The Rila Monastery

The Rila Monastery is the most exquisite example of the monastery art and architecture of Bulgaria. It is the most famous Bulgarian monastery, situated deep in the heart of the Rila Mountain, having a life span of a millennium. Founded in the 10th century by the monk Ivan Rilski, it has survived periods of both rapid development and decline through the years.

There are over 300 premises on a built-up area of 32,000 square meters. This truly renaissance palace of the spirit is majesty and intimacy in one. The biggest gilded iconostasis in Bulgaria, various frescoes, icons and woodcarvings can be seen in the main church such as the Nativity of the Virgin Church with its miracle icon of the Virgin and splendid gilded iconostasis, the Monastery kitchen, Hrelyu’s Tower and many spectacular views from the mountain and the surrounding nature.

The Rila Monastery Museum keeps the long and heroic history of the monastery, made for a period of twelve years by a monk called Rafael. Today, the monastery is under the aegis of UNESCO

Includes
- Transportation during the whole tour
- Entrance Fee to the Rila Monastery Museum
- Professional Guiding Services in English
- Value Added Tax

Excludes
- Meals and Drinks (unless specified)
- Tips and Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
- Optional Activity Costs

Please Note
Advanced booking is required.

Your Confirmation Voucher includes full information (e.g. local telephone numbers) about the Local Operator. To ensure your peace of mind, we select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination.

You can book in 3 easy steps!
1. Select date and number of persons. You will be redirected to the Shopping Cart Page.
2. On the Shopping Cart Page, continue shopping or check out.
3. Enter basic travel, name, and payment information in the Check-out Form.

Upon booking, you will receive a voucher by email containing all details about the tour. You can check the status of your booking at anytime.

After you book
Please print the electronic voucher sent to you. It contains the operator's complete contact details and local telephone numbers. Give the voucher to the operator on the day of the activity.

What if I need to change or cancel my booking?
That's ok. We will try to be as flexible as possible. But you must inform us by email of the change or cancellation as soon as possible. The appropriate amount will be credited back to your credit card account. Contact our Customer Service for help with changes or cancellations. Or read our Cancellation Policy.