Plovdiv

Bulgaria, Europe

Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, is renowned for its stunning Roman ruins, vibrant arts scene, and charming old town with colorful houses. The ancient theater and the Ethnographic Museum reflect its rich history, while Kapana, the creative district, buzzes with life, cafes, and galleries. The city's blend of history, culture, and modernity, along with its hospitable atmosphere, makes it a must-visit destination in Bulgaria.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Plovdiv

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Plovdiv

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Ancient Theatre

Visit a well-preserved Roman theatre from the 1st century.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Old Town

Wander charming cobblestone streets lined with historic houses.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ethnographic Museum

Discover Bulgarian traditions and folklore in a beautiful house.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Kapana Creative District

Explore a vibrant area filled with art and cafes.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Climb the Nebet Tepe Hill

Enjoy breathtaking views of Plovdiv from this ancient hill.

No booking required
6

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dzhumaya Mosque

Explore this beautiful mosque dating back to the Ottoman era.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Regional Historical Museum

Learn about the region’s rich and diverse history.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in the Tsar Simeon Garden

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Plovdiv’s central park.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the International Fair

Experience Bulgaria's largest trade fair held annually.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample Local Cuisine

Taste traditional Bulgarian dishes at local restaurants.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Roman Stadium

Explore the remains of an ancient Roman stadium.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Bulgarian Lev

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Bulgarian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Shopska Salad

V

Fresh salad with tomatoes and cheese (National dish)

Banitsa

V

Pastry filled with cheese and eggs

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat sausages

Tarator

V

Cold yogurt and cucumber soup

Musaka

Baked dish with meat and potatoes

Phrases to learn

English

Bulgarian

Hello

Zdraveite

(Zdrah-vay-tee)

Yes/No

Da / Ne

(Dah / Neh)

Thank you

Blagodarya

(Bla-go-dah-rya)

Excuse me

Izvinete

(Eez-vee-neh-teh)

How much?

Kolko?

(Kohl-koh)