Rila Monastery and 7 Rila Lakes Self-Guided Shared Trip from Sofia
Overview
Available languages
13 hours
Mobile ticket
This self-guided, shared shuttle tour will take you to both the 7 Rila Lakes area in the morning and then in the afternoon to the UNESCO Rila Monastery in the Rila National park - Bulgaria's most famous natural and cultural sites. In the morning the shuttle bus tour bus will take you to the start of the hiking routes ar the Rila Lakes area and base station of the chair lift from where you can take the chair-lift up in the mountain. You have more than 5 hours for your self-guided tour of the Rila Lakes area. After that in the afternoon the shared shuttle will take you to the Rila Monastery - Bulgaria's most visited cultural and historical site. You have more than 1 hour to explore the monastery site on your own.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
What To Expect
St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral
Enjoy stunning morning views of Sofia's main landmark
Seven Rila Lakes
Admire the beautiful Seven Rila Lakes at your own pace
Options
Self-guided (transport only)
Self-guided trip: Have complete freedom to explore on your own.
With mountain guide
Guided trip: English speaking guide will help you discover the best hikes
What‘s Included
Driver
Round-trip shared transfer
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Entrance fees - Rila Lakes chairlift ticket (25 BGN per person, two-way)
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Guide services
Mountain rescue insurance
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
291 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great time
Q3085NBmatthewo,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Really good, definitely recommend.
Lovely day
Babette R,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The communication prior to this trip was very clear and I like that. Philip was waiting for the group in time. And time is time ... at 07:00 we left. Along the way Philip told us what was to come in a nice way and with humor. This was supplemented by floor plans. This made it a beautiful day. Thank you 💐
Great experience
Alessia A,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour was very well done, and Philip was very friendly and knowledgeable ☺️ Punctuality and professionalism, I recommend!
Beautiful scenery, friendly guides
R9259NRdanielk,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00End your trek through the seven lakes with mekitsa, spring water, and spiritual nourishment at the Rila monastery. Set up wonderfully by Philip and the team.
Wonderful tour of the 7 Lakes and Monastery of Rila
Joe B,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Philip was our guide and he was friendly, informative, and professional. The tour included 2 incredible sites and Philip shepherded us there with ease. A great tour.
100% worth it
Olivia F,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A fantastic experience that is 100% worth doing whilst visiting Sofia. Phillip was a great guide, informative and kept in touch with us throughout the day. The hike itself is incredible, the views are breathtaking but the walk is definitely moderate if you are not an experienced hiker. There is an option to do a much easier route but we chose the circular route which we found harder than we expected. We found the snow was still quite thick in places so make sure you have sensible shoes on and consider buying sticks at the bottom of the chair lift to aid you! Phillip messaged us the night before with everything we needed to know, including the correct gear to bring which was super helpful! The lakes are beautiful and should absolutely be on your bucket list! The Rila Monastery was a lovely way to end the day and again, worth a visit. The coach was clean and had air conditioning.
Super experience
6ayt,May 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A wonderful experience, Philip was always available to provide all the necessary information. If you're in good shape, I recommend doing the longer full route. Be careful of the snow, even in late May!
Close contact with nature and important religious monastery
mariapaolar972,May 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful memories of a sunny day hiking in the mountain to see the 7 lakes of Rila + visit of the monastery.Very well organised trip.Guide Philip: friendly and helpful
Although it was an...
Jade L,May 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Although it was an unguided tour, Phillip G was extremely helpful and gave many tips along the way. The two sites were beautiful and worth visiting!
Amazing one
Mona S,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was pleasant experience, everything was on time, this is what I like most about it! If you are going to this hike ensure you are well equipped to hike there, in many area you will hike on snow, so the views are incredible but you should be careful
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