Bye Berlin. Forget Budapest. This small city has art and music on every corner.

Europe’s newest place to watch is also its oldest continuously inhabited city. With a history dating back to the 7th millennium BC, Plovdiv has been home to Thracians, Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and Soviets. Each group left their mark. Different layers of the city’s past history sit atop of those that came before.

Today, the city is both hip and unpretentious, with a gorgeous town center, great galleries, restaurants and cafes.

Here’s your guide to Plovdiv, including what to do, where to stay, and answers to your most pressing questions.

Such as how much is a pint in Bulgaria. Hey, don’t blame me. It’s what the SEO tools tell me you wanna know. And as a hard-hitting journalist, I am here to oblige.

Plovdiv Things to Do

1. Go for a walk around Old Town

A walk around the Old Town is a must when you visit Plovdiv. Cobblestone streets meander their way up a hill, lined with imposing 19th-century mansions.

These creaky, baroque-style houses were built during the National Revival period. This came at the end of the Ottoman empire. Bulgarians sought to regain a sense of identity and national pride, and literature, architecture and art flourished. 

The houses have been wonderfully restored. Their overhanging upper floors and bright paintwork will make you feel like you are in a movie.

2. Visit Plovdiv’s Ethnographic Museum or Balabanov House

Many of these houses have been converted into museums or art galleries. It is well worth poking your nose inside to get a look. Enjoy the intricately carved ceilings, wall paintings and Revival era furnishings.

The Ethnographic Museum is set in one of these stunning building and houses captivating exhibits about local life and culture.

Balabanov House gives you a feel of 19th-century life in Plovdiv’s old town. It is a fully furnished mansion decorated in the old style.

3. Visit Kapana Art District

Across the main road from Old Town is the Kapana Art district. It is a delightful jumble of cobbled streets lined with colorful cafes and street art.

This is a great place to explore by day. It is also the place to be at night to have some drinks or get your dance on.

4. Check out the Plovdiv Nightlife

Plovdiv is a great place to go out. The center of town is jam-packed with bars and clubs.

We went to several places, but our favorite was a place called Download cafe. It is a rock and roll cafe that played Limp Biscuit, Nirvana, Good Charlotte. All the old rock-pop classics that you had forgotten about (but can still sing every word of). They are had cheap cocktails, beer on tap and Foosball tables.

5. Join the Plovdiv Free Walking Tour

Get to know the city’s history, and some fun cultural tidbits, with a Plovdiv free tour. There is a free walking tour in English every day at 11am. It departs from the Municipality building on Plovdiv’s main street. 

An animated guide will take you around town for two hours. It is a great way to get a feel for the city. Tours are run by guides from a local NGO, who are great at bringing the past to life. Tips are appreciated.

6. Discover Plovdiv’s Roman Ruins

While you’re exploring the historic sites of Plovdiv, don’t miss the Roman Stadium and the Ancient Theater of Philippopolis. Both are remarkably well-preserved.

The theater is still used for performances today. Check the calendar, to see if anything is one while you’re in town!

7. Climb Nebet Tepe, for views over the city

One of the city’s seven hills, Nebet Tepe offers panoramic views and ancient ruins. It is an easy walk from the town center, and a lovely place to catch the sunset.

8. Spend a day at Aqualand Water Park

If you’ve had enough history — or are starting to melt in the heat, visit Aqualand water park. It is great for kids and for adults.

One slide is shaped like an immense cobra. It sends you flying up and down into the mouth of the snake.

Another slide you step into, they close you into a portal like the beginning of Hunger games. Then they pull the floor out from under you, sending you plummeting down a 70 foot, near-vertical drop.

Where to stay?

Guest House Old Plovdiv

Right in the heart of old town, this fantastically restored mansion is worth a visit unto itself. Oak floors and paneling, painted walls and big windows lend a luscious drama to the place. And you can get a double room for 40$ and a dorm bed for $15! It is truly a unique experience.

How to get there?

• From Sofia: Buses and trains connect Sofia to Plovdiv in 2-3 hours, making it an easy trip.
• From everywhere else: Trains and coaches connect Plovdiv to most of Europe. So consider these eco-friendly transport options before looking at flights!
• By Air: If you do need to fly, Plovdiv International Airport is just 12 km from the center. There are cheap flights to London, but for most other destinations it is easier to fly from Sofia International Airport, 2-3 hours drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Where Is Plovdiv?

Plovdiv is situated in the South of Bulgaria, close to the borders of Turkey and Greece. It is 145 km from the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, and 370 km from the Black Sea city of Varna.

Is Plovdiv Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! It’s an overlooked city with a great atmosphere, and some fascinating sites. Plovdiv has got something for everyone, with Roman ruins, Ottoman mansions, art galleries, great restaurants and a vibrant nightlife.

When is the Best Time to Travel to Plovdiv?

The best time to visit Plovdiv is in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October). The weather will be warm. You’ll be able to make the most of walking around town, and having drinks and dinner on the terraces. Summer can be hot but is perfect for festivals, while winter offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds.

Is There a Plovdiv Free Walking Tour?

Yes, daily free walking tours leave at 11 am from the Municipality building. They’re an excellent way to explore the city.

How Do I Travel to Plovdiv from Sofia?

You can take a bus or train, both of which take about 2-3 hours.

Are There Flights to Plovdiv?

Yes, Plovdiv International Airport has flights to several destinations, including London. For other international routes, consider traveling via Sofia.

Last but not least, the all important question:

How Much Is a Pint in Bulgaria?

In Bulgaria, a pint of beer can cost as little as 2-3 BGN ($2-3USD). It is definitely one of the most affordable European cities for a night out.

There is also a growing Craft Beer scene, with interesting brews at reasonable prices. Check out Котка и Мишка, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar.

Have any recommendations for things to do, see, eat or drink in Plovdiv? Let me know below!

Ellie x

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