Rila Monastery

Things to do near Rila Monastery

Visitors to Rila Monastery can enjoy a variety of activities, including skiing at nearby ski centres and indulging in relaxing spa treatments. The monastery itself is a perfect day trip destination, offering a rich cultural experience amidst stunning natural scenery. For those seeking adventure, a day of skiing can complement the spiritual and historical exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Shopping

For souvenirs and gifts, explore local shops near Rila Monastery. If you're up for a drive, visit SkiBansko by Traventuria, located 37.0km away, where you can find a range of items perfect for remembering your trip.

Recreation

At Saparevo Banski & SPA, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments amidst serene wellness vibes, just 17.7km from Rila Monastery. Experience outdoor sports at the Pirin Golf and Country Club, located 32.2km away, or enjoy lively music concerts at Shiligarnik - Highland, 40.2km from the monastery.

Adventure

At Malyovitsa Ski Resort, located 9.7km from Rila Monastery, enjoy thrilling skiing amidst stunning mountain scenery. Borovets Ski Resort, 19.7km away, offers exhilarating outdoor adventures. Experience breathtaking views on the Gondola Lift, situated 22.5km from the monastery, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

While Rila Monastery itself is more renowned for its serene atmosphere and historical significance, nearby towns like Rila and Blagoevgrad offer quaint bars and eateries. Enjoy a local beer at a cosy tavern or savour traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a charming restaurant, immersing yourself in the region's vibrant culture.

Find the best attractions near Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, including stunning lakes, historic churches, and breathtaking peaks. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or picturesque scenery, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area, making your visit both memorable and enriching.

• Seven Rila Lakes: Nestled 8.0km from Rila Monastery, the Seven Rila Lakes are a stunning series of glacial lakes, offering breathtaking scenery and romantic vibes. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can hike around the lakes and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
• Church of Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno: Located adjacent to Rila Monastery, this church is a cultural gem, renowned for its intricate frescoes and historical significance. It serves as a spiritual haven, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region.
• Kartala Ski Resort: Situated 11.3km from the monastery, Kartala Ski Resort provides an exciting adventure for ski lovers. With a variety of slopes and stunning mountain views, it’s perfect for both seasoned skiers and beginners looking for an exhilarating outdoor experience.

Best time to go to Rila Monastery

The best time to visit Rila Monastery can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rila Monastery falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Rila Monastery falls in January, 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	Slightly High
February	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly 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	Slightly Low
June	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly 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 accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, especially on Saturdays, and check Expedia for last-minute discounts. Use their search tool to filter by budget and preferences, ensuring you find the most affordable options. Combining your hotel with flights and activities can also yield significant savings. Look out for eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices that won't break the bank.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Rila Monastery is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel reservation at Rila Monastery with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.