Day trip

Explore Bulgaria's UNESCO World Heritage on a tour from Sofia. Visit the Rila Monastery and get breathtaking views of the mountains then explore the frescoes at the Boyana Church (if option selected).

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 8 - 11 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: Spanish, Italian, English, Bulgarian
Optional audio guide: German, Russian, Spanish, French, Italian
Pickup optional: Departure from different pick-up points: Sofia Central Bus/Train Station, Ploshtad "Vazrazhdane", Ploshtad "Atanas Burov", Restaurant "La Cattedrale", Rosslyn Central Park Hotel (Blvd. "Vitosha"), Hilton Sofia (Blvd. "Cherni Vrah"), Hotel Marinela (Blvd. "James Bourchier"), Boyana Church. Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the notified departure time and try to find our sticker marking precisely the pick-up point in the area!

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Malina – Bulgaria

I recently had the pleasure of joining an excursion tour organized by Traventuria and I must say it was an unforgettable experience! As guests from Atlanta,GA, USA, we were looking for a meaningful and enriching adventure, and we certainly found it. Our tour guide, Maria Maneva was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we met, her professionalism and expertise shone through. Maria possessed an impressive wealth of knowledge about the local culture, history and sights, making every stop on our journey not just informative, but truly fascinating. Her ability to share stories and insights brought the experience to life in a way that only a seasoned expert can. What truly stood out, however, was Maria’s kindness and friendliness. Her genuine passion for the area and its history was infectious, and we were learning and enjoying every moment. Thank you,Traventuria! Thank you Maria - we left with memories that we will cherish for a lifetime! Our next trip will undoubtedly be with you!

Sam – Australia

The monastery is amazing. The guide was very good, engaging, and knowledgeable. The walk to the cave is quite steep and rocky but not too long, about 15 minutes.

Itinerary

Starting/pickup location
Depends on the selected option
Bus/coach
(25 minutes)
Boyana Church
Visit, Guided tour (1 hour)
Extra fee
Bus/coach
(1.5 hours)
Rila Monastery
Guided tour (2 hours)
Rila Monastery
Break time, Photo stop, Lunch, Free time, Shopping, Sightseeing (1 hour)
Optional
Bus/coach
(2 hours)
Finish at:
La Cattedrale

Main stop

Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Explore 2 of Bulgaria most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day
Marvel at the pre-Renaissance frescoes of Boyana Church
Visit Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains
Taste mekitsi, yogurt or grilled trout in the nearby restaurants
Travel in comfort through the Bulgarian countryside

Full description

Start your day with travel to the Boyana Church in the suburbs of Sofia (if option selected). See the historically significant frescoes of the Byzantine building, and hear how they started the fashion of illustrating biblical figures with emotions and placing them alongside the local aristocracy.

After that, relax on the 2-hour drive to the Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains. Upon arrival, explore the largest and most important Orthodox cloister in Bulgaria.

Important: As of November 2024, Boyana Church now does not take reservations in advance, so we can not guarantee all visits. If entry is unavailable on your booked day, you will be able to visit St. Ivan's Cave at Rila Monastery as an alternative.

Admire the arcaded balconies, and discover unique frescoes by one of the most famous painters of the Bulgarian National Revival period. See the gilded iconostasis and enjoy the fabulous mountain views.

Hear the story of the monastery from your guide before enjoying some time to explore the monastic complex on your own. Learn more at the museum, or purchase souvenir icons and other items in the nearby shops.
Take some time to refuel with lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you can purchase local dishes such as mekitsi (a traditional Bulgarian dish of kneaded dough made with yogurt that is deep-fried).

* The tour is not recommendable to children less than 6 years old.
* If you are travelling with a child, please contact us to arrange a child seat (as required by law)
* Kindly note that on some days we MAY stop at Boyana Church even if it is not included in your tour. Rest assured, this will not shorten your time at Rila Monastery. Enjoy the beautiful gardens at Boyana Church during this brief visit.

Includes

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
Driver/guide

Entrance to Rila Monastery Museum (€4) and Boyana Church (if option selected €5.50)

Meeting point

Behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral, in front of the restaurant La Cattedrale, ul. "Oborishte" 1А, 1504 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria. Please arrive 15 minutes before the activity starts.

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Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes

Top Attractions in Kyustendil Province

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Nearby sights

From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Group Tour