Hotels in Rila

Rila: Where Majestic Peaks Embrace Timeless Temples

Nestled in the heart of Bulgaria's breathtaking Rila Mountains, Rila in the Kyustendil Province is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers alike. This charming small town is a gateway to stunning mountain views, serene hiking trails, and the iconic Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its intricate architecture and rich history. Ideal for skiers, Rila is close to popular resorts like Bansko and Borovets, making it perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. With its blend of cultural heritage and outdoor escapades, Rila offers a unique experience that captivates every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Rila and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Rila

Some of the best places to stay in Rila are Bansko, Samokov and Razlog. Bansko, Samokov, and Razlog are fantastic destinations for travelers seeking a mountain resort experience in Bulgaria. Bansko is especially great for first-time visitors due to its lively atmosphere and access to ski slopes. Samokov offers comfort with its variety of accommodations, while Razlog presents a quieter option for relaxation. Hotels in these areas typically provide modern amenities, wellness options like Rila Spa, and stunning mountain views, ensuring a cozy stay amidst the beautiful Rila Mountains. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Rila:

1. BanskoOpens in a new window: Bansko is a premier destination for ski enthusiasts, known for its breathtaking mountain views and vibrant ski culture. The Bansko Ski Resort offers a plethora of skiing and snowboarding options, while the Bansko Gondola Lift provides easy access to the slopes. For accommodations, consider Kempinski Hotel Grand ArenaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel perfect for adventure seekers, featuring a nearby hot spring and various outdoor activities. Another excellent choice is Premier Luxury Mountain ResortOpens in a new window, which caters to business travelers and adventurers alike, offering ski lessons and horse riding. For a well-rounded experience, Lucky Bansko Aparthotel SPA & RelaxOpens in a new window also provides business amenities and access to skiing and snowboarding activities.
2. SamokovOpens in a new window: Samokov boasts proximity to the scenic Borovets Ski Resort, making it a fantastic spot for outdoor lovers and families. The area is rich in adventure opportunities, including skiing and snowboarding. Festa Winter PalaceOpens in a new window is a beautiful 5-star hotel ideal for families, offering a range of children’s amenities and adventure activities. Alternatively, Crowne Plaza Sofia, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window caters to business travelers with luxurious spa facilities, while Maison Sofia - MGalleryOpens in a new window welcomes families and pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
3. RazlogOpens in a new window: Razlog is famed for its access to Bansko Ski Resort and Pirin Golf and Country Club, making it perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The region's outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing, are a significant draw. Consider staying at Pirin Golf Hotel & SPAOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel with excellent business facilities and nearby adventure sports. For families, Hot Springs Medical and Spa HotelOpens in a new window offers hot spring access and children’s amenities, while Terra ComplexOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.5-star option that provides skiing lessons and fun activities for kids.

Things to do in Rila for first time

A three-day trip to Rila is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With stunning mountain views, enchanting forests, and serene lakes, travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. The area offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Rila:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Seven Rila Lakes, where you can hike amidst stunning glacial lakes and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After soaking in the natural beauty, head down to the Bairakli Mosque, an architectural gem known for its unique design and serene atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to the History Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Day 2: Your day kicks off with a visit to the incredible Stob Earth Pyramids, a natural wonder featuring impressive formations that create a surreal landscape. Next, visit the Church Vavedenie Bogorodichno, a beautiful place of worship that offers insight into local religious traditions. Wind down your day at Bachinovo Park, where you can relax in the lush surroundings, take a leisurely stroll, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the Church of Vavedenie Presvetiya Bogoroditsi, a stunning church known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Next, visit the History Museum to delve deeper into the area's past and learn more about its historical significance. Wrap up your day at the Church of St Nicholas, a charming site that provides a perfect opportunity for reflection and appreciation of Bulgaria's rich cultural tapestry.

5 tips to find a great Rila hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Rila are May, October, and November, when hotel prices drop. To truly appreciate the main attractions, it's best to plan for at least 3-4 days. Rila offers great value for money with its charming small towns, stunning mountain scenery, and impressive temples and monuments. This makes it an affordable destination for those looking to explore while keeping costs low.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Rila? You might find enticing hotel offers by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you could discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to catch savings opportunities, including discounts specifically for properties in Rila and Borovets. Don’t miss out on a chance to enjoy a great getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Rila.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Rila. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

Best time to go to Rila

Rila experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 33.6°F (0.9°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.1°F (21.7°C). March tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Rila are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.