Bulgaria is one of the most underrated winter destinations in Europe. The country offers excellent skiing conditions, modern lifts, diverse slopes, and prices that remain significantly more affordable compared to the Alps.

In the heart of the Bulgarian mountains lie the three most famous ski resorts – Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. Each has its own unique character – from the lively Alpine style of Bansko, through the classic atmosphere of Borovets, to the sunny and calm slopes of Pamporovo.

Why Choose Bulgaria for a Ski Holiday?

Bulgarian ski resorts combine good natural conditions, modern infrastructure, and competitive prices. The Rila, Pirin, and Rhodope mountains offer stable snow cover, and most slopes are equipped with artificial snow systems.

For international travelers, Bulgaria is extremely accessible, with most resorts located within a reasonable driving distance from Sofia International Airport (SOF).

• Lower prices for ski passes and accommodation compared to Western Europe;
• Excellent conditions for beginners and intermediates;
• Rich cuisine, great SPA facilities, and active nightlife;
• Easy transfers from Sofia Airport.

Bansko – The Largest and Most Modern Resort

Located at the foot of the Pirin Mountain, Bansko is Bulgaria's most popular ski resort internationally. It regularly hosts World Cup ski races and offers the longest ski season in the country – often lasting until April.

✈️ Travel from Sofia Airport (SOF):
Distance: Approx. 160 km.
Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours by car or transfer.
Route: Sofia -> Blagoevgrad -> Bansko (mostly highway).

Ski Area and Atmosphere

The Bansko ski area features over 70 km of slopes, serviced by a modern lift system. There is an excellent balance between beginner runs, long red slopes, and technical black sections like the "Tomba" run.

After skiing, Bansko offers a unique après-ski atmosphere – bars, clubs, and numerous traditional taverns ("Mehana") in the old town.

Bansko Ski Pass Prices (Early Season – December)

At the beginning of the season, when a limited number of slopes are open with artificial snow, Bansko applies lower, early-season prices. During the active winter season (January–February), prices typically increase.

Daily Ski Pass

• Adults: 65 BGN / ~33 €
• Students / Seniors: 55 BGN / ~28 €
• Children (7–11.99 y.o.): 33 BGN / ~17 €
• Children under 6.99 & Seniors over 75: 1 BGN / ~0.50 €

Season & Long-term Passes

• "Bansko Twenty" Pass – Adult: 1680 BGN / ~859 €
• "Bansko Twenty" Pass – Child: 839,06 BGN / ~429 €
• Season Pass – Adult: 1994,95 BGN / ~1020 €
• Season Pass – Child: 1050,29 BGN / ~537 €

Borovets – The Classic Bulgarian Resort

Borovets is the oldest ski resort in Bulgaria, nestled among the century-old pine forests of the Rila Mountain, only about 70 km from Sofia.

✈️ Travel from Sofia Airport (SOF):
Distance: Approx. 70 km.
Travel time: 1 hour 15 mins by car or transfer.
This is the most convenient resort for short trips.

Ski Area and Highlights

The resort offers about 60 km of slopes and is particularly famous for its night skiing, which is among the best in Bulgaria. The slopes in front of the "Rila" hotel are illuminated and perfectly maintained.

Borovets Ski Pass Prices 2025/2026 (Officially Announced)

Daily and Half-day Passes

• 1 Day – Adult (23-64 y.o.): 105,61 BGN / ~54 €
• 1 Day – Youth (14–22 y.o.) & 65+: 84,10 BGN / ~43 €
• 1 Day – Child (7–13 y.o.): 62,59 BGN / ~32 €
• 1/2 Day (8:30-12:30) – Adult: 84,10 BGN / ~43 €
• 1/2 Day (12:30-16:30) – Adult: 72,37 BGN / ~37 €
• 1/2 Day (8:30-12:30) – Youth & 65+: 62,59 BGN / ~32 €
• 1/2 Day (12:30-16:30) – Youth & 65+: 56,72 BGN / ~29 €
• 1/2 Day (8:30-12:30) – Child: 52,81 BGN / ~27 €
• 1/2 Day (12:30-16:30) – Child: 46,94 BGN / ~24 €

Multi-day Ski Passes

• 2 Days – Adult: 189,72 BGN / ~97 €
• 2 Days – Youth: 152,55 BGN / ~78 €
• 2 Days – Child: 115,39 BGN / ~59 €
• 3 Days – Adult: 277,73 BGN / ~142 €
• 3 Days – Youth: 221,01 BGN / ~113 €
• 3 Days – Child: 172,11 BGN / ~88 €
• 4 Days – Adult: 367,70 BGN / ~188 €
• 4 Days – Youth: 293,37 BGN / ~150 €
• 4 Days – Child: 224,92 BGN / ~115 €
• 5 Days – Adult: 451,80 BGN / ~231 €
• 5 Days – Youth: 355,96 BGN / ~182 €
• 5 Days – Child: 271,86 BGN / ~139 €
• 6 Days – Adult: 545,68 BGN / ~279 €
• 6 Days – Youth: 420,50 BGN / ~215 €
• 6 Days – Child: 330,54 BGN / ~169 €

Borovets also offers night skiing and various options for short and weekend ski holidays.

Pamporovo – The Sunny Gem of the Rhodopes

Pamporovo is known as the sunniest mountain resort in Bulgaria. The slopes are wide, gentle, and excellently maintained, making the area ideal for families and beginners.

✈️ Travel from Sofia Airport (SOF):
Distance: Approx. 230 km.
Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours by car or bus.
Route: Sofia -> Plovdiv -> Asenovgrad -> Pamporovo.

An added benefit is the connection to the Mechi Chal (Chepelare) ski area with a single ski pass.

Prices will be added once officially announced.

Which Resort Suits You Best?

• Bansko – For all categories, but also more slopes for advanced skiers, town-like feel, and active nightlife.
• Borovets – For a classic skiing experience and night skiing, hotels nestled in nature.
• Pamporovo – For families and beginners, scenic landscapes, and lots of sunshine.

Best Time to Ski in Bulgaria

The best conditions are in January and February. Early December and March offer lower prices and fewer crowds, but fewer slopes might be open.

Accommodation

• Luxury SPA Hotels
• Family hotels and guest houses
• Rental apartments

Prices and Budget

• Ski Pass: 65–105 BGN (~33 - 54 €)
• Hotel: 50–200+ BGN (~26 - 100+ €)
• Food: 15–30 BGN (~8 - 16 €)
• Equipment Rental (skis, boots, poles): 30–50 BGN (~15 - 25 €)
• Full Equipment (jacket, pants + skis, boots): 70–80 BGN (~35 - 40 €)
• Ski Instructor (group): 90–105 BGN (~46 - 55 €)
• Ski Instructor (private): over 200 BGN (~105 - 120 €)

Conclusion

Bulgarian ski resorts offer an excellent balance between quality and price. Whether you choose Bansko, Borovets, or Pamporovo, you will enjoy a complete winter experience.