Guided Rila Monastery Tour from Bansko
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Rila Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s symbols and a popular tourist destination. It’s included in the List of World Heritage of UNESCO.
Meet your driver in our Traventuria shop in Bansko and board the air-conditioned vehicle to travel to Kocherinovo. Relax during the 1-hour drive as you admire the beautiful landscape. Arrive at the Kocherinovo at approximately 11:30 am where you will wait for the guided tour coming from Sofia. Explore the complex with our qualified Еnglish-speaking guide. Admire its balconies and discover unique frescoes by one of the most famous painters of the Bulgarian National Revival period. See the gilded iconostasis and enjoy the fabulous mountain views. After the guided visit, enjoy some free time for lunch or further exploration by yourself.
Once the scheduled program is finished, you will be transferred back to Kocherinovo where the driver will wait for you and you will head to Bansko. The tour finish is back at the meeting point-our ski and board shop.
Available options
Guided Rila Monastery Tour from Bansko
What's included
Driver
English-speaking guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
The meeting point of the tour is Ski&Board Traventuria Bansko. Meet our representative who will direct you to the driver for the transfer to Kocherinovo where you will wait for the tour coming from Sofia.
2
About an hour latter you will arrive at Kocherinovo and join the group going to Rila Monastery.
3
Stop 3
Guided visit of the Monastery followed by free time for lunch or further exploration by yourself.
4
Transfer back to Kocherinovo where the driver will wait for you and head back to Bansko
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable walking shoes recommended
Meeting point
Address: Pirin Palace Hotel (two entrances:) 1) backside of Pirin Palace Hotel, by Euphoria bar; 2) from Pirin Street: 92E Pirin Str., 2770 Bansko
About Bansko
Bansko is a picturesque mountain town in southwestern Bulgaria, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class ski resorts. Nestled in the Pirin Mountains, it offers stunning natural beauty, traditional architecture, and a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
Top Attractions
Bansko Ski Resort
One of the best ski resorts in the Balkans, offering excellent slopes for all skill levels, modern lifts, and stunning mountain views.
Adventure
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (€30-€60 per day for lift passes)
Holy Trinity Church
A beautiful 19th-century church with traditional Bulgarian architecture and intricate wood carvings.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Bansko Old Town
A well-preserved area with traditional Bulgarian houses, cobblestone streets, and charming squares.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore (museum entry fees apply)
Dobrinishte Lake
A scenic lake surrounded by forests and mountains, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and nature photography.
Nature
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Banitsa
A savory pastry made with filo dough, cheese, and eggs, often served for breakfast.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Shopska Salad
A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Kavarma
A traditional Bulgarian stew made with meat (usually pork or chicken), vegetables, and wine.
Main Course
Contains meat
Mekitsi
Fried dough pieces, often served with jam, cheese, or honey.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Yoga
Picnicking
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
December to March (Winter) and June to August (Summer)
Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and cultural exploration. Both seasons see high tourist activity.
Winter: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), Summer: 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
Winter: 23°F to 41°F, Summer: 59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Bulgarian
- Widely spoken: English, Russian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bansko is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Book tours through reputable agencies
Getting there
By air
- Sofia Airport • 150 km (93 miles)
By bus
Bansko Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient for getting around town. Buses are frequent and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, TaxiMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Bansko Old Town
Gondola Area
Dobrinishte
Day trips
Melnik
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
A charming town known for its unique sandstone formations, wine cellars, and historic architecture.
Rila Monastery
150 km (93 miles) • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important monasteries in Bulgaria, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
Plovdiv
180 km (112 miles) • Full day
One of Bulgaria's oldest cities, known for its Roman ruins, vibrant arts scene, and historic old town.
Festivals
Bansko Folk Festival • August
International Jazz Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Old Town in the evening for a relaxed stroll and to experience the charming atmosphere.
- Book ski lift passes in advance during peak season to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
- Try local specialties like banitsa, shopska salad, and kavarma for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the surrounding nature by hiking or mountain biking to discover the stunning landscapes.
- Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of Bansko.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
