Spa Day Trip to Bankya and Divotinsky Monastery

Sofia , Bulgaria

Spa Day Trip to Bankya and Divotinsky Monastery

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About this experience

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable day at the Royal Baths, a gem from the dawn of the XX century nestled in the healing town of Bankya, renowned for its warm mineral springs, enchanting forest eco-trails, and the crisp embrace of mountain air! Discover the ancient Divotinski Monastery “St. Trinity,” a sacred site from the XI century, once graced by the presence of Bulgarian Tsar Ferdinand. All this magic awaits just an hour's journey from the vibrant capital of Sofia!

Available options

Spa Day Trip to Bankya and Divotinsky Monastery

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation by a private A/C car

Trip to Bankya monastery and old royal baths

Hotel pick-up and drop off

Entrance fee to the Royal bath with healing mineral water

English - speaking driver

Detailed itinerary

The trip starts at 10:00 with a pick-up from your hotel/ address in Sofia by a private car. First, your journey will take you to the Divotinski Monastery "Holy Trinity", which is located on the northern slopes of Lyulin Mountain, about 45 minutes from Sofia.

It was founded in the XI century and is one of the oldest monasteries near Sofia. The monastery is known among the locals as the Royal Monastery, due to the repeated visits of King Ferdinand during his reign. Currently, the Divotinsky Monastery is an active, male monastery.

After the monastery visit, you will have free time in the center of Bankya for a lunch break and then you will visit the completely restored Royal Baths Resort, where you will have 3.5 hours for relaxation.

The qualities of the mineral water from Bankya have been known for more than a century! The bathhouse was the favorite place where the Bulgarian kings left revived by the blessed touch of the healing water. The Royal Baths Resort, was solemnly opened on May 24, 1911.

The thermal zone includes a pool with mineral water (35 -37C), mineral showers and massage jets, mineral water pools, and a tepidarium. The wellness zone includes two steam baths, a Finnish sauna, a herbal sauna, a laconium, a tepidarium, two hydromassage pools with mineral water (32C), a children's pool with mineral water (30C).
At about 16:30 you should depart back to Sofia and the return at your place will be approximately at 17:30.

What's not included

Food & personal expenses

Gratuities (optional)

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

This is a day trip, so the duration of the trip (7.5 hours) is also included the traveling time between the destinations.
We do not have baby/child seats in the cars, so we cannot accommodate children under 5 years old on this trip.

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.