This page contains affiliate links. This means that we receive a small commission if you book something with our partner, without you paying anything extra.

Is Bansko boring in summer? Not at all!

Many people think that Bansko comes to a standstill outside the ski season. That the lifts are closed, some restaurants remain shut and the town is quieter than in winter.
And that's partly true... but boring? Absolutely not!

As soon as the snow melts, Bansko turns into a paradise for nature lovers, hikers and bon vivants. You can hike through the mountains, swim in clear mountain water, relax in the thermal springs of Banya, mountain bike through the forests and even slide down the longest inflatable water slide in Europe.
Add to that the long, sunny days and lively terraces, and you'll understand why Bansko is becoming increasingly popular as a summer destination.

Bansko is a true all-season destination for a reason: there is something to do all year round.

Winter may be a little more fun with après-ski and white slopes, but in summer you will discover a side of Bansko that is just as special.
In this article, you will find the best summer activities to get the most out of your stay in the region!

These are the 8 best summer activities in Bansko

From stunning hikes over mountain ridges and peaks to sampling Bulgarian cuisine, there is so much to discover in the Bansko region.

Are you coming to discover Bansko in winter? Then read about the best winter activities in Bansko here!

Read on for the eight best summer activities in Bansko.

1. Rila Fun Park & Belitsa Bear Park – fun and nature

Twelve kilometres from Belitsa, in the middle of the beautiful Rila Mountains, lies the Rila Fun Park – a wonderful day out for young and old!
Among the mountains, you will find slides, swings, climbing frames, climbing walls and even a toboggan run for children aged 7 and above (and adults who are still young at heart).
For the little ones, there is a separate play area with safe attractions and sandpits.

Opening hours: daily from 10:00 to 18:00, all year round.
Admission: children aged 3–12 years €5, adults and children aged 12 years and over €7.50.

Belitsa Bear Park: a second chance for abused bears

Within walking distance of the Fun Park is a unique and moving place: the Belitsa Bear Park.
Here, brown bears that have suffered for years as “dancing bears” are taken in; animals that were abused and chained up to entertain tourists.
Since these practices were banned in 2007, they are finally getting the peace and freedom they deserve here.

The bears live in seven large, natural enclosures that mimic their natural habitat as closely as possible. With grassy plains, forests, hills, dens and ponds, the bears can live freely here again.

In addition to Bulgarian bears, rescued bears from Albania, Serbia and other Balkan countries also live here.

Opening hours: April to November
Admission: adults €5, children 7–18 years €1.50
Children up to 6 years and visitors with disabilities: free admission

2. Experience nature your way in the Pirin

Bansko is located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Europe. This mountain range is known for its jagged peaks, clear mountain lakes, wild flowers such as edelweiss and impressive nature. There is even a bear population living here.

Whether you want to hike, cycle, raft or simply enjoy the silence of the mountains, the Pirin Mountains are the ideal place!
With so much freedom, fresh mountain air and endless views, it's almost impossible not to be outside here.

Hiking in the Pirin Mountains

The Pirin offers countless hiking trails. From relaxed mountain paths to challenging hikes to the highest peaks: there are routes for all levels.

For experienced hikers, the climb to the Vihren peak (2,914 metres, the second highest mountain in Bulgaria) is an absolute must. The route is tough, but the view from the top is breathtaking.
Tip: some paths can be steep or slippery. In fog or rain, it is wise to go with a guide.

Want to take it easy? There are also beautiful routes in the valley and lower down in the mountains. Along the way, you will pass old chapels, ruins and hidden spots such as Bulgaria's oldest conifer: Baikuchev's Den and St. Nicholas Waterfall.

In the Pirin, there are plenty of mountain huts and (fish) restaurants where you can stop for food and drink during your hike.

Did you know that the international hiking trail E4, which runs all the way from Spain to Cyprus, passes right through this area? This makes the Pirin one of the most beautiful stages of this iconic trail!

Adventure: rafting, camping and climbing

Fancy a bit more adrenaline? In the Kresna Gorge, near Blagoevgrad, you can go rafting on the Struma River. The rapids (class 2 to 4) make it a challenging but safe activity for adventurers.

You can also camp in the mountains. There are several mountain huts and campsites, including a beautiful spot in the mountains near Bansko itself, close to Baikuchev's Den. Surrounded by nature, with a cosy restaurant.

For rock climbers, there is the Cave Area near Ski Road 1, with climbing routes up to 15 metres high. A great place for a day of climbing in the fresh mountain air.

Mountain biking in the forests around Bansko

The Pirin is also fantastic to explore on two wheels.
The Bunderitsa Trail is a popular route that starts at the Gondola mountain station and is suitable for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers. There are also several signposted trails in the forests, but you can also simply map out your own route through the valley.

Don't have your own bike? No problem! In Bansko, there are several rental companies and outdoor shops that rent mountain bikes and can help you with routes or a local guide.

3. Relax in the thermal baths and enjoy the fresh mineral water

The Bansko region is one of Europe's most important spa areas. All year round, you can enjoy warm spring water, mineral water and thermal pools with healing properties. In summer, this is a fun experience and ideal for relaxing after a long walk or a hot summer's day.

And did you know that Bulgaria has the most mineral water sources in Europe after Iceland?

The villages of Banya and Dobrinishte, just a few kilometres from Bansko, are particularly well known in this area. In these villages, you will find thermal baths with spring water of up to 58˙C that have been used since ancient times.

In total, there are dozens of hot springs. Each has its own composition and health benefits.

Spa hotels with wellness areas and swimming pools abound here to give you a unique spa experience, whatever the time of year.

Even the outdoor swimming pool in Dobrinishte (Alpha Spa & Pool) is filled with this warm spring water, which means it is also open in winter.
There is also a thermal bath from Roman times in Dobrinishte, just outside the town.

Banya is also a real spa resort. It even owes its name to this, as Banya literally means “bath” in Bulgarian. This village is home to some of the best and most impressive spa hotels in the country.

Banya also has thermal springs that have been used for centuries. Among other things, there is an old Bulgarian bathhouse.

These springs and most bathhouses are free to visit. Most are open-air, such as the silver water or Roman bath, both in Dobrinishte.
There are also paid public bathhouses, where you pay a few pounds at most for admission, such as in the park in Dobrinishte.

Finally, you can go swimming at Alpha Spa & Pool in Dobrinishte or at one of the many spa hotels. You will pay considerably more for admission, but the facilities are excellent and the water is well maintained and kept clean.

4. Take the lift and discover the mountains of Bansko

One of the best ways to discover the nature around Bansko is simply by going up the mountain!
Because Bansko is a popular ski resort in winter, there are several ski lifts available - and you can enjoy them in summer too.

The Gondola to Bunderishka Polyana

The famous Gondola lift is also open in summer and takes you from Bansko to Bunderishka Polyana, at an altitude of 1,600 metres, in about 25 minutes.

Here you will find a summer playground with activities for young and old:

• mini golf
• tube slide (see photo)
• human table football
• climbing frames
• and even the longest inflatable water slide in Europe – no less than 400 metres long!

A wonderful place to enjoy the fresh mountain air, have a bite to eat or just sit on the terrace while looking out over the peaks of the Pirin Mountains.

The Dobrinishte chairlift

A few kilometres from Bansko lies Dobrinishte, where you will find the Gotse Delchev Hut. From here, a chairlift takes you from 1,400 to 2,200 metres above sea level, to the Bezbog Hut and Lake Bezbog.

In winter, this is a small ski resort, but in summer it turns into a hiker's paradise. From the mountain station, you can walk beautiful routes with panoramic views, tranquil lakes and fresh mountain air. Afterwards, you can enjoy delicious Bulgarian dishes at the mountain hut.

5. Discover summer festivals, events and Bulgarian cuisine

Bansko is not just a winter destination; in summer, the town is also bustling with music, dance and tradition.
The rich culture of Bansko is unique: even the language has its own accent here!

But one thing is universal: the love of celebration. Bulgaria has more public holidays than the United Kingdom, and it shows. When there is something to celebrate, it is done in style, with folk music, traditional dancing and endless food and wine.

Traditional holidays

One of the most important days of the year is St. George's Day (Gergyovden) on 6 May. Military parades, folk dances and open-air parties are organised throughout the country.
In Dobrinishte, this day is extra special: the whole village gathers in the central square for a colourful folklore festival with traditional costumes, live music and lots of fun.

22 September, Bulgarian Independence Day, is also celebrated in style with folk dancing and music in Dobrinishte's square.

In the video below, you can see how St. George's Day was celebrated in Dobrinishte in 2025.

Festivals and live music

In summer, Bansko transforms into a stage for music and culture lovers. Every year in August, jazz music fills the streets during the Bansko Jazz Festival, one of Bulgaria's most famous open-air festivals. The Bansko Rock Evenings also attract music lovers from all over Europe.

But that's not all. How about the Bansko Opera Festival or the Bulgarian Music Festival?

In Dobrinishte, you can enjoy the Dobrinishtko Lyato celebrations all summer long. Every Saturday evening at 7 p.m., there is live music, dancing and folklore in the square. A wonderful mix of local atmosphere and hospitality.

It's not just music; people from all over the world come together in Bansko.

In June, the annual Bansko Nomad Fest takes place. A week full of lectures, workshops and community events for digital nomads.
A unique opportunity to network, find inspiration and combine the world of remote work with a relaxed life in the mountains.

Taste Bulgarian cuisine

There are countless restaurants and cafés throughout the region. Most of them are typical Bulgarian restaurants, called “Mehana”. These are the perfect places to discover and taste Bulgarian cuisine and culture.
But you will also find Greek and Italian restaurants, for example.

An example of a typical Bulgarian dish that you can get in many restaurants in Bansko is kavarma. This is a kind of stew with meat, vegetables and herbs.
The shopska salad can also be found in literally every restaurant. This is Bulgaria's national dish, which is also reflected in the colours of the salad, which form the Bulgarian flag: white cheese (white), cucumber (green) and peppers and tomatoes (red).

Want to know more about Bulgarian cuisine? In our article on Bulgarian cuisine, you will find the most delicious dishes, the best restaurants and more!

6. The Rhodope Narrow Gauge Railway: an authentic and nostalgic train experience through the mountains

The Rhodope Narrow Gauge Railway is a historic narrow-gauge railway located in the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria.
It is one of the most beautiful and unique railway lines in Europe, with a rich history. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views and the breathtaking nature of Rila and the Rhodopes in summer.

The line runs from the starting station of Septemvri (between Pazardzhik and Kostenets) via Velingrad, Yakoruda, Belitsa and Bansko to Dobrinishte, a distance of 125 km, which takes 5 hours. It is not the fastest train, but it is more than worth the experience!

7: Book a unique quad bike safari through the mountains

Have you always wanted to ride a quad bike through the mountains?
Hop on a quad bike, ride through the beautiful surroundings of Bansko and enjoy the view.

This quad bike safari takes you to places you wouldn't otherwise get to see. It takes you to the most amazing places along narrow mountain roads.

Before the tour begins, everyone receives a short driving lesson and important information in a safe environment, outside of the tour time. This is, of course, to prevent accidents.

Please note that prices start at €75 per ATV for a minimum of one hour of driving.

Would you like to know more about the exact rates, the possibilities, etc. of this fun buggy activity? View the possibilities here.

8. Take a city trip from Bansko

Fancy a change of scenery or a day of city fun?
From Bansko, you can reach a number of charming towns in no time, perfect for a day trip or short city break.

A 45-minute drive from Bansko lies Blagoevgrad, the lively heart of the province.
The city is known as a student city because of its universities and colleges, which create a young and energetic atmosphere.
You will find plenty of shops, cafés, restaurants and lively squares where life is bustling.

A nice extra for football fans: Blagoevgrad has its own professional club, OFK Pirin, which regularly plays matches in the Bulgarian league.

Want to go a little further afield? There are several cities that are worth a day trip or weekend getaway:

• Plovdiv: Bulgaria's second largest city, steeped in history and culture. Visit the Roman ruins, admire the old town with its many colourful houses and enjoy a drink on a terrace. Keep in mind that it can get very hot in summer (40°C is not unusual).
• Sofia: Bulgaria's capital is about a 2-hour drive away. A lively city with a mix of modern and historical, fascinating architecture and beautiful churches.
• Velingrad: The spa capital of the Balkans, known for its thermal baths and relaxing atmosphere. Ideal for a day of wellness in the mountains.
• The Greek coast: From Bansko, you can even take a day trip to the Greek coast. The beaches at Thessaloniki or Kavala are only a 2.5-hour drive away. Perfect for a spontaneous day of sun, sea and souvlaki.

Places of interest in Bansko

The old town of Bansko is very photogenic. With its historic houses and buildings in traditional Bulgarian style, it is a sight in itself, but there is much more to discover!
Here you will also find the Holy Trinity Church, the beautiful central church, also in typical Bulgarian style.
There are also many traditional restaurants and taverns in the old town, which gives it a cosy atmosphere.

The old town is especially nice to visit in the summer, with its many terraces and sunny, warm weather.

Finally, the national parks are real must-visits. Pirin National Park and Rila National Park are two mountain ranges in Bulgaria known for their rich flora and fauna. The Rila Mountains are also known for the Seven Rila Lakes and, of course, the Rila Monastery, which are definitely worth a visit!

Practical information: what you need to know for your summer holiday in Bansko

Here is some practical information for a carefree holiday in Bansko:

• Temperature and weather: The average temperature in summer is between 25°C and 35°C during the day, with plenty of sunshine and hardly any rain throughout the summer. At night and on the mountain, it cools down quickly and can be around 15°C.
• Accommodation: From luxury resorts and campsites to cosy guesthouses and bungalows, there is a wide range of accommodation options.
• Food & drink: In Bansko, you can't escape the many traditional Bulgarian restaurants. Try local specialities such as “Banski Starets” (dried meat) and the traditional stew “Kapama”. There are also plenty of Italian, Greek and other restaurants and fast food outlets.
• Culture: Bulgarians shake their heads when they mean “yes” and nod when they mean “no”. When it comes to customer service, staff can sometimes come across as a bit grumpy.
• Safety: Bansko is a very safe destination, but be aware of pickpockets and con artists in crowded places. Slippery or snowy roads are also a possibility, so drive carefully.
• Language: Bulgarian is spoken, but English is widely understood in most places (hotels, restaurants, Gondola, etc.).
• Accessibility: Bansko is located approximately 160 km from Sofia and can be reached by car, bus or train.

How to travel easily from Sofia to Bansko

Are you ready for a winter sports adventure in Bansko?
The nearest airport is Sofia Airport, approximately 160 km away. From London, Manchester or Birmingham, for example, you can fly easily with Bulgaria Air, Wizz Air or Ryanair.

Once you arrive at the airport, it takes about 2.5 hours to drive to Bansko – a beautiful route through the snow-covered mountains on motorways and good roads. Enjoy the view!
There are various travel options to choose from; travelling by car or bus is the quickest and easiest. The train is also an option and offers a unique journey, but with changes, it takes about 8 hours.

Would you rather not drive yourself? Then you can opt for an Airport Transfer: an experienced driver will take you to your accommodation comfortably and safely.

Renting a car in Bulgaria: comfortable and at your own pace

Most travellers choose to rent a car: slightly more expensive, but the most flexible and comfortable way to explore the country.
A reliable provider is Top Rent A Car – Bulgaria's top-rated car rental company for many years. They offer well-maintained cars, clear prices and unlimited kilometres. What's more, you can cross the border with their vehicles if you also want to visit neighbouring countries.

Check the availability and prices of rental cars at Sofia Airport for your desired period below:

We work with reliable partners such as Top Rent A Car. If you book through our link, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

When will you come and discover this beautiful area?

As you have read in this article, Bansko is anything but boring in the summer. Because the activities we have mentioned here are not even all of them. There is so much more to do in this beautiful region!

It is definitely worth exploring Bansko in the summer. Swimming, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, city trips, museums, thermal baths: you will find it all in Bansko!