Things to do in Sapareva Banya

Our most recommended things to do in Sapareva Banya

From Sofia: Rila Monastery UNESCO Site & Outdoor Mineral Spa

From Sofia: Rila Monastery UNESCO Site & Outdoor Mineral Spa

After years of providing customized tours for our clients, we have designed an amazing tour, giving you the chance of visiting the sanctuary of Balkan culture, history, religion, and spirit - Rilski Manastir ( Rila Monastery ) and be able to feel the healing powers of Bulgaria's mineral springs, close to the only Gaiser on the Balkans within a day from Sofia and water heated by the Earth's core, popping out to 103 above ground. Famous since Roman times, Bulgaria is known for its rejuvenating mineral waters. On this day trip, combine a visit to the best mineral water baths, open all-year-round, with visit of Rila Monastery. Your day starts with a pick-up near Serdika, easily reachable by all public transport in Sofia and within a 15-minute walk from all centrally based accommodations. Visit one of the Unesco sites in Bulgaria, a monastery established by the first Bulgarian Hermit, A Miracle Worker, The Spiritual Protector of the Balkans- Ioan Rilski. After having some time of your own, to admire the beauty of the almost 200-year-old frescoes, presented like a comic book by some of that time's best painters like Zahary Zograf, Stanislav Dospevski, together with the beauty of Rila Mountain, we move on. The best way to be able to experience a country is to try local food. Several options are available, depending on group size and food preferences. And we head for the Spa. Just an hour or so away is our next destination- Sapareva Banya - the hot water in an outdoor complex with several pool areas, hydro jets, jacuzzi a wet bar all year long. After soaking in the mineral waters good for skin, bone, and heart, we head back to Sofia.

Borovets: Hot mineral springs

Borovets: Hot mineral springs

Sapareva banya is perhaps the most famous Bulgarian balneological resort, located at the foot of Rila National Park. In fact there is the only geyser in the country, so water comes out at the surface as a hot steam of 103C. The hot springs are very rich in minerals and that is the perfect place to relax in the outdoor hot mineral pools after a long day on the slopes. Furthermore this top location provides wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. Here you have a choice between several outdoor swimming pools with different temperature of the water, jacuzzi and hydro massage pipes, snack bar and two saunas.

Borovets: Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer

Borovets: Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer

Escape the crowds of Borovets with our exclusive tour! Immerse yourself in the soothing hot spring pools of Sapareva Banya, home to the hottest geothermal spring in continental Europe, boasting a blissful temperature of 103°C. Unwind, rejuvenate, and relax deeply at the end of a day spent on the slopes! Your English-speaking driver will pick you up from your hotel or any other preferred location in Borovets or Samokov. Within a scenic 40-minute ride, you'll admire the picturesque Bulgarian countryside before arriving in Sapareva Banya town, renowned for hosting the hottest geothermal spring in the entire Continental Europe. Indulge in deep relaxation in the numerous outdoor and indoor pools and spas of the resort. At the end of your spa experience, your driver will take you back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

From Sofia: Private Transfer to Spa in Sapareva Banya

From Sofia: Private Transfer to Spa in Sapareva Banya

Start your tour at 9:00 AM and your guide will take you from your hotel in Sofia to the region of Sapareva Banya. Have the unique opportunity to dive into the hot thermal waters and enjoy the magnificent panorama at the bottom of the mountain. Explore the place with the hottest geyser in Europe. Discover why the mineral water of Separeva Banya is highly regarded and was used as a cure by Thracians and Romans. It is claimed that the water treats disorders of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and upper respiratory tract. Enjoy 3-4 hours in the spa to completely relax. Nearby are situated many restaurants where you can enjoy lunch. At about 3:00 PM board your transfer to Sofia.

From Borovets: Thermal Pool Escape

From Borovets: Thermal Pool Escape

Experience the healing benefits of the spa village of Sapareva Banya which is famous for its mineral hot springs. Departing from Borovets, pay a visit to the village's crown jewel, a pool and spa complex that is the perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation. Upon arrival at the complex, discover 3 large thermal pools, a hot and cold plunge pool which are perfect for tired muscles and 4 jacuzzi tubs with whirlpool jets. Three pools are available for children, divided into 2 depths for different ages.  Once you are completely relaxed, get dropped off back at the meeting point in Borovets. The local tour operator, Traventuria, was awarded a “Business Which Supports Biodiversity” certification by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation for its “Tours with a Cause” initiative.

Rila Mountain Winter Day Trip

Rila Mountain Winter Day Trip

Start the tour at 9 AM when the guide will pick you up from your hotel in Sofia and take you to the Rila Mountain. The transfer time to the mountain region is about an hour and a half.  Choose between 2 of the 4 following options for activities: 1 or 2 hour ski-doo ride in Borovets; take the cabin lift in Borovets and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views; visit the restored fortress of Tsari Mali Grad, located on a hill near the village of Belchin; experience the afternoon skiing or snowboarding with a private teacher. Return to Sofia between 5 PM and 6 PM.

✨Experience Sofia - nature, history, horse riding and SPA✨

✨Experience Sofia - nature, history, horse riding and SPA✨

Discover the natural beauty of Sofia on a day trip to the Vitosha Mountain, the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, and the Plana Mountain. Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch and relax in the hot mineral pools of Sapareva Banya village. Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, which is over 900 years old. After your visit, head to a traditional Bulgarian restaurant for lunch. Next, head to the Vitosha Mountain and take a walk around the cliff to take in the stunning views of Sofia from the top. Continue to the Plana Mountain for a horseback riding experience. Afterward, make your way to the village of Sapareva Banya and relax in the hot mineral pools. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pools with magnificent views before returning to Sofia.

Best of Borovets: Magical Snowshoeing Adventure in Rila&SPA

Best of Borovets: Magical Snowshoeing Adventure in Rila&SPA

This is a great experience for nature lovers and mountaineers by visiting frozen lakes, waterfalls, rivers or centuries' old forests to admire the pure nature. Furthermore you are given the flexibility and the freedom to explore untouched fascinating places in the wild. It is also suitable for beginners and people who do not have experience in the winter mountain. Our expertise will help you to select the best possible itinerary for you and we will do our best to help you to enjoy this unique snowshoe adventure. At the end you can relax in the hot mineral springs because you deserve it. Are you coming? This is a full day experience from Borovets, the oldest winter resort in Bulgaria. We will pick you up from your hotel / location and then we enter Rila National Park for our unique experience on snow shoes. It is a perfect opportunity also for people who don't ski or board to access the winter mountain. What to expect: depending on weather conditions, levels of snow and physical ability our professional guides will choose the best itinerary for you and will take you around on the safest way. Beautiful unspoilt landscapes off the beaten track - this is where you can enjoy the pure nature in a peaceful environment. The second part of the day is for a relaxation in the hot mineral springs. That is the perfect end of our wonderful adventure. We will visit the famous SPA resort Sapareva Banya near Borovets. It is such a great mixture of selected activities, so that you can take the best of your stay in Borovets, with the label 'satisfaction guaranteed'. At the end we return back to Borovets and will drop you off at your location.

From Sofia: Leisure, SPA & Nature

From Sofia: Leisure, SPA & Nature

The incredible nature of this place will capture you and make your visit unforgettable. You will have the chance to enjoy and explore the hottest Thermal water in the Balkans and explore Rila mountain and one of one of the seven waterfalls, located at the northern foot of the Rila mountain. As Ancient Germania, a former bishopric, it is a Latin Catholic titular see. It is located at the north foot of the Rila mountain 30 km from Borovets. The town is known for its hot mineral 103 °C /217 °F and clear mountain water, as well as the geyser in the town center that sprang forth in 1957. The mineral waters of Sapareva Banya are clear, colorless, with a smell of hydrogen sulfide. The water heals diseases of loco-motor apparatus, peripheral nervous system, gynecological illnesses, acute and chronic poisoning with salts of heavy metals, dermic diseases, illnesses of the upper respiratory tract, etc. The healing qualities of the water in Sapareva Banya is the reason why the region taws popular from ancient times. The oldest known name of the town – Germaneya, was given by the Thracians and was related to the hot mineral springs. Scientists say that in the language of the Thracians “Germaneya” meant “hot water”. Hypotheses exist that German was a Thracian god of heat. In the 3rd century AD, Germaneya became one of the important centers of the Roman province Inner Dacia. You will have the chance to experience the feel of the thermal water, leisure at the SPA and learn more about the are, history and legends of the are and Rila mountain with this tour! Why not get the most out of the tour by combining SPA and nature with a visit to one of the waterfalls in the area! Being in a private tour you could always adjust the tour and feel free to make it as it is most comfortable for you! The water from the waterfall drops 39 meters. The name of the waterfall derives from a story that took place during the Ottoman period. Hike at a about 15 min will take you the spot where you will be able to learn more about the waterfall and history of it. Place where you will enjoy and submit the amazing waterfall and mountains! Don't hesitate and get ready for some adventure and unforgeable leisure after at one of the most unforgeable SPA in the Balkans!

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Our most recommended things to do in Sapareva Banya

From Sofia: Rila Monastery UNESCO Site & Outdoor Mineral Spa

From Sofia: Rila Monastery UNESCO Site & Outdoor Mineral Spa

After years of providing customized tours for our clients, we have designed an amazing tour, giving you the chance of visiting the sanctuary of Balkan culture, history, religion, and spirit - Rilski Manastir ( Rila Monastery ) and be able to feel the healing powers of Bulgaria's mineral springs, close to the only Gaiser on the Balkans within a day from Sofia and water heated by the Earth's core, popping out to 103 above ground. Famous since Roman times, Bulgaria is known for its rejuvenating mineral waters. On this day trip, combine a visit to the best mineral water baths, open all-year-round, with visit of Rila Monastery. Your day starts with a pick-up near Serdika, easily reachable by all public transport in Sofia and within a 15-minute walk from all centrally based accommodations. Visit one of the Unesco sites in Bulgaria, a monastery established by the first Bulgarian Hermit, A Miracle Worker, The Spiritual Protector of the Balkans- Ioan Rilski. After having some time of your own, to admire the beauty of the almost 200-year-old frescoes, presented like a comic book by some of that time's best painters like Zahary Zograf, Stanislav Dospevski, together with the beauty of Rila Mountain, we move on. The best way to be able to experience a country is to try local food. Several options are available, depending on group size and food preferences. And we head for the Spa. Just an hour or so away is our next destination- Sapareva Banya - the hot water in an outdoor complex with several pool areas, hydro jets, jacuzzi a wet bar all year long. After soaking in the mineral waters good for skin, bone, and heart, we head back to Sofia.

Borovets: Hot mineral springs

Borovets: Hot mineral springs

Sapareva banya is perhaps the most famous Bulgarian balneological resort, located at the foot of Rila National Park. In fact there is the only geyser in the country, so water comes out at the surface as a hot steam of 103C. The hot springs are very rich in minerals and that is the perfect place to relax in the outdoor hot mineral pools after a long day on the slopes. Furthermore this top location provides wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. Here you have a choice between several outdoor swimming pools with different temperature of the water, jacuzzi and hydro massage pipes, snack bar and two saunas.

Borovets: Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer

Borovets: Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer

Escape the crowds of Borovets with our exclusive tour! Immerse yourself in the soothing hot spring pools of Sapareva Banya, home to the hottest geothermal spring in continental Europe, boasting a blissful temperature of 103°C. Unwind, rejuvenate, and relax deeply at the end of a day spent on the slopes! Your English-speaking driver will pick you up from your hotel or any other preferred location in Borovets or Samokov. Within a scenic 40-minute ride, you'll admire the picturesque Bulgarian countryside before arriving in Sapareva Banya town, renowned for hosting the hottest geothermal spring in the entire Continental Europe. Indulge in deep relaxation in the numerous outdoor and indoor pools and spas of the resort. At the end of your spa experience, your driver will take you back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

From Sofia: Private Transfer to Spa in Sapareva Banya

From Sofia: Private Transfer to Spa in Sapareva Banya

Start your tour at 9:00 AM and your guide will take you from your hotel in Sofia to the region of Sapareva Banya. Have the unique opportunity to dive into the hot thermal waters and enjoy the magnificent panorama at the bottom of the mountain. Explore the place with the hottest geyser in Europe. Discover why the mineral water of Separeva Banya is highly regarded and was used as a cure by Thracians and Romans. It is claimed that the water treats disorders of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and upper respiratory tract. Enjoy 3-4 hours in the spa to completely relax. Nearby are situated many restaurants where you can enjoy lunch. At about 3:00 PM board your transfer to Sofia.

From Borovets: Thermal Pool Escape

From Borovets: Thermal Pool Escape

Experience the healing benefits of the spa village of Sapareva Banya which is famous for its mineral hot springs. Departing from Borovets, pay a visit to the village's crown jewel, a pool and spa complex that is the perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation. Upon arrival at the complex, discover 3 large thermal pools, a hot and cold plunge pool which are perfect for tired muscles and 4 jacuzzi tubs with whirlpool jets. Three pools are available for children, divided into 2 depths for different ages.  Once you are completely relaxed, get dropped off back at the meeting point in Borovets. The local tour operator, Traventuria, was awarded a “Business Which Supports Biodiversity” certification by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation for its “Tours with a Cause” initiative.

Rila Mountain Winter Day Trip

Rila Mountain Winter Day Trip

Start the tour at 9 AM when the guide will pick you up from your hotel in Sofia and take you to the Rila Mountain. The transfer time to the mountain region is about an hour and a half.  Choose between 2 of the 4 following options for activities: 1 or 2 hour ski-doo ride in Borovets; take the cabin lift in Borovets and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views; visit the restored fortress of Tsari Mali Grad, located on a hill near the village of Belchin; experience the afternoon skiing or snowboarding with a private teacher. Return to Sofia between 5 PM and 6 PM.

✨Experience Sofia - nature, history, horse riding and SPA✨

✨Experience Sofia - nature, history, horse riding and SPA✨

Discover the natural beauty of Sofia on a day trip to the Vitosha Mountain, the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, and the Plana Mountain. Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch and relax in the hot mineral pools of Sapareva Banya village. Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, which is over 900 years old. After your visit, head to a traditional Bulgarian restaurant for lunch. Next, head to the Vitosha Mountain and take a walk around the cliff to take in the stunning views of Sofia from the top. Continue to the Plana Mountain for a horseback riding experience. Afterward, make your way to the village of Sapareva Banya and relax in the hot mineral pools. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pools with magnificent views before returning to Sofia.

Best of Borovets: Magical Snowshoeing Adventure in Rila&SPA

Best of Borovets: Magical Snowshoeing Adventure in Rila&SPA

This is a great experience for nature lovers and mountaineers by visiting frozen lakes, waterfalls, rivers or centuries' old forests to admire the pure nature. Furthermore you are given the flexibility and the freedom to explore untouched fascinating places in the wild. It is also suitable for beginners and people who do not have experience in the winter mountain. Our expertise will help you to select the best possible itinerary for you and we will do our best to help you to enjoy this unique snowshoe adventure. At the end you can relax in the hot mineral springs because you deserve it. Are you coming? This is a full day experience from Borovets, the oldest winter resort in Bulgaria. We will pick you up from your hotel / location and then we enter Rila National Park for our unique experience on snow shoes. It is a perfect opportunity also for people who don't ski or board to access the winter mountain. What to expect: depending on weather conditions, levels of snow and physical ability our professional guides will choose the best itinerary for you and will take you around on the safest way. Beautiful unspoilt landscapes off the beaten track - this is where you can enjoy the pure nature in a peaceful environment. The second part of the day is for a relaxation in the hot mineral springs. That is the perfect end of our wonderful adventure. We will visit the famous SPA resort Sapareva Banya near Borovets. It is such a great mixture of selected activities, so that you can take the best of your stay in Borovets, with the label 'satisfaction guaranteed'. At the end we return back to Borovets and will drop you off at your location.

From Sofia: Leisure, SPA & Nature

From Sofia: Leisure, SPA & Nature

The incredible nature of this place will capture you and make your visit unforgettable. You will have the chance to enjoy and explore the hottest Thermal water in the Balkans and explore Rila mountain and one of one of the seven waterfalls, located at the northern foot of the Rila mountain. As Ancient Germania, a former bishopric, it is a Latin Catholic titular see. It is located at the north foot of the Rila mountain 30 km from Borovets. The town is known for its hot mineral 103 °C /217 °F and clear mountain water, as well as the geyser in the town center that sprang forth in 1957. The mineral waters of Sapareva Banya are clear, colorless, with a smell of hydrogen sulfide. The water heals diseases of loco-motor apparatus, peripheral nervous system, gynecological illnesses, acute and chronic poisoning with salts of heavy metals, dermic diseases, illnesses of the upper respiratory tract, etc. The healing qualities of the water in Sapareva Banya is the reason why the region taws popular from ancient times. The oldest known name of the town – Germaneya, was given by the Thracians and was related to the hot mineral springs. Scientists say that in the language of the Thracians “Germaneya” meant “hot water”. Hypotheses exist that German was a Thracian god of heat. In the 3rd century AD, Germaneya became one of the important centers of the Roman province Inner Dacia. You will have the chance to experience the feel of the thermal water, leisure at the SPA and learn more about the are, history and legends of the are and Rila mountain with this tour! Why not get the most out of the tour by combining SPA and nature with a visit to one of the waterfalls in the area! Being in a private tour you could always adjust the tour and feel free to make it as it is most comfortable for you! The water from the waterfall drops 39 meters. The name of the waterfall derives from a story that took place during the Ottoman period. Hike at a about 15 min will take you the spot where you will be able to learn more about the waterfall and history of it. Place where you will enjoy and submit the amazing waterfall and mountains! Don't hesitate and get ready for some adventure and unforgeable leisure after at one of the most unforgeable SPA in the Balkans!

Frequently asked questions about Sapareva Banya

What are the best tours to do in Sapareva Banya with kids?

The best tours to do in Sapareva Banya with kids are:

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What people are saying about Sapareva Banya

Overall rating

4.9
(7 reviews)

Really great day trip from Sofia. Tour left pretty much on time which was good. We got 1.5 hours at the monastery- a few minutes with our guide and then time on our own to explore/walk around. I would have liked a bit of explanation inside the church itself but I understand it’s a holy place so maybe the guide felt he couldn’t do that. Then we drove another 1.5 hours onto Sapareva Banya and had 3 hours there to have lunch, visit the baths, explore the town or whatever you wanted to do. We liked having freedom to eat where we wanted rather than being stuck in a big group. We enjoyed the baths although they were crowded on the day we went but that’s unavoidable in winter holidays I suppose. They had run out of men’s lockers when we went- luckily as a mixed sex couple we were able to use 1 locker in the female changing room for all our stuff (be careful with valuables). We left Sapareva Banya at 5pm and got back to Sofia just before 7. Guide Ivan was great as was driver Trifon. Recommend!

Fantastic experience. Our driver, Dobin, was an excellent tour guide on the way there and back, and the springs themselves were so beautiful at night. We left feeling refreshed and exhilarated.

Positive experience. Very knowledgeable and helpful guide. Attentive and scrupulous driver. Well-organized tour and appropriately timed.

Amazing guide named Micheal gave us so much information about the monetary and the surrounding area. Very friendly and very safe!

nice day with snow!!! so happy for this experience! thank you💜