Sandanski

Sandanski is a town in southwestern Bulgaria, serving as the administrative center of Sandanski Municipality in Blagoevgrad Province. It lies in the Struma River valley at the foothills of the Pirin Mountains and is known for its mild climate and mineral springs, which have long supported spa and wellness tourism. The local economy centers on tourism, hospitality, and related services, with agriculture in the surrounding region contributing to the area’s activity.

The town is named in honor of Yane Sandanski, a Bulgarian revolutionary who played a prominent role in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The naming reflects the memory of his contributions to the country’s liberation movements, and the area has carried various toponyms before adopting the Sandanski designation in the 20th century.

Sandanski is connected by road with Sofia and with the Greek border at Kulata, making it a regional hub for travel and commerce in southwestern Bulgaria. In addition to its spa facilities, visitors come for access to the Pirin Mountains, hiking and nature tourism, and nearby cultural sites such as Rozhen Monastery.

The town hosts a range of cultural and sporting events and serves as a gateway to the Pirin National Park and the broader Blagoevgrad region, which features forested areas, vineyards, and fruit production.