University Botanical Garden Borisova
Sofia's oldest botanical garden, a small, charming oasis with centennial trees, exotic greenhouses, and blooming flowers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom
University Botanical Garden Borisova
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sofia's oldest botanical garden, a small, charming oasis with centennial trees, exotic greenhouses, and blooming flowers.
"Magical place. I have been to the garden several times and still every time is like the first."
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
Tickets are only payable in Bulgarian Leva (cash). ATMs are not readily available nearby.
🌸 Visit in Spring
The garden truly shines in spring with blooming flowers, making it a must-see for plant lovers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Centennial Oak Tree
Main Garden Area
Stand in awe of a majestic oak tree over 130 years old, a true testament to nature's enduring beauty.
Exotic Plant Greenhouses
Greenhouse Complex
Explore three distinct greenhouses showcasing succulents, towering palms, and a vibrant array of diverse flora.
Charming Rose Collection
Rose Garden Section
Wander through a beautifully curated rose garden, especially delightful when in full bloom.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Best for a Quiet Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Would walking around the botanical gardens on a date be boring or too generic for a UCLA student?
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
Tickets are only payable in Bulgarian Leva (cash). ATMs are not readily available nearby.
🌸 Visit in Spring
The garden truly shines in spring with blooming flowers, making it a must-see for plant lovers.
🐈 Friendly Garden Cat
Keep an eye out for the resident kitty who often roams the grounds, adding to the garden's charm.
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of ancient trees, vibrant blooms, and even a view of the cathedral.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
Tickets are only payable in Bulgarian Leva (cash). ATMs are not readily available nearby.
🌸 Visit in Spring
The garden truly shines in spring with blooming flowers, making it a must-see for plant lovers.
🐈 Friendly Garden Cat
Keep an eye out for the resident kitty who often roams the grounds, adding to the garden's charm.
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of ancient trees, vibrant blooms, and even a view of the cathedral.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the University Botanical Garden Borisova as a magical, charming, and surprisingly peaceful escape in Sofia. Its affordability and the beauty of its centennial trees, blooming flowers, and diverse greenhouses are frequently highlighted. While small, it offers a delightful experience for those seeking a quiet moment with nature.
"Magical place. I have been to the garden several times and still every time is like the first. For only 6 leva you can enjoy a quiet time in the company of centennial trees, blooming flowers and exotic plants. Small but very very charming garden."
Lachezara Nikolova
"A bit hidden, but nice place to visit when exploring the center of Sofia. It's the oldest botanical garden in Bulgaria and has a nice 130+ year old oak."
Драгомир Донков
"The entrance is through a shop selling flowers, 3 greenhouses- one with succulents, one with palms and other high plants, third with various plants. Overall it’s a small garden but quite pretty"
Jakub Witkowski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is a bit hidden but accessible. It's located in the center of Sofia, making it a nice stop while exploring. Public transport options are available, but walking from central Sofia is also feasible.
It's described as a bit hidden, so using a map app on your phone is recommended. The entrance is through a flower shop.
While specific routes aren't detailed, its central location suggests good public transport links. Check local Sofia transport apps for the best routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, around 6 Bulgarian Leva, offering great value for the experience.
No, only local cash (Bulgarian Leva) is accepted for ticket payments. Be sure to have cash on hand.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or look for recent visitor posts for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the entrance is through a shop that sells flowers.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can explore centennial trees, blooming flowers, exotic plants in three greenhouses (succulents, palms, and diverse flora), and a charming rose collection.
It's described as a small but very charming garden, offering a good variety for its size.
Visitors often report very few crowds, even on weekends, allowing for a peaceful and private experience.
Yes, the garden offers a nice view of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
It can be a lovely, quiet spot for a date, especially if you enjoy nature and a peaceful atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The centennial oak, the diverse plants in the greenhouses, the blooming roses, and the view of the cathedral are all excellent subjects for photography.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, as visitors often share beautiful photos online.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
🌿 Plant Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hidden Gem in Sofia's Heart
The garden's layout includes several key areas, most notably its three distinct greenhouses. One houses a fascinating collection of succulents, another showcases towering palm trees and other tall flora, and the third features a wide variety of exotic and diverse plants. Beyond the greenhouses, you'll find a beautiful rose garden and the impressive centennial oak tree, a living monument that has stood for over 130 years. The garden also offers a pleasant view of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, adding a touch of iconic Sofia scenery to the natural beauty.
Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by the affordability and the serene experience. The low entrance fee of around 6 Bulgarian Leva makes it an accessible attraction. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the scent of blooming flowers, and appreciate the quiet company of ancient trees. The presence of a friendly resident cat often adds an extra layer of charm for visitors.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
When it comes to timing, the garden is often described as having very few visitors, even on a Sunday afternoon. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and uncrowded experience. Visiting during spring is highly recommended, as this is when the flowers are in full bloom, transforming the garden into a vibrant spectacle. Weekday afternoons also tend to be quiet and serene.
While the garden is small, it's packed with beauty. Don't miss the chance to admire the centennial oak tree and explore the unique collections within the greenhouses. The rose garden is particularly lovely when in season. For photographers, the combination of ancient trees, colorful blooms, and the distant view of the cathedral provides ample opportunities for stunning shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit