Rila Monastery + Cave of Saint John Day Trip
Discover the History
Travelling to Bulgaria and not visiting the Rila Monastery would be a huge mistake. Would you really want to miss out on seeing one of the most beautiful places in the entire country? To do so, meet us behind the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the centre of Sofia, and you'll be whisked away to your destination.
You'll leave the capital behind and little by little make your way unto the Rila mountain range, the highest mountains in the Balkans. During the tour, Bulgaria's most important geographical and natural features will be revealed to you, which are essential to understanding the country's history.
Upon arriving at the Rila Monastery, you'll be allowed two hours to explore the attractions of this World Heritage Site. This imposing temple, one of the greatest achievements of the Bulgarian Rennaisance, with its most beautiful frescos, will leave you stunned.
It's also recommended that you visit its cloister and museum, after all, it's a monument that encourages an awareness of Slavic cultural identity after many years of occupation.
Once you're done exploring the monastery, you'll be brought to the cave of Saint John of Rila, just 4 kilometres (2.48 miles) away from the monastery. To get there, we'll walk through the forest and see a small church just before arriving at the grotto, where Saint John of Rila spent more than seven years of his life. You'll learn all about his story!
Finally, you'll be brought back to Sofia where the tour will end after 8 hours of tours and travelling.
Itinerary Changes
In the event of adverse weather conditions, the walk to the Cave of Ivan Rilksi will be substituted with a visit to Boyana Church or a longer tour of Rila Monastery.
Languages
When making your booking, you'll be able to choose whether you wish to do the tour in English or with an audioguide through another of the included languages (German, Italian, Russian, French, or Spanish).
More Information
Duration
8 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
Transport by minibus
English–speaking guide (depending on selection)
Audioguide in German, Italian, Russian, French or Spanish (depending on selection)
Not included
Admission tickets: € 4 (US$ 4.17) per person
Food and drink
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Provider
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Traventuria
Corporate name: Traventuria OOD
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
Behind the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
