Rila Rila Monastery Hotels

Top reasons to visit Rila Monastery

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Rila Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, perfect for spiritual reflection.
• Outdoor Adventures: The surrounding Rila Mountains offer exceptional hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore breathtaking natural landscapes.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage in local drinking tours to savour traditional beverages and experience the region's rich cultural heritage.
• Relaxation Opportunities: Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments and comfortable accommodations for a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Charming Local Community: Friendly locals enhance your visit, providing an authentic and welcoming atmosphere.

Find great hotels near Rila Monastery

Experience the serene beauty of Rila Monastery with a selection of charming accommodations nearby. Whether you seek a comfortable guesthouse or a well-equipped hotel, options abound for pilgrims and leisure travellers alike. Enjoy amenities such as air conditioning, double rooms, and spa services, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Rila offers a unique blend of spiritual retreat and modern comfort, catering to both business and ski vacation needs.

• Rila Hotel Borovets: Nestled in the scenic Borovets area, Rila Hotel Borovets is a 4-star hotel that offers a family-friendly and spa-themed retreat. Located 25.7km from Rila Monastery, this hotel caters to families with a range of children's amenities, including a shared playground, free cribs, and a dedicated children's club (for a fee). The hotel's full spa services ensure relaxation with facilities such as a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool, making it an ideal choice for families seeking both adventure and relaxation during their stay.
• Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort: Located 27.4km from Rila Monastery, Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort is a 4-star property perfect for those seeking a spa and adventure holiday. With a focus on ski activities, guests have easy access to ski lifts and shuttles, along with onsite ski rental. The resort also offers various adventure sports, including horseback riding and mountain biking. Guests can unwind in the spa with daily treatments, accessible treatment rooms, and couples' treatment options, making it an excellent choice for both relaxation and adventure seekers alike.
• Festa Winter Palace: This luxurious 5-star hotel is situated 27.4km from Rila Monastery and caters to business travellers and families alike. Festa Winter Palace provides numerous adventure sports opportunities, including onsite ski rental, snowboarding, and horseback riding. Families will appreciate the children's amenities, such as free cribs and a children’s club, ensuring a comfortable stay for all ages. With its elegant atmosphere and comprehensive facilities, this hotel promises a memorable experience for both leisure and business guests.

Where to stay near Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery, nestled in the stunning Rila Mountains, offers an authentic experience infused with heritage and tranquillity. Visitors can explore the active monastery with its remarkable architectural structure, immerse themselves in the serene ambiance, and engage in various activities that highlight the area's rich history. The friendly locals enhance the atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for any traveller seeking both adventure and spiritual reflection in this breathtaking location.

• Rilski Manastir: A quaint village located a mere 644m from the iconic Rila Monastery, Rilski Manastir draws in visitors with its seasonal charm. The peak season from January to March attracts adventure enthusiasts seeking thrilling outdoor activities, particularly skiing. The surrounding landscape is a haven for nature lovers, with a national park and stunning mountain peaks nearby. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the serene beauty of the park, Rilski Manastir offers a delightful escape for those craving both adventure and tranquillity.
• Rila Mountains: Just 3.2km from Rila Monastery, the Rila Mountains boast breathtaking natural beauty, making it a prime destination for outdoor aficionados. With visitor numbers soaring from January to March, this mountainous region is perfect for skiing and adventurous exploration. Picturesque lakes and majestic mountain vistas provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and photography. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with the monastery being a key attraction. Embrace the scenery and revel in the diverse range of activities that the Rila Mountains have to offer.
• Sapareva Banya: Situated 17.7km from Rila Monastery, Sapareva Banya is a vibrant city known for its geothermal springs and wellness retreats. While the summer months from June to August see a surge in visitors, this city offers year-round appeal for those seeking outdoor adventures, including skiing and hiking. The proximity to beautiful lakes and the majestic Rila Mountains enhances the experience, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Discover the unique charm and lively atmosphere of Sapareva Banya, where adventure meets rejuvenation.

Things to do near Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery offers a variety of activities for visitors, including rejuvenating spa treatments and exhilarating skiing opportunities nearby. For those seeking adventure, the region boasts some of the best hiking trails, allowing you to explore the stunning natural landscape. Additionally, consider joining a drinking tour to sample local beverages and immerse yourself in the cultural experience. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site while indulging in these delightful activities.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit the local shops near Rila Monastery, where you can find traditional crafts and religious items. If you're up for a drive, SkiBansko by Traventuria, located 37.0km away, offers a variety of gifts and mountain-themed merchandise.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at Saparevo Banski & SPA, where tranquil wellness treatments await you, just 17.7km from Rila Monastery. For outdoor enthusiasts, Pirin Golf and Country Club offers an invigorating golfing experience, 32.2km away, while Shiligarnik - Highland hosts lively music concerts, located 40.2km from the monastery.

Adventure

Borovets Ski Resort, located 25.7km from Rila Monastery, offers thrilling outdoor adventures with excellent skiing opportunities. Malyovitsa Ski Resort, only 9.7km away, is perfect for sports enthusiasts seeking challenging slopes. Experience breathtaking views on the Gondola Lift, situated 22.5km from the monastery, for an adventurous ride.

Nightlife

In Rila Monastery, the nightlife is tranquil yet captivating, with the nearby village offering quaint taverns where local wines and traditional dishes can be savoured. The serene atmosphere under starlit skies provides a unique backdrop for leisurely strolls and quiet conversation, enhancing the cultural experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rila Monastery

To save money on your visit to Rila Monastery, plan your trip during the off-peak months of May or October to November for lower accommodation prices. Consider booking hotels about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays are the most economical days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search filters to find budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels, and combine bookings for additional savings on flights and activities. Walking around the area is also a great way to enjoy the scenery without spending on transport.

• 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. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most competitive prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at Rila Monastery with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Rila Monastery

For an enriching experience during your visit to Rila Monastery, explore the beautiful lakes, historic churches, and stunning peaks surrounding the area. These attractions offer a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery, catering to various interests. Whether you seek tranquillity or exploration, Rila Monastery and its surroundings promise a memorable getaway for every traveller.

• Seven Rila Lakes: Nestled 8.0km from Rila Monastery, these stunning glacial lakes are a natural wonder, perfect for romantic strolls and outdoor adventures. The breathtaking scenery invites visitors to bask in nature's beauty, providing a serene escape.
• Church of Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno: Located adjacent to Rila Monastery, this church is a cultural gem steeped in history. Its exquisite architecture and spiritual ambiance offer a profound glimpse into Bulgarian Orthodox traditions.
• Kartala Ski Resort: Situated 11.3km away, this resort is a winter wonderland for ski enthusiasts. With its diverse slopes and adventure-filled activities, it promises exhilarating experiences amidst stunning mountain views.

Best time to go to Rila Monastery

The best time to visit Rila Monastery is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rila Monastery

To visit Rila Monastery, the nearest major airport is Sofia Airport (SOF), situated 62.8km away. Excellent accommodation options near Sofia Airport include the luxurious Sofia Balkan Palace, Maison Sofia - MGallery, and InterContinental Sofia by IHG, all located approximately 6.4km from the airport. These hotels offer various transportation services, such as 24-hour airport shuttles, scheduled transfers, and accessible shuttle options for guests. With convenient access to Sofia Airport, you can enjoy a seamless journey to the stunning Rila Monastery and explore the beautiful surroundings of Kyustendil Province.