TSUM Department Store
A monumental Communist-era shopping mall in Sofia, now a historical landmark with bars and an escape room.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bars are open late
TSUM Department Store
Best Time
Bars are open late

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Communist-era shopping mall in Sofia, now a historical landmark with bars and an escape room.
"The building is Soo impressive and beautiful! It was the first mall of Bulgaria and it is important part of the hole complex of buildings named The Largo complex."
Free & Clean Toilets
Need a restroom? TSUM offers free and surprisingly nice facilities. :toilet:
Escape Room Fun
Looking for a unique activity? Try out the escape room located inside! :key:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur
Marvel at the monumental Communist-era facade and its striking symmetry. A true historical landmark.
Largo Complex Views
Located in the heart of the Largo complex, offering a glimpse into Sofia's central urban planning.

Evening Bar Ambiance
Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere at the bars, open late for drinks and bites.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
What to Expect Inside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
I went to the GUM Department store in Russia
Free & Clean Toilets
Need a restroom? TSUM offers free and surprisingly nice facilities. :toilet:
Escape Room Fun
Looking for a unique activity? Try out the escape room located inside! :key:
Appreciate the History
It's the first mall of Bulgaria! Soak in the communist-era vibes. :statueofliberty:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free & Clean Toilets
Need a restroom? TSUM offers free and surprisingly nice facilities. :toilet:
Escape Room Fun
Looking for a unique activity? Try out the escape room located inside! :key:
Appreciate the History
It's the first mall of Bulgaria! Soak in the communist-era vibes. :statueofliberty:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
TSUM is praised for its impressive, monumental Communist-era architecture and its central location within the Largo complex. Visitors appreciate the free and well-maintained restrooms and the lively atmosphere of the bars open late. However, some note that there are very few shops remaining, making it less of a traditional shopping destination.
"I love the atmosphere in this restaurant! The food and the waiters are very nice! The guy who served us, Ayduan, is very nice and friendly!"
Neli Ivanova
"This building is Soo impressive and beautiful! It was the first mall of Bulgaria and it is important part of the hole complex of buildings named The Largo complex. It has a few shops inside although they are not that much. There are two bars, which are open till late night and the atmosphere is just wonderful! You can try their drinks and food! Beautiful place right in the center!"
Станислав Георгиев
"The building is very beautiful. It was the first shopping centre in communist Sofia. Nowadays there aren't many shops left but if you need to go to the toilet, you won't be disappointed, they're free and really nice."
Vesselina Garcheva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
TSUM is centrally located in Sofia, part of the Largo complex. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many tram and bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from major city landmarks like the Presidency or the National Palace of Culture is also a good option.
Yes, TSUM is a prominent building in the heart of Sofia's city center, easily recognizable by its monumental architecture. It's situated on Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard.
The closest metro station is Serdika, which is a short walk away. From Serdika, you can easily reach TSUM by following the main pedestrian routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the main areas of TSUM Department Store is free. You can walk around and admire the architecture without purchasing a ticket.
While specific shop hours may vary, the building itself is generally accessible during daylight hours. The bars inside are known to be open until late at night.
There are no entrance fees to simply walk through the TSUM building and see its architecture. Any activities inside, like the escape room or dining at the bars, will have their own separate costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside TSUM, you'll find a few remaining shops, two bars that are open late, and an escape room. The primary attraction is the building's impressive communist-era architecture and its historical significance.
Yes, a pleasant surprise for many visitors is that the toilets at TSUM Department Store are free to use and are reported to be well-maintained. :toilet:
TSUM is not a bustling, modern shopping mall anymore. While it retains some shops, its main appeal now lies in its historical architecture and the bars located within.
The Largo complex is a central architectural ensemble in Sofia, built during the socialist era. TSUM is a key part of this complex, alongside government buildings, and it represents a significant period in Bulgarian urban design.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, TSUM has two bars that are open until late. Visitors have praised the wonderful atmosphere and the quality of drinks and food available there. :wine_glass:
While specific menus can vary, the bars generally offer a selection of drinks and food suitable for an evening out. Reviews suggest a pleasant dining and drinking experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The monumental facade of TSUM, with its simplicity and symmetry, is quite mesmerizing and makes for striking photographs, especially capturing its communist-era aesthetic. :camera:
Try capturing the full facade from across the street to get a sense of its scale. The symmetry is a key feature, so framing shots to emphasize that can be very effective. The surrounding Largo complex also offers context.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
🌃 Night Owls & Socializers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Communist Architecture
Today, while its function as a primary shopping destination has diminished, TSUM remains an important historical landmark. Visitors can still appreciate the grandeur of its design and imagine its past as a bustling center of Soviet-era life. The building's enduring presence offers a tangible connection to Bulgaria's recent history, making it a point of interest for those fascinated by architectural styles and socio-political periods. It stands as a testament to a bygone era, preserved in the heart of modern Sofia.
Many visitors are struck by the simplicity and symmetry of the facade, finding it mesmerizing. It's a stark contrast to contemporary retail spaces, offering a unique visual experience. The building's historical context adds another layer of appreciation, turning a simple visit into a journey through time. It’s a place where architecture tells a story of a nation's past.
The Evolving Role of TSUM
In contemporary times, TSUM has adapted to the changing economic landscape. While the number of retail outlets has decreased, the building has found new life. It now houses a couple of popular bars that are open late, providing a vibrant nightlife option in the city center. These establishments are noted for their wonderful atmosphere, making TSUM a destination for evening entertainment as well as historical exploration. Furthermore, the presence of an escape room adds a modern recreational element, catering to a different kind of visitor.
This evolution highlights TSUM's resilience and its ability to remain relevant. It's a place where the past and present coexist, offering a multifaceted experience. From admiring its architectural heritage to enjoying a night out, TSUM continues to be a significant spot in Sofia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit