From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Villa Montevino Half - Day Trip

Enjoy a memorable trip to the most famous Bulgarian monastery - Rila Monastery - UNESCO heritage site. Relax on a convenient transportation and have the freedom to explore the monastery complex on your own pace. Take photos, check the souvenir shops, explore the history museum and try some of the delicious local pastries, offered in the monastery`s bakery.

Audio info (cloud-based) in the specified languages is included - smartphone and wi-fi are required to be used.

After the monastery visit, you will also stop at the charming boutique wine estate located at the foothills of Rila Mountain - Villa Montevino.

There you will be able to take some memorable photos, grab a coffee or drink a glass of local wine.

After a delightful trip, you will return in Sofia in the early afternoon, so that you can spend some free time there or continue to the airport for your return flight.

Itinerary

1. Rila Monastery · 1 h 30 min

   The tour starts with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Sofia and we will take you to the most famous Bulgarian monastery! The traveling time is about 2 hours on a scenic road. The Rila Monastery was established in the 10th century by the Bulgarian Saint John of Rila – the miracle maker. It is the biggest Bulgarian monastery and the most beautiful one. The current monastery complex was built in the 19th century, and was covered with amazing frescoes! The access to the yard and to the church is free. When you arrive there, you will have one and a half hours to explore it on your own pace. Take memorable photos, explore the history museum, check the souvenir shops and try the delicious Bulgarian pasties, made in the bakery of the monastery!

2. 30 min

   After the visit of the monastery, on the way back, you will stop at Villa Montevino - a charming boutique wine estate located at the foothills of Rila Mountain, offering a perfect blend of nature, gastronomy, and authentic Bulgarian wine culture. Surrounded by vineyards and gentle hills, the villa provides a peaceful and elegant atmosphere, ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and unique local experiences. Its unique medieval-based design makes it one of the best spots for memorable photos in the area! In this complex, we will do a 30-minute break, during which you can take some amazing photos, drink a coffee or a glass of wine. After the refreshing break, we will continue back to Sofia. T

What's included

• English- speaking host, who will accompany you during the day
• Trip to Rila Monastery and Villa Montevino
• Hotel pick-up and drop off
• Audio info (cloud-based) in the specified languages - smartphone and active wi-fi required
• Transportation by a comfortable A/C vehicle

What's not included

• Food, drinks, personal expenses
• Gratuities/tips - recommended in the end of the tour
• Entrance fee - Rila Monastery Museum - optional visit (cash or card on spot)

Start time

08:00 · 09:00

Languages

In-person guide: English · Audio guide: German, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Greek, English, Italian, Polish, French, Hebrew, Spanish

Travellers

• Adult (5–85)

Options

• Private Optionfrom €80

  Private Trip: This is a private option, just for you and your group! It includes hotel pick-up and drop off!

  Pickup included

  Start time: 08:00 · 09:00

  In-person guide: English · Audio guide: French, German, Polish, Portuguese, English, Greek, Japanese, Hebrew, Italian, Chinese, Spanish

Additional information

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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