Bansko

Bansko in Bulgaria is one of the most famous winter resorts, and it is high on the list of favorite destinations of the Greeks. It has one of the most well-equipped ski resorts in the Balkans, which makes it an ideal destination for ski lovers. The conditions in the ski area are thought of as ideal, even with artificial snow, and the close proximity to our country, make Bansko a sought-after destination. Bansko is a picturesque village in Bulgaria and is located in the foothills of the Pirin mountains at an altitude of 976 meters. Along the village extends the river Glazne. Τhe balkan architecturen is evident in buildings and in hotels, but many buildings are still under construction.

In the last few years in accordance with the evidence found from excavations it seems that Bansko has been inhabited since ancient times and even in different regions inhabited by Thracians and Romans. A city that was discovered 4 kilometers away from Bansko shows that it was inhabited continuously from about 2000 bc. until the 16-17th century. On the Medieval history of the town of Bansko is worth to mention that the population consisted mainly of farmers. At the same time, the area of Bansko has been a spiritual and religious centre of christianity, that maintained its history too. In Bansko you will find also churches of the later medieval era. During the Renaissance, the town of Bansko is growing fast economically, it turns into a busy shopping center with lots of crafts. In the next few years schools and churches are built and a new era for the Bansko starts.

If you find yourself in Bansko and even if you are not enthusiasts of winter sports is definitely worth to take a stroll at the ski resort. Since 2003, it has installed a cable car from the town which offers access to the main centre of Μπαντερίσκα Polyana. Of course you can reach the ski center by car. Don't miss the opportunity to walk in the street Pirin which is the most commercial street of the village. You can do your shopping in the numerous shops and enjoy your coffee in the cafes located in the area. If you walk all along the street you will arrive at the paved square of the village. There you can admire the church of the Holy Trinity, but to visit the home of a Bulgarian monk Νeofit Rilski, which now operates as a museum. For those who stay more days in Bansko, we recommend a visit to the nearby village of Banya. This village is famous for its hot springs and thermal baths. Other nearby villages that you can visit during your stay in Bansko is Razlog and Dobriniste which are located in close enough proximity.

In Bansko you will find many restaurants as  the Bulgarians identify themselves enough with the food. There are several similarities between the Greek and the Bulgarian cuisine. The Bulgarian specialities are mostly based on meat. Most of the taverns in Bansko have the distinctive label Mehana, which means tavern in Bulgarian. The food in Bansko wants a little attention as maybe some are not accustomed to the spicy flavors that are served. Don't miss the opportunity to taste some of the typical dishes of the Bulgarian cuisine such as Tarator, which is a typical Bulgarian cold soup of cucumber, blended with yogurt, walnuts and dill. It is ideal for all year round as it does not require cooking and is served cold. Another famous dish you will find everywhere in Bulgaria is Banitsa. This is a cheese pie with eggs and the well-known cheese sirene. Often in Bulgaria we see to accompany the Banitsa with boza, a thick, sweet, coffee drink, that suits it very much.

Bansko has become one of the most famous winter resorts not only because of the ski center but also for the vibrant nightlife it offers. Bansko offers numerous different and interesting fun suggestions. In the center of the city there are several beer halls and pubs where you can enjoy your drink in the late afternoon. Of course there are also the clubs in the area which are ideal for dancing and stay open until the early hours. Also in Bansko, as in other winter resorts, there are several casinos, which the tourists can visit.

The currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Leva. Of course most shops accept euros but will probably return change in Bulgarian and you'll pay more than the value of the product. Therefore it is good to make currency for your basic expenses. There are exchanges around the shopping street Pirin and around the centre. To call a Greek telephone number fill in front of the code 0030. The phone code of Bulgaria is 00359. Greece-Bulgaria don't have a time difference. The nearest airport is that of Sofia that is 96 km away.