7 hours
Mobile ticket

Highlights

Departure from Sofia, Serdika Bus Station at 9:00 a.m. From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. free time to visit the Rila Monastery At 2:00 p.m. departure for Sofia At 4:00 p.m. arrival in Sofia Every Tuesday Information about the Rila Monastery The Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century by St. John of Rila, is one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural and historical landmarks. Located in the Rila Mountains, about 120 km south of Sofia, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural and spiritual significance. The complex includes the main church “Nativity of the Virgin,” famous for its rich frescoes and woodcarvings, as well as the medieval Hrelyo’s Tower. The monastery is also a major spiritual center, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful nature, and a unique blend of cultural and spiritual experience.

Inclusions

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Itinerary

The Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Bulgaria's most iconic landmarks. Founded in the 10th century by St. Ivan Rilski, it is nestled in the scenic Rila Mountains, offering a peaceful setting. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, colorful frescoes, and a museum showcasing ancient artifacts. The tour includes a visit to the sacred grave of St. Ivan Rilski near the monastery, a place of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection. A visit to Rila Monastery offers an unforgettable journey through history, faith, and the enduring legacy of St. Ivan Rilski.
4 h

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Know before you go

Meeting point: Our buses depart from Sector 1 and Sector 2.
Pickup: Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
Ticket type: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group size: Up to 50 travellers
Operated by: Global Tour

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

How it compares in Sofia

Its from-price is 56% below the median of the 174 day trips we list in Sofia.
Its length is typical for the group.

About Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, lies below Vitosha mountain, mixing Roman ruins, golden-domed churches, mineral springs and a busy café culture.

Sofia sits in a high basin at the foot of Mount Vitosha, and its centre layers Roman Serdica, Orthodox Bulgaria and the Ottoman and Soviet eras. The gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, completed in the early twentieth century, is the city's best-known building. Close by are the fourth-century rotunda of St George, the Banya Bashi Mosque and the remains of Roman streets that show through glass in the metro stations.

Top-ranked sights in Sofia: Rila Monastery, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Ivan Vazov National Theatre.

See all 611 experiences in Sofia