Located in the central part of Smolyan, the planetarium is among the most visited tourist sites in the region and has attracted over 3 million visitors over the years.
With Transfer from Sofia Airport to the Smolyan Planetarium you can travel directly from the airport to Smolyan, without losing time looking for public transport or arranging a car after you arrive.
Smolyan Planetarium – a journey to the stars
The planetarium in Smolyan was created as a planetarium with an astronomical observatory and opened its doors on 6 September 1975. Since then it has become one of the emblems of the town and an important centre for popularising astronomy and the natural sciences.
The building has two characteristic domes – the large one is above the Star Hall, while the smaller one is connected with the astronomical observatory. The interesting combination of architecture and function makes the Planetarium a recognisable part of the Smolyan cityscape.
The Planetarium is also included in the list of Bulgaria’s 100 National Tourist Attractions, which makes it an interesting stop for Bulgarian and foreign tourists alike.
The Star Hall – a virtual walk through the Universe
One of the biggest attractions is the Star Hall, where visitors can immerse themselves in a virtual presentation of the starry sky and learn more about the planets, stars, galaxies and various cosmic phenomena.
Today the Planetarium has a modern digital system built by the American company Evans & Sutherland, known for its visualisation and simulation technologies. This makes it possible to create realistic astronomy programmes and impressive visual experiences.
The Planetarium's programmes include children's shows as well as popular-science presentations. Topics include the Sun, telescopes, eclipses, the Universe and the movement of celestial bodies.
The astronomical observatory and the telescope
Besides the Star Hall, the Planetarium also has an astronomical observatory. A new telescope is installed under the 3-metre dome CELESTRON Edge HD 14”, which allows significant magnification and observation of various celestial objects.
The observations can be especially interesting for people who want to see space not only through a projection but also through a real telescope. Both daytime observations of the Sun and evening observations of the night sky are organised.
This makes the Smolyan Planetarium a suitable destination for families with children as well as for students, astronomy enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in space.
The modernised Smolyan Planetarium
In 2024 the Planetarium reopened after a large-scale renovation and modernisation of the building. A major refurbishment was carried out and various building systems were improved, while the Star Hall, the observatory and the other rooms were fitted with new technology and furnishings.
The renovation makes the Planetarium an even more modern space for education, culture and tourism. Visitors can combine the traditional astronomy experience with interactive technology and modern visual effects.
What can you see at the Smolyan Planetarium?
The Planetarium's programme includes a variety of shows suitable for different age groups. Topics include:
- "From the Earth to the Universe" – a journey from our planet into boundless space;
- "The Sun – Our Living Star" – a programme devoted to the star closest to us;
- "Eclipse – Moments of Wonder" – a presentation of one of the most impressive astronomical phenomena;
- "Astra and Sirius" – a children's programme;
- "Two Small Pieces of Glass – the Incredible Telescope" – the history and principles of telescopes;
- "A Walk in the Sky" – seasonal programmes presenting the starry sky.
This variety makes the visit interesting even if you are in Smolyan only briefly.
What else to visit in Smolyan?
If you are planning a trip to Smolyan, you can combine a visit to the Planetarium with other interesting places in the town and the surroundings.
Sights well worth including in your route are:
- The Stoyu Shishkov Regional Historical Museum – a place where you can learn more about the history, daily life and culture of the Rhodopes;
- The Smolyan Lakes – some of the most picturesque natural attractions in the area;
- Shiroka Laka – an architectural and ethnographic reserve with characteristic Rhodope houses;
- Pamporovo – one of the most popular mountain resorts in Bulgaria;
- Snezhanka Peak – an excellent destination for mountain lovers and beautiful panoramic views;
- The Agushevi Konatsi in Mogilitsa – an impressive historical architectural complex.
A visit to the Smolyan Planetarium can thus become part of a larger tour of the Central Rhodopes.
The journey from Sofia Airport to Smolyan suits tourists arriving by air who want to continue straight to the Rhodopes. Instead of looking for transport after landing or making several changes, you can arrange a direct transfer in advance.
With Transfer from Sofia Airport to the Smolyan Planetarium you get comfortable transport from the airport to the town itself. It is a convenient option for individual tourists, families, groups of friends and organised groups.
The route can be tailored to your flight's arrival time, and if you wish, the trip can be combined with other sights in the Rhodopes.
A comfortable journey to the Smolyan Planetarium with Tsenov Group
With Tsenov Group you can arrange a direct transfer from Sofia Airport to Smolyan, without wasting time after landing.
The Planetarium is one of the most interesting attractions in the town and combines astronomy, education, modern technology and impressive visual experiences. If you love space or are simply looking for an interesting sight to visit in the Rhodopes, this is a place that deserves a spot in your itinerary.
