Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia
4.7
Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia
By Rila Shuttle
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 36 per group
Duration: 13h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Written guide: English
Print or digital reading material such as a guide, map, brochure, etc.
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Highlights
- Round-trip shared transfer
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Driver
- Entry/Admission - Rila Shuttle
What's not included- Entrance fees - Rila Lakes chairlift ticket (25 BGN per person, two-way)
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Guide services
- Mountain rescue insurance
- Start:
- Old City Center, пл. „Княз Александър I“ 1, 1000 Sofia, BulgariaGo to the car parking at Knyaz Aleksander I square (in front of The Palace - National Art Gallery). Look for a vehicle with Rila Shutle sign. Nearest metro station is Serdika.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 15352P6- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- A moderate to intensive amount of walking is involved (walking/hiking experience is a must)
- Comfortable walking shoes and clothes suitable for mountain/walking are required
- Sun cream and sunglasses are strongly recommended
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Dress code at the Rila Monastery: high heels, short skirts and trousers, shirts with no sleeves, etc. are not allowed in the monastery.
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travellers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 36 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 15352P6
From
£38.38
per adult
Select date and travellers
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Itinerary
- Old City Center, пл. „Княз Александър I“ 1, 1000 Sofia, BulgariaGo to the car parking at Knyaz Aleksander I square (in front of The Palace - National Art Gallery). Look for a vehicle with Rila Shutle sign. Nearest metro station is Serdika.
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- huijbens570 contributionsInteresting day to get a feeling of the countryside of BulgariaWe liked the tour and the tour guide (Philip) very much. Although we had to travel quite some time, is was interesting to see the countryside of Bulgaria. And all the information we received was interesting and never boring, or too long.Written 10 September 2024
- Evangelina B0 contributionsDO IT!Phillip was so amazing - everything was so well communicated and it was such a great day!! SO GOOD - Rila was first in the morning when it was very quiet! Very recommended xxWritten 9 September 2024
- natashamJ7603LQ0 contributionsA one in a lifetime experience ✨️Amazing views!!!! Would definitely recommend 👌 The fresh air and the surroundings together with the chairlift would create memories for a lifetime.Written 8 September 2024
- Tijn v0 contributionsRelaxing, cheap and good transferWhile our car rental was canceled Philip from Rila shuttle was able to transfer us from the Rila Mountains to Sofia. If you are interested in visiting the Rila monastery then make sure you book your transfers with Rila Shuttle. It is cheaper then a car rental and you will get a big car and private taxi driver to bring you nice and safely. Our ride was so relaxing that two friends felt asleep underway.Written 24 August 2024
- 284alessioa0 contributionsScam. They advertise one thing, they offer another one in reality.The tour does not pass in the advertised places. Check other options as you won’t get your money back when the driver decides to not go some places.Written 19 August 2024
- 946katinkae0 contributionsWould recommendVery good and enjoyable trip to the mountains and to experience the beautiful monastery. It was a great opportunity to meet people and the guide and driver were both very polite and helpful :)Written 1 August 2024
- 321xl0 contributionsVery best tripMy guide was Philip and company is Rila Shuttle . I enjoyed the Plovdiv town and Rila monastery very much. The guide was very very nice and friendly. He was super kind to all the tourists. Make sure we understand everything. The tour was perfect and super easy. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you Philip!! ShellWritten 5 July 2024
- corradob2170 contributionsAmazing experienceAmazing experience! Rila monastery in an amazing place. The guide, Philip, was very professional and kind. I recommend this tour.Written 16 June 2024
- cptBenyo0 contributionsTruly amazing experienceIt was truly amazing! Everything was organised prefectly, and the time was enough for both places. Due to the weekend we arrived in the early moarning at the Rila Monastery and it was a good because we got there before the tourists. Philip was very kind and funny, he even lent me 20 bgn at the monastery when I told him I forgot to withdraw cash. I recommend this trip for everyone!Written 28 May 2024
- 419geoffreyo0 contributionsPerfect TourThis was the perfect tour for us because our guide Philip explained in detail all of the options at each location and we could pick and choose based on our interests. A long but very enjoyable day - lots of great memories! We could not have asked for a better guide or driver. 5 out of 5!Written 20 May 2024
- jemsunit0 contributionsReally recommend it, beautiful tour!"Rila Shuttle" was very a good option for our tour from Sofia to Rila Monastery and Plovdiv city. Everything was on time, well organized and we had enough time to see all the locations without many tourists. A special mention to Philip, our tour leader of the day: he was very professional and very kind (he answered to all my hundred questions). :-)Written 16 May 2024
- 169vitoi0 contributionsVery interesting tripThe guide and driver were very friendly and professional. I really appreciated the warnings and descriptions of places to visit written in the whatsapp group created by the organiserWritten 28 April 2024
- veronikae8650 contributionsMust see attractions while in Sofia, Bulgaria.The combo visit to the monastery and the city of Plovdiv is a great compromise if you only have one day in Sofia. I would have liked another half hour at the monastery and a minimum of 2 more hours in the city. Philip was a good tour manager who communicated with the whole group via WhatsApp during the tour. He also provided good historical info on the monastery and Plovdiv while we were in the bus.Written 27 April 2024
- soundchaseruk0 contributionsRila Monastery is MagnificentThe bus guide gave us lots of general and specific information about our visit, and the history of Bulgaria. It was about a 2.30hr trip through interesting countryside with about 15 in the mini bus. Started at 7am which meant we missed the masses. The monastery is fascinating with a few surprises. Toilets are available but for us there was no toilet paper. We had roughly 1hr to explore the area by the river, but the only coffee available before 10.30am, was from a machine. The café didn't open until 10.30am which we couldn't wait for.Written 22 April 2024
- huanz1260 contributionsVery nice trip!!We had a nice time with Philip, the trip was very on time and everything is smooth. Driving was fast but smooth as well. overall very good experience!Written 22 April 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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4.7
137 reviews
Excellent
114
Very good
14
Average
5
Poor
0
Terrible
4
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Giovanni Chiarolanza
2 contributions
Aug 2023
The best way to visit both the 7 lakes and the monastery in a day if you don't have your own transport to go there!
Departure early in the morning in order to start trekking to the lakes as soon as possible, avoiding queues at the chairlift and being able to enjoy the whole walk without rushing. Before departure, Philip explained the itinerary to us and suggested the best routes to follow; His advice was super clear and very useful, we managed to complete the complete route in around 5 hours, complete with photo breaks and lunch. The walk is not particularly difficult, but I would say that you need to equip yourself adequately with snacks, sun protection and water (I just remember a spring where it was possible to fill the bottles). The monastery is beautiful but I don't think it deserves a whole day's travel to be visited, so it's better to combine it with another visit like the one to the lakes (in any case having plenty of time available for the tour and to taste the mekitsa they prepare at the kiosk there Neighbor )
Departure early in the morning in order to start trekking to the lakes as soon as possible, avoiding queues at the chairlift and being able to enjoy the whole walk without rushing. Before departure, Philip explained the itinerary to us and suggested the best routes to follow; His advice was super clear and very useful, we managed to complete the complete route in around 5 hours, complete with photo breaks and lunch. The walk is not particularly difficult, but I would say that you need to equip yourself adequately with snacks, sun protection and water (I just remember a spring where it was possible to fill the bottles). The monastery is beautiful but I don't think it deserves a whole day's travel to be visited, so it's better to combine it with another visit like the one to the lakes (in any case having plenty of time available for the tour and to taste the mekitsa they prepare at the kiosk there Neighbor )
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marco S
Rome, Italy6 contributions
The trip is very beautiful. The lakes are magnificent especially if you are lucky enough to go there on a day with good visibility (often the clouds at that altitude prevent you from seeing the lakes well). Having said this, you should know that the trip is quite tiring. Departure at 7am and return at 8pm. The ascent to the higher lakes is not for everyone and requires almost 5 hours of walking in the case of the complete trail. The monastery is interesting, we visited the historical museum (for a fee) inside which there is the truly spectacular Rafael cross. Our guide and above all our driver were fundamental in guaranteeing the success of the trip which was punctuated by sheer bad luck with various problems (overheating bus and a blockage due to an accident on the road to the monastery which prevented the passage of the bus but that our driver managed to get around)
Experience to recommend
Experience to recommend
Written 22 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
T-SGlobetrotters
Preston, UK4,371 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
We chose the self-guided walking option for the Rila Lakes hike and for us it was a good choice. It is a long day with a 7.00 start in Sofia returning around 19.45 in the evening but it is the most efficient way of seeing both attractions. Everything is very well organised. Philip who organises the day sets you up on a WhatsApp group in case of any difficulties. There is a comprehensive guide given with a route map for Rila Lakes where he provides the introduction for the day prior to departure. There are different route options depending on your desired walking speed with approximate timings between various points ensuring you don’t overrun. We found there was just enough time to view all seven lakes starting with the high path to Babreka lake, carrying on a steep upward climb to Ototo lake and the glorious, elevated panorama before returning via the lowland route to the cable car. We arrived at the lake around 8.45 and you have to be back at the cable car before 2.30pm for a 3pm departure for the monastery. The ascent in places is quite tough, good shoes are essential and walking poles help enormously particularly on the downhill sections but for us a couple in their mid 60’s, it was doable.
For the second visit, you are provided with a map of the site and dress rules as it is a working monastery. Arriving 4.45 pm with a 6pm departure. We found an hour is more than sufficient. Everyone in our party got back to the bus early for an advanced departure arriving back sound 19.45.
A very good and well organised day.
For the second visit, you are provided with a map of the site and dress rules as it is a working monastery. Arriving 4.45 pm with a 6pm departure. We found an hour is more than sufficient. Everyone in our party got back to the bus early for an advanced departure arriving back sound 19.45.
A very good and well organised day.
Written 20 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FarAway788430
6 contributions
Sept 2023 • Friends
Really well organised excellent communication throughout the day, a WhatsApp group was created along with physical maps and itinerary.
You definitely need cash, because the card machine for the chair lift doesn't always work. There is also a cafe where you can get hot food depending on if you have time, we had our packed lunch.
Would recommend trying the bread you can buy at the bakery next to the monastery.
You definitely need cash, because the card machine for the chair lift doesn't always work. There is also a cafe where you can get hot food depending on if you have time, we had our packed lunch.
Would recommend trying the bread you can buy at the bakery next to the monastery.
Written 3 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JCN
14 contributions
Sept 2024 • Solo
Seven Lakes is phenomenal, There are levels of hikes, everything is super clear, and even if you're not a hiker, it's worth it alone for the cable car ride. Rila is stunningly beautiful. A must see and a perfect combination as the monastery isn't very big so having a second activity is smart. Go to the monastery bakery amd thank me later ;)
As for this trip, I think it is better run than other companies because you do the hike first in the morning so it's less busy, and Rila in the late afternoon, again when it's quieter. Some companies do it the other way round which is not as smart as it gets crowded. This way was more enjoyable.
This is an excellent way to see Seven Lakes and Rila. Organising public transport would be impossible, amd I wouldn't enjoy driving on those winding roads in a country I don't know well. Also they're not the type of locations where you want to follow a guide, yoi want to enjoy at your own pace.
So this was fantastic. Phillip was a great guide. Gave clear instructions in person and on paper, and messaged on WhatsApp throughout the day. The driver was awesome . Everything was smooth amd ram like a dream
Amazing 110% recommended
As for this trip, I think it is better run than other companies because you do the hike first in the morning so it's less busy, and Rila in the late afternoon, again when it's quieter. Some companies do it the other way round which is not as smart as it gets crowded. This way was more enjoyable.
This is an excellent way to see Seven Lakes and Rila. Organising public transport would be impossible, amd I wouldn't enjoy driving on those winding roads in a country I don't know well. Also they're not the type of locations where you want to follow a guide, yoi want to enjoy at your own pace.
So this was fantastic. Phillip was a great guide. Gave clear instructions in person and on paper, and messaged on WhatsApp throughout the day. The driver was awesome . Everything was smooth amd ram like a dream
Amazing 110% recommended
Written 24 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Autumn S
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Family
We had an amazing day on Sunday. Whilst the tour is self guided, Philip gave us plenty of information on the coach trip - both history and practical tips for the hike. The driver was also amazing, dropping us off and picking us up right by the ski lift (though I think we were very lucky!)
We were very fortunate with the weather and managed to do the whole loop at the lakes and see all 7 (even with my 10 year old sister). Sun hat is a must and good shoes but as the weather was so nice we were fine in comfy trainers. The route has some steep inclines but good paths and plenty of flatter areas too.
We hiked as a family, but I noticed a few of the solo travellers ending up hiking together too.
One downside - when you arrive at the Monastery, the museum is closed and the little shops outside were also starting to close. Not a huge issue as the grounds and church were still open and amazing, and the plus is that it's a lot less busy by the time we arrived - for us the lakes were the real highlight but if you are going for the Monastery particularly something to bear in mind.
Overall a fantastic trip which I would 100% recommend.
We were very fortunate with the weather and managed to do the whole loop at the lakes and see all 7 (even with my 10 year old sister). Sun hat is a must and good shoes but as the weather was so nice we were fine in comfy trainers. The route has some steep inclines but good paths and plenty of flatter areas too.
We hiked as a family, but I noticed a few of the solo travellers ending up hiking together too.
One downside - when you arrive at the Monastery, the museum is closed and the little shops outside were also starting to close. Not a huge issue as the grounds and church were still open and amazing, and the plus is that it's a lot less busy by the time we arrived - for us the lakes were the real highlight but if you are going for the Monastery particularly something to bear in mind.
Overall a fantastic trip which I would 100% recommend.
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helen
12 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
Easy to book, communication of pick up was clear, took time before we set off to explain everything and give tips and clear times to regroup etc. Very pleasant and posted information throughout the day on Whatsapp trip group to keep informed. The lakes walk is amazing..something for everyone of all age an ability. George, our driver was great and very calm. It was a long day but totally worth it. The frescoes at the monastery are beautiful and so colorful. Take local cash for buying food and souvenirs at the monastery. The chair lift return trip is 30 lev p/p and they can take card payment. Thanks Philip and George.
Written 26 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Δεσποινα Μ
1 contribution
Sept 2024 • Friends
This experience was the worst I have ever had! We were left on top of the lift at the lakes due to bad weather and the lift stopped working! Our guide said there is nothing we can do and left us there saying that you have to find your own way to go back to Sofia on your own money! And btw we left our things in the bus, which left without us! Philips (our guide) behaviour was the worst, he removed us from the watsapp group that he created and he did not even give us chance to continue the rest of our trip!
Written 14 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ramzi R
3 contributions
Sept 2023 • Solo
do think that this is the best way to enjoy your stay in Bulgaria. Rila mountains are so beautiful, booking the lakes with Monastery is also a very good choice which will give you enough time for a nice hiking ended by the lakes view and short visit to the important Church and Monastery in Bulgaria. I enjoyed my trip and recommend really this offer, nice drive, self guided tour while you will get all needed information from Philip before departure. Don’t miss this tour even if you’re in Sofia for two nights.
Written 16 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hanne M
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Friends
Due to the wind, the chairlift in the Rila Lakes did not work. The alternative was also not available.
This meant we had to walk to the hut, which was very intensive. The wind made the trip to the lakes very difficult. Nevertheless, we were still able to enjoy the beautiful nature. Despite the many unexpected circumstances, the guide always remained friendly and optimistic and tried to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
This meant we had to walk to the hut, which was very intensive. The wind made the trip to the lakes very difficult. Nevertheless, we were still able to enjoy the beautiful nature. Despite the many unexpected circumstances, the guide always remained friendly and optimistic and tried to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
Written 4 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What time does the tour start, and what time does it end? I cannot find the timings anywhere in the information.
Written 22 July 2022
Hi! What time does the tour start, and what time does it end? I cannot find the timings anywhere in the information.
Written 22 July 2022
Hello! Does this tour include a guide on the hike? I don't really trust myself to find my way back...
Written 13 May 2021
Hi there
Regarding this trip and the current situation of everyone losing their mind over the coronavirus, will this trip be effected in any way in the coming months if I were to make a reservation for later in April? (assuming everyone calms down and we return to business as usual soon)
Thanks
Written 15 March 2020
Nurçin Ö
Istanbul, Türkiye
Hello, what is the expected return hour to city center? We have a late night train to catch. Thank you
Written 11 August 2019
may I know how long we will stay in the Monastery and when will be back to Sofia?
Written 22 June 2019
BanskoShuttle
Sofia Region, Bulgaria
Hi, the time spend at the Rila Monastery is approx 1h 30 min. If you have any other questions - please do not hesitate to contact us.
Written 29 June 2019
We are interested in doing this trip on Wednesday 29 May but have heard elsewhere that the chairlift for Rila Lakes does not open until 1 June. Is this tour running and can the lakes be hiked?
Many thanks
Vicky
Written 26 May 2019
Hello
We're a group of 4 and we would like to book the tour "The seven lakes and Rila's monastery" for 21st of June
We have an overnight hotel stay for the 21st and checkout on the 22nd of June in a hotel nearby the monastery
The question is: Could we come back to Sofia with your trip on the 22nd of June?
In that case, What time would that be?
Best regards
Written 23 May 2019
Hi there, we are coming to Sofia tomorrow Monday 18th March and would like to do the seven lakes on Tuesday 19th March. Is this possible at this time of year? Thanks
Written 17 March 2019
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.