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Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Guided Tour

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Description

Summary

Starts
Sofia
Duration
8 Hrs. 30 Min.
Languages
English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Romanian, Bulgarian, and Chinese
Admission
Printed voucher

Description

Embark on a captivating journey to discover Bulgaria's rich religious history! Dive into the UNESCO-listed gems of Rila Monastery and Boyana Church, two of the country's most treasured sites. Begin your adventure in Sofia, where your group gathers near the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, ready to explore the picturesque Bulgarian countryside.

Experience the grandeur of Eastern Orthodox tradition at Rila Monastery, the largest in the nation. Opt for a guided tour to learn about the main frescoes or explore independently. Capture stunning photos, visit the museum, and savor a delightful lunch in this historic setting.

Your journey continues at the medieval Boyana Church. Step inside to marvel at its ancient frescoes, celebrated for their artistic brilliance. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Bulgaria's medieval past, enriching your understanding of the region's cultural heritage.

Conclude your memorable journey back in Sofia, filled with insights and experiences that make this tour a top choice for history enthusiasts. Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure and explore Bulgaria's spiritual and architectural legacy!

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Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia

Map

Attractions

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
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.
Rila Monastery Only Guided Tour (Rila Monastery Express)
Includes a visit to the Rila Monastery WITHOUT the Boyana Church. Entitles you to the services of a tour guide with English at the Rila Monastery.
Transport - Self Guided Tour
With this option you can explore the Rila Monastery on your own, WITHOUT a guided tour.
Rila Monastery and Cave of Saint John Tour
With this option, visit the Rila Monastery and take a hike to the cave of Saint John.
Transport Option with Audio Guide Device
Book for an Audio Guide (HEADPHONES) and tour at your own pace at Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. The Audio Guide is offered in: German, Russian, Italian, Spanish and French.
Guided Tour in English
With this option you will have a guided tour in English at the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church.
Guided Tour in Italian
This option includes an Italian-speaking tour guide. The tour includes both Rila Monastery and Boyana Church.
Guided Tour in Spanish
This option includes a Spanish-speaking tour guide. The tour includes both the Rila Monastery and the Boyana Church.

Good to know

• The visits within the Boyana Church itself are limited to 10 minutes per every group of 8 to 10 people. If you'd like to enter inside, you may also need to queue. • The Boyana church is closed on the 1st of January, on the Sunday of the Orthodox Easter, on the 24th of December and the 25th of December ─ on such days the tour is done only to the Rila Monastery. • Boyana Church offers entrance FREE of charge every last Monday of each month. On such days, you will be taken to the Church, however please keep in mind that your entrance WON'T be guaranteed, especially if the Church is in high demand by other people on spot. • On certain days, such as around holidays in Bulgaria, or when in groups over 100 people, delays are possible and the estimated tour finish time in Sofia could change as far as 18:30. • 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.

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