• Rila Monastery - At 8:30 AM, the journey begins from Sofia to one of Bulgaria’s most revered and stunning locations, the Rila Monastery. As the city fades into the distance, the scenery transforms into lush forests and majestic peaks, providing a picturesque drive through the heart of Bulgaria’s natural splendor. Upon reaching the monastery, the serenity of this ancient site is immediately felt. Established in the 10th century by St. Ivan of Rila, the monastery is a symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy and culture. Inside the church, visitors can admire the exquisite iconography and the renowned gilded iconostasis, a masterpiece of Bulgarian artistry. The monastery’s tranquil atmosphere is complemented by the sounds of nature, with birds singing and a nearby river gently flowing, creating an ideal setting for contemplation. Before departing this enchanting place, there is free time to explore the surrounding area.
• Boyana Church - Following the exploration of the Rila Monastery, the journey continues to another of Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage sites—the Boyana Church, situated just outside Sofia. Located at the base of Vitosha Mountain, this small yet remarkable church is renowned for its 13th-century frescoes, which are among the most important examples of medieval art in Europe.

Upon arrival, visitors will be captivated by the intricate and vibrant frescoes inside, depicting saints and biblical scenes with stunning detail and human emotion, a rare artistic achievement from that era. These paintings are considered a precursor to the Renaissance, offering a unique insight into Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage.

After appreciating the beauty and history of this hidden treasure, there is a moment to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Boyana village before returning to Sofia. This stop concludes a day filled with art, history, and spiritual significance.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional guide
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• All fees and/or taxes

• Food and drinks

Nestled within the lush pine forests of Rila Mountain, Rila Monastery stands as the largest and most significant Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. It is a remarkable representation of Bulgarian cultural and historical heritage, where architecture and art blend seamlessly. This site is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Rila Monastery was established in the 10th century by St. Ivan Rilski, a hermit who was canonized by the Orthodox Church. His austere dwelling and tomb became a sacred site, eventually evolving into a monastic complex. It held a vital role in the spiritual and social life of medieval Bulgaria.

Following the guided tour of the Monastery complex and lunch, the journey will continue back to Sofia. En route, there will be a stop at the second UNESCO site of the day, Boyana Church. Although small, it is unique for having the most well-preserved frescoes from 1259 in this region of Europe. The tour will conclude with a drop-off at your hotel or accommodation.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• We understand your concerns in relation to COVID 19, therefore we’ve taken the needed measures for you to feel safe. All our guides and drivers go through regular medical checks, wear masks during the tours and in each vehicle, we have a disinfectant spray. Furthermore due to the situation nowadays we organize tours only for small groups (up to 7 persons) and we have the option for private tours.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.