Day Trips from Sofia to Boyana Church

The Rila Mountains are home to some of Bulgaria’s most fascinating historical and cultural sights, but seeing the highlights—and getting off the tourist track—is difficult without your own transportation. Visit a hand-picked selection of three sites during this full-day private tour, which includes two UNESCO World Heritage attractions— 10th-century Rila Monastery and the 13th-century frescos of Boyana Church (entry fee not included)—topped off by a wine tasting in a panoramic winery.

Discover two of Bulgaria's UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a private day tour from Sofia. With round-trip transportation and a local guide included, you're sure to get a seamless and immersive sightseeing experience. Begin with a leisurely visit to the active Rila Monastery, featuring relics, Tsar Boris III's coffin, and a museum. Next, head to Boyana Church, renowned for its beautiful frescoes. Weather permitting, you can also visit the Cave of John of Rila.

Travel with a small group to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church, two UNESCO World Heritage sites. An informative guide points out 19th-century paintings depicting the Bulgarian Renaissance at the country’s largest monastery, set against the beauty of the Rila mountains. In the afternoon, visit Boyana Church to view its medieval frescoes. You’ll travel round-trip by air-conditioned minivan from Sofia’s Alexander Nevski Square.

See two of Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage sites in a day—a feat that’s not possible on public transport—when you book this private guided tour, with round-trip hotel transfers from Sofia. First, explore the Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest Orthodox monastery, with a history going back to the 10th century. Next, visit the Boyana Church, a complex of three churches that include 13th-century Byzantine frescoes.

Sofia is surrounded by stunning natural and historical attractions, but visitors without their own transportation often find themselves restricted to the capital. Escape the bustle of the city during this half-day combo tour: Admire panoramic views overlooking Sofia from Vitosha Mountain, pay a visit to UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, and take a hot soak in an outdoor thermal spring. Tours depart from St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral.

During the 8-9 hours trip, you will see really amazing places and landmarks, starting from our meeting point St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, then going by luxury SUV to the popular UNESCO heritage - about 900 years old - Boyana Church, situated in the heart of Vitosha mountain. After the visit we will bring you to a very nice traditional Bulgarian restaurant in the middle of Rila mountain. When we finish our lunch we will go to the most popular UNESCO Heritage - Rila Monastery. You will have the opportunity to touch the spiritual life of this sacred place and discover its hidden treasures! Our next stop will be another amazing place in the nature - Sapareva Banya village and the hot spring mineral pools there :)! Regardless of the weather you will have the pleasure to dip yourself in the hot mineral waters in an outdoor swimming pools with a magnificent views! We will spend 2 hours there and then we will bring you back to the starting point in Sofia - St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral :)!

This is truly a spectacular, exclusive day tour, visiting some of the "must-see" UNESCO Heritage sites in Bulgaria: Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the Ancient City of Plovdiv, and Boyana Church! You will see really amazing places and landmarks, starting from our meeting point, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and then going by luxury SUV to the ancient city of Plovdiv, one of the oldest centers of European civilization. You will have the unique opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of the city with a professional guide on a two-hour walking tour. We will have lunch at a very nice traditional Bulgarian restaurant. Next stop will be another UNESCO heritage site, about 900 years old: Boyana Church. You will see and learn a lot about Bulgarian history and culture!

Step out of the ordinary and into a full-day journey filled with nature, culture, and relaxation. We begin in the heart of Sofia at the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, then head up to Vitosha Mountain for a dramatic panoramic view from the cliffs near the TV tower at Kopitoto – a breathtaking photo stop above the city. Next, we explore Bulgaria’s medieval soul with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, over 900 years old and nestled among the trees. Then it's time for a traditional Bulgarian lunch in a cozy mountain restaurant – homemade flavors to fuel your next adventure. After lunch, we escape deeper into nature with a peaceful horseback ride through the wild beauty of Plana Mountain – open meadows, forests, and fresh air. Finally, the perfect ending: a relaxing soak in the natural hot mineral pools of Sapareva Banya. Surrounded by mountains, sky, and steam – this is Bulgaria at its best.

Explore Sofia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites on a private 3-hour tour with convenient round-trip transport from local accommodations. In addition to navigating, your guide offers background often missed by visitors about each stop on the itinerary: Bulgaria’s National History Museum, Boyana Church and its medieval frescoes, and an 11th century monastery. Booking a private tour ensures plenty of time for photos and your guide's full attention.

The Rila Monastery and Boyana Church are two of Bulgaria's most important UNESCO World Heritage sites. Experience them both in a single day on this convenient transfer service from central Sofia, with a driver/guide. First, check out the frescoes in the Boyana Church; next head to the Rila Monastery for a short guided tour followed by free time. Please note: entrance fees are at your own expense.

Explore Bulgaria's rich cultural heritage on a day trip from Sofia to the stunning Rila Mountains. Begin with a visit to the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval frescoes that offer a glimpse into European art history. Next, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Rila Monastery, another UNESCO site, where you can wander the colorful architecture and intricate frescoes at your own pace. Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch featuring local dishes, all within a cozy mountain setting that enhances the experience. This small group tour promises comfort, authenticity, and an exclusive atmosphere. Premium private Mercedes Business Van for transportation Visit the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church and Rila Monastery Enjoy a leisurely pace to explore the monastery's stunning grounds Savor a traditional Bulgarian lunch in a local restaurant Small group size ensures a personalized and comfortable experience

Experience the pinnacle of Bulgarian cultural heritage in a single day! This unique itinerary allows you to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the majestic Rila Monastery, renowned as Bulgaria's largest and most significant monastery, and the captivating Boyana Church, celebrated for its exquisite 13th-century proto-Renaissance frescoes. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Rila Monastery, marvel at its intricate architecture, and delve into centuries of monastic history. Later, journey to the charming Boyana Church and be transported back in time by its breathtaking wall paintings. Choose your preferred exploration style with either a self-guided tour for independent exploration or a private guided tour for personalized insights and captivating narratives. This exclusive day trip offers an unforgettable cultural experience, showcasing the best of Bulgaria's historical and artistic treasures. Choose between privately-guided and self-guided tour.

Leave the crowds of Sofia behind for the day and take a small group tour to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church. Relax as comfortable transportation takes you from the city and into the scenic Bulgarian countryside. Discover 10th-century medieval history at Rila Monastery, then see some of the best preserved Orthodox frescoes in Europe at the Boyana Church. Enjoy immersive guided visits at both UNESCO sites, along with free admission.