Find hotels near Rila Monastery, Rila

Top reasons to visit Rila Monastery

• Rich History: Discover the deep historical significance of Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, through guided tours.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views and moderate hikes in the beautiful natural surroundings.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in winter sports at nearby ski resorts or explore scenic lakes and majestic peaks.
• Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting quaint shops and savoring traditional Bulgarian cuisine.
• Relaxation Opportunities: Unwind with spa treatments after a day of exploration in this tranquil setting.

Find great hotels near Rila Monastery

Explore a variety of accommodation options near Rila Monastery, from inviting guesthouses to well-appointed hotels. Whether you're seeking a spa-themed retreat, a cozy stay for business travel, or a ski vacation experience, you'll find suitable choices. The area also offers special accommodations for pilgrims, ensuring a restful visit to this historic site. Enjoy your stay while immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of Rila.

• Rila Hotel Borovets: Nestled in the scenic Borovets area, Rila Hotel Borovets is a 4-star retreat perfect for ski enthusiasts and those seeking a rejuvenating spa experience. Located 25.7km from Rila Monastery, this hotel combines the thrill of winter sports with relaxation. Guests can enjoy easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The full spa and pool services include facial treatments, manicures, and indoor pool access, ensuring a comforting stay after a day on the slopes.
• Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort: Located 27.4km from Rila Monastery, Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort is a 4-star destination designed for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike. This property offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing, catering to those with a spirit of adventure. Guests can unwind in the indoor pool or indulge in spa treatments, including massages and sauna sessions. It's a perfect blend of excitement and wellness, making it suitable for business travelers and vacationers seeking a memorable getaway.
• Festa Winter Palace: As a luxurious 5-star hotel situated 27.4km from Rila Monastery, Festa Winter Palace is the ultimate choice for families and those looking for an upscale spa retreat. This property offers a range of children’s amenities such as a playground and arcade game room, making it family-friendly. Guests can indulge in a variety of spa treatments, including aromatherapy and body treatments, while the steam room and pool sun loungers provide the perfect setting to relax. It’s a sophisticated haven for travelers seeking both leisure and luxury.

Where to stay near Rila Monastery

Near Rila Monastery, travelers can immerse themselves in a charming atmosphere filled with friendly locals and spiritual pilgrims. Explore the quaint local shops and indulge in a few delightful restaurants that offer a taste of Bulgarian cuisine. The area boasts a romantic ambiance, perfect for a lavish getaway amidst stunning natural beauty. Experience the warmth of the community as you discover the rich cultural heritage surrounding this iconic destination.

• Rilski Manastir: Nestled a mere 644m from the iconic Rila Monastery, Rilski Manastir is a charming village that draws travelers for its breathtaking outdoor experiences and stunning scenery. The village sees a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly peaking from January to March, making it a vibrant hub for adventure seekers. Here, you can indulge in skiing at nearby resorts and explore the beautiful national park, which offers picturesque trails and scenic views of the Rila Mountains. With its serene atmosphere, Rilski Manastir is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Rila Mountains: Located 3.2km from the Rila Monastery, the majestic Rila Mountains are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This naturally stunning region attracts visitors primarily from January to March, with its thrilling skiing opportunities and picturesque landscapes. The mountains are home to several ski resorts and fields, making them an ideal destination for winter sports lovers. Additionally, the area features enchanting lakes and impressive peaks, providing a perfect backdrop for hiking and photography, ensuring a memorable experience in nature's embrace.
• Sapareva Banya: Situated 17.7km away from Rila Monastery, Sapareva Banya is a lively city known for its year-round appeal. Unlike other areas, this city sees a steady flow of visitors, with peak tourism from June to August. Travelers flock here for its outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and romantic ambiance. The city boasts various ski resorts and fields, along with stunning lakes and the nearby Rila Mountains. Whether you're looking to relax in thermal springs or explore the beautiful surroundings, Sapareva Banya offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation.

Things to do near Rila Monastery

When visiting Rila Monastery, immerse yourself in its rich history through guided tours, and enjoy a memorable stay in the beautiful surroundings. For outdoor enthusiasts, moderate hikes offer stunning views, while nearby ski resorts provide winter sports opportunities. Additionally, consider indulging in spa treatments to relax after a day of exploration. There's something for everyone near this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Shopping

At Rila Monastery, you can explore local shops for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit SkiBansko by Traventuria, located 37.0km away, where you'll find a variety of gifts and local crafts to take home.

Recreation

Saparevo Banski & SPA, located 17.7km from Rila Monastery, offers rejuvenating body treatments in a serene environment. For outdoor enthusiasts, Pirin Golf and Country Club, 32.2km away, provides a perfect golfing experience. Enjoy live music at Shiligarnik - Highland, just 40.2km from the monastery.

Adventure

Experience thrilling skiing at Malyovitsa Ski Resort, located 9.7km from Rila Monastery, offering fantastic slopes and sports vibes. For more adventure, visit Borovets Ski Resort, 19.7km away, which features extensive ski options and outdoor activities, or take a scenic ride on the Gondola Lift, 22.5km away.

Nightlife

Experience the serene nightlife near Rila Monastery at the cozy Rila Mountain Lodge, where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes and local wines. For a lively atmosphere, visit the nearby Bistritsa Cafe, featuring folk music and dancing that captures the spirit of the region.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rila Monastery

To save money on your trip to Rila Monastery, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May or October to November, when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tools to find affordable accommodations and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings.

• 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: Book your hotel around Rila Monastery about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 lets you customize your search based on your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the most affordable to the highest priced, ensuring you find the best deals 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 hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Rila Monastery with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Rila Monastery

When visiting Rila Monastery in Bulgaria, you'll find a variety of attractions, including stunning lakes, historic churches, and majestic peaks. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, offering breathtaking scenery and rich heritage. Be sure to explore the Rila Monastery, known as Rilski Manastir, and check out options for accommodations nearby. For more insights, you can also look up Rila Monastery on TripAdvisor to enhance your experience.

• Seven Rila Lakes: A stunning natural wonder, the Seven Rila Lakes are located about 8.0km from Rila Monastery. This group of glacial lakes offers breathtaking scenery and a perfect spot for outdoor romance, making it ideal for hiking and picnicking amidst pristine nature.
• Church of Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno: Situated right next to Rila Monastery, this historic church is an architectural gem that exudes rich cultural vibes. Its intricate frescoes and serene atmosphere provide a deep connection to Bulgaria's spiritual heritage.
• Kartala Ski Resort: Located 11.3km from Rila Monastery, Kartala Ski Resort is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Offering thrilling skiing and snowboarding opportunities, this outdoor resort is perfect for those looking to embrace the winter wonderland.

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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rila Monastery

To visit the Rila Monastery, the nearest major airport is Sofia Airport (SOF), located 62.8km away. Several excellent hotels are situated near the airport, including the 5-star Sofia Balkan Palace, Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia, and InterContinental Sofia by IHG, all within 6.4km of SOF. These hotels provide various transportation services to the airport, such as 24-hour airport shuttles and on-request options, ensuring a convenient travel experience. Guests can expect amenities like scheduled shuttle availability and fee-based transfers, making access to Sofia Airport seamless for your trip to the beautiful Rila Monastery.