First of all, you can reach Bansko by road from Sofia in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The route is easy and the roads are in good condition, you enter the direction towards Blagoevgrad and when you get there it is about half an hour further.

When you arrive at the town of Bansko, there are two directions, one leading to the ski lifts and one leading to the center of the town. It is also worth visiting the town’s center because it is really beautiful. Graphic, paved alleys, traditional houses and the river that crosses Bansko make the scenery so pleasant.

There are traditional taverns and cafes throughout the center to make a pleasant stop. There are also many gift shops, clothes, jackets, leather products, sweaters in very economic prices. It is also worth trying the ‘Rose of Bulgaria’ beauty and care products, which are local and very good for the skin.

Walking the road starting from the city center called Pirin Street, you will end up in the ski resort at some point. That is really another world. Hundreds of skiers with their snowshoes and their boards are waiting for the lift to get them to the top. For those not so advanced, next to the lift there is a slope where they can make some skiing without having to climb up the mountain.

Outside the ski lifts, there are really dozens of cafes, bars, casinos and very good hotels, all luxurious.

Information about the ski lifts and ski slopes: https://www.banskoski.com/en

It is also worth seeing the following in the area:

1. The well-known “Pirin National Park” is an area of ​​unique beauty full of lakes, waterfalls and caves. Unesco has designated it as a “World Heritage Site”.
2. The city of Banya with its renowned spas. Choose the central Rimska Banya facility and with 7 euros (15 leva.) You can enjoy the hot springs and other alternative ways of relaxation all day long.
3. The town of Razlog, perhaps the most beautiful in the area, with the river crossing most of the city while the big pedestrian streets are offered for relaxing walks. Drink a cappuccino in the central square for only 1 euro and relax.

There are many hotels in the area. You can either stay in the center on Bansko or at the luxurious hotels outside the lift area. One nice option is the hotel ‘Hermes’ that is really near the city center but still in a quiet and peaceful area.

Another option is to find a hotel in a nearby area such as the area of Betolovoto, we would recommend The Balkan Jewel Hotel, a 4 star hotel with all the appropriate facilities for a really pleasant stay. More information here

All in all, it is sure that you will have a pleasant time in Bansko, so just book a flight to Sofia, rent a car and let the adventure begin.

The post Bansko: the popular ski resort in Bulgaria! appeared first on TouristSpot .

It is located in western Bulgaria at the foot of Mount Vitosha and the excavations show that the first settlements settled in the area before the 7th century BC, when the Thracians settled near the extraordinary sources of mineral water. In ancient times, Sofia was called ‘Serdian’, while in the medieval times it appeared that the name ‘Triaditza’ was used.

What to see in the city

1. The Temple of Alexander Nevsky

This Temple is one of the most important monuments of the city and is at the top of every traveler. It was built between 1882 and 1912 in memory of 200 thousand Russian soldiers killed in fighting for independence in the Russo-Turkish War (1877-78). It is the second largest temple in the Balkans, a new-Byzantine architecture and an area of ​​3,170 square meters. Add to all these, the golden dome that reaches 45 meters and a dozen bells and you will understand how impressive it is.

2. Vitosha Street

Here is where you will take your walk, you will see showcases, you will drink your coffee or your drink and you will take your lunch. Shortly, this is a road where you can do everything, since it is the most commercial of the city. From famous fashion labels, to the National Palace of Culture, home of the famous poet Peyo Yavorov and other famous buildings, Vitosha Boulevard will surely monopolize your interest for some hours.

3. Borisova Gradina

One of the most impressive parks in Sofia, southeast of the center, full of statues, flower beds and flowers, is the ideal, relaxing place for a walk. It is a vast area that hosts the Vasil Levski stadium and the CSKA stadium, and there are also cafes and playgrounds for children to play if you are traveling with your family. At the eastern end of the park there is a gigantic Communist monument built in 1956, consisting of a 42 meter obelisk and two Kalashnikov partisans.

4. Archaeological Museum

Housed in a former mosque built in 1496. In its exhibits you will find Thracian, Roman and medieval artifacts. Among the highlights is the mosaic floor of the Sveta Sofia Church, a golden, Thracian mask from the 4th century BC. and a stunning bronze head that is thought to represent a King.

You can also visit:

– Yuzhen Park, south of the center, full of trees and shady paths, with many bars and cafes

-Boyana Church, a small church of the 13th century, which is aUNESCO World Heritage Site, with hagiographies representing the best examples of Bulgarian medieval art.

-The Cathedral Sveta Nedelya, which was completed in 1863 and it is unique as it is popular in the city for the Byzantine hagiographies.

-The Zhenski Pazar Market, which is the largest market in the city, with fresh fruit, vegetables and food, as well as economic clothes and shoes.

-The Ivan Vazov National Theater

Where to live

One nice and relatively economical option is Light Hotel (http://hotellight.com/), which is not far from city centre. We would also recommend Diter Hotel (https://diterhotel.com/), near Rakovski street.

For something more luxurious the 5-star Grand Hotel Sofia (http://www.grandhotelsofia.bg/) and the Sense Hotel Sofia (http://www.sensehotel.com/) are definitely good choices.

Finally, Radisson Blu Grand Hotel Sofia, which is near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is worth visiting.

Where to eat

In Vitosha street, there are many cafes, bars that you can visit. You can have a nice cappuccino with French croissant in Samurai. You can also taste the best pizza in the city, at Pizza Palace, which is also at Vitosha Street.

The restaurant Caktus is also worth visiting. We would also recommend Happy Restaurant for a nice evening, enjoying beer and eating a nice meal.

Enjoy your time in Sofia!

The post Traveling to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria appeared first on TouristSpot .

Here are some of our suggestions:

1. Prague, Czech Republic

The Gothic and Baroque architectural style that prevails will impress. Also you can enjoy opera and ballet. And do not forget the walks in the Old Town Square. And definitely see the Charles Bridge which gains the attention of even the locals.

2. Vienna, Austria

From the classic destinations for Christmas, as the city is dressed in white and festive decoration. Do not forget to try finger food and wine.In addition, the former palace of Belvedere with countless paintings and works of art is astonishing. Besides museums the capital of Austria also offers entertainment e.g. the park with the big wheel of 200 meters will make you see the city differently.

3. Bansko, Bulgaria

Recently, one of the most popular destinations especially for young people. The ski center offers activities such as skiing, snowboarding. Prices are very affordable and we are sure you will have a perfect time there.

4.     Pilio, Greece

One of the most beautiful corners of Greece with many villages, forests and mountains. Not accidentally called also the Mountain of Centaurs. The number of travelers is attracting each year is very high. It has a ski resort and you will definitely have a great time there.

The post 4 recommendations for Christmas travelers appeared first on TouristSpot .