From Sofia: Rila Monastery & The Cave of St. John Group Tour

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Description

Summary

Starts
Sofia
Duration
8 Hrs.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Bulgarian, Russian, Romanian, German, French, and Chinese
Admission
Printed voucher

Description

Embark on an enriching journey from Sofia to explore Bulgaria's rich history and stunning natural beauty! This day tour takes you to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery and the serene Cave of Saint John, offering a perfect blend of culture and nature.

Begin your adventure at the meeting point near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, where you'll depart at 9:00 AM. Enjoy a scenic drive to Rila Monastery, the biggest and most important religious site in Bulgaria, known for its breathtaking frescoes and architecture.

Choose the guided option for an insightful 40-minute tour of the monastery, learning about Saint John and the site's remarkable history. Alternatively, explore the monastery at your own pace if you prefer the transport-only option.

Continue to Saint John's Cave with a short drive and a moderate 15-minute walk through nature. Experience the tranquility of the site and taste the famously unfrozen spring water, believed to remain liquid even in the coldest temperatures.

Afterwards, enjoy free time at the monastery to take photos, visit souvenir shops, and have lunch. With limited dining options nearby, bringing a packed meal from Sofia is recommended.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to delve into Bulgaria's cultural and spiritual heritage. Secure your spot today on this unforgettable tour!

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Included

Trip to Rila Monastery and the cave of Saint John
Transportation with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking guide or driver (depending on the option you booked)
Parking fees

Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia

Map

Attractions

photo of view of nature seven rila lakes the kidney season attraction travel popular,Kyustendil Bulgaria.Seven Rila Lakes
Photo of Beautiful view of the Orthodox Rila Monastery, a famous tourist attraction and cultural heritage monument in the Rila Nature Park mountains in Bulgaria.Rila Monastery
Boyana Church Museum, Vitosha, Sofia City, Sofia-City, BulgariaBoyana Church

Options

Transport Option with Online Audio Guide (No Tour Guide)
Download our Smart Guide Application on your smartphone - available in English, Spanish, Italian, Bulgarian, Russian, Romanian, German, French and Chinese. WARNING: A FAST AND PROPER INTERNET CONNECTION ON YOUR DEVICE IS REQUIRED FOR PROPER FUNCTION.
Guided Tour in English
With this option you will have a guided tour in English at the Rila Monastery and at the Cave of Saint John.
Transport - Self Guided Tour (No Tour Guide)
With this option, you can explore the Rila Monastery and the Cave of Saint John at your own pace, WITHOUT a guide.
Rila Monastery and Boyana Church (English Guide)
With this option, visit the Rila Monastery and the Boyana Church. Includes a guide with English. Does NOT include a visit to the Cave of Saint John.

Good to know

• If the weather is rainy, the hike to the cave is substituted with a stop at the Boyana Church • Please note, women should have their knees and shoulders covered in the monastery • Please warn us if you have a 0-2 years old baby when you make the reservation so that we can prepare a special seat for them • For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, any customer who appears intoxicated at the time of the tour will not be permitted to participate. In such cases, no refunds will be issued.

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From ancient cities to alpine peaks, we’re here for you 24/7 with local expertise and support, wherever your travels take you.
Secure your spot
Book instantly and lock in your place on one of Europe’s top-rated tours. Enjoy the best price and secure checkout so you can focus on the fun.
Get instant confirmation
Receive your e-ticket and booking summary immediately after checkout, with all meeting points and schedules included.
Easily make changes
Plans changed? No problem. Our team is just seconds away—ready to help with any adjustments quickly and smoothly.
Explore with confidence
From ancient cities to alpine peaks, we’re here for you 24/7 with local expertise and support, wherever your travels take you.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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