Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in One Inspiring Day Trip!
Explore Bulgaria’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage on this best-selling full-day tour from Sofia. Visit two iconic UNESCO-listed landmarks: the majestic Rila Monastery, nestled in the pine-covered Rila Mountains, and the Boyana Church, home to breathtaking pre-Renaissance frescoes. Enjoy comfortable transportation, expert guidance, and convenient pick-up from several central Sofia locations.
Why Visit Rila Monastery & Boyana Church?
🕍 Rila Monastery
Founded in the 10th century, this mountain sanctuary stands as a timeless emblem of Bulgarian spirit and endurance. Wander beneath its majestic arches to marvel at frescoes bursting with color and life, ascend the ancient Hrelja Tower for sweeping views, and step into the museum where the legendary Rafail’s Cross – a masterpiece of delicate craftsmanship – whispers stories
of faith and devotion.
⛪ Boyana Church
Perched quietly on Sofia’s outskirts, this unassuming medieval chapel reveals a treasure trove of 13th-century frescoes, astonishing in their vivid realism and emotional depth. These pre-Renaissance masterpieces depict deep human emotion and vivid realism rarely seen in Orthodox art.
🚐 Tour Highlights
• Pick-up from dedicated spots across Sofia
• Guided visit to Rila Monastery complex
• Entry to Boyana Church grounds
• Free time for lunch or self-exploration
• Transport by air-conditioned minibus
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Clean, safe vehicles with hand disinfectant on board
• Return drop-off at your chosen location:
– Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
– Central Mosque of Sofia
– Central Train/Bus Station
✅ What's Included
✔️ Round-trip transport by minibus
✔️ Professional driver and tour guide
✔️ Parking, fuel, and road fees
✔️ Pick-up from selected locations
✔️ One small backpack (40/30/20 cm) allowed
❌ Not Included
✖️ Food and drinks
✖️ Entry fees (Boyana Church ~€5, Rila Monastery Museum €4)
✖️ Audio guide (€5 per person)
✖️ Tips/gratuities
💡 Good to Know
• Duration: ~8 hours
• Physical difficulty: Easy
• Not wheelchair or stroller accessible
• Modest clothing required at Rila Monastery
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended
• Pets not allowed
• Infants must have their own seat; baby seats available as extras
🕘 Departure Schedule
Choose the pick-up location that suits you best:
08:00 – Central Train/Bus Station
08:10 – “Vazrazhdane” Square
08:15 – “Atanas Burov” Square
08:45 – Behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral
09:15 – Rosslyn Central Park Hotel / Hotel Hilton
09:20 – Hotel Marinela
09:35 – Boyana Church
🕔 Return
Around 16:45–17:00 at one of the following drop-off points:
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Central Mosque of Sofia
• Central Train/Bus Station
💰 Pricing
🎟️ Standard Ticket: 35 EUR
💳 SoFun Card Holders get 10% discount on the base price!
🧳 Extras
• Rila Monastery Museum (ticket not included): €10
• One suitcase onboard (55/40/20 cm): €4
• Scarf rental: €2
• Audio Guide: €5
• Child safety seats:
– Baby (0–9 kg): €5
– Combination (9–25 kg): €5
– Booster (22–36 kg): €5
📝 How to Book
🖊️ Fill out the reservation form
📅 Book at least 1 day in advance (before 17:00)
👥 Indicate total number of travelers
💬 In the notes, be sure to specify your preferred pick-up and drop-off locations, as well as your contact method (📧 email, 📱 WhatsApp, ☎️ phone, etc.)
✅ You’ll receive a booking confirmation and all final tour details
Want to know how to get to Rila Monastery and Boyana Churck from Sofia? This all-inclusive tour makes it easy and comfortable — no planning needed!
💬 Need help planning your stay in Sofia?
SoFun is the easiest way to organize unforgettable experiences during your time in Sofia! Relax and let us take care of the details. Just tell us what you’d like to do, and we’ll handle everything for you – quickly, professionally and with a smile.
🕐 We usually respond within minutes!
