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Zoos & aquariums

Sofia Zoo

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Sofia Zoo

Sofia Zoo

The Sofia Zoo is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Bulgaria. It houses over 1,000 animals representing more than 200 different species. Visitors go here to observe a wide variety of wildlife in an urban setting.

Getting There

The zoo is located east of the city centre. You can reach it via public transport, including buses or taxis. The journey typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Duration of Visit

Depending on your interest in the various exhibits, allow between 2 and 4 hours to walk through the grounds and see the animal enclosures.

When to Visit

The zoo is an outdoor attraction, making it most accessible during the spring and summer months. To avoid the largest crowds, it is advisable to visit on weekdays rather than weekends. Arriving early in the day often provides a quieter experience.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its location, you can combine a visit here with other nearby sites. Within a short distance, you will find:

  • Museum of Socialist Art (2.3km)
  • Perlovska (2.5km)
  • Earth and Man National Museum (2.6km)
  • Seven Saints Church (3.5km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Sofia Zoo

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Sofia Zoo Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Sofia 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Sofia grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Sofia 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Sofia grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Museum of Socialist Art, Sofia

Museums & galleries

Museum of Socialist Art, Sofia

This museum in Sofia gathers sculptures and paintings representing the communist era from 1944 to 1989. The large statues lined up outdoors are a particular highlight.

2.3 km away
Perlovska

Nature

Perlovska

A river that flows down from the foothills of Vitosha Mountain and runs through central Sofia. Passing through South Park and the Poduyane district before joining the Iskar River, it forms a green walking path through the heart of the city.

2.5 km away
Earth and Man National Museum

Museums & galleries

Earth and Man National Museum

This mineralogy museum is located in downtown Sofia. It houses a wide variety of mineral specimens.

2.6 km away
Seven Saints Church

Temples & religious sites

Seven Saints Church

This Sofia church was once a mosque under Ottoman rule before being converted into an Orthodox church. Dedicated to seven saints, including Cyril and Methodius, it offers a glimpse into the shifting history of religious architecture.

3.5 km away
Monument to the Soviet Army

Heritage & monuments

Monument to the Soviet Army

A former Soviet Army monument still standing in central Sofia, though partially dismantled. It's a symbolic site worth visiting as a reflection of changing times.

3.6 km away
National Museum of Military History

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Military History

This museum in Sofia covers the broad sweep of Bulgarian military history and includes an extensive outdoor exhibition area. Visitors can take their time browsing a wide range of military equipment and artifacts.

3.7 km away