· BG

Plovdiv

Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Journey Back in Time in Plovdiv, Bulgaria Step into a living tapestry of history and culture in Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city and a captivating destination. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Southern Bulgaria…

#historic city#cultural capital#ancient ruins#Roman amphitheater#European Capital of Culture

1/33

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Plovdiv.

Top Hotels in Plovdiv

Top Flights to Plovdiv

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Plovdiv.

Tours

Explore the Ancient Theater of Philippopolis

Visit one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world and enjoy stunning views of the cityscape.

Shopping

Shop at Kapana Creative District

Explore Plovdiv's vibrant art district filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.

Outdoor

Hike Up Nebet Tepe

Hike to the top of Nebet Tepe hill for panoramic views and ancient ruins.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Plovdiv.

Currency

лв. | BGN | Bulgarian Lev

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria is 340,000.

Languages

Bulgarian, Bulgarian, Turkish

Average weather

Plovdiv

Jan

5°-3°

Feb

8°-2°

Mar

13°2°

Apr

18°6°

May

23°11°

Jun

28°15°

Jul

31°18°

Aug

31°17°

Sep

26°13°

Oct

20°8°

Nov

13°3°

Dec

7°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Plovdiv.

What people love

Plovdiv, located in Bulgaria, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage and many attractions that make it a popular destination for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Plovdiv:

Historical Sites: Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, with a history dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, such as the Roman amphitheater, Roman stadium, and the Old Town with its well-preserved architecture.
Cultural Events: Plovdiv is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous events and festivals held throughout the year. The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019, showcasing its commitment to promoting cultural diversity and creativity.
Food and Wine: Bulgaria is famous for its delicious cuisine, and Plovdiv is no exception. Visitors can enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes, as well as international cuisine in the city's many restaurants and cafes. Plovdiv is also located in close proximity to several wine regions, offering wine tasting tours and vineyard visits.
Scenic Beauty: Plovdiv is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Rhodope Mountains and the Thracian Plain. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and outdoor activities in the nearby countryside, as well as breathtaking views of the city from the surrounding hills.
Hospitality: Bulgarians are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors to Plovdiv can expect to be welcomed with open arms. The city has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to connect with locals and experience Bulgarian culture firsthand.

Overall, traveling to Plovdiv offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and hospitality that makes it a rewarding destination for visitors from around the world.

What to know

Traveling to Plovdiv, Bulgaria, can have some potential drawbacks. Some of the cons of visiting Plovdiv may include:

Language Barrier: English may not be widely spoken in Plovdiv, so communication could be challenging for travelers who do not speak Bulgarian. This could make navigating the city, ordering food, or seeking assistance more difficult.
Limited Public Transportation: Plovdiv's public transportation system may not be as extensive or efficient as in some other European cities. This could make getting around the city more time-consuming and less convenient for tourists.
Crowded Tourist Areas: Popular tourist attractions in Plovdiv, such as the Old Town or Roman Amphitheatre, can get crowded during peak seasons. This may detract from the overall experience and make it harder to fully enjoy the sights.
Limited Accommodation Options: While Plovdiv offers a range of accommodation options, they may be limited in comparison to larger tourist destinations. This could result in higher prices or difficulty finding suitable lodging, especially during busy periods.
Safety Concerns: Like any destination, travelers should be mindful of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety in Plovdiv. This could include being cautious of pickpocketing, scams, or other potential risks.

It's important to note that these cons are not exhaustive and may vary based on individual experiences. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and plan ahead to mitigate any potential challenges while traveling to Plovdiv.

Plovdiv, located in the heart of Bulgaria, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and has a rich and varied history that spans several millennia. Here is a detailed history of Plovdiv:

Ancient History

Neolithic Period: The region around Plovdiv has evidence of settlement dating back to the Neolithic era, around 6000 BCE.
Thracian Settlement: The area was originally settled by the Thracians, who named it Eumolpias. The Thracians left a significant cultural and archaeological mark on the region.
Philip II of Macedon: In the 4th century BCE, Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, conquered the city and renamed it Philippopolis. This marked the beginning of a significant Hellenistic influence.

Roman Era

Roman Conquest: In 46 CE, Plovdiv became part of the Roman Empire. It was then known as Trimontium, meaning "The Three Hills," and became an important administrative and military center.
Roman Infrastructure: The Romans built significant infrastructure, including roads, aqueducts, walls, and the Roman Theatre, which is still in use today.

Medieval Period

Byzantine and Bulgarian Rule: After the decline of Roman control, the city came under the Byzantine Empire's rule, followed by periods of control by the First and Second Bulgarian Empires.
The Crusades: During the Crusades, Plovdiv was briefly occupied by the armies of the Fourth Crusade.

Ottoman Period

Ottoman Conquest: Plovdiv fell under Ottoman control in the late 14th century and remained part of the Ottoman Empire for nearly five centuries.
Cultural Hub: During the Ottoman period, the city was a vibrant cultural hub with diverse communities, including Bulgarians, Turks, Greeks, Armenians, and Jews.

Modern History

Liberation and Bulgarian Independence: Plovdiv was liberated from Ottoman rule in 1878 following the Russo-Turkish War. It became part of Eastern Rumelia, an autonomous province of the Ottoman Empire, until it united with the Principality of Bulgaria in 1885.
20th Century Developments: The 20th century saw significant urban development and modernization. Plovdiv became an industrial and cultural center of Bulgaria.

Significant Landmarks

Roman Theatre: One of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world, built during the Roman Emperor Trajan’s reign.
Ancient Stadium: Located beneath the main pedestrian street, it was used for athletic competitions in Roman times.
Plovdiv Old Town: Known for its Bulgarian Renaissance-style architecture, cobbled streets, and historic buildings.
Nebet Tepe: One of the original Thracian settlements, offering panoramic views of the city.
Dzhumaya Mosque: An example of Ottoman architecture, built in the 15th century.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Plovdiv has been designated as a European Capital of Culture and is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous festivals, galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. The city's rich history and cultural diversity have made it a significant center of cultural, economic, and social life in Bulgaria.