Rila Monastery + Cave of Saint John Day Trip
Visit the Rila Monastery
Travelling to Bulgaria and not visiting the Rila Monastery would be a huge mistake. We'll meet at the Vasil Levski Square in Sofia to set off toward the Rila mountain range, the highest in the Balkans. During the journey, we'll share some facts about the country's geography and nature, crucial to understand its history.
Upon arriving at the Rila Monastery, you'll have 2 hours to explore this World Heritage Site. This imposing temple is one of the greatest achievements of the Bulgarian Rennaissance and its frescos that depict biblical passages and the life of saints, will leave you breathless. We recommend visiting its cloister and museum, where the famous Rafail's Cross is housed, a treasure of the Slavic cultural identity.
Hiking in the Cave of Saint John of Rila
Once you're done exploring the monastery, we'll head to the Cave of Saint John of Rila, just 4 kilometres (2.48 miles) away, for a mini hike. We'll embark on a nice hike of about 15 minutes through a wooded trail inside the National Park, surrounded by lush nature.
Before entering the cave, we'll see a small stone church where the saint's tomb is found. The cave is the exact spot where Saint John of Rila spent more than seven years of his life in prayer and solitude during the 10th century. According to local legend, anyone who crosses the narrow natural landscape of the cave to the outside is free of sin. It'll be a unique spiritual experience in the Bulgarian forest!
Finally, after 8 hours of connecting with Bulgarian spirituality and nature, we'll return to Sofia.
Itinerary Changes
In the event of adverse weather conditions, the walk to the Cave of Ivan Rilksi will be substituted with a visit to Boyana Church or a longer tour of Rila Monastery.
Activity Languages
When making your booking, you'll be able to choose whether you wish to do the tour in English or with an audio guide through another of the included languages (German, Italian, Russian, French, or Spanish).
Transport Only
During the booking process, you can select the option of only transport, which includes pickup and a round-trip transfer. You can also enjoy the Rila Monastery and the Cave of Saint John of Rila at your own pace.
More Information
Duration
8 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
Transport by minibus
English–speaking guide (depending on selection)
Audioguide in German, Italian, Russian, French or Spanish (depending on selection)
Not included
Admission tickets: € 4 (US$ 4.62) per person
Food and drink
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability conditions
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
- Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
- Has a gender equality policy.
- Promotes local employment.
- Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
- Has a gender equality policy.
- Promotes local employment.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Traventuria Corporate name: Traventuria OOD Registered Office: 54 Gorski Patnik str, Sofia, Bulgaria Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): BG200693567 Contact information Email: info@traventuria.com Phone: 359 2 4890885 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
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