Rila Monastery, Boyana Church and Sofia by Night

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in just one day—Rila Monastery and Boyana Church—see Sofia by night, and experience Bulgaria's folklore traditions.

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Highlights

Visit Bulgaria's most popular UNESCO heritage sites
Admire Boyana Church's incredible frescoes
See Sofia by night without the crowds
Enjoy delicious Bulgarian dishes while watching a spectacular folklore performance

Description

Rila Monastery is a must-see site if you are a tourist with a free day in Sofia. The arcaded balconies, the unique frescoes, the gilded iconostasis, the fabulous mountain views, and the unique combination of them all makes the visit to the monastery an extraordinary and memorable one. You will have around an hour of free time at the monastery to explore the most visited UNESCO site in Bulgaria, enter the main church and take photos of the narthex’s gallery, admire the exhibits in the History Museum of the Monastery, try the tasty mekitsi (Bulgarian doughnuts) with delicious buffalo’s yogurt (local specialty), or even take a short walk in the area. The Boyana Church's frescoes are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance. The majority of more than 240 figures depicted have individuality, vitality, and psychological depth. Tour Sofia by night and see the main tourist attractions without the crowds. The tour route transects the compact and colorful city center and passes by the Holy Synod, St Sofia Church, the Monument of Alexander II, the Parliament, the Russian Church St Nicolas, the former King’s Palace, the Presidency, St George Rotunda, and St Nedelia Church. You will tick off all major tourist must-see attraction in Sofia's center and learn about their history and significance. Finally, you will arrive at one of the most famous restaurants in Sofia, to taste typical Bulgarian food (3-course menu) and enjoy an exhilarating Bulgarian dance performance named hora.

Includes

English-speaking guide
All transportation costs along the tour route • Parking charges and road taxes
Guided tour of Sofia's center • Folklore evening in a restaurant with a three-course menu
Drop-off at your accommodation
Due to the lack of adequate dining options around the Rila Monastery, we recommend you bring your own lunch.
Personal expenses

Important Information

The time spent inside the Boyana Church is limited to a maximum of 10 minutes, as a preservation measurement for the UNESCO World Heritage site's fragile frescoes. • It is better to prepare a lunch pack and use the free time at Rila Monastery for exploration and contemplation.
There is a dress code for Rila Monastery: Long trousers/skirts (at least knee-length) and no sleeveless tops (bring something to cover your shoulders).