From Sofia: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church Small Group Tour Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Guided Tour
ID: GYG50410-O-68489
Category:
Country: Bulgaria
Duration:
08:00 hours
Description
See 2 of Bulgaria's UNESCO World Heritage Sites on an exciting minibus tour from Sofia. Go to Rila Monastery and get breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Then, see stunning frescoes from the Bulgarian National Revival at Boyana Church.
Depart Sofia at 09:00 AM sharp, and relax on the 2-hour drive to the Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains. Upon arrival, explore the largest and most important Orthodox cloister in Bulgaria. Admire the arcaded balconies, and discover unique frescoes by one of the most famous painters of the Bulgarian National Revival period. See gilded iconostasis and enjoy the fabulous mountain views.
Hear the story of the monastery from your guide before enjoying some time to explore the monastic complex on your own. Learn more at the museum, or purchase souvenir icons and other items in the nearby shops. Take some time to refuel with lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you can purchase local specialties such as mekitsi (a traditional Bulgarian dish of kneaded dough made with yogurt that is deep fried).
Depart at 01:30 PM and travel to Boyana Church in the suburbs of Sofia. See the historically significant frescoes of the Byzantine building, and hear how they started the fashion for illustrating biblical figures with emotions and placing them alongside the local aristocracy.
With an estimated arrival time at the church of approximately 03:40 PM, enjoy about 30 minutes to explore. Leave at around 04:10 PM for the drive to Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia city center by 04:30 PM to 05:00 PM.
Highlights
- Visit 2 of Bulgaria most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in a day
- Go to Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains
- Marvel at the pre-Renaissance frescoes of Boyana Church
- Taste organic food in the nearby restaurants, such as mekitsi, yogurt or grilled trout
- Travel in comfort through the Bulgarian countryside
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Please be aware that smoking in the vehicles is strictly forbidden
• You can find mekitsi (sometimes called Bulgarian donuts) just outside the eastern gate, available to purchase at €0.25 each
• Please note, the tour will not visit Boyana Church on May 18, April 19, and December 24 or 25
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Meet in front of La Cattedrale Restaurant behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
