From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Plovdiv Day Trip

Sofia , Bulgaria

From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Plovdiv Day Trip

Active

(52 reviews)

12h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

See the best of Bulgaria in 1 day. This self-guided, shared shuttle tour will take you to both the UNESCO Rila Monastery in the Rila National park in the morning and then in the afternoon to the city of Plovdiv - the cultural capital of Bulgaria. In the morning the shuttle bus will take you to the Rila Monastery where you have more than 1 hour to explore the site at your own pace. The complex is compact in size so the time allows to see the most important parts of it. After that in the afternoon the shared shuttle will take you on a 3.5 hours journey through the scenic mountains of Bulgaria to the city of Plovdiv - one of Bulgaria's most visited cultural and historical sites. You have more than 4.5 hours to explore the historical city center on your own. Driver will provide you with a tourist map and tips for what to see.

Available options

From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Plovdiv Day Trip

07:30 h Departure

What's included

Professional driving services

Shared transfers to Plovdiv city and Rila monastery by comfortable A/C minibus

English speaking host

Transportation with airconditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore the UNSECO Rila Monstery at your own pace

Scroll through the culture capital of Bulgaria at your own pace. Or maybe join the free walking tour of the city. Your driver will leave you at a convenient place close to the city center for a tour of your own.

Enjoy the stunning views of Rila National park while at the Rila monastery.

Stop 4 Pass by

Enoy the stunning views of the Rila Mountains

What's not included

Entrance fees (optional) Rila monastery museum : 8 BGN per person

Guiding services

Meals & personal expenses

Available languages

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

37 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A dress code is required to enter the Rila Monastery. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

A moderate amount of walking is involved in the city of Plovdiv

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Meeting point

Directions: The car parking is located at Knyaz Aleksander I square, in front of The Palace - National Art Gallery. The nearest metro station is Serdika. Vehicles have Rila Shuttle sign on the front window.

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

• Child seats have to be requested in advance, at the time of reservation

About Sofia

Sofia is the vibrant capital of Bulgaria, nestled at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and Soviet-era landmarks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful natural surroundings.

Top Attractions

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This iconic cathedral is one of Sofia's most famous landmarks. It was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for the museum and bell tower)

Vitosha Mountain

Vitosha Mountain offers a stunning backdrop to Sofia and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature.

Nature Half day to full day Free (lift tickets for skiing cost around €10-€20)

National History Museum

This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Bulgaria's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours €5

Boyana Church

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Boyana Church is known for its stunning frescoes dating back to the 13th century.

Historical 1 hour €4

Sofia Central Mineral Baths

This historic building was once a public bathhouse and is now a popular spot for shopping and dining.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banitsa

A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with layers of filo dough, cheese, and eggs. It's often served for breakfast with a side of yogurt.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It's a staple in Bulgarian cuisine and is often served as a side dish.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Kebapche

A grilled minced meat sausage made with a mix of pork and beef, seasoned with spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander. It's often served with french fries or lyutenitsa (a spicy pepper and tomato spread).

Main Course Contains meat

Tarator

A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It's a refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with plant-based yogurt)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Vitosha Mountain Skiing in Bansko or nearby resorts Mountain biking and other outdoor activities Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through parks and gardens Enjoying a meal or drink at a rooftop bar Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Sofia for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian, Romanian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sofia is generally a safe city for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. It's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys

Getting there

By air

Sofia Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By train

Central Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station, South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around Sofia.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, OK Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Lozenets Studentski Grad Orlov Most

Day trips

Rila Monastery

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.

Plovdiv

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Bansko

160 km (100 miles) • Full day or overnight

Bansko is a popular ski resort in the winter and a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities in the summer. It's known for its stunning mountain scenery and traditional Bulgarian charm.

Festivals

Sofia Film Fest • March Sofia Pride • June Sofia International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful light.
Try traditional Bulgarian rakia and meze at a local bar for an authentic experience.
Explore the underground caves and tunnels of Sofia for a unique and fascinating look at the city's history.
Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery or Plovdiv for a taste of Bulgaria's rich history and culture.
Visit the National Palace of Culture for concerts, performances, and other cultural events.