Overview
Discover two of Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage gems on this day self-guided day tour from Sofia. Traveling by minivan, admire rural Bulgaria en route to the Rila Monastery in the pine-carpeted Rila Mountains. Take a self-guided tour of the medieval treasure with its fresco-coated church, and visit its fascinating museum.
Then, after time to explore independently, continue to Boyana Church, near Sofia, to marvel at its spectacular pre-Renaissance frescoes.
This tour is with an English-speaking driver only.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
ONLINE, cloud-based audioguide in different languages. INTERNET required to download and use.
Driver
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Parking fees
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Entrance fees
Tour guide
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
The meeting point is behind the main entrance of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, next to the "LaCattedrale" restaurant. The tour ends at the same location.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What to expect
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St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral
09:00 departure from the starting point. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
-
Boyana Church
45 min
Boyana Church is a small temple at the outskirts of Sofia with frescoes dating back to three separate periods: 11th, 13th and 19th century. The most important and fascinating are the frescoes dating from 1259. They are Renaissance frescoes that predate the Italian Renaissance (triggered by the works of Giotto) and brake the strict Christian canon law to present pure human emotions, royal figures and folklore elements.
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Rila Monastery
2 hours
Rila Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s symbols and a popular tourist destination. The monastery is set deep in the heart of Rila Mountain, between the Rilska and Drushliavitza Rivers, at 1147 meters (3760 feet) above sea level. It is situated 120 kilometers south of Sofia.
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St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral
2 hours
Return to the starting point at approximately 17:00
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Sofia).
Additional Information
- Boyana church will NOT be visited on the following days: 1st of January (the tour starts at 11 AM on that day only); The day of Orthodox Easter; 24th and 25th December.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Self-Guided Day Trip from Sofia
Can I cancel Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Self-Guided Day Trip from Sofia for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 8 hours.
Where does it start?
The meeting point is behind the main entrance of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, next to the "LaCattedrale" restaurant. The tour ends at the same location.
What's included?
- ONLINE, cloud-based audioguide in different languages. INTERNET required to download and use.
- Driver
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Parking fees
What's not included?
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Entrance fees
- Tour guide
Which places does it visit?
It visits St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Boyana Church, Rila Monastery.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in German, Russian, English, Italian, French, Spanish.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Traventuria
