Bansko is one of Bulgaria's most popular ski resorts, well-known for its varied group skiing, epic apres parties, and cheap trips.
Part of UNESCO Pirin National Park, Bansko ski resort boasts wide, varied pistes with something for beginners and daredevils alike.
The two main ski areas, Chalin Valog and Shiligarnika, offer runs up to a sky-high 2,500m. We recommend riding the gondola all the way to the top—the panoramic mountain vistas here are unreal.
And if you're looking for a party, Bansko’s lively bars are just as epic as the skiing – get your dancing shoes on!
The Bansko ski season kicks off in mid-December and runs until mid-April. The slopes are naturally busier when the kids are off school, so in February half-term in particular, it's wise to be prepared for long lift queues. It’s possible to pick up a bargain Bansko ski holiday and enjoy some springtime powder in March, or make the most of quiet pistes on a late-season break in April.
Snow conditions in Bansko
Following the first flurries of snow in December, Bansko’s ski slopes are fully established and prime to shred by mid-January. But it can be a bit chilly, so bring all of the layers! February is typically blessed with bluebird days, with more snowfall in March. But, whatever the snow conditions, Bansko’s ski resort is armed with 400 snow cannons, so you can always ski your boots off.
Things to do in Bansko
Pirin National Park -Join guided snowshoe hikes to mountain huts and forests, or go snowmobiling through the trees.
Ice skating - Take a spin on one of Bulgaria’s largest ice rinks.
Razlog Tower - Enjoy panoramic views across the Razlog Valley and Pirin Mountains.
Explore on foot - Join a free walking tour around Bansko’s quaint old town and the Holy Trinity Church.
Banya hot springs - Home to over 70 hot mineral springs, perfect for a sumptuous spa day.
Restaurants in Bansko
Mehana Bai Kotse - Nestled in the heart of Bansko’s charming old town, this cosy tavern offers hearty favourites guaranteed to warm cold bodies.
La Petite Creperie - If you have a sweet tooth, this is the best takeaway creperie in Bulgaria.
White Levina - Enjoy homemade Italian dishes with stunning mountain views (it’s pretty kind on the wallet, too!)
Baradreva Mehana - For rustic Bulgarian charm, friendly hosts, and delicious traditional fare, it’s hard to beat.
Nightlife & Apres in Bansko
The legendary après in Bansko is almost as famous as its skiing! For those looking, here’s where the party’s at…
Happy End - Celebrate the end of an epic slope day at the biggest apres ski bar in Bansko. Located just off the main lift.
Sing Sing - This chic piano bar has a more relaxed vibe. Kick back with a cocktail, debrief the day, and enjoy the music.
The Club - Get ready to ski hard, play hard, raving to banging dance tunes that will have you out til dawn.
Platinum Casino - If you’re feeling lucky, jump on the free shuttle bus to Bansko’s casino. Open 24/7.
FAQs about Bansko ski holidays Your questions answered by our Bansko ski resort expert
Yes. Bansko is Bulgaria’s most popular ski resort, offering modern lift systems, a wide range of ski runs suitable for all levels, and excellent-value accommodation and lift pass options - ideal for a budget-friendly ski holiday with family or a group of friends.
Are Bansko ski holidays snow sure?
Bansko has a good snow record, but if conditions become thin, the resort benefits from excellent snowmaking facilities on most pistes.
Bansko ski resort sits at 900m, but skiing extends as high as 2,560m on the cold, well-covered slopes of Todorka Peak.
For the best snow of the season, we recommend booking a ski holiday to Bansko in January, February, or March.
When’s the best time to book a Bansko ski holiday?
January, February, or March are the best times to book a Bansko ski holiday, as snow cover is most reliable during these months.
January ski holidays in Bansko are great for groups of friends looking for quiet pistes away from the Christmas and New Year crowds.
February Bansko ski holidays are ideal for families seeking a fantastic half-term ski holiday with little ones.
March ski trips to Bansko benefit from longer days and warmer weather, as well as quieter slopes after the half-term holiday rush.
Is Bansko good for beginner ski holidays?
Yes, Bansko ski holidays are ideal for beginners. With wide, gentle slopes, a nursery area, excellent English-speaking ski schools, and great value lift passes and equipment hire, Bansko is a superb destination for first ski holidays with friends or family.
Is Bansko good for family ski trips?
Yes. Bansko is ideal for family ski holidays, offering child-friendly hotels, highly-rated ski schools for children, and a compact layout with a nursery area.
With lift passes, equipment hire, accommodation, and food and drinks significantly cheaper here, it can be a great place to introduce kids to skiing before heading to the Alps.
Is Bansko ski resort easy to get to?
Yes. Bansko is a 2-3-hour drive from Sofia International Airport, with coach, shuttle, and private transfer options available. This makes it an excellent choice for ski weekends and short ski breaks.
Looking for the best cheap ski weekend destinations? Click here.
Is Bansko ski resort good for snowboarders?
Yes, Bansko is very popular with snowboarders due to its wide pistes and excellent freestyle terrain. Cheap lift passes and equipment rentals attract groups of beginners wanting to build confidence on the slopes, while the small snow park, filled with natural terrain features, can keep more experienced snowboarders entertained.
Are Bansko ski holidays good for non-skiers?
Yes. Bansko is excellent for any non-skiers in your family or group. The charming old town’s cobbled streets are lined with shops and cafés, alongside cultural sites and mountain walks, while spas, saunas, and thermal baths, as well as restaurants, provide plenty of options to relax while others are out cruising the slopes.
Is Bansko a good place for a cheap ski holiday?
Yes. Bansko is among Europe’s cheapest ski resorts, offering great value lift pass deals, inexpensive accommodation, and competitive prices on ski lessons, equipment rental, food, and drinks. It’s perfect for budget-conscious skiers, large groups, or families trying skiing for the first time and looking for cheap short breaks.
To look at Bansko's best ski holiday deals, click here.
Can you go night skiing at Bansko ski resort?
Yes, you can go night skiing in Bansko. The slope at the base gondola is kept floodlit in the evenings Wednesday - Saturday throughout the ski season.
What are the differences between Bansko and Borovets?
Bansko has a large ski area, modern lift systems, and a lively après-ski scene. It also offers a more authentic town atmosphere, making it ideal for families,beginners, and non-skiers.