From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Melnik Small Group Tour
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
- Get more of your holiday by booking an intensive small group guided tour to the highlights of southwest Bulgaria;
- Tour the smallest Bulgarian town, famous for its architecture, stunning surroundings, and wine production.
- The Melnik Pyramids are a fantastic phenomenon. Use wisely the recommended photo stops! :)
- In Melnik discover the impressive Rivaval Period style house of Kordopoulo’s family and peek into its tunnel-like wine cellar.
- Enjoy the sights of the tranquil Bulgarian countryside and its sleepy villages, while your guide introduces you to Bulgarian everyday countryside life;
- Visit the overwhelming Rila Monastery and let the guide relive its history and enlight you on its present-day status;
- Admire the priceless frescoe masterpieces of the most notable 19th-century Bulgarian painters
- Enrich your experience by tasting local delicacies and in this way involve all your senses;
Available options
English-guided Tour
What's included
Professional guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Departure at 08:00 from the Vasil Levski Monument ( in front of the Embassy of Slovakia)
2
The smallest town in Bulgarian with only 208 inhabitants, Melnik still preserves part of its glory from 14th till19th-century, when it had been a flourishing tobacco and wine-producing center, whose fame was spread by local merchants to many European countries. Today, the city is famous for its lovely white houses and cobbled streets, mild climate, internationally recognized brands of red wine. You will have a guided walking tour through the city and enter the biggest Bulgarian Revival Period style house and its tunnel-like wine cellar.
3
Stop 3
Rila Monastery (UNESCO site) and its architecture and the frescoes present the apogee of the Bulgarian Renaissance art. With an about 1-hour guided tour of the most treasured monuments in the inner yard and the Monastery museum, you will learn the most fascinating facts and stories about the biggest Bulgarian monastery complex. You will also have free time to buy souvenirs, make more photos or to continue to explore it by yourself.
4
Arrival back at the starting point of the tour at approximately 19:00
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Kordopoluva House
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
11 reviews
5★
9
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Women should not be with short skirts and "naked" shoulders. Traventuria recommends: Comfortable clothes and walking shoes
Entry fee to Kordopulova House approx. 6 BGN in cash
Meeting point
IMPORTANT: The meeting point is next to the Vasil Levski Monument, in front of the Embassy of Slovakia
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
