Embark on a day trip from Sofia to explore one of Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage jewels - the Rila Monastery. Travelling by minibus, you'll have the chance to admire rural Bulgaria en route to this medieval treasure nestled in the pine-clad Rila Mountains. Enjoy a guided tour of the fresco-adorned church and its intriguing museum. Following this, you'll have some time to discover more on your own before visiting the sacred cave of Saint Ivan Rilski, located 3-4 km from the Monastery.
Your journey begins from the car park situated behind Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The estimated arrival time at Rila Monastery is midday, where you'll embark on a guided visit for approximately an hour. Following this, you'll have some free time for lunch or further exploration of the area at your leisure. In the early afternoon, you'll visit the St. Ivan Cave before departing from Rila Monastery back to Sofia. The estimated arrival time back at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is late afternoon.
