Top Things to Do in and around Bansko, Bulgaria with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide

Last Updated on August 1, 2025 by Polly Dimitrova

Planning a summer holiday in Bansko with kids might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about family-friendly destinations in Bulgaria, but it should be. Just a two-hour drive from Sofia, Bansko is not only easy to reach but also a unique destination nestled beneath the stunning Pirin Mountains. As a parent who has spent several summers here with and without children, I understand the challenge of finding activities that entertain the kids while still offering something meaningful for adults.

Fortunately, Bansko in summer delivers exactly that—whether you’re after gentle mountain trails, outdoor adventures, mineral pools, or cultural experiences, there’s something for every age. In this guide, I will walk you through the top things to do in Bansko with kids—a carefully curated list based on real experience, to help you plan a stress-free and memorable family trip.

Take the Gondola Lift to Banderishka Polyana

Distance from Bansko: Gondola Station is in town

Transportation Mode: On foot or car – parking during the summer is free

Suitable for Ages: 2+, but you can also take smaller babies

Stroller-Friendly: No (I do not recommend taking a stroller. Baby carrier would be a better option)

GPS for Gondola Station Parking: 41.837519, 23.485482

Time Needed: Half day

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One of the best family activities in Bansko during the summer is taking the Gondola Lift up to Banderishka Polyana—a fun and scenic ride that your kids will absolutely love. The journey takes around 30 minutes each way and offers stunning panoramic views of the Pirin Mountains, making it an adventure in itself. As of summer 2025, a round-trip ticket costs 50 BGN for adults and 35 BGN for children (7 years and up).

Once you reach the top, you will find a vibrant kids’ zone perfect for burning off some energy. There are inflatable castles (a hit with my two-year-old), mini golf, tubing, and even the one of longest water slides in Europe—all available for an additional fee. But there is also plenty to enjoy for free: kids can play on swings, go for a gentle walk through the forest, spot flowers and pick up sticks, or simply soak in the crisp mountain air and breathtaking scenery. Restaurant on-site serves tasty local dishes, or you can bring your own picnic blanket and snacks and enjoy a relaxed outdoor meal in nature. It is a perfect half-day outing for families of all ages.

Note: My son’s favorite part was the gondola ride itself. He also loved the inflatable castle, but he was too young for any of the other attractions at Banderishka Polyana. The tubing and water slide might be more suitable for children above the age of 7 years. If your entire family wants to join in the fun, you can check out their package prices as well.

Family Fun at Alpha Spa & Pool in Dobrinishte

Distance from Bansko: 6 km / ~10 minutes by car

Transportation Mode: Car (limited parking available)

Suitable for Ages: All ages (kids pool available)

Stroller-Friendly: Yes

GPS Coordinates: 41.8209102,23.5679993

Time Needed: 2–4 hours (would recommend only half day)

Pro Tip: Bring flip-flops, sun hats, sunscreen, beach towels and snacks—though food is available on-site

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If you’re looking for a relaxing, low-effort day that will keeps the kids happy and entertained for hours, Alpha Spa & Pool in Dobrinishte is a perfect pick. Located just a 10-minute drive from Bansko, this family-friendly thermal complex offers outdoor mineral pools with varying temperatures, including a shallow children’s pool, a Jacuzzi, and a large main pool surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.

The water is mineral-rich, making it ideal for soothing tired muscles after hiking or exploring. Just keep in mind that young children should not stay in mineral water for too long—short dips with breaks in between are best. Also, the Jacuzzi is not recommended for kids, so it is mainly a treat for the grown-ups!

There are plenty of loungers and umbrellas around the pool area, but they’re available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you’re planning to spend the whole day here, it’s best to arrive early, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, when it tends to get crowded. That said, during our last trip we visited in the late afternoons, which worked well—many people were already leaving, and the atmosphere was calmer.

Beyond the pools, there’s also a small playground, an on-site restaurant, a coffee bar—making it a great place to visit near Bansko.

Ride the Rhodope Narrow Gauge Train

Departure Point: Bansko Railway Station (near the town center)

Transportation Mode: best reached on foot

Suitable for Ages: 2+ (ideal for toddlers and train-loving kids)

Stroller-Friendly: No (but umbrella strollers can be folded and taken onboard)

Time Needed: 2–3 hours (depending on the route)

GPS Coordinates (Bansko Station): 41.842249, 23.489053

Pro Tip: The ride can get warm in the summer (no AC), so bring lots of water and light clothing. Window seats offer the best views!

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Riding the Rhodope Narrow Gauge Train is one of the best Bansko family activities if your little ones love trains. This is Bulgaria’s last operational narrow-gauge railway, and it offers one of the most scenic and nostalgic rides through the Rhodope, Rila, and Pirin Mountains. The train runs between Septemvri and Dobrinishte, with Bansko being one of the stops along the route.

The ride is an adventure in itself, passing through tunnels, forests, meadows, and tiny mountain villages. For young children, the thrill of a real train with old-fashioned carriages is hard to beat. For parents, it is a relaxing and budget-friendly way to soak in the views and discover local life—you will often see Bulgarians using it for daily commutes. The ride is slow (and that is a big part of the charm!), making it ideal for quality time spent together as a family.

You don’t need to do the full journey. A short round trip from Bansko to Dobrinishte or Velingrad makes for a fun half-day outing. Just keep in mind the train schedule is limited, so check times in advance and bring snacks, water, and small toys or books to keep younger kids entertained. This scenic train journey is one of the most unique Bansko family activities and a great way to experience Bansko with kids from a different perspective.

Visit the Bear Sanctuary in Belitsa

Distance from Bansko: 33 km / ~40 minutes by car

Transportation Mode: Car (narrow road with gravel portions—drive carefully)

Suitable for Ages: 5+ (not ideal for toddlers or young kids)

Stroller-Friendly: Not suitable (lots of stairs and uneven paths)

GPS Coordinates: 42.031157,23.582284

Time Needed: 1.5–2.5 hours

Pro Tip: Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and talk to kids ahead of time about the bears’ past to provide context

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Just a 40-minute drive from Bansko, the Bear Sanctuary in Belitsa is an impactful family activity in the area—especially for older children. Hidden in the peaceful forests above the village of Belitsa, this 12 ha sanctuary is home to 15 rescued bears, all of whom were once exploited for street entertainment as “dancing bears.” Today, they live in large, natural enclosures where they can rediscover their instincts and simply be bears again.

Visiting the park is not a typical zoo-style experience—it is far more educational and emotional. Access is only available via guided tours, which run every 30 minutes starting at 10:00 AM, and are available in both English and Bulgarian. The tour takes about 30–40 minutes, and covers roughly 1 km of walking through forest trails and some particularly steep terrain. That being said, it is not a stroller-friendly or a toddler-friendly spot, but for those exploring Bansko with older kids, it is a powerful and rewarding outing. With more than 100 steps and uneven terrain this is a Bansko summer activity for families with older children.

Because the bears roam within vast enclosures, there is no guarantee how many you will see during your visit—but spotting even a few can be worth it. For families with curious, compassionate kids, this visit is a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical tourism and animal protection.

Adventure at Rila Fun Park

Distance from Bansko: ~30 km / ~40 minutes by car

Transportation Mode: Car (narrow road with gravel portions—drive carefully)

Suitable for Ages: 3+ (adults must accompany younger kids)

Stroller-Friendly: Not practical—steep paths and terrain at the park

GPS Coordinates: 42.0220° N, 23.5785° E

Time Needed: 1–2 hours (or combine with Bear Sanctuary visit nearby)

Pro Tip: Go early to avoid queueing, especially on weekends.

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Set at 1,200–1,345 meters elevation near Belitsa and only 1.5 km from the Bear Sanctuary, Rila Fun Park is a hillside park offering adrenaline-packed fun among the stunning Rila mountains. As Bulgaria’s first mountain amusement park this is a great spot near Bansko for families with older kids looking for adventure beyond the usual hiking trails.

The star attraction is the alpine rollercoaster: a two-seater sled-like cart on tubular rails stretching 1,400 meters down the slope. Guests control their speed—with a safety cap—making it exciting yet secure for kids and grown-ups alike. The park is only suitable for children above the age of 3 years, so we decided to skip it on our last trip to Bansko. The park is open between 10:00 and 17:00 daily with full information on prices listed here. For families searching for adventurous things to do in and near Bansko with kids, this nearby mountain park adds an exciting twist to your Bansko family travel itinerary.

Note: Located right next to each other, it is best to combine the Bear Sanctuary in Belitsa and the Rila Fun Park in one day trip from Bansko for a day full of adventure for families visiting Bansko with older children.

Horseback Riding in Bansko

Distance from Bansko: ~1 km / ~5 minutes by car

Transportation Mode: Car (narrow road with gravel portions—drive carefully)

Suitable for Ages: 3+ (pony rides for young children; trail rides for older ones)

Stroller-Friendly: Not practical—stable area has uneven surface

GPS Coordinates: 41.8263012,23.5461663

Time Needed: approximately an hour

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

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Just a short drive from the Gondola lift in Bansko, Kosherina Horse Riding Base has become one of our go-to family-friendly spots over the years. Conveniently located on the edge of town, it offers a peaceful countryside feel without needing to go far. The riding school provides short 15- or 30-minute sessions, perfect if you’re looking for fun things to do in Bansko with kids—especially if you’re introducing little ones to horseback riding for the first time.

Children aged 3–6 can enjoy calm, guided pony rides along quieter, flat trails, while older kids and adults can opt for a slightly longer route through the meadows and foothills of the Pirin Mountains. On previous trips, my husband and I tried one of the longer afternoon sessions, and it was such a refreshing experience—riding through serene mountain paths with stunning views all around.

The staff are friendly and experienced with children, and the horses are calm and well cared for. It is a great mix of gentle adventure and nature that suits almost all ages. Just keep in mind that the area around the stable is not stroller-friendly, so plan accordingly if visiting with toddlers who are not riding. This is one of the most peaceful and exciting Bansko summer experiences to enjoy with children.

Note: Parts of the drive to Kosherina Horse Riding Base is only gravel and very narrow. There is no dedicated parking and it is along the side of the road.

Stroll through Bansko

Transportation Mode: on foot

Suitable for Ages: any age

Stroller-Friendly: Bansko is very stroller friendly

Time Needed: 2-3 hours

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and a camera

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A gentle walk through Bansko is the perfect low-effort, high-enjoyment activity, especially for families who have already spent a few days hiking, riding, or exploring the region’s wilder corners. It is a lovely way to slow down and appreciate the town’s rich culture—without needing to plan much at all. The old town of Bansko is full of narrow cobblestone streets with little hidden gem at every corner. Traditional stone houses, and flower-lined courtyards create a beautiful setting that feels like stepping back in time.

We particularly enjoyed strolling along the less-crowded pedestrian Gotse Delchev Street—a hidden gem in Bansko for families with children. A gentle stream runs through the middle of the walkway, with multiple little bridges that were an instant hit with our toddler, who happily ran back and forth from side to side. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with plenty of shady benches, makes it a perfect spot for parents to rest and admire the stunning Pirin Mountains in the distance.

Along the way, we also discovered a very nice playground, where our 2-year-old had an absolute blast climbing, sliding, and exploring-proof that even a simple walk in Bansko with kids can become one of your favorite Bansko family activities. Plus, it was a great way to break up the walk and let him burn off some energy in a safe, open space.

Day Trip to Razlog

Distance from Bansko: ~5 km / ~10 minutes by car

Transportation Mode: Car to town center

Suitable for Ages: All ages

Stroller-Friendly: Yes around the city and town park

Time Needed: half day

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Razlog makes a delightful half-day detour from Bansko, with a beautifully landscaped town park complete with a small lake, fountains, playful animal sculptures, and pleasant promenades right off the pedestrian street—perfect for little ones to run around safely, feed ducks or play on multiple playgrounds just footsteps from cafés and shady benches. It was honestly difficult to leave this area, because our 2-year-old wanted to explore all playgrounds (which were quite many) and test out all slides and climbing structures.

While, a simple walk down the main street and park in Razlog is a fabulous family activity near Bansko, the highlight of our day trip was the “Steps” Panoramic Walk. Locally known as Stapalata, the walk climbs numerous stairs, until it reaches the top of a hill, opening up to a spectacular panoramic view. It would probably take only 15 minutes or so if you are visiting without kids or your children are a big older, but our 2-year-old climbed every stair on his own and it took us closer to 25 minutes probably. I have to say completely doable even for a smaller kid as ours. There are plenty of rest areas along the way with loungers, benches in the shade and even some interactive panels, celebrating the local history and nature.

Once you reach the top, you will find a play area, swings for both children and adults, wooden benches (perfect if you have brought sandwiches to enjoy a peaceful picnic) and undoubtedly the unique 12-meter-tall observation tower. You should definitely climb higher for a spectacular 360° panorama of Rila, Pirin, and the Rhodope Mountains. All together, it is a charming and manageable outing that blends gentle exercise, stunning scenery, and family fun in one outing.

Note: Our son did get tired on the way back and we had to carry him down. This is not a stroller-friendly area due to the numerous steps. Better bring a baby carrier for the smallest ones, who will not be able to manage the climb on their own.

Note: Visiting Razlog and climbing the “Steps” Panoramic Walk is an excellent choice for a full-day trip from Bansko and one of the best things to do near Bansko with kids during the summer season.

Hiking In Pirin Mountains

Distance from Bansko: Depends on trail – most start 15–30 minutes from town

Transportation Mode: Car

Suitable for Ages: depending on how adventurous your family and little ones are

Stroller-Friendly: No

Pro Tip: Bring layers, water, snacks, and sun protection. Start early in the day to avoid heat and crowds.

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Pirin National Park is a dream destination for nature-loving families. With its dramatic peaks, crystal-clear glacial lakes, lush forests, and alpine meadows, it offers an unforgettable setting for hiking adventures — even with kids in tow. While some trails are only for experienced hikers, there are also plenty of easy and moderate routes suitable for families with kids (slightly older children might be better though).

Trailheads like Vihren Hut and Bezbog Hut, serve as great starting points. You will find paths that lead to lakes, waterfalls, or panoramic lookouts — some short enough to do in under two hours, others that make for an active half-day.

One of the things I love most about hiking with kids is that there’s no pressure to complete anything. You can start a trail, explore at your own pace, and turn around whenever it feels right. For little ones, the journey itself — spotting bugs, jumping over puddles, collecting pinecones — is the real adventure. And in Pirin, even the shortest stroll feels magical.

One of the easiest trails and a great thing to do in Bansko with kids is taking a short scenic drive to see Baikushev’s Pine — a 1,300-year-old conifer tree that’s among the oldest in the world. It stands 26 meters tall with a massive trunk, and it’s located just off the road between Banderitsa Hut and Vihren Hut, making it an effortless stop with a big wow factor. There is no hike required — simply pull over, walk up the wooden stairs, and let the kids marvel at the size (and age!) of this ancient tree. GPS Coordinates: 41.766157, 23.421726

Café with a Play Area

Distance from Bansko: Central location (walkable or very short drive)

Suitable for Ages: all ages, but maybe better for younger children

Stroller-Friendly: Yes (open, accessible café environment)

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During our last trip to Bansko, rain was forecast, so I looked for some indoor Bansko family activities and found ZZ Land Play Café. We were in luck and it only rained during the night, but this cozy spot seems perfect for families looking to escape wet weather. It has a bright indoor play area filled with slides, ball pits, and role-play zones, plus a comfortable café space where parents can enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks while keeping an eye on the kids.

Located right in the town center of Bansko, it is super convenient if you need a quick, fun, and stress-free place to hang out on a rainy day. I am definitely keeping it saved for our next trip as a great way to let our little one burn off energy indoors — especially if the weather is not cooperating. Maybe something for you to also add to your Bansko family travel itinerary—especially if you are looking for flexible indoor Bansko family activity that works in any weather.

More Things to Do in Bansko:

Bansko may be best known for its winter slopes, but in summer, it transforms into a surprisingly rich destination for families. Whether you are strolling through the old town, riding horses beneath mountain peaks, or discovering unique day trips nearby, there is no shortage of meaningful, low-stress, and fun Bansko family activities. From toddlers to teens, every age can find something to enjoy. If you are planning a Bansko family travel adventure, let this guide be your go-to for unforgettable things to do in Bansko with kids—and experience a new side of Bulgaria that just might become your family’s favorite summer tradition.