Overview
Rila Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, is a Bulgarian Orthodox monastery situated in the Rila Mountains of western Bulgaria. It is one of the most visited tourist sites in the country and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
It is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Bulgaria and is a key cultural and historical landmark.
Location
Address
Kiustendil
Neighborhood: Rila Mountains
Coordinates
42.128100, 23.901200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • flowers blooming
- • green landscapes
summer
hot
- • extended visiting hours
autumn
cool to mild
- • fall colors
- • harvest festivals
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • festive decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Dress modestly
- Bring water
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • uneven paths
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest, comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes, hat, walking shoes, shorts, tank tops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Rila Monastery Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main courtyard
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Sofia Airport
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: 120 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic and spiritual significance, beautiful architecture
Historical Significance: Founded in the 10th century, significant events in Bulgarian history occurred here
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for a short period
- Best local food at the back entrance café
- Local guides offer unique insights
Local Recommendations
- • Try traditional Bulgarian food at the on-site restaurant
- • Ask for a local guide for historical insights
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Bulgarian, English, Russian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main courtyard
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the entire courtyard
Result: Stunning architectural shots
Hrelyo's Tower
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Low angle for dramatic effect
Result: Iconic tower shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
The Seven Rila Lakes
Distance: 15 km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Natural Wonder
Borovets Ski Resort
Distance: 30 km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Ski Resort
Rila National Park
Distance: Varies
Walking: Varies
Type: National Park
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early to avoid crowds"
- "Hire a local guide for deeper insights"
- "Try the local cuisine at the café"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (16)
Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia
Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Shuttle Tour
From Sofia: Rila monastery & Boyana church and free pick up
Private grand Riga city tour
From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Melnik Small Group Tour
Incredible Day tour from Sofia to 7 Rila lakes and Rila monastery
From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Plovdiv Day Trip
From Sofia - Rila Monastery and Boyana Church, Audio Guided Tour
Day tour to Rila monastery, hiking to the cave of St. John and Boyana church
Private Day Trip to Boyana Church and Rila Monastery
From Sofia: Rila Monastery, Boyana Church and a Monk Room
Cascia, Santa Rita and Roccaporena from Rome Private Day Tour
Private tour to Rila monastery, Wine degustation, Boyana church
8-Day Tour Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia: Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius
Luxury Day Trip to Boyana Church and Rila Monastery
Scenic Flight Tour above Rila Monastery, 7 Lakes and Spa
Quick Info
Available Tours
122
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
10 BGN