Things To Do
in Plovdiv
Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Its history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the 6th millennium BC. The city is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Roman amphitheater and Ancient Theater of Philippopolis.
Plovdiv is also recognized for its charming Old Town, with its quaint cobblestone streets and colorful Revival-era houses.
- "Zdraveite" - Hello
- "Blagodaria" - Thank you
- "Dobar den" - Good day
- "Izvinete" - Excuse me
- "Kak si?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Ancient Roman Theatre, a well-preserved amphitheater dating back to 90 AD. Take in the stunning views and imagine the performances that took place here centuries ago.
Head to the Old Town and stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with colorful Revival-era houses. Stop by the Ethnographic Museum to learn about the local culture and traditions.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in the Old Town where you can savor traditional Bulgarian dishes. Experience local music or a cultural performance to end your day.
Visit the Kapana Arts District, known for its bohemian vibe and art galleries. Make sure to grab a coffee at one of the local cafes before exploring the street art.
Explore the Regional Historical Museum to delve deeper into Plovdiv’s rich past. The exhibits are diverse and provide a fantastic overview of various historical eras.
Catch a live performance at the Plovdiv Opera House. Enjoy a delightful dinner in one of the nearby bistros featuring local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with ancient Roman ruins and a charming old town.
- Vibrant arts and music scene with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other European cities.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Rhodope Mountains and Maritsa River.
- Welcoming community and friendly locals.
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields, especially for non-Bulgarian speakers.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive or reliable as in larger cities.
- During peak tourist seasons, the city can become crowded and noisy.
- The weather can be quite hot in the summer and occasionally harsh in winter.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some areas, which may affect amenities and services.
Best Activities in Plovdiv
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Old Town of Plovdiv, including the cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and ancient Roman ruins.
Embark on a hike in the picturesque Rhodope Mountains, enjoying the beautiful nature and stunning views.
Take a cycling tour along the scenic Maritsa River, passing through parks and enjoying the riverside views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Plovdiv with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Plovdiv
Visit one of these nice places.
This hill offers panoramic views of the entire city and is a great spot for capturing stunning photos.
Located at Bunarjik Hill, this site provides breathtaking views of Plovdiv and is a perfect place for photo opportunities.
The historic old town area is filled with charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, offering numerous picturesque settings for photography.
This ancient amphitheater in the city center provides a unique backdrop for capturing memorable photos.
Food in Plovdiv
Plovdiv Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with a mix of meats, vegetables, and rice, slow-cooked to perfection. Try it at Rahat Tepe Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A sizzling plate of meat (often pork or chicken) and assorted vegetables, seasoned with aromatic spices. Head to Garaj for a delicious serving.
A delectable pastry filled with a mixture of eggs, cheese, and sometimes spinach. Sample it at Xleb i Vino for a delightful treat.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Plovdiv better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Kapana District for a lively atmosphere filled with food stalls offering a variety of local street foods, from grilled meats to savory pastries.
Visit Plovdiv Central Market for a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and small eateries offering traditional Bulgarian snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, it is customary to address people with their titles and last names, especially in formal settings. Handshakes are a common form of greeting, and it is important to maintain eye contact during the greeting.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Bulgarian culture, including in Plovdiv. It is important to show deference and respect to older individuals, addressing them with appropriate titles and using polite language.
Hospitality is a key cultural value in Plovdiv, and guests are often welcomed with warmth and generosity. It is polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home and to show appreciation for the hospitality extended to you.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Plovdiv with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Plovdiv
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not mandatory in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, adding a 5-10% tip to the bill is common if the service has been satisfactory. It's also customary to round up the fare for taxi rides or to leave a small tip for hotel staff.
Cash is widely used in Plovdiv, especially for smaller transactions and in local shops and markets. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted, particularly in larger establishments and restaurants. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of any issues with card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Plovdiv.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, the weather in Plovdiv is mild and pleasant with blooming flowers and green landscapes. This is a great time to visit the city and enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events.
Summer in Plovdiv is hot and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor festivals and events. However, be prepared for high temperatures and crowded tourist spots.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage to Plovdiv, making it a picturesque time to visit. The city is less crowded, and you can experience local traditions and food festivals during this season.
Winter in Plovdiv can be cold with occasional snowfall, but the city offers a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets, traditional celebrations, and winter sports activities in nearby mountains.
Plovdiv at Night
Hiking in Plovdiv
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque hill offering hiking trails and panoramic views of Plovdiv and the surrounding area, along with historical sites.
Located just a short drive from Plovdiv, the Balkan Mountains provide numerous trails for hiking, with diverse flora and stunning landscapes.
A mountain range near Plovdiv, ideal for hiking with well-marked trails and beautiful nature, perfect for day trips.
A bit further from Plovdiv, the Rhodope Mountains offer a wide range of hiking opportunities with breathtaking sceneries and rich biodiversity.
A small hill located near Plovdiv that features easier hiking trails and serves as a great spot for a quick outdoor escape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Plovdiv through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Plovdiv by plane.
The main international airport serving Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria and the largest airport in the country, located approximately 145 km from Plovdiv.
Also known as Macedonia International Airport, it serves the city of Thessaloniki in Greece and is about 160 km from Plovdiv.
An international airport located in Burgas, Bulgaria, mainly serving summer vacation destinations, approximately 200 km from Plovdiv.
An international airport located in Varna, Bulgaria, catering to the Black Sea resorts, roughly 400 km from Plovdiv.
Also known as Alexander the Great Airport, it serves the capital of North Macedonia and is around 180 km from Plovdiv.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Plovdiv, primarily of ethnic Bulgarian origin.
A significant minority in Plovdiv, historically present and contributing to the local culture.
A notable demographic group in Plovdiv, known for their distinct culture and traditions.
A smaller but historically significant minority in Plovdiv, with a rich cultural heritage.
Once a prominent community in Plovdiv, now significantly reduced in number.
Refers to various Romani communities in the region, often facing socio-economic challenges.
Includes various other ethnic and cultural groups, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Plovdiv.
The Soul of Plovdiv
Discover the essence of Plovdiv through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Plovdiv, with several professional teams and a strong local following. The city has a rich history in the sport and has produced many talented players.
Plovdiv has a vibrant volleyball scene, with both men's and women's teams competing at high levels in national leagues. The sport enjoys a strong fan base in the region.
Basketball is also widely practiced in Plovdiv, with local teams participating in the Bulgarian professional leagues. The city has a tradition of producing skilled players.
Athletics is popular among the youth in Plovdiv, with many local clubs promoting track and field events, including running, jumping, and throwing disciplines.
Plovdiv has a notable history in weightlifting, producing several competitive athletes. The sport is well-supported by local facilities and training programs.
Tennis is a growing sport in Plovdiv, with numerous courts available for public use and a number of local tournaments held throughout the year.
Handball enjoys a local following in Plovdiv, with established clubs that compete in national leagues, fostering a community of dedicated fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plovdiv.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Plovdiv offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like stuffed peppers, fresh salads, and grilled vegetables.
While traditional Bulgarian cuisine may feature bread and pastries, several eateries in Plovdiv provide gluten-free alternatives, such as quinoa salads and grilled fish.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Plovdiv with these cultural adventures.
