From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery Self-Guided Trip

6 photos

Duration

12 hours

Explore the most famous natural and cultural sites of Bulgaria on a self-guided trip to the 7 Rila Lakes and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rila Monastery in Rila National Park.

Highlights

Get back to nature at the 7 Rila Lakes
Explore the 10th-century Rila Monastery at your own pace
Benefit from a convenient round-trip transfer from Sofia city center

Full description

Depart Sofia in the morning and travel by shuttle bus with a friendly English-speaking driver. Journey in air-conditioned comfort to Panichishte in the beautiful Rila National Park. Get briefed on arrival by your driver, who will tell you the different options and routes you can take up the mountain.

Ride the chairlift to the 7 Rila Lakes, where you will get 5 hours of free time to go on some amazing nature walks independently to experience the glacial lakes from different perspectives.

Board the shuttle bus at the agreed meeting point and relax on the 2-hour drive to Rila Monastery in a deep valley of the Rilska River. Founded in the 10th century, the monastery complex is regarded as one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural and historical monuments. Get 1.5 hours to explore the largest Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria at your own pace.

Then, return to Sofia in the evening and get dropped off at the meeting point.

Important information

What to bring

Warm clothing
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Rain gear
Passport or ID card for children
Cash
Packed lunch

Not allowed

Pets
Smoking in the vehicle

Know before you go

This trip involves a moderate to intensive amount of walking. Hiking experience is essential
The ticket for the 7 Rila Lakes chairlift costs 25 Leva per person, roundtrip and is payable in cash, onsite (no credit cards accepted)
Entry fee for the optional visit to Rila Monastery History Museum is 8 Leva per person, payable in cash, onsite (no credit cards accepted)
This trip operates in all weather conditions. Please dress appropriately
High heels, short skirts and trousers, and shirts with no sleeves are not permitted to enter Rila Monastery
Child/baby seats have to be requested in advance, at least 24 hours before travel date.