One Day Tour to Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery is the largest and most important Eastern Orthodox Monastery in Bulgaria, situated high in the Rila Mountains, about a two-hour drive away from Sofia. ˂br˃˂br˃ The monastery itself is a complex of religious and domestic buildings girded by impressive 24m stone walls. Many visitors are surprised by the monastic architecture consisting of arches and colonnades, covered wooden stairs and carved verandas and the 300-400 monastic cells. ˂br˃˂br˃ The tour begins with a visit to the museum collection, which is renowned for its exquisitely carved icons and other valuable religious artefacts. Next is the beautifully decorated five-domed Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, the monastery’s main church and the core of the architectural ensemble. ˂br˃˂br˃ Construction began in 1835 and was completed in the style of what is known as the Bulgarian National Revival. You should not miss the iconostasis, with its delicate wood-carvings. ˂br˃˂br˃ The visit also includes the imposing 14th century Tower of Hrelyu and the original monastery kitchen. The rugged misty mountain peaks and the dense beech forests surrounding the vast complex inspire sensations of tranquillity and contemplation. ˂br˃˂br˃ There will be time for lunch in one of the local restaurants nearby the monastery (the fresh trout from the Rilska River is highly recommended) and to explore the monastery on your own. This full day-tour includes transfer, entrance fees, the guided tour as well as the services of an English-speaking guide. Please note that meals and refreshments are not included.

Meeting/ Pick up point: The customers' hotel.
Duration: Approximately 7 h.
Start or opening time: The tour is available every day at 09:00 am , except on 24/12, 25/12, 31/12, 01/01 and 14/02. . Customers must call 48 hours before in order to confirm their pick up time.
Languages: English.
Others: Short skirts and high heels are not recommended.

Transport

Assistance or guided tour

Admissions

Lunch or Dinner

Drinks

General entrance