2024 Plovdiv Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

OUR FAVOURITE ICE CREAM HOUSE!

Ice cream house Afreddo is one of the favorite places both of the citizens of Plovdiv as well as the guests of the city. Located on the main shopping street Afreddo offers a rich selection of unique gelato ice creams, ice cream cakes and other sweet temptations and the flavors are so many that you’ll want to try everything! Once you make your choice, you will find out why this place is always full. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

HOTEL IN THE HEART OF PLOVDIV!

Located on the Mosaic Path, we are minutes away from City Center. We offer 162 guestrooms, four multi-functional meeting spaces, and two restaurants. Attractions of the Old Town are nearby, including the Ethnographic Museum and the Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis. Enjoy our meeting space with up-to-date technology for up to 200 people and free WiFi This hotel offers a bespoke Family Experience for travellers below the age of 12. Children enjoy a Kids Welcome and a dedicated Kids Breakfast experience. Enjoy your family meals by selecting dishes from the Kids Menu. The hotel has a range of kids amenities available upon request. #localguides #familytrip #falltrip #mytravelhacks #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

BEAUTIFUL PLOVDIV, BULGARIA!

Plovdiv (Bulgarian: Пловдив, pronounced [ˈpɫɔvdif]) is the second-largest city in Bulgaria, standing on the banks of the Maritsa river in the historical region of Thrace, behind the state capital Sofia. It has a population of 346,893 as of 2018 and 675,000 in the greater metropolitan area. Plovdiv is a cultural hub in Bulgaria and was the European Capital of Culture in 2019. The city is an important economic, transport, cultural, and educational center. Plovdiv joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities in 2016. Plovdiv is an ancient city built around 7 hills, in southern Bulgaria. The Regional Archaeological Museum chronicles the city’s history, with exhibits including mosaic panels, clay lamps and early coins. The Roman-era Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, which once seated around 6,000, now hosts opera and concerts. A 3D movie at the Emperor Hadrian–era Ancient Stadium re-creates Plovdiv in the 2nd century A.D. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

@ THE HINDLIYAN HOUSE!

Hindliyan House (AKA Hindlian House) in Plovdiv, Bulgaria is one of the handsomest private residences I think I’ve ever set foot in. Built by a team of master craftsmen in 1835, the home is a beautiful example of the National Revival Architecture popular among Bulgaria’s merchant class at the time. Detailed wall murals and period furniture—not to mention the one-of-a-kind bathroom—set Hindliyan House apart from its peers and make it my top choice of house museum in Plovdiv. If you’re drawn to visit Plovdiv, European Capital of Culture in 2019, this is one historical landmark and stellar example of Bulgarian architecture you definitely shouldn’t miss. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #familytrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

@ THE BALABANOV HOUSE!

The Balabanov House is one of the highlights of the Old Plovdiv. Its story has begun at the onset of the 19th c. with the wealthy merchant and usurer, member of the tailors’ guild, Hadji Panayot Lampsha. Around the turn of the century the Hadji Lampsha house was sold first time to the nephew Hristo, of the distinguished enlightener Nayden Gerov, and then to its last owner, the merchant of wood Luka Balabanov, whose name it bears today. The decaying house was demolished in 1935, but was reconstructed in 1976-1979 due to the records of architect Hristo Peev, the most outstanding researcher of the Revival period houses. The house, impressive in size, exemplifies the symmetrical houses from the 19th c., built following the model along the maritime coast of the Bosphorus. Today it opens two distinct worlds to its visitors – the world of the Bulgarian Revival period you soak in with the lavish wood- carved ceilings, the period furniture and the nice alcoves, named alafrangas. The other world is that of culture and art. In line with the idea the home reborn of Hadji Panayot Lampsha to serve as a Plovdiv palazzo with authentic interior, the house today hosts temporary expositions, conferences, meetings with writers, chamber concerts, theatre performances, meetings. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks #localguides #familytrip #freehotelstay

HISAR KAPIA : CASTLE GATE!

Hisar Kapia (from Turkish: Hisar Kapı meaning "Castle Gate") is a medieval gate in Plovdiv's old town and one of the most famous tourist sights in the city. The gate was built in the 11th century AD over the foundations of a gate from Roman times (probably from the 2nd century AD). Hisar Kapia is one of the three entrances (Eastern, Northern and Southern) to the acropolis of ancient Plovdiv. During the rule of the Ottoman empire revival houses were embedded in the remains of the old stone walls around the gate. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #mytravelhacks #localguides #historicallandmarks #familytrip

NEBET TEPE: BIRTHPLACE OF PLOVDIV!

Nebet Tepe is one of the hills of Plovdiv where the ancient town was founded. The earliest settlements on Nebet Tepe are dated back to 4000 BC. The site was first settled by Thracians, later expanded by Philip II of Macedon and the Roman empire. As the town expanded, Nebet Tepe became the citadel of the town's acropolis. There are remains of the city's walls, towers, and a postern from the time of Justinian leading down to the Maritsa river. Today, the archaeological complex on the hill is one of the most popular tourist sights in Plovdiv and a cultural monument of national significance. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

A REMARKABLE DZHUMAYA MOSQUE!

The Friday Mosque or Dzhumaya Mosque (Bulgarian: Джумая джамия) is located in Plovdiv, Plovdiv Province, Bulgaria. Its Turkish name is Hüdavendigâr Camii or Cuma Camii. The mosque is located in the centre of Plovdiv and was built in 1363–1364 on the site of the Sveta Petka Tarnovska Cathedral Church after the conquest of Plovdiv by the Ottoman army. During the reign of Sultan Murad I in the 15th century the old building was demolished and replaced by the modern-day mosque. It was called Ulu Dzhumaya Mosque, or Main Friday Mosque. Dzhumaya mosque (djumaya mosque) in Plovdiv IS just beautiful Its thick walls and the configuration of the prayer hall (divided by 4 columns into 9 squares) are typical of the so called “popular mosques” of the 15th centuries. The mosque is remarkable for its size. Services are still held there. It tends to be locked up outside prayer times, so you’ll have to time your visit carefully if you want to admire the fountain, the floral motifs, and the medallions bearing Koranic texts that adorn its interior. Very peaceful and calming once you enter the beautiful mosque. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

THE UNUSUAL SINGING FOUNTAIN!

The unusual singing (musical) fountain on the lake in the lovely Tsar Simeon garden is a frequent meeting place for locals. You can watch the colourful light display accompanied by classical music during the summer months every evening from 21:00. The Music and Light Show of the Singing Fountains at Tsar Simeonov Garden begins today, July 1, 2021 and will be on every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night until the end of September. The program of the light show starts at 21:30 h. A complete check-up of the facility, which has been operating since the beginning of last month, has been carried out, but without a program, in order to avoid crowds due to the epidemiological situation. Due to the serious decline in COVID-19 cases, the program is being reinstated. It includes 5 musical compositions that alternate each week. Their duration is up to 25 minutes. All the fountains in the city are operating normally. We strongly advise citizens not to bathe in them, as the water is treated with special substances that can lead to allergic rashes, especially in children. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #localguides #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #familytrip

@ ALYOSHA MONUMENT!

Alyosha (an affectionate diminutive of Aleksey) is an 11-metre (36-foot) tall reinforced concrete statue of a Soviet soldier on Bunarjik Hill in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The statue tops a 6-metre (20-foot) pedestal lined with granite. The memorial commemorates Soviet casualties incurred during the Soviet occupation of Bulgaria (which had been an Axis ally) in World War II.[A] It was installed in 1954-57. "Alyosha" is also the name of Konstantin Vanshenkin and Eduard Kolmanovski's song that was adopted as Plovdiv's official anthem until 1989.[2] A well-known poem about the Plovdiv Soldier was written by Robert Rozhdestvensky. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks #localguides #familytrip

STUNNING PARK IN PLOVDIV!

Tsar Simeon’s Garden in Plovdiv is created in 1892 by the Swiss landscape architect Lucien Chevalas (1840-1921). In 1879 Bulgarian knyaz Aleksandar Bogoridi invited Chevalas to become his gardener in Plovdiv. For all his contribution to the city, in 1901 he was declared an honorary citizen of Plovdiv, and also often is referred to as “the Minister of flowers”. This year, to both citizens and guests’ delight, the renovation of the Garden has been completed. The idea behind it is to resemble the look from time of the First Bulgarian fair in 1892 and bring back Bulgaria’s Kingdom spirit. Since summer the restored fountain of Goddess Demeter is brought for a new life, and a Viennese pavilion is built in the centre of the park. The pavilion is with a metal openwork construction and is a replica of the 1936-Central Pavilion. All this was possible with the help of archival photographs and historical evidences from the Book of the fair. In addition there is new lighting in the park, and also new benches and modern children's playgrounds are installed. The trees and the flowers turn the park in a paradise garden. The pearl on the crown of the park is the renovated Lake with the Singing Fountains. You can take advantage of the cooling effect of the dry fountain and enjoy the light show of the lake intertwined with water effects. The Fountain’s special dance – a spectacular show with music and light can be observed every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening at 21:30. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport #localguides #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #familytrip

@ THE STADIUM OF PHILIPPOPOLIS!

The Stadium of Philippopolis was the ancient Roman stadium of Philippopolis (modern Plovdiv), built in the 2nd century AD, during the Roman imperial period. It is among the largest and best preserved buildings from the time of the Roman Empire in the Balkan peninsula. At the time the stadium was built, Philippopolis was the capital of the Roman province of Thracia. The stadium, approximately 250 m (820 ft) long and 50 m (160 ft) wide, could seat up to 30,000 spectators. Today, the northern curved part of the stadium (the sphendone) is partially restored and is one of the most recognisable landmarks of the city among the many preserved buildings from Roman times. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

Bishop's Basilica Mosaics in Plovdiv ⛪

The Bishop's Basilica of Philippopolis is a true gem of Plovdiv's rich cultural heritage. Built in the 4th century, this stunning site is a testament to the city's ancient Roman past. But it's the basilica's mosaics that truly steal the show. From the intricate patterns and vibrant colors to the depictions of animals, plants, and scenes from the Bible, each mosaic is a work of art in its own right. Take a guided tour and learn about the basilica's fascinating history, or simply admire the mosaics and let your imagination run wild. Add this #beautifuldestination to your #travelbucketlist 🌎

Admire the Old House Interiors in Plovdiv 🏠

Plovdiv's old town houses are a step back in time to a world of opulence and grandeur. Built in the 19th century, these stunning houses reflect the city's rich history and cultural heritage. From the colorful facades and ornate balconies to the hidden courtyards and intricate woodwork, each house is a work of art in its own right. Take a walking tour and discover the hidden gems of Plovdiv's old town, or simply wander the winding streets and let the houses find you. Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate the beauty of architecture, Plovdiv's old town houses are not to be missed. Add this #beautifuldestination to your #travelbucketlist 🌎

Get Inspired by Plovdiv's Street Art

Plovdiv, one of Bulgaria's most vibrant cities, is home to a thriving street art scene that has turned the city into an outdoor gallery. From colorful murals to thought-provoking installations, the city's walls are covered in a riot of colors and styles that reflect the creativity of its artists. Take a walking tour and discover the hidden gems of Plovdiv's street art, or simply wander the city's winding streets and let the art find you. Whether you're an art lover or simply appreciate the beauty of urban landscapes, Plovdiv's street art scene is not to be missed. Add this #beautifuldestination to your #travelbucketlist 🌎

Aqualand amusement water park is located in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. It offers interesting slides, big pools, nice bars and everything you may need in the hot summer. It is located in the biggest district of the town called Trakia so the access is easy. #plovdiv #bulgaria #europe #happynewyear

The Seven-Colored Ancient City - Plovdiv.

Plovdiv is the second largest city in Bulgaria (the second largest city is not big or developed), and is a city with a long history. From the Thracians, Greeks, and Romans, to the Byzantines, the Ottoman Empire, and modern Bulgaria, it has witnessed different historical changes. 🌟1. Plovdiv Old Town: The old town is known for its well-preserved old buildings and cobblestone streets. 🌟2. Ancient Theatre: One of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Plovdiv, built in the 1st century AD, and still used for various cultural events and performances. 🌟3. Roman Stadium: Located in the city center, part of the ruins have been preserved, and it was a sports arena during the Roman period. 🌟4. Nebet Tepe Hill: This hill overlooks the entire city and is suitable for walking and enjoying the beautiful scenery. 🌟5. Djumaya Mosque: Built in the 14th century, it is the main mosque in Plovdiv and showcases the architectural style of the Ottoman period.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria, the European Capital of Culture.

Plovdiv, the second largest city in Bulgaria, is one of the ten most beautiful ancient cities in the world. On the hill in the old town, there are quaint Roman theaters and old Bulgarian-style houses🏘️. There are no vehicles in the old town, only stone-paved paths, and many cafes and restaurants☕️. In 2019, it was awarded the honor of "European Capital of Culture". 🏇The ancient Roman Stadium-Plovdiv is a Roman stadium built based on the ancient Greek Delphi stadium, and it is also the largest ancient Roman building in the Balkans during the same period. According to research, this stadium was built between 193 and 211 AD, 🤼and it has hosted various sports events, as well as fights between gladiators and animals. Today, it is one of the most famous landmarks in Plovdiv, and a must-visit attraction for tourists in this ancient city.

Plovdiv Old Town: A Timeless Tapestry of Culture and Charm

Plovdiv is an ancient city built around 7 hills in southern part of Bulgaria. Second largest city in Bulgaria, it is a charming city with unique architecture, worth a visit when in Bulgaria. Getting There - Plovidv is about 2 hours drive from Sofia, recommend joining a day tour from Sofia to maximise your time. Attractions - Firstly, the highlight was definitely walking around Old Town of Plovdiv to soak in the rich culture and beautiful architecture. The Regional Ethnographic Museum is another interesting site which showcases the city’s history. Then, check out the Roman era Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis which once accomodated 6,000 people. Food & Restaurants - There are many food options at the main pedestrian street in Kapana area. Good chance to try local cuisine and unique food to try include Shopska salad, which is local Bulgarian salad. Shopping - Kapana area also has many souvenir shops. #ancienttown #europetrip #europeanarchitecture #100waysoftravel

🌟 Plovdiv's Luxe Sleep Spots Unveiled! 🛏️✨

Hey jet-setters! 🌍 If you're plotting a course for Plovdiv and craving a cushy place to crash, check this out! 🧳 Nestled in the heart of Plovdiv, The Emporium Plovdiv - MGallery is your go-to for a sleep sanctuary that screams luxury. 🏨 The rooms? Spacious enough to swing a suitcase and pristinely clean. 🧹✨ Wake up in cloud-like beds and pamper yourself with top-notch amenities that'll have you living the high life. 💆‍♀️💤 But wait, there's more than just dreamy digs! The hotel's facilities are on point - think gourmet dining that'll tantalize your taste buds, and service that's so spot-on, you'll feel like royalty. 👑🍽️ Whether you're here for the history or the hustle, you're smack dab in the action with stunning scenery to boot. 🏛️🌆 Ready to book your royal retreat? Find The Emporium Plovdiv - MGallery at Kamenitsa 1, right in the bustling Plovdiv Center. See you in the lap of luxury! 🎩🚪 #Plovdiv #PlovdivHotel #PlovdivTravel

🌟 Plovdiv's Hidden Gem: Vizualiza Residence Hotel 🌟

🏨 Nestled in the heart of Plovdiv, Vizualiza Residence Hotel is your perfect urban retreat! With spacious and immaculate rooms, this hotel promises a stay that's as comfortable as it is stylish. 🛌✨ 🍽️ Indulge in the local cuisine at their in-house dining; every bite is a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage. Plus, the value for money will have your wallet breathing a sigh of relief! 💸🤤 📍 Location, location, location! Step outside and find yourself enveloped by the vibrant culture of Plovdiv Center. From historical sights to bustling cafes, everything is just a stroll away! 🚶‍♂️🎨 🌳 After a day of exploration, unwind with a view of the serene surroundings that paint a picture of tranquility amidst the cityscape. 🏞️ Find your slice of paradise at ul. "Angel Bukureshtliev" 15, Plovdiv, Bulgaria. #Plovdiv #PlovdivHotel #PlovdivTravel

Bulgarian Gem

Plovdiv's Old Town is a mesmerizing blend of history and charm. Wander its cobblestone streets, framed by pastel-hued Renaissance buildings and ancient Roman ruins. The heartbeat of this district is its bustling squares, like the iconic Djumaya Mosque Square, where cultures intersect. Delve into the past at the Roman Theater, a majestic relic from antiquity still used for performances. Art galleries, quaint cafes, and artisan shops line the lanes, inviting exploration. Ascend the steep streets to the historic Nebet Tepe hill for panoramic views over the city. Plovdiv's Old Town is a living testament to Bulgaria's rich heritage and vibrant culture. #historicallandmarks #localguides #instatravel #bulgaria

Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis 🏛️

#2024wish Just experienced the magic of the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv, and it's a trip back in time you don't want to miss! 🏛️ The entrance fee, only 5 leva, is a steal for the historical immersion it offers. #AncientTheatrePlovdiv #TimeTravel The theater, dating back to Roman times, is remarkably preserved, with a seating capacity that'll transport you to the ancient performances. The view of the city from the top tiers is breathtaking. 🎭🌆 After soaking in the historical vibes, take a stroll to the nearby Plovdiv Old Town. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and charming cafes create a picturesque setting for exploration. 🏰🍵 Hungry? Hit up Rahat Tepe for some traditional Bulgarian cuisine. The courtyard setting and delicious dishes make it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of historical exploration. 🍲🍷 In summary, the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is a must-visit in Plovdiv. It's a window into the city's rich past and a fantastic cultural experience. #PlovdivHistory #TravelBackInTime

COZY RESTAURANT IN PLOVDIV!

Great place, with a nice atmosphere and delicious food. The staff needs to pay more attention to the guests and the prices seem a bit over the top for some of the menu items, but it's very well prepared. Everything was great. We ate octopus, few different salads, humus and tirokafteri spreads. All products were really fresh and tasty, the octopus was cooked flawlessly. Our waiter was pretty helpful and polite, prices are above average, but for that quality it's totally worth it. The tables are mostly outside, but there is hard roof and it was very comfortable. I love this place and recommend it to anyone. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

HOTEL WITH GOOD VIBES!

Neighbourhood: Western District Great for visitors Vast district with parks & sporting facilities, the Hillock of Fraternity monument & Mall Plovdiv. I come here frequently on business trips. Peaceful area, quiet during the nights. There are restaurants at the first floor. Parking around the building is free of charge and you can find an empty spot pretty easy. The underground parking of the hotel is super nice, clean and safe, but it has a daily fee. There is a mall nearby with a variaty of stores, from clothes, to service stores, food court, cinema and electronics (only eMAG showroom in the city). The rooms are very clean and modern. There’s Kaufland and Lidl really close. But the biggest asset of this place is the staff. Everyone at the reception is extremely polite, professional and always trying to make you feel valuable. Especially the blonde lady working there. She deserves 10/10, hands down. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

THE BEST MARKET IN PLOVDIV!

lWe This is a great place to see and buy great fruits and vegetables straight from the farm. There are lots of large booths selling everything from parsley to gigantic cabbages! Everything fresh and very inexpensive. Fun to shop here or just marvel at the 3’ long butternut squash! Love this place. Beautiful market. All the farmers here are super friendly, and it was an experience trying to talk to them in Bulgarian. Produce were really fresh (most of the time, but of course, there are always some “bad apples”), and prices are cheaper than the supermarkets. Overall, it was such an amazing experience. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANT WITH EXCELLENT FOOD!

Excellent food…Creatively prepared in a very attractive restaurant. Excellent service, indoor and patio seating. Good wine list. Cuisine is basically Bulgarian but with Italian and French twists. The beef cheeks were excellent. Bread was freshly baked. One of the best places in Plovdiv. Such a cool atmosphere here in Plovdiv! Loved the attention to detail in the decor and the dishes! We had the fish & chips and they were delish! And this special cheesecake?! Oh my ~ amazing! Highly recommend! Great food and impeccable service. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

THE MAGICAL OLD TOWN OF PLOVDIV!

The old town in Plovdiv is an architectural and historical reserve located on three of Plovdiv's hills: Nebet Tepe, Dzhambaz Tepe and Taksim Tepe. The complex has been formed as a result of the long sequence of habitation from prehistoric times to present day and combines the culture and architecture from Antiquity, Middle Ages and Bulgarian revival. The old town in Plovdiv is included in UNESCO World Heritage tentative list since 2004. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

#spooktaculartrip

Plovdiv was the European capital of Culture of 2019. On the pictures you can see the amazing lake with the singing fountains at the middle of the city garden. On the 3rd picture is the main pedestrian street which the local people say is the longest single pedestrian street in Europe - longer than 2km. The city is among the well known attractions of #bulgaria and is very very ancient. #plovdiv #happynewyear