I never thought I will fall in love with a city so much, but Plovdiv has my heart forever. Each year, I count myself lucky to visit this beautiful city, thanks to my husband being Bulgarian and our regular trips to visit family. Plovdiv, with its rich history and charming streets, has become a place I eagerly return to, year after year.
Plovdiv does have its own international airport, but flights are limited. If you’re planning a visit, another option is to fly into Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, which is just under a two-hour drive from Plovdiv. Once you arrive, you’ll find countless things to see and do. To help you explore, I’ve grouped some of my favourite spots by area.
- 1. The Hills of Plovdiv
- 2. The Old Town
- 3. The Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- 4. Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis
- 5. Desserts and Ice Cream in Plovdiv
- 6. Roman Forum of Philippopolis
- 7. Plovdiv Rowing Canal (Rowing Base)
- 8. The shopping streets
- 9. The Kapana Neighbourhood
- 10. Club Fargo
- Pro Tips:
- Trips and experiences
1. The Hills of Plovdiv
Plovdiv is known for its seven hills, each offering unique views and experiences. Here are two of my favourite:
- Bunardzhika Hill – One of the most iconic hills in Plovdiv, offers a panoramic view of the city. The hike to the top is relatively easy and definitely worth it for the stunning scenery and the impressive Soviet-era monument at the summit known as Alyosha. Bunardzhika is a great spot for a peaceful walk with rewarding views. At the base of this hill, you will find “Yuzhen Polah Pri Malak Bunardzhik” Restaurant. The food here is exceptional, and the location couldn’t be better. We loved this restaurant so much that we decided to have our post-civil ceremony celebration here, surrounded by family and friends. When dining out with kids, it’s a relief to find a restaurant that caters to the needs of both adults and children. One such thoughtful feature is the inclusion of a slide at this restaurant. This allows kids to burn off some energy while the adults enjoy a relaxed meal.
The park around the hill also features a few playgrounds, making it a great spot if you’re travelling with children.
- Nebet Tepe
Another must-visit hill is Nebet Tepe, which offers not just incredible views but also ruins dating back to the ancient Thracian settlement that once stood here. After exploring the hill, head to Rahat Tepe Restaurant, where you can enjoy amazing food with equally amazing views. Don’t miss their fried courgettes (in season)- they come highly recommended and for a good reason. We order them every time we eat at this restaurant.
2. The Old Town
No visit to Plovdiv is complete without exploring the Old Town, a beautifully preserved area full of cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and historical sites.
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv– This museum is a must-see, offering a deep dive into Bulgarian culture and traditions. Housed in a stunning 19th-century mansion, the exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into Plovdiv’s past.
- Gate “Hisar Kapia”– This ancient gate is one of the three entrances to the Old Town and a prime example of Plovdiv’s Roman and Byzantine heritage. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time.
3. The Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
One of Plovdiv’s most remarkable attractions is the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This well-preserved Roman theatre dates back to the 1st century AD and is still in use today for concerts and performances. The backdrop of the Rhodope Mountains makes any event here a magical experience.
4. Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis
As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, Plovdiv is renowned for its rich historical layers. The Bishop’s Basilica adds to this legacy, further enhancing Plovdiv’s reputation as a crossroads of civilizations. The site was rediscovered in the mid-20th century during construction work and has since undergone extensive excavation and restoration. Today, it stands as an important cultural and historical monument, showcasing the city’s rich past and its significance in early Christian history. It has been integrated into a modern museum complex, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the basilica and its mosaics firsthand.
5. Desserts and Ice Cream in Plovdiv
When it comes to dessert, Ice Cream House Afreddo is the place to go. My husband insisted they had the best ice cream in Plovdiv, and after trying it myself, I couldn’t agree more. They also offer a variety of cold desserts, perfect for a hot day, with plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy your treat.
6. Roman Forum of Philippopolis
Another historical gem is the Roman Forum of Philippopolis. Located in the heart of the city, this site offers a glimpse into Plovdiv’s Roman past, with ruins that date back to the 1st century AD.
Just a short walk away, you’ll find “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This lush, green space is perfect for families with a large playground to keep the kids entertained. In the evening, don’t miss the Singing Fountain, a stunning water and light show. Morado Bar & Dinner, located right by the fountain, is a great spot to relax with delicious food and a wide selection of drinks.
7. Plovdiv Rowing Canal (Rowing Base)
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Plovdiv Rowing Canal is a fantastic place to visit. It’s a popular spot for rowing competitions, but it’s also a beautiful area to walk or cycle around. There’s also a large playground nearby, making it perfect for a family outing.
8. The shopping streets
Plovdiv’s shopping streets are full of charm, offering everything from local crafts to high-end boutiques. While exploring, I stumbled upon Bluestone Doughnuts, a cute little gem that I’m particularly proud of discovering. Their doughnuts are incredible- a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. While you’re here, also try the Pirozhki at the local shop. These pastries are delicious and make for a great snack while you’re wandering the streets.
9. The Kapana Neighbourhood
Kapana, meaning “The Trap”, is one of the city’s most vibrant and eclectic neighbourhoods. Once a forgotten and neglected area, Kapana has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, evolving into a lively cultural and artistic hub that captures the essence of Plovdiv’s creative spirit.
Kapana’s narrow, winding streets are lined with a mix of colourful buildings, each with its own unique charm. The area is a maze of small, independent shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect place to get lost for an afternoon. As you wander through the district, you’ll notice how the walls are adorned with street art and murals, adding to the neighbourhood’s bohemian vibe.
One of the best things about Kapana is its community-oriented atmosphere. Many of the businesses here are locally owned and operated, and there’s a strong sense of collaboration among the artists and entrepreneurs who call Kapana home. Whether you’re looking for handmade crafts, vintage clothing, or contemporary art, you’ll find it in the diverse range of boutiques that dot the area.
Foodies will also feel right at home in Kapana. The district is known for its array of trendy eateries and cafes, where you can enjoy everything from traditional Bulgarian dishes to international cuisine. The outdoor seating areas spill onto the cobblestone streets, creating a laid-back, almost Mediterranean feel, perfect for people-watching as you sip on a coffee or enjoy a leisurely meal.
Kapana is also a hotspot for nightlife in Plovdiv. As the sun sets, the district comes alive with the sound of live music, DJ sets, and the chatter of people enjoying their evening out. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink in a cozy bar or dancing the night away in a club, Kapana offers something for everyone.
10. Club Fargo
For a night out, Club Fargo is the place to be. Known for its crafted cocktails, this bar has a fantastic atmosphere. My husband and I visited one evening, lucky enough to have a date night while our daughter was with her grandparents. The vibe was incredible, and it was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.
Pro Tips:
- Pack comfortable shoes: Plovdiv’s cobblestone streets and hills can be tricky to navigate in anything less.
- Bring a camera or have your phone ready: From the historic Old Town to the panoramic views from the hills, Plovdiv is incredibly photogenic.
- Plan for outdoor dining: The city’s cafes and restaurants offer fantastic outdoor seating, so take advantage of it, particularly in the summer.
Plovdiv is a city that captivates with its history, culture, and beauty. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning like I do every year, it’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Trips and experiences
If you’re looking to make the most out of your visit to Plovdiv, or if you’re planning a side trip from Plovdiv, Viator offers a variety of trips and experiences that you can easily book. Here are some highlights:
- Guided tours of Plovdiv: Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Plovdiv with a knowledgeable guide. You can book walking tours that take you through the Old Town, Roman ruins, and the Kapana district, offering in-depth insights into the city’s past and present.
- Day trips to Bachkovo Monastery and Asen’s Fortress: Just a short drive from Plovdiv, you can visit the stunning Bachkovo Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Bulgaria. This trip often includes a visit to Asen’s Fortress, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval Bulgarian history.
- Wine Tasting Tours: The Plovdiv region is famous for its wine, and Viator offers several wine-tasting tours that allow you to visit local vineyards, meet the winemakers, and sample some of Bulgaria’s finest wines.
- Outdoor Adventures: if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can book experiences like hiking in the Rhodope Mountains or exploring the natural beauty of the Trigrad Gorge. These trips often include guided hikes, transportation, and sometimes even a visit to the famous Devil’s Throat Cave.
- Cultural Day Trips to nearby villages: Experience the traditional Bulgarian way of life by booking a day trip to nearby villages like Koprivshtitsa or Shiroka Laka. These tours typically include visits to historical sites, traditional homes, and opportunities to try local cuisine.
Booking these experiences through Viator not only makes your trip more convenient but also ensures that you get the most out of your time in Plovdiv and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just having a unique adventure, there’s something for everyone.
I’ve included a link of services so you can plan your next trips too. This is an affiliate link which means I will get a small commission if you book anything through my link, at no extra costs to you. Thank you!
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