Bansko city guide

There are several legends surrounding the founding of Bansko however, the most likely is that the city was first settled by a Slavic tribe called the Peruns who lived in the Pirin Mountains. The town itself dates back to the early Roman Empire. For a long time Bankso was bandied back-and-forth between controlling powers until it fell to the Ottoman Empire. It remained under Ottoman control until 1912 when it was incorporated into Bulgaria as a result of the First Balkan War.

Bansko used to be a stockbreeding and travelling merchant community. It is now a renowned winter and summer tourism centre. It has seen major improvements in its infrastructure and has recently become known for the Bansko Jazz Festival. The nearby town of Banya meanwhile is celebrated for its thermal mineral springs.

Along with being Bulgaria’s number one ski resort the city also boasts a superior, 18-hole golf course.

Bansko’s many attributes have made it a popular expatriate destination for settling down. There is an especially large community of expat Brits living in the city with more people arriving each year.

In fact, the huge demand for second homes and holiday homes in Bansko is fuelling a massive construction boom that is seeing development projects springing up all over the city. The demand for property in Bansko has actually caused real estate prices to triple in the city over the last few years.

Despite the large-scale developments that Bansko has been witnessing, however, the city has still managed to retain its old-world charm and its natural beauty. It also still offers a very affordable cost of living.

Similar to other resort towns, Bansko has plenty of employment opportunities currently available in the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors. While it is advisable to come equipped with a substantial nest egg in case employment is not readily available when you arrive, your money will certainly go a long way here compared to other cities in Europe.

Like many other Bulgarian cities, Bansko is quickly becoming a much-sought after place for second home seekers. The town’s fantastic natural environment coupled with the many outdoor activities available and its low cost of living are sure to continue luring people who are no longer able to afford resorts in some of Europe’s more expensive places.

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