Rila Monastery and St. Ivan Cave Day Trip From Sofia

Discover one of Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage gems on this day trip. Admire rural Bulgaria en route to the Rila Monastery. Visit the cave of Saint Ivan Rilski - one of the most sacred places in Bulgaria.
Depart Sofia at 09:00 AM sharp, and relax on the 2-hour drive to the Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains. Upon arrival at 12:00, explore the largest and most important Orthodox cloister in Bulgaria.
Admire the arcaded balconies, and discover unique frescoes by one of the most famous painters of the Bulgarian National Revival period. See the gilded iconostasis and enjoy the fabulous mountain views.

Hear the story of the monastery from your guide before enjoying some time to explore the monastic complex on your own. Learn more at the museum, or purchase souvenir icons and other items in the nearby shops.
Take some free time from 13:00 to 14:00 to refuel with lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you can purchase local specialties such as mekitsi (a traditional Bulgarian dish of kneaded dough made with yogurt that is deep-fried).

Visit the Cave of Saint Ivan Rilski (14:00 to 15:00) - one of the most sacred places in Bulgaria. Pass through the tunnel of St. Ivan Rilski. The belief is that only people with clean souls can pass through and that magical powers keep the sinners away. While you’re there, do not forget to drink some water from the holy spring. It is believed that this water never stops, nor freezes even when it is extremely cold.

Leave at around 15:00 for the drive to Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia city center by 17:00

Please, kindly note that the tour is offered with audioguide as well. It is an ONLINE (cloud-based) Audio-guide in different languages. INTERNET required to download and use.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.