Guided Rila Monastery and Boyana Church day trip
+13 photos
Discover Bulgaria's cultural and spiritual heritage on a full-day guided tour to two of its most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. With expert commentary throughout the day, comfortable transportation, and a well-balanced itinerary, this experience offers an inspiring blend of history, art, and nature.Departing from Sofia in the morning, you'll travel through scenic countryside to the magnificent Rila Monastery, nestled in the Rila Mountains. Explore its striking architecture, richly painted arcades, and world-famous frescoes, while learning about its role as a symbol of Bulgarian identity and faith. Enjoy free time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.In the afternoon, return toward Sofia to visit the medieval Boyana Church. This small but extraordinary site is renowned for its remarkably preserved 13th-century frescoes, considered masterpieces of early European art and a precursor to the Renaissance. The tour ends with a relaxed return to Sofia in the evening, leaving you with lasting memories.
Highlights
- You'll discover two UNESCO Heritage Sites with one day trip
- It includes a visit to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria's largest monastery
- You'll visit the Boyana Church, famous for its 800-years old frescoes
Select a date to see available packages and pricing
Activity package
Choose a date to get started
Select your preferred date to see available packages and pricing
Facilities
Free cancellation
mobile
9 hours
Available in English, Italian, Spanish
What's included
- Guided tour
- Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
Not included
- Entrance fees
- Tips (optional)
Where you'll meet
Meet at the Vasil Levski Monument. Please arrive by 8:30–8:40 am for check-in.
Operated by
City Tour Ltd.
Important information
Extra fees to be paid on-site:
* Entry to Boyana Church: €10 for adults; €3 for children over 7 years old and students
* Entry to Rila Monastery Museum and monk room: €4 to be paid in cash at the museum entrance
Know in advance:
* Minimum of 2 participants required to make a reservation
* Guests must be at least 3 years old to participate in this activity
* Knees and shoulders must be covered to enter religious sites
* Signage inside the locations is available in Bulgarian and English
* The expected return to Sofia is between 5.30 pm and 6 pm
* The Boyana Church is closed on the 1st of January, on the Sunday of the Orthodox Easter, on the 24th of December, 25th of December and the 31st of December. If a tour is booked for one of these days, it will only include the Rila Monastery
Remember to bring:
* Bring cash with you – the shops and restaurants in the area of the monastery accept only cash payments
Location
Reviews
5.0
Excellent2 reviews
Rating and review count provided by the activity supplier