Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Full-Day Tour

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Description

Summary

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

Description

Discover Bulgaria’s rich religious heritage on a full-day guided tour from Sofia to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. Begin your adventure at the Vasil Levski Monument, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers before departing the city for the scenic Bulgarian countryside.

Relax as you travel through picturesque landscapes en route to Rila Monastery, the largest and most significant Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. Upon arrival, choose to join your expert guide for an insightful exploration of the monastery’s vibrant frescoes and historic halls, or enjoy the freedom to explore the museum, church, and charming shops at your own pace.

You’ll spend approximately three hours at Rila Monastery, giving you ample time to take memorable photos, visit the museum, and savor a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. The tranquil mountain setting adds to the monastery’s allure, making it a highlight of any Bulgarian journey.

On your return to Sofia, and if selected, make a final stop at the medieval Boyana Church, famed for its remarkably preserved frescoes dating back to the 13th century. Please note that, due to new regulations from November 2024, advance reservations at Boyana Church are not possible, and entry cannot be guaranteed for all tours.

Your day concludes in Sofia’s city center between 5:30 and 6:30 PM, leaving you with lasting memories of Bulgaria’s cultural treasures. Secure your spot now to experience these iconic sites and avoid disappointment—availability is limited!

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Included

Day trip to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church
English-speaking guide or driver, depending on the booked option
Transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle

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

Self-Guided Tour 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.
Rila Monastery Only Guided Tour (English Guide)
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 (No Tour Guide)
With this option you can explore the Rila Monastery on your own, WITHOUT a guided tour.
Rila Monastery and Cave of Saint John Tour (English Guide)
With this option, visit the Rila Monastery and take a hike to the cave of Saint John. Includes a guide with English.
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.
Self-Guided Tour with Audio Guide Device (No Tour Guide)
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.

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.

How it works

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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.
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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