Rila Monastery & thermal springs tour from Sofia

Walk the monastery, soak in Europe's only geyser

A day trip from Sofia combines Rila Monastery, Bulgaria's most famous landmark, with the Kotvata thermal spa complex in the mountains. You'll spend an hour walking the monastery grounds with a guide, have time for lunch at nearby restaurants, then enter the spa to relax in the thermal springs fed by Continental Europe's only geyser.

Step-by-step itinerary

Visit Rila Monastery and SPA

• Walking tour of Rila Monastery
• Free time for lunch nearby
• Relax at SPA Kotvata
• See the only geyser in Continental Europe

The experience

The tour leaves Sofia in the morning and heads into the mountains toward Rila Monastery, the country's most visited attraction. A guide leads a one-hour walking tour of the site, explaining the history and architecture, then leaves you free to explore further or grab lunch at one of the restaurants nearby before the group reconvenes.

The second half of the day shifts from sightseeing to rest. You'll travel to Kotvata, a thermal spa complex fed by the only geyser in Continental Europe. Entry to the spa is included, so you can soak in the warm mineral water and step away from the city. Bring a towel, soap and flip-flops. The spa has changing facilities but you'll need your own bathing gear.

The full outing runs about ten hours from pickup to drop-off in Sofia. Your guide drives the group and speaks English throughout the day. Children from age four are welcome, and the route is suitable for all fitness levels, though pregnant travelers should check with the operator first.

What’s included

• Entry to the Kotvata thermal spa complex.
• a guide-driver who speaks English.
• parking fees.
• hotel or central Sofia pickup and return.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (18 to 85 years) · Child (4 to 17 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancy

Operated by Bulgarian Fairy Tale

Is this one for you?This tour suits small groups and families with children from age four who want to combine Bulgaria's most visited monastery with a full day away from the city. The fixed itinerary and included guide mean you don't arrange transport or entry separately. The ten-hour span lets you move at an unhurried pace between the two very different stops.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 17 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.

What is there to do at Rila Monastery during the tour?

Rila Monastery is Bulgaria's most famous landmark. You'll take a guided one-hour walking tour of the site to learn about its history and architecture, then have free time to explore further or eat lunch at the nearby restaurants before heading to the spa.

What exactly is the Kotvata thermal spa, and what's included there?

Kotvata is a thermal spa complex fed by Continental Europe's only geyser. Entry to the spa is included in your tour price, so you can relax in the warm mineral water. You'll need to bring your own towel, soap and flip-flops.

How much time do I spend at each stop?

You'll spend about an hour on the guided walking tour at Rila Monastery, plus additional free time for lunch and exploration. The spa portion gives you time to soak and relax before the return drive to Sofia. The full day is roughly ten hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is lunch included, and what are my options?

Lunch is not included in the tour price. Restaurants operate near Rila Monastery where you can eat during your free time at the site.

Do I need any special gear or preparation for the spa?

Bring a towel, soap and flip-flops for the spa. The complex has changing facilities but no rentals. Children from age four can join the tour. Pregnant travelers should contact the operator before booking, as the tour is not recommended for pregnancy.