Rila Monastery is the most popular day trip from Sofia. Here is how to get there, how long the drive is and what a VIP transfer with a private chauffeur costs, based on our live prices.
How far it is and how long it takes
From Sofia and Sofia Airport the monastery is about 130 km and 2 hours away, one way. The road follows the Struma motorway past Dupnitsa, turns off at Kocherinovo towards the town of Rila and continues along the Rilska River valley. The last kilometres are a mountain road through the forest, so in winter we allow more time. From Plovdiv it is about 285 km and 3 h 30 min.
How to get there: public transport, a group tour or a transfer
There is no fast public transport from Sofia to the monastery. Organised tours leave at a fixed time, collect many people and follow a shared schedule. With a VIP transfer you leave when you are ready, travel only with your own group and stay as long as you like. Most often the chauffeur waits in the car park and drives you back to Sofia the same day.
VIP transfer prices to Rila Monastery
| From | Car up to 4 | Minivan up to 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Sofia and Sofia Airport 130 km, 2 h |
from €121 | from €154 |
| Plovdiv and Plovdiv Airport 285 km, 3 h 30 min |
from €198 | from €253 |
Prices are for the whole car, one way, not per person. Waiting time and the return trip are confirmed when you book, depending on how long you want to stay. The Mercedes S-Class, E-Class and V-Class are on request.
Practical tips before your visit
The monastery is an active one, so cover your shoulders and knees, especially if you go into the church. It is cooler in the mountains than in Sofia, and snow is possible in winter, so bring a warm layer. If your flight lands in the morning, you can be at the monastery before lunch and back at your Sofia hotel in the evening.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a VIP transfer from Sofia to Rila Monastery?
From €121 per car for up to 4 passengers and from €154 per minivan for up to 6, one way, from an address in Sofia or from Sofia Airport.
How long is the drive?
About 2 hours for 130 km from Sofia. From Plovdiv about 3 h 30 min for 285 km.
Can the chauffeur wait and bring us back the same day?
Yes, this is the most common booking. Waiting time and the return trip are confirmed when you book.
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