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.

Important to know

Extra fees to be paid on-site:

Boyana Church entrance ticket (6 eur) to be paid in cash at the entrance of the church
Rila Monastery museum and monk room entrance ticket (4 eur) 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 5.00 pm and 5.30 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 andrestaurants in the area of the monastery accept only cash payments

What people say about this experience

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T
TUI Musement Traveler
February 14, 2024
5
Italy
The tour has a very good organisation and the guide, Alexander, is the best. He is very kind and he knows everything of the area. One of the best tour I have ever made. Grazie from Italy
T
TUI Musement Traveler
September 20, 2023
5
United Kingdom
The trip to the monastery was very interesting. Our guide spoke excellent English and was pleasant, professional and well informed. The only disappointment was the terrible smelly ladies toilets which were basic at best!

The tour has a very good organisation and the guide, Alexander, is the best. He is very kind and he knows everything of the area. One of the best tour I have ever made. Grazie from Italy

The trip to the monastery was very interesting. Our guide spoke excellent English and was pleasant, professional and well informed. The only disappointment was the terrible smelly ladies toilets which were basic at best!