Rila Monastery

Things to do near Rila Monastery

Near Rila Monastery, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including spa treatments and skiing. Key experiences include guided monastery tours that delve into its rich history, moderate hikes in the stunning surrounding landscape, and immersive Rila monastery tours that showcase its unique architecture and cultural significance. This blend of relaxation and exploration makes for a memorable visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, about 14.3km from Rila Monastery, you can visit SkiBansko by Traventuria, where you'll find a variety of gifts and souvenirs to remember your trip. Enjoy browsing through unique offerings that reflect the local culture and heritage.

Recreation

At Saparevo Banski & SPA, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments amidst a serene atmosphere, just 6.8km from Rila Monastery. For a blend of sport and relaxation, visit Pirin Golf and Country Club, located 12.4km away. Enjoy lively music concerts at Shiligarnik - Highland, 15.5km from the monastery.

Adventure

Experience thrilling skiing at Malyovitsa Ski Resort, located 3.7km from Rila Monastery, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For an adventurous day, head to Borovets Ski Resort, 13.7km away, or take a scenic ride on the Gondola Lift, situated 8.7km away, offering stunning views and excitement.

Nightlife

In Rila Monastery, the nightlife is serene yet captivating, with intimate taverns offering traditional Bulgarian music and local wines. Nearby, the charming village of Rila hosts cosy pubs where you can enjoy a relaxed evening, soaking in the rich culture and warm hospitality of the region.

Find the best attractions near Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore nearby lakes, scenic peaks, and the stunning architecture of the monastery itself. For a memorable experience, consider a trip to the monastery, and check out the trending hotels in the vicinity for a comfortable stay. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or immersive cultural experiences, Rila Monastery is undoubtedly a must-visit destination.

• Seven Rila Lakes: Nestled 3.1km from Rila Monastery, the Seven Rila Lakes offer breathtaking scenery and a romantic atmosphere. Each lake, with its unique shape and colour, creates a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking.
• Musala Peak: Located 8.1km from the monastery, Musala Peak is the highest point in the Rila Mountains. Its impressive views and serene environment are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience nature at its finest.
• Church of Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno: Right next to Rila Monastery, this church is rich in culture and history. Its beautiful architecture and intricate frescoes provide a glimpse into Bulgaria's spiritual heritage.

Best time to go to Rila Monastery

The best time to visit Rila Monastery is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	33.6°F (0.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Moderately High
February	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
June	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
December	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Moderately High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rila Monastery

To save money on your trip to Rila Monastery, consider visiting in May or October to November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Saturday is typically the cheapest night to stay, while Tuesday is the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to compare prices and look for free cancellation policies to maximise your flexibility.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rila Monastery are May and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Rila Monastery about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rila Monastery is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Rila Monastery is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget and desired location, among other preferences. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the lowest to highest prices, allowing you to find the most economical options first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation for Rila Monastery with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.