Plovdiv

Plovdiv City Guide - Travel tips, tourism and places to visit in Plovdiv

Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest city, lying on both sides of the Maritsa River and about two hours from the capital Sofia. The city will take your breath away. It is so lovely and intriguing that you will want to return. This magical city which is built on seven hills, is known as “the city of the hills.”

It has a history of almost 8,000 years, both ancient and timeless.

Plovdiv was already populated in the 11th century B.C. and remains so to this day. It is one of the world’s five oldest cities and the first in Europe. Have we piqued your interest? Many civilizations have occupied Plovdiv, including the Thracians, Romans, and Visconti. 

It was taken by the Roman Empire in the first century and became an important hub. Fortresses, public buildings, an antique amphitheatre, a Roman aqueduct, and other structures have been preserved.

The locals are pleasant and courteous but keep in mind that we are in Eastern Europe, and our manner of being friendly differs from that of central Europe.

Useful information for Plovdiv

  • The city is located on several hills, wear comfortable shoes.
  • Find the spots with the best views and enjoy the sunset.
  • It starts in front of the City Hall every day at 11 PM. 365 Association organises it.

There are 2 tourism office in Plovdiv:

  • Located in the Old Town next to the Ethnographic museum: ul. “Doctor Stoyan Chomakov” 1.

  • Located in the City Center next to the main Mosque: ul. “Rayko Daskalov” 1

What to see in Plovdiv

Another lovely location is Plovdiv’s old town. Some of the best examples of Bulgarian revival architecture can be found here. The homes of commercials, artists, and artisans will transport you back in time. Numerous museums, cathedrals, municipal gardens, and parks will turn your walk into a fantasy tale. The small lanes of Kapana’s artistic area are further confirmation of why Plovdiv is a must-see destination in Bulgaria.

Why should you visit Plovdiv on your next trip? Act confidently rather than hesitantly. You will not be mistaken. A successful marriage of modern architecture and a rich past that you will adore. Let us not forget that the pubs, restaurants, and nightlife in Sofia are no less appealing.

Ethnographic museum

Nebet Tepe

St. Constantin and Elena church

Roman theatre

Roman stadium

Alyosha monument

Plovdiv's mosque

Tsa Simeon Park

Best Restaurants to visit in Plovdiv:

Breakfast

Mekitsa & Kafe

Modern cuisine

Pavaj

Tradition cuisine

Hemingway

Vegan/Vegetarian

Veggic

Night life

Bar

Cat and Mouse

Bar

Rock Bar Download

Cocktail bar

The Post

Cockail bar

Club Fargo

Things To Do in Plovdiv

Free Walking Tour

The tour takes you through the main places of interest in the city. Donations are made to the guides at the end of the tours.

Kamenitza Brewery

Learn how one of the most historic and popular beers in Bulgaria is produced. The tour needs a previous booking.

Gaillot Chocolate Factory

Have you ever wondered how cocoa beans turn into chocolate? The workshop opens its doors to chocolate lovers.

Day trips from Plovdiv

Plovdiv is very beautiful and there is much to see both in the city and its surroundings. Even so, one must consider if one wants to know more about the culture and people of the country.

This is where we recommend you visit some of the places that are only a few hours from the city. In some of the places you can reach both by train and by bus.

We still do not offer these services so if you are looking for something organized, get in touch with us and we take care to find you something interesting.

Asen's Fortress
Its strategic location and natural defenses explain why it has been used since the days of the Thracians, who fortified it in the 5th century BCE.
Bachkovo Monastery
The second biggest monastery in Bulgaria and founded in the XI century
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