National Gallery The Crypt Icons
Discover centuries of Bulgarian religious art in a serene setting, featuring a stunning collection of Orthodox icons.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
National Gallery The Crypt Icons
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover centuries of Bulgarian religious art in a serene setting, featuring a stunning collection of Orthodox icons.
"An incredible place to see Orthodox icons and learn about the history of Christian art in Bulgaria."
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced, often around 4 EUR. Look for days with even cheaper admission!
🎒 Bag Storage Available
You can leave your baggage before entering the exhibition room, making your visit more comfortable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bulgarian Icons
Main exhibition hall
A rich collection of hand-painted icons showcasing centuries of Bulgarian religious art and history.

Orthodox Christian Art
Throughout the gallery
Explore the evolution of Christian art in Bulgaria, with a focus on the spiritual and historical significance of each piece.

Contemplative Atmosphere
Exhibition spaces
Enjoy the quiet, well-lit, and spacious environment perfect for reflection and appreciating the detailed artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Icons
Understand the Collection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
US to London for 4 nights, 3 full days: what do we have to see and any do’s/don’ts appreciated.
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced, often around 4 EUR. Look for days with even cheaper admission!
🎒 Bag Storage Available
You can leave your baggage before entering the exhibition room, making your visit more comfortable.
Hey guys could you please recommend a 10 days budget travel (and eateries) tips in London?
Combine with Palace Gallery
Consider a combined ticket for entry to the nearby Palace gallery for a fuller cultural experience.
Ideal for Art Enthusiasts
A must-see for those interested in religion, icons, and the history of Christian art in Bulgaria.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced, often around 4 EUR. Look for days with even cheaper admission!
🎒 Bag Storage Available
You can leave your baggage before entering the exhibition room, making your visit more comfortable.
Combine with Palace Gallery
Consider a combined ticket for entry to the nearby Palace gallery for a fuller cultural experience.
Ideal for Art Enthusiasts
A must-see for those interested in religion, icons, and the history of Christian art in Bulgaria.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the National Gallery The Crypt Icons for its impressive collection of Bulgarian icons and its serene, contemplative atmosphere. The affordable admission and convenient baggage storage are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a highly recommended stop for those interested in religious art and history.
"Lovely selection of religious art from the last 800 years or so. A modest admission fee applies or you can get a combined ticket that also allows entry to the nearby Palace gallery. It can be seen comfortably in an hour."
David Smith
"If you are religious or you find religion facinating this place is great. It is full with icons from different periods of Bulgaria. We went right after we visited the cathedral above. It is very quiet and it filled with great history. Cheap tickets it was like 4 euro рer adult and there is a day of the week when its even cheeper(check site)"
Krasimir Dimitrov
"Great exhibition of Bulgarian icons. Must see for those interested in religion
There is a toilet inside, you can leave your baggage before entering the room"
Eugenie Poddubitskaya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Gallery The Crypt Icons is located in Sofia, Bulgaria. It's often visited in conjunction with the Cathedral and the Palace Gallery. Public transport, including the metro and buses, is readily available in Sofia. If you're staying in the city center, it might even be walkable.
Yes, it's generally well-signposted, especially if you're already visiting the Cathedral or Palace Gallery. Many visitors find it convenient to explore these sites together.
The metro system is efficient and covers many key areas. Buses and trams are also extensive. For short distances, walking is pleasant, especially in the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is modest, typically around 2 Lev (approximately 1 EUR) as of late 2022. There might be specific days with even cheaper entry, so it's worth checking their official site or asking locally.
Yes, a combined ticket is often available that includes entry to the National Gallery The Crypt Icons and the nearby Palace Gallery, offering good value.
The gallery is already very affordable. While specific discounts might vary, the low base price makes it accessible. Checking their website for any special offers or free entry days is recommended.
Opening hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check the official National Gallery website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and days.
For this particular gallery, advance booking is usually not necessary due to its modest size and affordable entry. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that an hour is sufficient to comfortably explore the collection and appreciate the icons.
Yes, there is a facility to leave your baggage before entering the exhibition room, which is very convenient.
The gallery features a significant collection of religious art, primarily focusing on Bulgarian icons from the last 800 years, showcasing Orthodox Christian art.
Absolutely. The lighting is good, the space is spacious and quiet, making it an ideal environment for contemplating the beautiful and historically rich icons.
Yes, the gallery often has beautiful hand-painted icons available for purchase, allowing visitors to take a piece of this art form home.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Crypt Icons gallery itself is focused on the exhibition, the surrounding area in Sofia, especially near the Cathedral and Palace Gallery, offers numerous cafes and restaurants. You'll find plenty of options for a meal or a coffee break nearby.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside exhibition spaces to protect the artworks. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check for signage at the entrance or ask a staff member. Often, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but commercial use or flash photography might be restricted.
The icons themselves are the main subjects. The well-lit displays and the serene atmosphere provide a good backdrop. Focus on capturing the intricate details of the artwork.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a journey through history and different cultures. The baggage storage is a practical plus for families. While there aren't specific interactive exhibits for children, the quiet and spacious environment allows for a calm exploration. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different forms of art and religious traditions in a respectful setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
Furthermore, the option of a combined ticket with the Palace Gallery offers even more value. This gallery provides a rich cultural and historical insight without a significant financial outlay, making it a perfect addition to any budget-friendly itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Bulgarian Icons
Visitors often remark on the serene and contemplative atmosphere within the gallery. The well-maintained space, good lighting, and quiet ambiance allow for a deep appreciation of the artistry and historical significance of each piece. It's a place where one can truly connect with centuries of faith and culture.
For those interested in Orthodox Christian art, this gallery is a treasure trove. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and traditions behind icon veneration and to witness the enduring beauty of this sacred art form.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets are very affordable, making it an accessible attraction for all travelers. Reviews often highlight the low admission fee, with some mentioning specific days where entry is even cheaper. It's also worth noting that there's a facility for baggage storage, which adds to the convenience of exploring the exhibits without being encumbered.
To make the most of your visit, aim for weekday mornings to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The gallery's quiet and spacious layout is perfect for focused appreciation of the art.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit