Rila Monastery Bus Tour

Meet us behind the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, close to a restaurant called "La Cattedrale" (LINK to the meeting point on Google Maps).
Please, be at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the tour starts. The bus departs at 09:00 am sharp!

Enjoy a roughly 2.5-hour journey that takes you through the breathtaking tapestry of the Bulgarian countryside—a world where nature and history intertwine in harmony. The coach/minibus route follows the Struma River valley and passes through small traditional villages and tranquil farmland. As the rolling hills give way to the rugged Rila Mountains, the landscape transitions to rugged peaks and lush forests.  This is the Home to the iconic Rila Monastery.

Upon arrival at Rila Monastery, you're greeted by its stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
Depending on the trip option you have booked, you will either receive a guided tour of the Monastery complex (about 45 minutes) or you will have time to explore the site with an audio guide.

On the spot, from your guide, you book additional activities:

• 1-hour nature walk to the cave of St. Ivan Rilski (10 lv  per person);
• Guided tour of the Monastery's museum with its famous Rafail's Cross (40 minutes; 8 lv entrance ticket).

Kindly note that those who will not be visiting the Cave of Saint Ivan Rilski or the monastery's museum will have longer free time at the Rila Monastery and for lunch.

Departure from Rila Monastery and heading back to Sofia.

At approximately 17:00 or 17:30 pm, the tour is back at its starting point - behind the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, by the restaurant called "La Cattedrale".

After an approximate two hours driving, the tour is back at its starting point - behind the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, by the restaurant called 'La Cattedrale". (LINK to the meeting point on Google Maps).