Find hotels in Rila from $52

Top reasons to visit Rila

• Stunning Rila Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic monastery showcases remarkable architecture and rich history.
• Rila National Park: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers breathtaking landscapes and numerous hiking trails.
• Rila Lakes: A picturesque group of glacial lakes, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Skiing Adventures: Enjoy thrilling skiing at local resorts, complete with gondola lifts and ski trips.
• Charming Local Neighborhoods: Explore quaint shops and experience the warm community spirit of Rila.

Find great hotels near Rila

Discover the ideal accommodations for your getaway in Rila, Bulgaria. Whether you're seeking a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious hotel, you'll find options that cater to spa enthusiasts, families, and pet owners alike. Explore competitive room rates and uncover the best hotels close to popular attractions, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in this beautiful region.

• Strimon Garden Medical SPA Hotel: This luxurious 5-star hotel is a wellness haven located 25 miles from Rila, perfect for those seeking a rejuvenating getaway. The hotel's distinctive spa theme features a natural hot spring, offering guests a unique opportunity to unwind in soothing waters. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children's pool, playground, and arcade game room. The extensive spa services include indoor swimming, massages, mud baths, and manicures/pedicures, ensuring your relaxation needs are fully catered to. Experience tranquility and comfort in this serene setting.
• The Balkan Jewel Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: Situated 24 miles from Rila, this inviting 3-star resort is a paradise for adventure seekers and golf enthusiasts. With immediate access to skiing and golf, guests can enjoy thrilling outdoor activities year-round. The resort offers ski shuttle services and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes ideal for hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The Balkan Jewel Resort blends excitement with comfort, providing guests with a variety of recreational options and a chance to connect with nature in a stunning alpine setting.
• Hotel Grand: Located 26 miles from Rila, this classy 3-star hotel is tailored for both business and leisure travelers. Hotel Grand features excellent business facilities, including multiple meeting rooms to accommodate corporate needs. Guests can unwind after a busy day with the hotel’s full spa services, which include an outdoor seasonal pool, sauna, and poolside bar. With easy access to ski lifts and shuttles, it offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal choice for those looking to combine work and play.

Where to stay in and around Rila

Rila offers a memorable getaway with its stunning outdoor scenery and friendly atmosphere. Explore charming neighborhoods nearby, where local shops invite you to discover unique treasures. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Rila's vacation village vibe ensures an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the best locations that blend budget-friendly options with a warm community spirit, making your trip to Rila a favorite escape.

• Rilski Manastir: Nestled in the breathtaking Rila Mountains, Rilski Manastir is a picturesque village that draws visitors for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The area is particularly vibrant from January to March, attracting those seeking outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences, and stunning scenery. Popular activities include golfing at nearby private clubs and exploring the local monastery, park, and peak. The serene environment and majestic landscapes make it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
• Blagoevgrad: Located just 8 miles from Rila, Blagoevgrad is a lively city that offers a year-round travel experience. While it sees a surge in visitors between April and July, the city remains a great destination any time of the year. Known for its outdoor sports and skiing opportunities, Blagoevgrad is perfect for adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy skiing at local fields or engage in educational experiences in the area. Notable attractions include urban parks and the historic monastery, providing a blend of culture and recreation.
• Pastra: A charming village in the Rila region, Pastra is less frequented than its neighbors but offers a unique cultural experience. Visitor numbers peak during the summer months, from July to September, making it a lovely destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local traditions. The area is known for its proximity to a beautiful monastery, which stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Pastra's tranquil atmosphere and scenic views provide a perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway.

Things to do near Rila

Rila offers an exciting outdoor adventure for tourists seeking stunning scenery and thrilling activities. Popular options include skiing at the local ski resort, using gondola lifts and ski lifts for access to the slopes, and embarking on ski trips. Additionally, visitors can explore the famous Rila Monastery, making it a perfect destination for a memorable skiing holiday combined with cultural tours.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, you can visit SkiBansko by Traventuria, located 28 miles from Rila, where you'll find a selection of outdoor gear and souvenirs perfect for your adventures. In Rila itself, local shops offer unique gifts that reflect the area's culture and heritage.

Recreation

Experience the stunning landscapes at Pirin Golf and Country Club, a serene golf course perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. For a peaceful retreat, visit Park Vitosha, where you can unwind amidst nature. Enjoy lively entertainment at the Shiligarnik - Highland concert for a memorable evening.

Adventure

Malyovitsa Ski Resort offers thrilling skiing experiences, located 14 miles from Rila. Enjoy the invigorating sports atmosphere and breathtaking mountain views. Kartala Ski Resort, 13 miles away, provides exciting skiing and outdoor adventures. For a unique perspective, take the Gondola Lift, situated 24 miles from Rila, and soak in stunning alpine scenery.

Nightlife

Rila offers a cozy nightlife with local taverns and bars where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian music and dance. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals, savoring local wines, and trying out delicious cuisine, making your night out memorable.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rila

To save money on your trip to Rila, consider visiting during the cheapest months, which are May and October to November. Booking about a month in advance usually yields the best hotel rates, especially on Saturdays. Utilize Expedia for last-minute deals, and look for the green banner for discounts. You can save further by combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings into a package deal. Don’t forget to join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Enjoy free outdoor activities and take advantage of affordable public transport options to explore the area.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rila 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: Booking a hotel in Rila about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rila is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Rila is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you customize your travel experience by setting your budget, choosing your desired location, and more. You can easily sort the results from lowest to highest prices, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll see a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Rila hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in and around Rila

Rila, located in Kyustendil Province, Bulgaria, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Rila Monastery, the picturesque Rila Lakes, and the expansive Rila National Park. These attractions cater to families and culture enthusiasts alike, making Rila an ideal destination for those seeking both scenic beauty and rich history. Don't forget to check out Rila on TripAdvisor for more insights on local experiences.

• Rila Monastery: Nestled in the stunning Rila Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Bulgarian architecture and a center of spiritual culture. Its vibrant frescoes and intricate woodwork create an atmosphere of tranquility and historical significance, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in culture.
• Bachinovo Park: Located 6 miles away, this urban park offers a family-friendly environment filled with lush greenery, walking paths, and playgrounds. It's the perfect spot for outdoor activities, picnics, or simply enjoying the fresh air in a serene setting.
• American University in Bulgaria: Just 8 miles from Rila, this modern university boasts a vibrant campus life. Explore its beautiful architecture and engaging atmosphere, where students from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and grow.

Best time to go to Rila

The best time to visit Rila can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rila falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Rila falls in January, visitor numbers are average 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	Average	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	Slightly Low	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

Traveling to Rila, Bulgaria, is convenient with Sofia Airport (SOF), situated 41 miles away. Excellent hotel options near Sofia Airport include the Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia and InterContinental Sofia by IHG, both 4 miles from the airport. The Grand Hotel offers a 24-hour airport shuttle on request, while the InterContinental also provides shuttle services with scheduled availability. Both hotels ensure easy access to the airport with various transportation services available. Visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay near Sofia before heading to the beautiful Rila region.