Things to do in Rila Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Rila Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Bulgaria’s medieval heritage set against the Rila peaks.
Rila Monastery
This UNESCO-listed monastery from the 10th century is the jewel of the Rila and a must-see.
Rila Monastery Complex
The surrounding church, museum and frescoed walls form a living piece of Bulgarian history.
Museums
Local history and culture preserved in village and regional museums.
Regional History Museum - Blagoevgrad
Displays about the region’s past, including Thracian finds and modern Bulgarian life.
Rila Monastery Museum
Exhibits and artifacts from the monastery’s centuries-old history.
Dupnitsa Historical Museum
Cultural exhibits reflecting life in the Dupnitsa area and its valley.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites in the mountains offer spiritual backdrop and architecture.
Rila Monastery
The major Orthodox monastery with iconic frescoes and a spiritual tradition.
St. Ivan Rilski Hermitage Cave
Historic hermitage site associated with the Bulgarian saint in the Rila region.
National & Theme Parks
Natural wonders and protected spaces in the Rila Mountains.
Rila National Park
Protected area preserving alpine landscapes, forests and wildlife.
Seven Rila Lakes
Chain of glacial lakes famed for turquoise waters and dramatic scenery.
Belmeken Dam & Reservoir
A scenic dam site at high altitude popular for viewpoints and boating.
Skakavitsa Waterfall
One of Bulgaria’s most spectacular waterfalls inside the park.
Neighborhoods
Base towns and villages as gateways to the mountains.
Sapareva Banya
A spa town at the western foot of Rila known for hot mineral springs.
Govedartsi
A village and trail hub near the Seven Rila Lakes route.
Borovets
A historic mountain resort offering year‑round outdoor activities.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to enjoy the mountains.
Hike to Musala Peak
Trek Bulgaria’s highest point via scenic alpine trails.
Visit Seven Rila Lakes
Take in the lakes via the mountain trails (sightseeing and photography).
Walk the Belmeken Reservoir shore
Picnic and sunset views along the dam’s rim.
Skakavitsa Falls Trail
Gentle trails to a powerful waterfall.
Gastronomy
Taste local flavors in mountain taverns.
Traditional mountain tavern dining in Sapareva Banya
Sample hearty Bulgarian dishes in a rustic setting.
Kavarma & Banitsa in village eateries
Cozy meals featuring local ingredients.
Dairy products tasting near Govedartsi
Try fresh cheese and yogurt from mountain farms.
Nightlife
Evenings in mountain towns.
Folk music evenings in Sapareva Banya taverns
Local musicians and traditional songs after sunset.
Nighttime entertainment in Borovets resort
Bars and live performances in Bulgaria’s oldest mountain resort.
Entertainment
Activities and experiences beyond hiking.
Borovets Cable Car rides
Scenic ascent with panoramic views over the Rila range.
Skiing and snowboarding in Borovets
Seasonal slopes and snow activities for all levels.
Guided wildlife watching in Rila NP
Morning or late afternoon tours to spot birds and mammals.
Sports
Active pursuits for outdoors lovers.
Mountaineering on Musala
Challenging ascent with glacier-carved scenery.
Skiing at Borovets
Winter slopes and cross-country routes.
Trail running on high-altitude paths around Malyovitsa
Fast trails through mixed pines and meadows.
Off the Track
Unconventional spots and hidden gems.
Hidden waterfalls along the Skakavitsa trail
Secluded cascades and lush greenery off the beaten path.
Remote viewpoints along the Musala massif
Quiet spots with sweeping vistas of glaciers and forests.