Bansko lift parking 2026: Where to park for skiing and how to get to the slopes?

Every morning in Bansko starts with the same race: “Who will get a spot in the lift parking lot?”. During the active ski season, organizing transportation to the slopes is critical to your experience. One mistake in planning could cost you hours of wandering or a hefty fine.

In this specialized guide, we will look at all the options for skiers – from the coveted parking lot at the Base Station, to getting there by car to The Shiligarnika, to the secret paid parking lots next door.

1. The parking lot at the Base Station (Gondola)

This is the most convenient, but also the most difficult to access place in the entire resort. It is located right next to the entrance to the gondola lift.

• Location: Right next to the building of Yulen (Pirin Blvd.).
• Capacity: Limited (fills up quickly).
• Price (Indicative): 15.00 – 20.00 BGN per day (price may vary depending on the peak season).
• Payment method: In cash, at the barrier upon entry.

Strategy: This parking lot is “first line.” If you arrive after 8:30 a.m. and see a line of cars or a lowered barrier, don’t wait – the chances of anyone leaving in the morning are minimal. Immediately head for the alternatives.

2. Alternative parking lots around the lift (Ski area)

When the main parking lot is full, the area around the base station offers several private paid parking lots. They are within walking distance (2-5 minutes) from the lift.

Paid parking lots in the “Gramadeto” and “Gurovitsa” neighborhoods”

Look around for “Paid Parking” signs on the streets:

• Naiden Gerov Street: The street that runs parallel to the river and leads to the lift. There are several separate private plots there.
• Glazne Street: On the other side of the river. There are often places, but it requires crossing the bridge to the lift.

Prices here they vary between 10 and 20 leva per day. The advantage is that your car is in a safe place and you don't risk a "spider".

3. By car to the slopes: Shiligarnika and Banderishka Polyana

Many skiers prefer to avoid the Gondola queue by taking a private car directly to the upper stations. The route is scenic but risky.

Parking lot “Banderishka Polyana” (1620 m.)

• This is the end point of the asphalt road and the upper station of the gondola lift.
• Price: ~20 BGN per day (paid on site).
• Suitable for: Beginners (there is a children's slope and lifts) and people who want direct access to the facilities.

"Shiligarnika" parking lot (1725 m.)

• Located a little higher (the deviation is before Banderishka Polyana).
• Main starting point for most chairlifts (to Todorka and The plateau).
• Capacity: Larger than Banderishka, but also fills up quickly.

⛔ When do the police close the road?

Това е най-важният момент. В натоварени дни (уикенди, ваканции), когато горните паркинги се напълнят (обикновено към 09:30 – 10:00 ч.), полицията поставя патрул на изхода на Bansko или при местността “Мочарата.

If the road is closed: Only official cars and vans are allowed. There's no point in arguing with the law enforcement - there's simply no physical space up there. You'll have to go back to the city.

4. Where to NEVER park (The Traps)

Bansko is uncompromising towards improper parking, especially during the ski season.

5. “Blue Zone” – is it an option for skiers?

The blue zone is far from the lift (mainly in the center and the old town). It NOT a good option for skiers because:

1. It is far from the Gondola (you will have to walk with ski boots for 20+ minutes or take a taxi).
2. There is a limit of 4 hours downtime. The ski day is longer, and you can't run down from the top to move the car.