A piece of history! So colorful and well preserved! Two details 1. You must be decently dressed. Knees and shoulders must be covered 2. There is a small shop at the entrance that sells the most delicious donuts

A Sofia must visit if you're in Bulgaria. Located a short distance from downtown, this is a truly magnificent place. An ancient Orthodox Christian monastery that has some beautiful architecture, murals, craft work and more. You can walk around and take in all sights and explore the mountains too. The painting in the main building is truly amazing. Grab some snacks if you get hungry too. Free entry. Donations are welcomed. Please dress respectfully

Beautiful monastery nestled in the woods of Bulgaria. We arrived from Sofia, with a rental car, it's not too far away: an hour and a half journey, through the beautiful landscapes of Bulgaria. The monastery is stupendous and has a mystical air, it is still inhabited by monks. Outside the secondary door of the monastery there is a pleasant path that leads to the ancient cemetery where the monks are buried, a quiet place because few people go there. Recommended visit!

Looking for a great place to visit in Bulgaria? This ancient monastery is still being used today. It’s a great piece of Bulgarian history hidden in its mountains. To get there, you’d go by tour or drive. But let me tell you, it’s sooo worth it. It’s like you were sent back in time. Definitely a must see on your Bulgaria bucket list. I came here with my best friend and went on a road trip in Bulgaria. So we decided to check this place out. Be prepared to pay a parking fee. And be sure to bring a bottle water to get some water from the fountains there. Reminder there is no photos inside the buildings and be mindful of what you wear. I definitely recommend trying the monastery bread when you get there

If one visits Sofia for more than 2 days, I would recommend to visit the monastery. We went by renting a car, which is really cheap and worthwhile. Just for the trip up there, the trip is worthwhile. The monastery itself is stunning. The church is jaw dropping. I get "anxious" in a place so filled with "stuff", but it's still interesting to see. We went to the restaurant right outside of the monastery, and had a drink. Definitely worth recommending. The views are amazing and the staff very friendly.

Parking right outside the monastery costs 5 lev but entrance to the monastery is free. You can also park alongside the road a little further down (5 min walk) for free. You’ll need to remember to be covered up when visiting because although it’s a tourist attraction, it’s first and foremost a monastery. You’ll probably spend about an hour here, just walking around and taking in the beauty of this place! No dogs allowed.

This place is really out of the world, something very particular and not something you see everyday, the outside is stunning as the outside. There are public transport to here but also lots of tours bring you here.

The reputation of being the most beautiful monastery in Bulgaria is not likely to be a mistake. There seems to be an inn inside the monastery where reservations are accepted from noon to 2:00 pm. The recommended visit time is the first time in the morning on weekdays. Many people visit on weekends, so it's best to avoid it if possible.

Very beautiful place, unfortunately 3 major remarks: 1. The so-called parking was full of snow, and you still have to pay for it. Also 2. - never go during the weekdays, there is no single open place for eating. I understand the attendance is much lower but it would be good to notify the people. 3. There are no guides or any people who asked us if we want to see anything particular. It is not fair to say it is open, as actually it is not.

This place is magical. I was baptized here over 20 years ago. Today the roads have been fixed and it's much safer and easier to get here. The monastery is established year 927 and has had a great impact to keeping history and traditions alive during the turbolent times.

I’m so glad that I got the chance to visit it! Very nice Monastery, it’s a UNESCO world heritage site, and it’s good for a road trip from Sofia, or take a tour to get there!

Absolutely stunning place set in the amazing mountains. The drive up is slow with very low speed limits that I suggest you follow as there were police running radar in a couple of spots. Admission is free and parking is only five lev. Make sure to dress appropriately as no super revealing clothing is allowed, nothing to strict but respectful. There are cafes and and a great doughnut stand behind the monastery.

Absolutely breathtaking stop - a definite must see in the area. We stopped here on our drive from Kavala, Greece to Sofía, Bulgaria. Plan to spend 1-2 hours. We took their private tour (arranged at the museum) which allowed us to see many of the various guest rooms, a monk’s room, the kitchen and ethnographic museums and their antiquities museum. Because of the language barrier, there was little narration, but it was very interesting to see more of the monastery.

Very beautiful and spiritual place. The ride to the Monastery is calm and enjoyable. The place itself is quite inspiring. There's some trails, restaurants, souvenir shops. Parking is paid - 5BGN, but it's a question of lick whether you'll find a spot there. It is definitely worth the visit. Recommend.

A beautiful monastery from the tenth century, UNESCO world heritage site. Everything is big and impressive and colorful, and it's worth coming here even if you're not in the area. The entrance is free, the parking is not free and behind the monastery there is a bakery that sells a classic Bulgarian pastry (Mekitsa) that you need to try while you're here

The Rila Monastery is one of the symbols of Bulgaria, included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List. Amazing atmosphere, beautiful nature and crystal clear air. You feel the positive energy of the place as soon as you cross the threshold of the monastery. Definitely a location that is a must visit, especially if you are in the area.

‼️BRIEFLY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟I think it has been probably one if not the best building I ever visited. It has bright colors that against the green of the mountains around allow it to float in the space. You cannot visit the houses of the monks but you have the option to visit a museum and the church. The church is kinda dim but it is brightly covered on the outside walls by beautiful paintings. ❗KEEP IN MIND: getting here is not easy. I would recommend getting a car for one day as organized tours are quite expensive.

No wonder this is a UNESCO World Heritage! Rila Monastery is an absolute must-see if you happen to visit Bulgaria! This place is magical, very hard to describe in words or display in pictures, you have to feel it! It is cultural gem, very spiritual and an architectural splendor! I recommend that you spare a day here and also enjoy a few wonderful hikes in the area. Peaceful surroundings, vibrant frescoes, detailed murals, wonderful colors! Plan a day, don’t miss!

Super peaceful, beautiful place in the middle of the mountains. There was a celebration going on when we arrived which was nice peaceful and interesting. You can also have some kind of donuts with icing sugar which are really tasty 😋

I am giving 4 stars because there's no bank machine at the restaurant / souvenir shops outside of the monastery walls and they don't have any way to use credit or debit cards. however, it was an amazing place to visit just bring cash with you

It was a beautiful day to visit the monastery. Amazing architecture and so much history behind. It’s public holiday but not busy in the morning, we arrived at 10am, crowd came around 11:30-12:00. There’s some souvenir stalls/shops around and the monastery is surrounded by amazing scenery and nature, truly relaxing. We also visited a smaller monastery along the river/falls just outside the Rila monastery.

You should definitely buy the combo ticket with visits to the museum, the kitchen, guest rooms, ethnographic museum and the tower! For 20 leva (10€) per person, you get the private tour to a huge kitchen complex, then upstairs some magnificent rooms with wood carving and painted ceilings, local clothes per region. Then climb the tower which is the oldest building (in 1300's) with beautiful fresco on the top floor!

Super worthy visit, the most beautiful frescos I ever seen. Entrance is for free, you need to dress accurately to enter ( no shorts or showing shoulders ), there are little fountains with drinking water and few toilets. There is also a small bakery in the other side outside the monastery, she speaks Spanish and they take euros too if you don't have Bulgarian cash (they don't take cards)

It’s a very special experience even if you’re not an Orthodox Christian. They say it’s overrun by tourists; I’d say it’s pretty pristine compared what treasures they have here. You have to go to the museum to see it all. Unfortunately you can’t take photos there or in the church.

MUST SEE!! This beautiful monastery sits about two hours outside of Sophia but it is completely worth the drive. It was wonderful to drive through the Bulgarian countryside and small villages. Do not be fooled by the small streets, you will get to the monastery haha!! Parking is not super convenient and so plan to park away from the monastery and then walk either up or down to the monastery depending on where you park. We got to watch live a service happen as well as the sacrament. The songs were beautiful and the interior of the monastery was breathtaking. Did you know that you could spend the night at the monastery? Only one and it has to be approved by the brotherhood. I highly recommend that you go here!!!

Incredible monument in the middle of the mountains. I specially enjoyed the view of the building with the mountains behind. Very touristic with a lot of people visiting either for sightseeing or religious purpose. Highly recommend if you have the chance as it is very unique.

Amazing place, I highly recommend! The monastery is beautiful and so is its location at the heart of the mountain. We did a one-day excursion frim Sofia using City Tour and it was really great ! If you have more time though there are great walk path around the monastery (too long for a day long excursion though)

Beautiful monastery, probably the most beautiful one we've seen in Bulgaria. There is a small museum within the monastery (extra cost with guidence). Out side of the monastery there is a small stream that you can walk along side to it and some stores. No access fee to the monastery (parking is 5Lev).

Beautiful landmark with a huge BUT. Someone decided to take money for the parking. And those people are very rude. Moreover they are taking money from disability as well, and without the possibility to pay by card. The authorities have to step 8n.

The Rila Monastery is one of the symbols of Bulgaria, included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List. The monastery is very beautiful, the nature around it amazing as well. Definitely a location that is a must visit!

Amazing landscape under the snow 🌨️ I don't advise the museum as they simply gather multiple objects without much explanation. I'd rather do the walk toward an ancient tomb further in the woods.

Amazing monastery, the architecture is beautiful and the place is so peaceful. The scenery of the way to reach there is calming and peaceful. Outside the monastery there are some trail paths up the mountains around that are worth discovering

Worth day trip when visiting Sofia, best for us was taking an organized tour in a small group with a tour guide (in our case Traventuria). The frescos in the Monastery are very well preserved and they are restoring some of them, you can even stay the night in there.

The Rila Monastery is a place of profound worship in Bulgaria, and I was truly captivated by its charm. The architecture is absolutely magnificent, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the builders. It dates back to the 10th century and has been exceptionally well-preserved over the years. Nestled in the mountains, the monastery is surrounded by an incredibly beautiful environment that adds to its allure. I was impressed by the spiritual ambiance and the serene atmosphere of the monastery. Exploring its intricate frescoes, ancient manuscripts, and sacred artifacts was a remarkable experience. The fact that the entrance is free is a bonus, and the parking fee of 5 Bulgarian Lev is reasonable. I highly recommend visiting the Rila Monastery to anyone traveling to Bulgaria. It stands as the largest spiritual center in the country, and its historical and cultural significance cannot be overstated. I, for one, fell in love with the place and would gladly return given the chance.

If you happen to be in Bulgaria, please visit the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO heritage site. A stunning historical and cultural attraction, it is one of the oldest and largest Orthodox monasteries in the country, dating back to the 10th century. I booked a day tour there and went by a tour bus as I didn't have my international driving permit with me. The scenery along the way is breathtaking, and the monastery itself is surrounded by nature and tranquility. Given another opportunity though, I will prefer to rent a car and drive to explore the place and its surroundings. My tour guide told me you can stay in the rooms of the monastery for EUR25 nightly, a great price to enjoy the place with tranquility and also extending the timeframe to explore. The main attraction is of course the church of the Nativity of the Virgin, which features amazing frescoes, icons, woodcarvings, and a gold-plated iconostasis. The church is open to the public, but you are not allowed to take photos inside. Other things to see and do at the monastery include visiting the museum (which I unfortunately chose not to due to limited time), exploring the courtyard, drinking the melting glacier waters from the numerous fountains and enjoying some local delicacies at the bakery behind the monastery. You can try mekitsa, a fried dough pastry with cheese or jam, or buy some monastery bread, which is baked in a traditional oven. The Rila Monastery is a must-visit in order to experience the rich culture of Bulgaria. It left me in utter awe and gratitude.

So peaceful, so quite. We went with a Tour there GYG. We were early there and were the first group. So you see the Monastery as it should be.

I had visited Rila a couple of times before, but this time was special .. Some scenes and traditions are just different from any other monastery.. We got back in time to 1873 year old. Just one concern , 😟 The public bathroom must be renovated asap .. 🙏 Lighting candle, hearing the prayers, the bells 🔔 of the church and many other things made me feel like crying..

It is a nice spot to visit in Bulgaria, and it doesn't require more than 30 minutes of your time there. Don't forget to check out the bakery while you're there. It's also convenient to know that there are shuttle services available from Rila, Dupnitsa, and Sofia to this location. You can find the schedule in the attached photos.

We went there through an organized trip. The place is beautiful and unique. Photographs don't do justice to its beauty and magnificence.

Visiting Rila Monastery in Bulgaria on a sunny winter day was a captivating experience. The serene atmosphere and stunning architecture left a lasting impression on us. The snow-covered surroundings added a magical touch, making it a truly memorable visit. Highly recommended for those seeking a peaceful and culturally rich excursion.

Wonderful place ! The design was beautiful 😍 Also, this place is very important in the religious heritage of Bulgaria. You must visit the place once in your life 😜

good experience, intriguing history and awesome artwork on every detail. restaurant is good, nothing much, food is fine, staff no very friendly, and they don’t accept card - which is annoying and we only found out after eat.

1) make sure to try the local donut from the bakery shop! 2) recommend you climb the tower. Tickets can be purchased from the museum entrance. We were the only ones climbing it but was awesome! Can't recall the cost but was very cheap.

Such an amazing place to visit, peaceful and beautiful. The journey till there takes around 2 hours from Sofia but completely worth it. Super interesting place, interesting history...definitely an obligatory stop if you visit Sofia.

Really nice building and architecture. Be careful as they are very strict on their rules especially for women. Women entering had to have knees covered and minimal skin showing but men were allowed to enter without issue... pretty sexist but it's the religion I guess. There isn't really anything else there it's more a good piece of architecture surrounded by awesome mountains, would recommend the donuts from the shops next to the monastery and to buy some honey.

Must see! This monastery has so much to discover! Just be sure not to wear inappropriate clothing such as tops or small shorts/skirts.

A nice historical and religious place to visit. Road to the monastery is not bad for Bulgarian standards. There is a parking outside, relatively cheap. If there are spaces you can park for free a few hundreds of meters before the entry point. There are slight covid measures and ladies need to have their arms covered, otherwise they would not be let in during the hot summer months.

Very nice place for walk to feel spirit of the nature.

Incredible place. Whole monastery is wonderful, but the orthodox church inside of it is one of the most impressive churches I have ever seen.

To date there are over 10,000 five star reviews of Rila Monastery. Most if not all of them are true. Most if not all of them are from people who visit in the spring and summer. If it is a sunny day in November or March go there. Very few people will be at the Monastery and you can take your time looking at items closely. You do not need to be religious or love art - you can just walk the mountain grounds outside of the Monastery. They to are also beautiful in the fall. Yes, it is a 5-star attraction in Bulgaria. Really the only one outside of Sofia or the sea coast. Given that only 19 monks live there now, seeing one is rare.

Must visit! Spectacular conservation, surrounded by the nature and its peaceful environment. Entrance is free. Parking 5 BGN (but you can leave your car just few meters before the main entrance for free).

Located deep in the rila mountains, around 2 hours away from Sofia, this monastery is rich in history and offers an amazing scenery plus an over-all sense of peace

Very beautiful! Totally recommend if you are visiting Sofia and enjoy beautiful architecture and Bulgarian History.

Amazing temple. Beautiful designs. The way to the monument is great. The toilets are awful and smells very bad. They collect 5 lev. For the parking, too high.

One of the absolutely must see destinations in Bulgaria! So much history, nature and overall breathtaking views and details in there. Wish I could take photos inside the church to show you guys that insane handwork all over the walls and the ceiling! I would recommend to any tourist visiting Bulgaria to take a trip to the monastery. You will not regret it!

One of the most amazing places in Bulgaria - a must see! It's a UNESCO world heritage site for cultural heritage. The place is very special, with Rila mountains all around, it's very serene and beautiful. It's one of the most sacred places in the country, you can feel the energy and the serenity. It hosts one of the miraculous icons in Bulgaria. A place for prayer, contemplation, for finding peace of mind despite the many visitors.

From the quiet peacefulness to the beautiful artistry painted on the monument this place is a must see. They depict the famous parts of the Bible and also show how politics between people and religions also existed back then. Lots of rich history and a tour you do not want to miss!

Probably the most beautiful Monastery I have ever seen. From 1983 belongs to UNESCO World Heritage. The road there is in very good condition, even in winter.

One of the best places we visited in Bulgaria. Truly beautiful, and very peaceful. In summer, it was also the best weather of any other place in Bulgaria. Cool enough to hike comfortably. We stayed in the dormitory rooms for two nights, and it was a real highlight of Bulgaria.

I had seen the Rila Monastery mentioned so many times that I had high expectations, although I wasn't entirely sure what those expectations were. However, arriving there I was struck at how calm and quiet the place was even on a weekend during the summer holidays. It was possible to walk around and breathe the air and take in the view and the ambience more or less undisturbed. On a little hill to the north of the monastery, a path leads up along the stream that runs past the monastery. To access it you have to walk around the small line of buildings next to the monastery. While the path is blocked by a fence a few hundred meters along, it offers a nice vantage point for seeing the monastery from above.

A beautiful piece of architecture and velour. Well preserved and renovated. Wish there were more and better eateries around the place. But worth spending a couple of hours. Very attractively painted and bold colours.