Rila Monastery and Boyana church and Sofia by night

Summary

Rila Monastery is definitely a must-see sight if you are a tourist with a free day in Sofia. The arcaded balconies, the unique frescoes – a work of one of the most famous Bulgarian Revival Period painters, the gilded iconostasis, the fabulous mountain views… and the unique combination of them all, makes the visit to the monastery extraordinary and memorable one. You will have around an hour of free time at the Rila Monastery to explore the most visited UNESCO site in Bulgaria, enter the main church and take photos of the narthex’s gallery, admire the exhibits in the History Museum of the Monastery, try the tasty "mekitsi" (Bulgarian doughnuts) with delicious buffalo’s yogurt (local specialty) or even have a short walk in the area. The Boyana Church's frescoes bring epochal change in the mural painting and are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance. The majority of more than 240 figures depicted there have individuality, vitality and psychological depth. Tour Sofia by night and see the main tourist attractions without the crowds and enchanted with a different light. Enjoy delicious Bulgarian dishes in combination with spectacular folklore performance.

Tour info

Duration
12 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Meet up time at 08:45. Departure from Al. Nevski Cathedral’s square at 09:00 (south-east corner). Drop off at the Alexander Nevski cathedral at appr. 17:00, where the Sofia by night tour will start from. You will have a 3-hour guided walking tour of the city center, then a dinner in a restaurant with typical Bulgarian food. After the dinner, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

What’s included?

  • English-speaking guide

  • All transportation costs along the route Sofia - Rila Monastery - Boyana Church – Sofia

  • Parking fee and road taxes

  • Guided tour of Sofia's center

  • Folklore evening in a restaurant with a 3-course menu per person

  • Drop off at your accommodation

  • Dinner

  • Alcoholic Beverages

  • Due to the lack of adequate dining options around the Rila monastery, we recommend for people wishing to spend more own time at Rila Monastery to bring their own lunch.

  • Personal expenses

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 12h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Traventuria - Day Tours

About operator:

Traventuria Ltd is a fully bonded Bulgarian tour operator, possessing a management with experience of over 10 years in the field of the incoming tourism in Bulgaria and the Balkans. The company offers cultural and active holidays, private transfers, ski and snow board packages. Flexibility, local knowledge and perfection in all our services are our distinctive feature!

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