal palace, which now houses the National Art Gallery and the Ethnographic Museum.

National Historical Museum