Book Your Rila Lakes Full-Day Tour From Sofia Here

Do you want to experience some of Bulgaria’s most beautiful natural wonders on a full day tour from Sofia? The Seven Rila Lakes are located in the stunning Rila Mountains, an easily accessible destination that’s just a few hours away from the city of Sofia. This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of these unforgettable destinations, providing plenty of time for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing at a reasonable price.

Overview

Begin your day with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Sofia, then head to the nearby mountains for a full day trip to the Seven Rila Lakes. Along the way, you’ll stop at Mt. Musala—the highest peak in all of Bulgaria—and take in the stunning views from there before travelling to the desert of Landzheto, located about 4300m above sea level.

Once you reach the lakes, you’ll be able to explore and appreciate nature’s beauty all around you. The lakes are connected by small waterfalls that cascade down through the stunning mountain landscape, and you’ll have plenty of time at each lake to explore, swim and take photos before driving back to Sofia, where your tour will end.

What to Expect

The Seven Rila Lakes are an integral part of Bulgaria’s landscape that are not to be missed. Not only will you get to experience nature in all its glory, but you’ll also learn about the Rila Monastery—a fourth-century complex built by monks in order to preserve the spiritual and cultural history of the region.

You’ll be provided with an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will provide insight into the surrounding culture and history throughout your journey. All transportation fees and entrance fees to the monastery are included in the price of the tour.

Key Highlights

• Taking a tour of the Seven Rila Lakes and the surrounding area, seeing nature in its purest form
• Learn about the history of Mt. Musala and viewing its spectacular panoramas before heading towards Landzheto, an arid desert located at 4300m above sea level
• Experience cultural and religious significance of Rila Monastery, a fourth-century complex comprising of several churches and cells that were built by monks who sought to preserve their beliefs and culture
• Taking a dip in some of the pristine crystal clear lakes and exploring around each lake before heading back to Sofia at the end of the day

Itinerary

Itinerary:
06:00am – Pick up from hotel in Sofia
09:30am – Arrive at Mt. Musala for a panorama view tour (approx. 1 hour)
10:45am – Make a stop at Landzheto (approx. 45 minutes)
12:00pm – Start your journey to the Rila Monastery (approx. 40 minutes)
12:40pm – Tour the monastery while your guide gives you insight into the culture and history (approx. 1 hour)
13:40pm – Stop at each lake for sightseeing and swimming with plenty of time in between (up to 6 hours total)
20:00pm – Drop off back at hotel in Sofia

Tips & Advice
• Bring comfortable shoes and clothing as there is a lot of walking involved
• Pack waterproof clothing in case it rains
• Bring snacks and drinks if you feel peckish during your journey
• Bring swimming clothes so you can take a dip into some of the crystal clear lakes
• Make sure to bring sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses

For those looking for an unforgettable full day tour from Sofia, exploring the Seven Rila Lakes is definitely a great option. Not only will you get to experience some of Bulgaria’s most beautiful natural wonders, but you’ll also get to experience its rich cultural history along with it. From taking in the stunning panoramic views from Mt. Musala to diving into some of Bulgaria’s clearest lakes and learning more about Rila Monastery’s spiritual heritage, this tour is packed with amazing experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. To make sure you get the most out of your time, make sure to book your Seven Rila Lakes tour with GetYourGuide so you can have a hassle-free day filled with incredible memories that will last a lifetime. Book Your Rila Lakes Full-Day Tour From Here today!

Your Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is a city of contrasting flavors, with a rich history, vibrant culture, and lingering traditional charm. As Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia has much to offer for the curious traveler seeking an adventure beyond the beaten path. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the hidden gems, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that make Sofia an unforgettable destination.

Local Attractions

While most tourists go to Sofia’s major attractions, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or the Vitosha Mountain, there are several hidden gems that locals treasure. One of them is the Red Flat, a long-abandoned communist-era apartment, frozen in time, which serves as a relic of Sofian history. Another is the Neon Sofia museum in the city center, which displays Sofia’s iconic neon signs and symbols from the past.

For a taste of Sofian nature, take a stroll through the City Garden which is right next to the National Art Gallery, active both in exhibitions and holding a permanent collection.

Dining Spots

Sofian cuisine is a delicious mix of Mediterranean, Balkan, and Russian influences. To get the authentic taste of Sofian cuisine, head over to Pod Lipite, a restaurant located in an old house, which serves hearty homemade Bulgarian dishes and an unbeatable ambience. Alternatively, try Niko’las, the ultimate spot for Balkan fusion food lovingly prepared from traditional, carefully selected ingredients.

For those who like to take a sip while they eat, Sofia is filled with bars and glitzy clubs. If uniqueness and ambiance are more your thing, try Anti-Café: the place where you pay for the time you spend inside, but the drinks are free. Another spot to hit up for the trendiest drinks is Sputnik Bar, where you’ll experience a sobering, yet very culturally rich, slice of nightlife in Sofia.

Cultural Experiences

Sofia is a city that abounds in culture. Its history is rich with Byzantine empires, Ottoman invasions, and communist regimes. One of the best ways to experience the culture of Sofia is to explore the city’s galleries and museums, such as the National Museum of History or the National Palace of Culture.

Another culturally significant activity is visiting one of Sofia’s many traditional dance groups. You can watch these groups perform at the National Palace of Culture, which is among the most picturesque performance venues in Europe.

Local History

Sofia’s history is a story best told through its many evocative landmarks. Take the time to appreciate Saint Nikolas Church and its Ottoman inspired influences or the personal story of the Ivan Vazov National Theater’s dramatic history and how is has been crucial in maintaining the beloved Bulgarian tradition of acting and witty comedy. A walk past the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral will remind you of Sofia’s Russian past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To truly experience Sofia’s hidden gems, take a walk around the city’s outskirts and up the Vitosha Mountain. There, you’ll find the picturesque Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient thermal springs of Bankya that are said to cure all ailments. And if you need some fitness and fresh air amidst your touring, visit the Sofia Green Belt, perfect for jogging or cycling enthusiasts, for a unique, more peaceful way to take in Sofia’s spectacular charm.

In conclusion, Sofia is a city filled with hidden secrets and delightful gems that offer something for everyone. Its rich history, culture, cuisine, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions make it an unforgettable destination.