Have you ever thought about sleeping in a Bulgarian monastery? Far from ordinary tourism, these historic sanctuaries offer travelers a rare chance to experience peace, spirituality, and centuries-old traditions. Across Bulgaria, dozens of monasteries open their doors to guests looking for something authentic, quiet, and deeply memorable. Forget hotel key cards and reception desks. Here, you are entering living history.
Bulgaria has more than 150 monasteries, many of which welcome visitors to stay overnight and discover their calm rhythm of life. If you are searching for a unique stay that blends culture, nature, and reflection, this experience is for you.
- Why Stay in a Bulgarian Monastery
- Common Misconceptions About Monastery Accommodation
- What to Expect from a Monastery Stay in Bulgaria
- Visiting During Orthodox Holidays
- Main Orthodox Holidays in Bulgaria
- How to Book a Monastery Stay in Bulgaria
- Best Monasteries in Bulgaria That Offer Accommodation
- Other Hidden Gem Accommodations
- FAQ About Monastery Stays in Bulgaria
- Useful Links
Why Stay in a Bulgarian Monastery
A monastery stay offers an escape from noise, schedules, and endless notifications. Surrounded by forests, mountains, and quiet trails, these sacred places invite reflection and inner peace. For some, a monastery stay might seem like an unusual vacation choice. For others, it’s the perfect escape from noise, schedules, and constant chatter. Monasteries are havens of peace, often surrounded by beautiful nature and hiking trails that invite quiet walks and reflection.
Here, your stay is defined not by room service, but by silence, simplicity, and the sound of ancient bells. You are not just visiting a tourist site. Here you are living within a centuries-old tradition that still breathes today.
You don’t need to be an Orthodox Christian to spend a night at a monastery, but you will be expected to follow a few basic rules. Speak quietly, keep conversations calm, and be mindful of your surroundings. This unique experience calls to travellers seeking depth, not just a pillow and you don’t have to be spiritual to appreciate it.
Common Misconceptions About Monastery Accommodation
Some travellers who stay in Orthodox monasteries have the misconception that it will be like a hotel with a church. In reality, they are living religious communities. Staying in a monastery is a cultural and spiritual immersion, not a luxury retreat.
The stay in the Bulgarian monasteries is unique experience that is beyond the “church”. The rhythm of the day, the silence, and the simplicity are the main features, not just the backdrop.
The primary purpose of a monastery is prayer and work, not tourism. Respect for the rules and rhythm of daily life is essential and part of the experience. Approach your visit with curiosity and humility, and you will be warmly welcomed.
What to Expect from a Monastery Stay in Bulgaria
While monasteries are places of simplicity, those that host guests are usually well aware of modern comforts. You’ll find clean rooms, proper bathrooms, hot water, and, in some cases, even cable TV and Wi-Fi.
Meals follow Orthodox traditions. During fasting periods, expect simple, plant-based dishes. If you’re craving meat, don’t worry, around the bigger monasteries, there are plenty of small restaurants serving tourists where fasting rules don’t apply. If you suddenly need a kebab or two, you’ll easily find them!
Alcohol is typically prohibited, though sometimes you may hear stories about a shared glass of homemade spirit during friendly conversations with monks.
Dress modestly, keep your voice low, and respect quiet hours. Now, what counts as “modest” can vary. We’ve seen women in mesh tops and short skirts, and men in shorts, inside churches. But as a general rule, dressing conservatively will spare you any problems.
Unmarried men and women are sometimes asked to sleep in separate rooms, though enforcement is usually relaxed. What matters most is discretion. No one will ask if you’re legally married, and no one will check your bags for alcohol either. Whatever you choose to do, just keep it low-key and respectful.
If you behave respectfully, you will be fine. But if you act provocatively or disrespect the sacred space, expect serious attention from the monks and possibly even the police. And trust me, the police will not be happy about having to drive up to the monastery because of you. Better to avoid the drama altogether.
Visiting During Orthodox Holidays
One major exception to the peaceful atmosphere of the monasteries in Bulgaria is during big religious holidays, when monasteries become vibrant hubs of activity. On special religious events and days of saints, visitors flock to the monasteries for ceremonies and celebrations. Special religious festivals and saint’s days transform monasteries into hubs of vibrant activity. While these vibrant celebrations can be fascinating, they may not be the peaceful retreat you’re seeking.
Every holiday has its own rich traditions, and it’s wonderful if you’re with someone who can explain what’s going on. Even if you’re not staying overnight, visiting a monastery during a major holiday is an unforgettable experience.
That said, remember that holidays bring crowds. If the monastery is fully booked, you might end up in a more basic room or sharing some facilities with others. And occasionally, especially in winter or during a chilly Easter, you might encounter problems with heating or hot water, after all, these are historic buildings, not modern hotels. Embrace it as part of the adventure. You’re here for an authentic experience, not five-star luxury.
Main Orthodox Holidays in Bulgaria
Monasteries buzz with energy on religious holidays, offering a captivating cultural spectacle. If you prefer a quieter stay for reflection, however, you’ll want to avoid these peak times.
Use this list of major Orthodox church holidays to decide when to go:
| Date | Holiday | What to Expect |
| January 6 | Jordanovden / Epiphany | Blessing of the waters and large crowds |
| January 7 | Ivanovden (St. John’s Day) | Local celebrations and church services |
| Varies, 8 weeks before Easter | Mesopustna zadushnitsa (Meatfare Sunday) | Exact date varies, but it is always on Saturday. Church services. The last day that meat can be eaten before the Lenten fast |
| Varies, 1 week before Easter | Tsvetnitsa (Palm Sunday) | Exact date varies, but it is always on Saturday. Green branches, joyful songs, many visitors |
| Varies | Velikden (Easter) | Candlelight processions, traditional food |
| May 6 | St. Georgi Day | National holiday with lively atmosphere |
| Varies, 50 days after Easter | Pentecost | Local celebrations and church services |
| June 29 | St. Peter and Pavel Day | Pilgrimages and outdoor gatherings |
| August 15 | Golyama Bogoroditsa (Mother of God) | Celebrations of the Virgin Mary, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary |
| October 26 | St. Dimitar Day | Smaller but festive ceremonies |
| November 1 | Zadushnitsa, commemorating the dead | Church services |
| Christmas | December 25 | Family celebrations and church services |
The energy of these ceremonies is captivating, but if your goal is quiet contemplation, you’ll want to plan around them.
When planning, keep in mind that the Eastern Orthodox Church follows a different liturgical calendar. Key moving holidays like Easter, Palm Sunday, and Pentecost often fall on different dates (usually one to two weeks apart) than their Western counterparts, though they occasionally overlap.
How to Book a Monastery Stay in Bulgaria
You won’t find monastery stays on big international booking sites. Booking a monastery stay in Bulgaria requires a shift from typical online travel agencies to a more direct approach. If you’re interested, you’ll need to contact the monastery directly, usually by phone or email.
Search online for the official website or contact information of your desired monastery. Be prepared to find that many monasteries have only a Bulgarian-language website, no email or a simple phone number listed. Use your preferred language translator app for both text and voice. Voice translation might be needed when you call in to arrange the booking. Large monasteries such as the Rila Monastery however have version in English.
When you call, be respectful, patient, and understand you are contacting a working religious community. Inquire clearly about room availability, the cost per night, and what amenities (like private bathrooms) are included.
Payment is often expected in cash upon arrival, so ensure you have enough money on hand or if you prefer to pay with card, check if the desired monastery offers this option. Starting from January 2026, the official currency in Bulgaria is Euro (EUR), until then all payments – in Lev (BGN).
If the monastery is full or you prefer more comfort, nearby guesthouses and hotels are easy to find on popular travel sites.
Best Monasteries in Bulgaria That Offer Accommodation
A night in a monastery isn’t just for those on a spiritual quest. It’s for any traveler craving something genuinely different. In Bulgaria, many of the country’s largest and most historic monasteries offer this unique opportunity. We warned: you won’t find these hidden gems on popular booking sites!
Here’s a quick list of some of the best-known monasteries that offer overnight stays:
Rila Monastery
The most famous monastery in Bulgaria and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers breathtaking architecture, history, and spiritual depth. They monastery is very popular destination for tourists from all around the world. Staff usually speak English, and the monastery even has an English-language website.
Website: Rila Monastery
Location: Rila Mountains, 120 km from Sofia
Bachkovo Monastery
A welcoming and picturesque monastery not far from the beautiful city of Plovdiv. It is close to the dramatic Asen’s Fortress and its stunning views. It is popular with both locals and tourists and has English website.
Website: Bachkovo Monastery
Location: Rhodopes Mountains, 30 km from Plovdiv
Dryanovo Monastery
A fantastic option if you’re planning to explore the charming old capital, Veliko Tarnovo, and the surrounding area. The monastery offers both private and shared rooms, and there’s also a small hotel section, not luxurious, but full of character. Unfortunately they do not have English website, it is in Bulgarian only.
Website: Dryanovo Monastery:
Location: Stara Planina (Balkan Range), 30 km from Veliko Tarnovo
Troyan Monastery
The monastery is located in the heart of the beautiful Stara Planina (or the Balkan Range). Rooms have private bathrooms, in the winter months, there is central heating. The website is available only in Bulgarian.
Website: Troyan Monastery
Location: Stara Planina (Balkan Range), in the central part of Bulgaria, 190 km from Sofia, 134 km from Plovdiv, 90 km from Veliko Tarnovo
Cherepishki Monastery
Located close to Sofia, the monastery is popular weekend destination even without the overnight. The night at the monastery welcomes all visitors and you will find the contact details on the website.
Website: Cherepishki Monastery
Location: Stara Planina Mountain (Balkan Range), 85 km from Sofia
Ustremski Monastery
The monastery is also known as Sveta Troitsa (translated as St. Trinity). It is not as picturesque as the Rila Monastery but it is very charming. It is located in the Sakar Mountain, Burgas Region. Rooms have bathroom & toilet, and there are 2-, 3-, and 4-bed types of rooms. The website is in Bulgarian only.
Website: Ustremski Monastery
Location: Sakar Mountain, 120 km from Burgas, 30 km from the border crossing Lesovo (Bulgaria) – Hamzabeyli (Turkey)
Other Hidden Gem Accommodations
If you plan to explore beyond the well-known sites, consider staying in Sokolski Monastery, Glozhenski Monastery, or the Seven Thrones Monastery (Sedemte Prestola). Each offers its own charm, from mountain views to quiet chapels surrounded by nature. For example, Sedemte prestola is named after the number seven in Bulgarian. Its name describes the seven small churches built under one lager roof.
If you do not feel like comfy due to religious purpose of those places or because you prefer other type of bedtime comfort, you can always book a hotel or room near the monastery to spend the night.
Private hosts offering short-term accommodation pop around every religious place attracting tourists. There are also a number of hotels, small or quite large ones, near some of the most popular monasteries. Some of those places, especially in the Rila Mountain region, can be pretty hype. Others are simple and comfy. There is always a place to rest near Bulgaria’s sacred sites.
FAQ About Monastery Stays in Bulgaria
You don’t need to be of the same faith. You are welcome as long as you are respectful for the place, and the people.
It varies, but often several weeks or even months in advance, especially around popular holidays. The capacity of the monasteries is usually very small.
When you are talking with your travel companion or on the phone, be mindful of your surroundings. Quiet is golden. Use a soft voice, especially in hallways and courtyards.
When visiting or even staying in a monastery, dress modestly. Avoid short skirts, revealing tops, or sleeveless shirts when visiting churches.
No, you are not required to attend or participate. You are not required to, but it is worth observing at least one service to experience the spiritual side of monastery life. To be on the safe side with the Orthodox religion, stand in the area designated for the public, and follow the lead of others (cross yourself, light candles., etc.).
Some icons are in beaufiful golden or silver covers. Refrain from touching the icons with your hands. According to the Bulgarian Orthodox Church the proper way to honor the icons is by kissing them alone.
No. When you follow the lead of the others, you will see that many people kiss some icons. You don’t have to do it, it is enough to bow.
Many monasteries offer basic comforts such as hot water and sometimes Wi-Fi, but simplicity is part of the charm.
Useful Links
- Bulgarian Orthodox Church, official website: bg-patriarshia.bg
Use the Bulgarian version and translate it with your favourite online translator because the content on the English version is quite different.
- UNESCO Rila Monastery: whc.unesco.org/en/list/216
- Bachkovo Monastery: bachkovskimanastir.com
- Dryanovo Monastery: dryanovo.bg
- Troyan Monastery: troyanmonastery.com
- Cherepishki Monastery: cherepish-monastery.com
- Ustremski Monastery: ustremskimanastir.com
Forget everything you know about generic hotel stays. Waking up within the ancient, silent walls of a monastery is a travel experience unlike any other. The rooms are simple, but the atmosphere is powerful. Securing a room requires a little more work than a quick online search, and the unique setting comes with a few important considerations every modern traveller should have in their back pocket. But it is worth it. You will secure a unique and memorable stay steeped in centuries of history and tranquillity.
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