Let nature and history take your breath away on a full-day guided journey to Bulgaria’s majestic Rila Mountains. Wander among the crystal waters of the Seven Rila Lakes, high above the world, and step into the timeless stillness of Rila Monastery – a UNESCO-listed sanctuary of art, spirit, and silence. One day, two wonders – carved by nature, kept by time.
Why Join This Tour?
🌄 Scenic Hiking Adventure Explore the world-renowned Seven Rila Lakes area as you hike through a dreamscape of glacial lakes – such as The Tear (Salzata) and The Eye (Okoto), each mirroring the sky at over 2,000 meters above sea level. Breathe in the crisp, spruce-scented mountain air and prepare for jaw-dropping vistas.
🏛️ UNESCO Cultural Heritage Uncover centuries of Bulgarian faith and artistry with a guided tour to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery. Admire its striking frescoes, historic church, and fascinating museum as you unveil the story of Bulgarian Renaissance art and religious tradition.
🚐 Comfort & Convenience Travel in a modern air-conditioned minivan with an experienced English-speaking guide and enjoy hassle-free logistics, including cable car transport to the lakes area.
🌄 Pricing & Options
1. Transport Only Price: 45 EUR per person
Includes: • Round-trip transportation from Sofia to Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery • Return to Sofia
Excludes: • Guided tour • Chairlift tickets (16 EUR) • Museum entrance fees • Meals and drinks • Hotel pick-up/drop-off • Rental gear
2. Guided Tour with English-Speaking Guide Price: 60 BGN per person
Includes: • All benefits of the Transport Only option • Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour • Optional audio guide in multiple languages
If you wish to opt for the Guided Tour with an English-speaking guide, please specify this clearly in the notes section of your reservation. The standard price of 90 BGN applies to the Transport Only option.
💳 Holders of a SoFun card receive a 10% discount on the standard ticket price!
📌 Good to Know • Duration: Approximately 12 hours • Physical difficulty: Moderate (steep inclines, uneven terrain, hiking boots required) • Minimum age: 12 years • Not wheelchair or stroller accessible • Not suitable for pets • Infants must have own seat; baby seats available on request • Tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately • Hiking route may be wet, slippery, and snowy at higher altitudes - prepare accordingly • Cable car operations depend on weather conditions and may stop without refund; alternative hikes offered if needed • Audio guide available online (EN, ES, IT, FR, DE, RU) - internet required for download
📍 Departure 07:00 - Car park in front of La Cattedrale restaurant, Alexander Nevski Square (SE corner)
📍 Pick-up locations before departure: 06:15 - Central Train/Bus Station 06:20 - Vazrazhdane Square 06:25 - Atanas Burov Square
📍 Return Approx. 19:30 at original meeting point
🎒 What to Bring • Comfortable hiking boots (no sandals or flip-flops) • Waterproof jacket and pants (rental available) • Warm layers for variable mountain weather • Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water • Packed lunch (limited food options on route)
📝 How to Book 🖊️ Fill out the reservation form 📆 Book at least 1 day in advance (before 15:00) to secure your spot 📅 Select your preferred date and number of participants 👥 Book for yourself, friends or loved ones – everyone enjoys the discount! 💳 No prepayment required at the booking stage 💬 In the notes, add any special requests and your preferred contact method (📧 email, 📱 WhatsApp, ☎️ phone, etc.) ✅ Our team will confirm your reservation and send all final details ⭐ After the tour, you’ll receive an email to leave a review – we’d love to hear from you!
Want to know how to get to Rila Monastery and Seven Rila Lakes 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.
