The unique combination of a well developed mountain resort and a living historical town turns it into an elegant place for entertainment. Virtually every house has its own story to tell, which indeed can turn your vacation into a journey to the Bulgarian
traditions. The traditional Bansko taverns (called "Mehana"), with their exceptional charm and style offer local atmosphere by their cuisine and good selection of Bulgarian wines. Most of the local "Mehanas" even offer live folk music. Many local cafes and
bars offer refreshments. Discos and night clubs work without time limit, and usually close early in the morning.
Of course there's a lot to see in the town of Bansko itself, with around 120 cultural and historical monuments and alot to explore. Various souvenir shops offer the creations of the local artists and smiths.
Bansko is known to be unique site of international significance. Except for the beautiful The Pirin Mountain the town possesses rich historical sites. Remains from ancient fortresses in the Staroto Gradishte site, are situated just four kilometers in western
direction and the Ulen site along the Demianitsa river flow. Nearby Staroto Gradishte site there are Thracian mound hills.
South of Bansko is situated the National Park Pirin included in the UNESCO list for cultural and natural sightseeing. The park is rich with its lakes, waterfalls, caves, venerable trees and historical sites. Bansko together with Dobrinishte are also famous
for their mineral springs, the reserve Bayovi dupki- Djindjiritsa.
We also recommend a visit to the famous Rila Monastery and the busy city of Sofia.
Hotels and restaurants
Being the biggest ski resort of Bulgaria, practically Bansko offers great opportunities in this respect satisfying visitors of different financial means.
There are many luxury hotels (plus one five star hotel), holiday apartments as well as more than 40 small family hotels. We strongly recommend you arrange your hotel and additional skiing service before you go to Bansko, as the resort is quite busy during the
winter.
Bansko is very different from the older ski resorts of Borovets or Pamporovo, which were specially designed skiing centres. Bansko combines great skiing, beautiful nature and historical significance.
Medical and dental services
The Emergency SKI PATROL service is available 24 hours a day. Ambulance and clinic (with doctor and nurse) are available, as well as first aid, on all ski slopes. Fully equipped and functioning hospitals is available in Bansko. Highly qualified dentists are
available at the resort too.
Some medical and all dental services must be paid in cash to the doctors (clinics). They should provide the necessary bills, receipts and invoices describing the service and the cost, so that you can claim back the expense to your insurance company. It's recommended
you call your insurance company and inform them in case of injury. Please follow their instructions.
