Rila Monastery’s fortress-like complex engulfs within its walls you’ll find remarkably colourful architecture and religious art.  I was struck by its elegant colonnades, archways striped in black, red and white, and the bright yellow domes of its main church.





It is pefect place for one day excorsion, but you can stay at or near the monastery to experience its tranquillity after the tour buses leave, or explore the hiking trails that begin here and lead to the Rila Mountains.



It was very overwhelming and soul-lifting experience. I was captivated for its beauty. It a must see destination if you are in Sofia. It is easy to get there. Don't worry that you don't know bulgarian. A lot of foreigners travel everyday from the bus stop to Rila Monastery, that is why it is so easy to get around.









 How to get to Rila Monastery?

The bus leaves from Ovcha Kupel bus station in Sofia.  At 1020hrs a bus leaves for Rila village, it arrives at approximately 12h15, then you change bus from the same bus stop at 12h40 to Rila Monastery by about 1300hrs. The ticket you buy in Sofia is valid for the mini bus to the monastery. For a return trip catch the same mini bus at 15h00 from the monastery to return to Sofia by 17h30 (you shouldn't have to change buses for this journey in Rila village).

 Cost: 10 BGN