Lonely Planet, a renowned travel guide publisher for over half a century, has revealed its top 10 cities for budget travel in 2025. Securing a prestigious third place on the list is Bansko, a charming resort town in southwestern Bulgaria.
Destinations were evaluated based on several factors: uniqueness, variety of activities, accommodation costs, quality of cuisine, and the friendliness of the local community. Bansko exceeded Lonely Planet experts' expectations in all these areas.
Nestled at 925 meters above sea level in the Pirin National Park, the resort offers more than just ski slopes. The town boasts an old center with houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, showcasing the distinctive Balkan style, along with several museums, an art gallery, and numerous Bulgarian cuisine establishments.
These attractions are open year-round, including the ski slope. From May to November, cyclists take over the slopes previously enjoyed by skiers and snowboarders. Hiking is also popular in Bansko during the summer months. And throughout the year, visitors can relax in the thermal springs that surround the town.
Add to this the stunning mountain scenery, and it's easy to see why half of the town's population now consists of tourists who have decided to stay for longer periods. Besides sports enthusiasts, the beauty and tranquility of the place attract creative professionals. The well-developed urban infrastructure, combined with affordable housing, makes Bansko an attractive destination for digital nomads.
If Bansko continues to develop at this pace, it may soon climb even higher in the Lonely Planet rankings. For now, the top spot is held by Toulouse, France, followed by Puducherry, India.
