Bansko Ski Resort:

Definitive Ski Holiday Guide [2026]

Skiing in Bansko, Bulgaria has become the essential last-minute ski holiday destination in recent years. The Bansko ski resort blends affordable prices, reliable snow, and a variety of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With its picturesque mountain setting, modern infrastructure, and lively après-ski scene, Bansko is a great option for those looking to hit the slopes without breaking the bank. 

Here is everything you need to know about Bansko – the best slopes, what to eat, where to stay and how much it will all cost you. Learn why this UNESCO-protected Pirin area is one of the best last-minute ski holiday locations in Europe, and how to make the most out of your trip here.

BANSKO
at a glance

SKI SEASON | Mid-December to early April

WINTER SPORTS | Skiing, Snowboarding, Off-Piste, Snowmobile, ATV, Horses

CURRENCY | Euro

WHERE TO STAY | Chalet Diana-Ross, Chalet Supreme, Chalet Chico

HOW TO GET THERE | Fly to Sofia → bus or private transfer

PRICE RANGE | Great price to quality ratio

Is Bansko good for skiing?

Bansko is Bulgaria’s ‘Winter Ski Capital’ and is one of the most popular ski resorts in Eastern Europe. Situated in the foothills of the Pirin mountain, Bansko has excellent accessibility to Bulgaria’s most snow-sure and diverse range.

Holding the title of “Best Ski Resort” since 2013, it has become Bulgaria’s largest and most modern ski area. Bansko attracts many snow-savvy tourists in winter with its 75km of varied pistes and one of the longest ski runs in the world.

Is Bansko good for snowboarding?

Yes, Bansko is universally LOVED by snowboarders of all skill levels. Not only are the slopes ideal, but there is also a snow park with an active community. Many snowboarders from Sofia travel on weekends specifically to ride the jumps and rails. Check out our video on snowboarding in Bansko!

Is Bansko a good group ski holiday destination?

Bansko offers a good challenge for groups with mixed abilities with a wide range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. If you are a pro and want to bring your beginner friends skiing, Bansko is a great choice!

Plenty of accommodation options allow for big groups of up to 35 guests, and ski lessons are cheaper when booked as a group. 

Is Bansko a good group ski holiday destination?

Apart from having “bunny” slopes and great accessibility, Bansko has excellent ski schools for children. The ski schools in Bansko offer a variety of programs for children, such as ski kindergarten, kids ski school, and ski academy. The ski schools also have certified instructors who speak English and are experienced in teaching children of all ages. 

The town also offers a variety of entertainment, as well as accommodation options for families, from family-sized apartments to ski chalets with child-care.

Is Bansko good for beginners?

Bansko is a fantastic ski resort to learn skiing or snowboarding. There are 6 blue easy runs, a bunny slope, and plenty of amenities that make it easy to get around the ski area. Most ski schools employ English-speaking instructors with years of experience of turning newbies into confident skiers.

Can you learn to ski in 2 days? It’s entirely possible to learn to ski intermediate, or even hard slopes in just 2 days. Skiing in Bansko provides a great progression curve – but be don’t be overconfident, especially on steep runs or turns, and make sure you’re getting coached by experienced skiers or snowboarders.

Bansko ski area: Where to ski in Bansko?

Bansko has a total of 21 pistes, varying in difficulty for a total of 75km of skiing:

🔵 6 blue runs (easy)
🟠 2 orange runs (intermediate)
🔴 11 red runs (advanced)
⚫ 2 black runs (expert)

Bansko has one of the most up-to-date lift networks in Europe and at points takes you as high as 2600m. Most of the resort is above 1700m and with 90% snow cannon coverage.

Bansko ski area
Bansko ski area

What is the hardest ski run in Bansko?

Todorka is Bansko’s most demanding ski run – a steep, black-rated piste on Todorka Peak. Designed for advanced skiers and riders, it offers a long, challenging descent and spectacular Pirin Mountain views. Not one for beginners.

What is the easiest ski run in Bansko?

The easiest ski runs in Bansko are the ski school area (at Banderishka Polyana) and the bases of other ski runs. These areas are dedicated to beginners, ideal for first-time skiers and children. They are all blue-rated and intended for skiers who are learning the basics like stopping and turning.

Where is the best place to ski in Bansko?

The 3 most popular runs include Shiligarnika, Chalin Vlog, and Bunderitsa. The first two are suitable for all skill levels, while the last one is fast and steep, and should be attempted by experienced skiers. There’s plenty of other incredible runs, depending on your preference.

The “Ski Road” is a 15km run starting from Todorka peak. It’s an incredibly long one, which most skiers end their day with, as the finish line is in Bansko town. If you’re not quite ready to take it on from Todorka, you can also make your start from Banderishka Polyana – we highly recommend it! 

Where to stay in Bansko for your ski holiday? (Our top picks)

Award-winning chalets able to accommodate solo travellers or groups of up to 35. These traditional Bulgarian chalets are catered and sustainably-ran, while offering daily ski transfers and a free concierge service. You’ll to get the most out of your ski holiday by staying with local hosts that know all the secrets of the resort. 

When does the Bansko ski season begin? What’s the best time to go?

The ski season in Bansko typically starts in December and finishes in April. The exact opening and closing dates can vary from year to year depending on the weather conditions and snowfall. The resort usually opens its slopes as soon as there is enough snow and closes them when the snow melts or when the weather conditions are not suitable for skiing any more.  

Early season: December & January

Bansko skiing usually opens up around the middle of December when snow is usually enough, but the plentiful snow-cannon coverage on the slopes makes skiing and snowboarding very consistent.

Throughout December and January, the weather is a bit colder but the slopes are a lot less crowded. This means that early season skiing in Bansko is much more peaceful and also more affordable.

View Bansko early season guide.

Peak season: February & March

February and the first half of March are the liveliest in Bansko skiing and snowboarding – people have had the first salary of the year and are ready to hit the Bulgarian slopes. The weather a bit warmer, the snow is softer and the town is full of life. Some times there are queues for the gondola and ski lifts, so it’s recommended to start your day earlier.

How to get to Bansko for you ski holiday

→ The best way to get to Bansko is by first flying to the airport in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. Direct flights are available from many major cities in the UK, Europe and beyond:
  • London
  • Bristol
  • Manchester
  • Birmingham
  • Edinburgh
  • Liverpool
  • Dublin
  • Tel Aviv
  • Berlin

→From there, to get to Bansko from Sofia, you have a few options, depending on your preference:

  • Take a bus, departing from Sofia Central Bus Station. The journey takes approx. 3 hours and it is highly recommended to book in advance from  Obilet, Omio, or Busbud
  • Rent a car, most commonly through TopRentaCar. Approx. 2hrs.
  • Get a private shuttle transfer through Snomads (ideal for groups). This service is free if you stay in a Snomads chalet for your Bansko skiing holiday. Approx. 2hrs.

    Getting from Sofia to Bansko is easy, and if time allows it, you could even take some time to explore the capital city.

Is Bansko cheap for a ski holiday? Price & logistics breakdown

Bansko’s value for money is impressive, compared to resorts in Western Europe, especially so for beginner skiers and snowboarders. This includes ski passes, equipment hire, apres-ski and other activities. Here’s the pricing for essentials in the 2025/2026 winter season.

Item Price in £ Price in € Notes
Local beer (0.5L draught) £2.00 €2.30 Bar, cheapest in small towns, good quality
Supermarket beer (0.5L bottle) £0.80 €0.92 Very affordable
Coffee (Cappucino) £1.69 €1.94 Rich coffee culture
Cigarettes (Pack x20) £2.70 €3.07 Very cheap, variety
Restaurant meal £8.87 €10.23 Generous portions
Fast food £4.44 €5.11 Great value, big doner culture
Public transport £0.78 €0.89 In most cities
Taxi (3 km run) £2.84 €3.27 Regulated meters
Accommodation Type Price in £ Price in € Notes
Eco chalet, all-inclusive (BEST value for money ✔️) £58 €66 Catered stays like Snomads chalets in Bansko (meals, drinks, transfers)
Mid-range hotel (3–4 ⭐) £62 €72 Central location, breakfast included
Budget hotel / guesthouse £35 €40 Good value, usually family-run, AirBnb’s
Hostel (shared room) £10 – 15 €11 – 17 In cities, mountain huts & resorts
Luxury hotel (5 ⭐) £100+ €115 Spa resorts like in Velingrad, Bansko, Sofia

For a more comprehensive pricing breakdown, and comparison to UK prices, check out our Bulgaria pricing guide.

Do they take cards in Bansko?

Most places in Bansko resort accept card payments – restaurants, hotels, bars, shops, etc. However, a few street vendors and small businesses may not have a POS terminal, or may require a minimum payment amount. Therefore, it’s recommended to carry some Euro in cash with you, just in case.

We recommend contacting your bank before your trip, to prevent the risk of getting your card block, as you’ll be making international transactions.

Ski passes can be purchased at the main ski station – Banderishka Polyana – or online. Blank lift pass cards are provided to Snomads chalet guests. They can be topped up easily online.

WINTER 2024/2025

PRICES in €

Adult

STUDENT (12-18)

Child (Under 12)

Child (Under 6)

Gondola Only (Pedestrians)

25

23

18

0.50

Half Day (After 12:30am)

43

38

23

0.50

1 Day

56

50

28

0.50

2 Days

110

98

54

1

3 Days

163

145

80

2

4 Days

217

193

105

2

5 Days

270

240

130

3

6 Days

325

288

155

3

All passes are valid for consecutive days only.

There are many equipment rental shops in Bansko. Guests of chalets Diana-Ross and Supreme have access to the in-house ski shop, so you can go from your chalet straight to the slopes.

Snomads Bansko Chalet Ski Rental Supreme

Our workshop is right in front of our chalets

ADULT PRICES

WINTER 2025/2026

ADULT PRICES IN £

6 Days5 Days4 Days3 Days2 Days1 Day

Skis, boots & pole

£70

£65

£55

£40

£30

£20

Skis & poles

£50

£40

£35

£30

£20

£15

Snowboard & boots

£85

£80

£70

£55

£50

£30

Snowboard

£70

£65

£55

£40

£30

£20

Helmet

£25

£20

£15

£15

£10

£5

Snowshoes

£50

£40

£35

£30

£25

£20

CHILDREN PRICES

WINTER 2025/2026

CHILD (U13) PRICES IN £

6 Days5 Days4 Days3 Days2 Days1 Day
Skis, boots & poles

£45

£40

£35

£30

£20

£15

Skis & poles

£35

£30

£25

£20

£15

£10

Snowboard & boots

£70

£65

£55

£40

£30

£20

Snowboard

£45

£40

£35

£30

£20

£15

HelmetFreeFreeFreeFreeFreeFree

Child rates apply to those under 13 years. Prices above are for Snomads in-house rental shop, partner prices and payment may vary slightly. Rental will be charged and needs to be paid in GBP (£).

PRIVATE GROUP LESSONS, 2 HOURS EACH DAY

2025/2026

Per person

PRICES IN €


1 Day


2 Days


3 Days


4 Days


5 Days


6 Days

Mixed Group

54

108

162

216

270

324

One-to-One

111

222

324

426

518

606

Private Group of 2

74

148

220

292

361

430

Private Group of 3

66

132

196

261

324

387

Private Group of 4+

62

124

185

246

306

365

PRIVATE GROUP LESSONS, 4 HOURS EACH DAY

2025/2026

PER PERSON

PRICES IN €


1 Day


2 Days


3 Days


4 Days


5 Days


6 Days

Mixed Group

88

176

259

342

421

500

One-to-One

217

435

648

860

1064

1267

Private Group of 2

144

287

426

565

694

824

Private Group of 3

125

252

374

496

612

729

Private Group of 4+

117

223

332

442

548

653

Send us a message and we’ll help you book ski lessons for your group. Prices are subject to change. Children from 7 years can be taught in standard group lessons for ski or snowboard. Younger children can be taught in private group lessons only.

Things to do in Bansko

If you want to take a break from piste skiing and snowboarding on your Bansko holiday, or you’re simply not a skier, there’s a lot to do in and around Bansko. Here are our top picks, including winter sports, apres-ski, town activities and day trips.

Bansko snowmobile safari

If you’re into winter adrenaline, but want to try something besides skiing, snowmobile riding is a fantastic option. Most people don’t know that you can ride one in Bansko, but we’ve partnered with the single best skidoo service in Bulgaria. Beginners are welcome to join snowmobile safaris and enjoy high speeds and beautiful views. 

Ski touring in Pirin Mountains

Bansko sits at the foot of the Pirin mountain which is an ideal destination for ski touring. In other words: off-piste freeriding with the help of a guide. This raw skiing experience is recommended for intermediate and advanced skiers and is a true test of endurance. However, it’s also extremely rewarding and allows you to explore the wild and untouched parts of Bansko, away from the slopes and tourist crowds.

Bansko quad-bike (ATV) adventure

ATVs are very intuitive and easy to use, and make for an awesome journey filled with breathtaking views and fresh air. Reserve a time slot and your group will start from the bottom gondola station – your guide will curate a track and lead you off the beaten path for an off-road adventure that will kick your Bansko holiday up a notch.

Relaxing thermal baths trip

Our team organizes weekly trips to ‘’Izgreva Complex’’ – a traditional thermal baths complex, ideal for recovering after intense skiing or simply savouring the healing properties of the local hot springs. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Bansko in the town of Banya – home of 72 mineral springs that produce water with a temperature of 57 C. The complex also has a spacious restaurant.

Explore Bansko - a town with something for everyone

Start with a walk around the Old Town – you’ll notice all of the old buildings, the Holy Trinity Church with its 30m bell tower, and residential houses – many of which are run as “Mehanas” – traditional Bulgarian taverns. 

But in harmony with its traditional charm, Bansko is a hub for remote professionals and digital nomads – streets lined with coffee shops, co-working spaces, gyms with beautiful mountain views. And of course, Bansko nightlife is nothing less than lively – a variety piano bars, clubs and restaurants will color your stay with joy, and you’ll forget that you came here to ski in the first place.

Apres-ski in Bansko - food, drink and nightlife

And now for the meat and gravy of this guide. We’ll run you through the essentials of Bulgarian food, dining and nightlife so you can make the best of your apres – and get to know Bulgaria like a local!

‘Mehanas’ - try traditional food in Bansko

You haven’t truly experienced Bulgaria if you haven’t eaten in one of its traditional taverns, also known as ‘Mehana’. Interiors are usually made of timber and cobbled stone, with warm colours and hand-made red table covers, reminiscent of a simpler time. Food is hearty, nutritious, cheesy and oh-so-perfect to pair with local alcoholic beverages. Here are our top picks:

Mehana Obetsanova: An 18th-century tavern where sheepskins cover the hand-carved chairs and waistcoated waiters glide around the room. Take your pick from a menu that champions meaty mains, such as braised lamb shanks, wild boar in plum sauce, barbecued pork, and slow-cooked veal. They can even collect you from the chalet and drop you back after you’ve eaten.
The House: This is a truly unique traditional timber log house that has to be seen to be believed. It’s easy to miss but well worth a visit. Some of the best and freshest home made food with a delicious Bulgarian menu.
Dedo Yonkata – This is one of the oldest mehana restaurants in Bansko and is based on the beautiful and lively Pirin street. Very traditional menu and atmosphere with some unique Bansko dishes that you won’t find in many other places.
Red Hot: A modern and fun restaurant with a great laid back atmosphere, Serving local and European food on the main Bankso strip up by the gondola. Well worth trying the house wine with whatever you decide to order. Like Mehana Obetsanova we can arrange complimentary pick up from the chalets.

Must-try Bulgarian food in Bansko

  • Banitsa – A traditional pastry that will fix any hangover and is great for breakfast paired with ayran (a yogurt drink).
  • Shopska salad – This is a classic salad that you’ll find everywhere and is a must as the ingredients are always nice and fresh. Made from cucumber, tomato, and white cheese it uses local ingredients that are rumoured to have been combined to combine the colours of the Bulgarian flag.
  • Bob chorba – Another national dish and translates as a bean soup, 100% vegan and not to be missed, great with some homemade garlic bread 
  • Pork knuckle – A real beauty, slow-cooked for hours and will simply fall off the bone
  • Sach – This dish usually consists of a variety of meats and vegetables or only vegetables and is cooked and served on a sizzling hot plate, a real showstopper
  • Chicken in cornflakes – Sounds unusual but a homemade chicken nugget covered in corn flakes with a yogurt dip on the side, what’s not to like
  • Kapama – Cooked in a clay pot and made up of sauerkraut, rice and a variety of meats, it’s traditionally a Bansko dish and is a must
  • Kavarma – Another is usually cooked in a smaller clay pot, this time with vegetables and with whichever meat is most local and seasonal.
  • Lutenitsa – Local tomato-based chutney sauce which goes unbelievably well with cheesy chips or sauté potatoes. The real ketchup of the Balkans.

For more ideas just give us a shout or check out a guide written by A Social Nomad.

Bansko nightlife - best bars and night clubs in Bansko

Below are a few of our favourite joints, après ski bars, and full-on nightclubs that attract both tourists and locals alike.

Happy End – Situated opposite the gondola so you really can’t miss it. Styled on a traditional Austrian après bar. It’s marginally more expensive here than elsewhere, but worth a look even for just one drink; the interior and atmosphere are really impressive.
Pirin75 Bar – Nice casual atmosphere bar/pub with friendly service. Try and make one of their famous electro-swing nights.
Euphoria – definitely worth checking out – it’s very trendy; a place where people go to be seen. Nice in the day for food and drinks on their sun deck, at night they usually put on a brilliant live band and the place really does become the place to be.
The Karaoke bar – SItuated a stone’s throw from Pirin 75 Bar. Head down the stairs to an underground treat of a venue. We advise that you use the space for epic, late-night beer pong tournaments while you belt out the classics.
Flash nightclub – one might not think of an ancient Bulgarian town at the foot of the Pirin Mountains as the location of a nightclub whose design was inspired by the Disney science fiction movie TRON: Legacy. State-of-the-art sound and lighting schemes complete the illusion of an otherworldly experience.
Amigo pub – for both après-ski in our ski gear, or for a post-dinner night out. The place is built to resemble a massive alpine house, complete with a second floor. Live bands start after 9 pm and can be relied upon to get the crowd going.
Jack’s House – Bansko’s liveliest nightclub, Dance the night away to the international rhythms of the resident DJ and enjoy a very extensive drinks selection, watch out for the impromptu flame shows behind the bar.

Feel free to follow the crowds and enjoy a bit of bar-hopping, even if that means you lose the last free shuttle to the chalet, distances are small and taxis are cheap!Below are a few of our favourite joints, après ski bars, and full-on nightclubs that attract both tourists and locals alike.

Try these drinks on your night out in Bansko

Selection for all tastes

Pirinsko beer – The obvious choice in the Pirin Mountains. Brewed with mountain water, it’s found everywhere in Bansko and tastes best at 2,000m after a long ski day. Find a comprehensive local beer selection and pricing guide here.

Mavrud red wine – A traditional Bulgarian red made from one of the country’s oldest grape varieties, known for its deep ruby colour and smooth taste with blackberry and mulberry notes.

Rakia – The classic Balkan fruit brandy and the true local way to drink. Distilled across the region in many variations, rakia has been produced in Bulgaria since at least the 11th century.

Mastika (Bulgarian Ouzo) – A strong aniseed-flavoured spirit made with mastic resin. Popular across the Balkans, Bulgarian mastika is 47% ABV – enjoy responsibly.

Tip: In Bulgaria, a vodka and coke is usually served separately unless you ask for it mixed. Most bartenders will understand, but it’s worth clarifying.


Look out: Spirit measures are generous – a single is 50ml and a double is 100ml, so pace yourself.

Plan your Bansko, Bulgaria skiing holiday with us!

Our team has been organising and hosting ski holidays in Bansko for 14 years – and our Diana-Ross chalet is a 4-time winner of “Best Ski Chalet” in Bulgaria. We know the town and the mountains inside and out, and we’d love to share our love for Bansko with you.

Reach out to us and we’ll help you plan your ski trip – from the transfer, to your chalet, ski equipment, side adventures and beyond.

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We love Bansko, and we want you to love it too.
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