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Self-guided Day Trip to Rila Monastery
Рилски манастир, BG
58% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Visit one of the best Bulgarian monasteries
- Fully customizable tour experience
- Rich in local information
- Off-the-beaten path sights and stops
- Privately-guided or self-guided options available
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Duration 5 to 7 hours
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Private guide for up to 7
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Includes pickup and drop-off
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E-guide for self-guided option
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Wheelchair accessible transportation
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Professional guiding in English
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Bulgaria on a private day trip to Rila Monastery from Sofia. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of one of Bulgaria's finest monasteries, recognized by UNESCO. With the comfort of your own local guide, this fully customizable tour takes you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and enriching stops. Marvel at the majestic Rila Mountains and visit the enchanting Rila National Park. Along the way, catch a glimpse of Bansko, the renowned ski resort. Starting and ending in Sofia, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience that combines history, nature, and culture. Whether you choose a privately-guided or a self-guided option, embrace the opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Bulgaria at your own pace.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in , Greek, Modern, Spanish; Castilian, German, Russian, Japanese, English, Italian, French, Mandarin Chinese
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Family friendly
Please wait, fetching options!
Featured Reviews
Viator
Nov 23
I made on a reservation for Sunday 12 November
Private Day Trip Rila Monastery on Saturday in the evening late 11 November. When I recieved the confirmation I found out the date, is wrong. I made contact with local adviser the same night. It’s schaam. So I’ll get the money back. Thank you
Viator
Sep 23
We chose the self-guided optionas we had transportation with us. Extremely useful and well organized tour. Our business partners had the chance to see this beautiful sight and fully enjoy it.
Viator
Aug 23
We feel it's crucial for you to have a complete understanding of what to expect before committing to booking the self-guided option with this provider:
· The option labeled as "self-guided" does not include any form of transportation; you will need to arrange your own means of getting to the destination.
· Contrary to the name, the "self-guided" option actually involves being part of a guided group tour.
· The specified 9 am start time is non-negotiable due to the tour guide's commitments to the group.
· While this ticket does cover “admission”, please be aware that entrance to the monastery complex itself is already free.
· There are multiple museums located within the monastery premises, each requiring an additional fee. It remains unclear whether these fees are incorporated into the guided or private tour options.
It's evident from numerous other reviews and our own experience that the advertisement intentionally leaves room for ambiguity. We are far from the only individuals who have been left feeling misinformed.
We were sent a voucher for our “Private day tour from Sofia” the day before but it wasn’t until we tried to arrange our pickup that we were informed the meeting point was, in fact, the monastery itself at 9am This presented a significant challenge without personal transportation.
We ended up getting transportation from another tour provider, hoping for museum access as advertised through our original tour. Sadly, we paid extra for museum entry (8 lev for ecclesiastical museum, 4 lev for kitchen museum).
Furthermore, there is a lack of clarity regarding whether the guided tour facilitates group entry to the museums, a detail that is also absent from the advertisement.
It's worth noting that the alternative provider we found offered a more economical option including transport and a legitimate e-guide.
Our interactions with the provider proved challenging due to their unwavering belief in the clarity of their advertisement. Their inability to comprehend our confusion and their outright dismissal of constructive feedback left us immensely frustrated.
In our opinion, the two tour options (Private and self-guided) should be distinctly separate advertisements, as their only shared aspect is the involvement of the monastery itself.
We sincerely hope that this review eliminates any uncertainty for potential travellers and assists them in avoiding these mistakes.
Viator
Nov 22
I came again on the same tour as I was super delighted. Brought the business delegation with me this time. The organizers did great again and and even better now. Thanks a million!
Viator
Sep 22
Wonderful experience. Nik was most knowledgeable about the area and provided a singular and enjoyable tour. I became acquainted with the monastery thru Patrick Femor’s “The Broken Road” and was looking forward to the visit. Nik provided the background information to enable a more complete picture.
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Self-guided Day Trip to Rila Monastery
Explore the stunning UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery on a customizable private day trip from Sofia, complete with expert guidance and comfortable transport.
Included
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Live maps -
Full guides notes
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E-guide with sights rich information
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Unique conversational audio guide in English
Excluded
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Personal expenses
Meeting Point
2643 Рилски манастир , Bulgaria
End Point
2643 Рилски манастир , Bulgaria
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
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Our focal point of the tour
180 minutes
Admission Included
2
Bansko
We see our top ski resort on the way
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The beauty of Rila mountains
4
The beauty of Rila mountains
5
We pass on the way
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Children must be accompanied by an adult -
Service animals allowed
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Visit Bulgaria On
What our experts say
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Visit nearby Rila Lakes for stunning views. -
Try traditional Bulgarian food in Sofia.
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Check local timings for Rila Monastery.
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Pack a camera for breathtaking scenery.
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Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the rich history and captivating beauty of Bulgaria with a private day trip to the spectacular Rila Monastery from Sofia. This tour offers an unforgettable experience, combining comfort, flexibility, and an expert local guide to ensure you make the most of your visit. Discover the secrets of one of Bulgaria's most iconic landmarks, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while exploring the stunning Rila Mountains and other off-the-beaten-path sights along the way. Whether you choose the privately-guided or self-guided option, get ready for an adventure filled with fascinating stories, breathtaking landscapes, and a deeper understanding of Bulgarian culture.What to expect?
During this 420-minute tour, you can expect a mesmerizing journey through Bulgaria's natural and cultural wonders. The day begins with a visit to the magnificent Rila Monastery, a spiritual oasis nestled amidst picturesque mountains. Take your time to explore the monastery's intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and peaceful surroundings. As you make your way through the Rila Mountains, marvel at their beauty and enjoy scenic stops that provide awe-inspiring views. Pass through Bansko, one of Bulgaria's top ski resorts, and witness the splendor of Rila National Park. The tour concludes in Sofia, where you can catch a glimpse of the Bulgarian capital from the comfort of your vehicle.Who is this for?
This private day trip is perfect for anyone seeking an enriching cultural experience in Bulgaria. History enthusiasts will be captivated by the centuries-old Rila Monastery and its significance as a UNESCO site. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to explore the stunning Rila Mountains and take in their breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends/family, this tour can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring a personalized and immersive adventure. The tour is suitable for all age groups and is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of this remarkable destination.Why book this?
By choosing this private day trip to Rila Monastery, you're guaranteed a truly unforgettable experience. The presence of a knowledgeable local guide will enhance your understanding of Bulgarian culture, history, and traditions, providing unique insights and anecdotes along the way. Opting for a private tour means you can customize the itinerary to suit your interests, allowing for a more intimate and immersive experience. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Sofia, this tour offers the perfect combination of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion.Good to know
To make the most of your day trip, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along a camera to capture the stunning scenery. The tour includes a total duration of 420 minutes, offering plenty of time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Rila Monastery and the surrounding landscapes. If you choose the self-guided option, ensure you have a basic understanding of the itinerary to make the most of your visit. The tour also includes stops in Bansko, known for its ski resorts, and Rila National Park, allowing you to witness the natural splendor of the region. Please note that entrance fees to attractions, meals, and transportation are not included in the tour package.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this private day trip to Rila Monastery rave about the exceptional experience and the knowledgeable local guides who bring the destination to life. Visitors have appreciated the flexibility and customization options, allowing them to explore the monastery at their own pace and discover off-the-beaten-path sights along the way. The stunning beauty of the Rila Mountains and the tranquility of the monastery have left a lasting impression on many, with travelers describing the tour as a highlight of their time in Bulgaria. Overall, feedback and reviews indicate high levels of satisfaction and emphasize the tour's ability to provide an authentic and captivating Bulgarian experience.
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