This calm spa town at the foot of Pirin Mountain has thermal springs reaching 83°C, making it Bulgaria's warmest year-round destination. Ancient Roman ruins dot its center.
Sandanski, a town in southwestern Bulgaria, has 80 mineral springs and a Mediterranean-like climate with 2,700 hours of annual sunshine. You can swim in thermal pools at the Interhotel Sandanski, walk under 500-year-old plane trees in the town park, or see 5th-century mosaic floors at the Early Christian Complex. The town is also 20 kilometers from the wine cellars of Melnik and the hiking trails of Pirin Mountains.
Healing Waters and Wellness
The mineral springs in Sandanski reach temperatures between 42 and 81 degrees Celsius. The water contains low levels of salt and minerals that doctors recommend for respiratory conditions, arthritis, and nervous system disorders. You'll find several wellness centers where you can take thermal baths or get therapeutic massages.
Mediterranean Climate in Bulgaria
Sandanski has the warmest average temperatures in Bulgaria, with winter days around 15°C and summer temperatures reaching 35°C. The town sees little rain and almost no fog throughout the year. The surrounding mountains block cold northern winds, while warm Mediterranean air flows in from the south.
Town Park and Nature
Walk through the 344-decare town park along the Sandanska Bistritsa River to see over 200 Mediterranean plant species. Look for the two giant plane trees - both natural landmarks that have grown here for 500 years and reach 25 meters in height. Walking paths wind through the park with the snow-capped Pirin Mountains visible in the background.
Day Trips from Sandanski
Drive 20 kilometers to Melnik to taste local red wines in centuries-old cellars carved into the rock. The town sits among 100-meter-tall sand formations shaped like pyramids. Visit the nearby Rozhen Monastery to see original 16th-century frescoes and wood carvings. Both locations work well as half-day trips.
Ancient History Beneath Modern Streets
In the town center, step inside the Early Christian Complex from the 5th-6th centuries to see original mosaic floors depicting geometric patterns and early Christian symbols. The Archaeological Museum, built where the basilica of Bishop Yoan once stood, displays Roman coins, pottery, and tools found in the ancient city of Parthicopolis.
Getting There and Around
You can reach Sandanski by driving 160 kilometers south from Sofia on European Route E79. Trains run daily from Sofia to Sandanski, with some continuing to Greece. The town center is small enough to explore on foot, and local taxis can take you to attractions further out.
