Tulovo to Rila Monastery

Language

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian.

Currency

The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev (BGN).

Distance

Rila Monastery is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Rila Monastery from Sofia:

• By bus: There are regular buses from Sofia to Rila Monastery. The journey takes about 2 hours.
• By train: There are also trains from Sofia to Rila Monastery. The journey takes about 3 hours.
• By car: If you are driving from Sofia, take the E79 highway south. The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Expenses

The entrance fee to Rila Monastery is 10 BGN (about 5 euros). There are also additional charges for guided tours and other services.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Rila Monastery is during the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild. In the summer, the monastery can be very crowded, and in the winter, it can be very cold.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and cafes in the area around Rila Monastery. You can find a variety of Bulgarian dishes, as well as international cuisine.

Where to Go

In addition to the main monastery complex, there are several other things to see in the area around Rila Monastery. These include:

• The Rila Lakes: These seven glacial lakes are located in the Rila Mountains, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Rila Monastery.
• The Stob Pyramids: These unusual rock formations are located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Rila Monastery.
• The Seven Rila Lakes Hut: This mountain hut is located near the Rila Lakes. It is a popular starting point for hikes in the Rila Mountains.

FAQ

Is Rila Monastery open to the public?

Yes, Rila Monastery is open to the public. The entrance fee is 10 BGN (about 5 euros).

Are there any guided tours of Rila Monastery?

Yes, there are guided tours of Rila Monastery. The cost of a guided tour is 15 BGN (about 8 euros).

Is it possible to stay overnight at Rila Monastery?

Yes, it is possible to stay overnight at Rila Monastery. There are several guest houses in the area around the monastery.