About This Tour
This self-guided, shared shuttle tour will take you to both the 7 Rila Lakes area in the morning and then in the afternoon to the UNESCO Rila Monastery in the Rila National park - Bulgaria's most famous natural and cultural sites. In the morning the shuttle bus tour bus will take you to the start of the hiking routes ar the Rila Lakes area and base station of the chair lift from where you can take the chair-lift up in the mountain. You have more than 5 hours for your self-guided tour of the Rila Lakes area. After that in the afternoon the shared shuttle will take you to the Rila Monastery - Bulgaria's most visited cultural and historical site. You have more than 1 hour to explore the monastery site on your own.
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
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The 7 Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
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Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia
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What's Included
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Additional Information
Meeting Point
Go to the car parking at Knyaz Aleksander I square (in front of The Palace - National Art Gallery). Look for a vehicle with Rila Shutle sign. Nearest metro station is Serdika.
Special Instructions
- A moderate to intensive amount of walking is involved (walking/hiking experience is a must) - Comfortable walking shoes and clothes suitable for mountain/walking are required - Sun cream and sunglasses are strongly recommended - Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately - Bring local cash money (BGN Leva) for the chair lift and food/drinks. Credit/debit cards are not accpeted at the site. - Dress code at the Rila Monastery: high heels, short skirts and trousers, shirts with no sleeves, etc. are not allowed in the monastery. - Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable - The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions - Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund. - Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
URCA Ltd
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Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 280 verified reviews
Average rating
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by URCA Ltd, a local cultural provider.
What's included?
This tour includes Driver, Round-trip shared transfer, and Transport by air-conditioned minivan. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long does this experience take?
The experience lasts approximately 13 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. All necessary equipment is provided.
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are typically provided.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 4.8-star rating based on 280+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This cultural experience lasts approximately 13 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Driver and more.
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