>
>
>
Plovdiv
Plovdiv, Bulgaria

intro

Plovdiv, one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, seamlessly blends ancient history with modern culture. Visitors can explore well-preserved Roman ruins, vibrant art districts, and a dynamic culinary scene.

Additional Information

As Bulgaria's second-largest city, Plovdiv is a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The city's Old Town showcases beautifully preserved Renaissance-era architecture, while the Kapana district is renowned for its creative arts and crafts. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate traditional Bulgarian dishes paired with local wines from the Thracian Valley.

 

Traveling with Kids in Plovdiv

Plovdiv offers several family-friendly attractions and activities, making it a great destination for travelers with children.

  • Kapana Creative District: A colorful area filled with street art, boutique shops, and casual eateries with kid-friendly options.
  • Tsar Simeon Garden: Features a musical fountain show in the evening, a large playground, and scenic walking paths.
  • Lauta Adventure Park: A great spot for kids to enjoy rope courses, zip lines, and outdoor fun.
  • Plovdiv Rowing Canal: Families can rent bikes, take a scenic walk, or try paddleboarding on the canal.
  • Ethnographic Museum: Provides an interactive look at Bulgaria’s cultural heritage with exhibits that can engage young visitors.
  • Ancient Roman Theater: While historically significant, children may also enjoy the grand setting and occasional performances.

 

Reasons to Visit

  • Rich historical heritage spanning millennia.
  • Thriving arts and cultural scene.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wines.
  • Warm and hospitable locals.
  • Affordable travel destination.
  • Kid-friendly parks and adventure activities.

 

Things to Avoid

  • Walking in Old Town without proper footwear; cobblestone streets can be slippery.
  • Visiting during peak summer without accommodations; it can get crowded.
  • Disregarding local customs and etiquette.

 

Did You Know?

Plovdiv is often referred to as the "City of the Seven Hills," though only six are easily identifiable today.

Cool Plovdiv Stats

  • Ancient Roots: Plovdiv's history spans over 6,000 years, making it one of Europe's oldest cities.
  • Cultural Capital: Named European Capital of Culture in 2019.
  • Wine Tradition: The region boasts over 200 wineries, reflecting its rich viticultural heritage.

 

Accessibility Level: Medium

Plovdiv offers a mix of modern infrastructure and historic sites. While newer areas are generally accessible, the Old Town's cobblestone streets and ancient structures may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

 

Recommended Age Group

Plovdiv is most suitable for Adults and Seniors due to its rich historical sites, cultural depth, and vibrant arts scene.

  • Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended. The city's uneven terrains and limited facilities for infants may pose challenges.
  • Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Educational attractions like museums and interactive exhibits can engage young minds.
  • Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The city's art districts and historical landmarks offer enriching experiences.
  • Adults (20-64 years): Highly recommended. Plovdiv's diverse cultural events, dining, and nightlife cater to adult interests.
  • Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The city's serene parks and accessible cultural sites provide a pleasant experience, though some areas with steep inclines may require caution.

Address:

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Find Nearby Accommodations

Basic Info

address icon

COUNTRY & Region

Bulgaria,
Europe
Medium
Currency icon

LOCAL CURRENCY​

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
Safety Level icon
Price level icon
Low
Duration icon

Recommended Duration

• Overnight
• 1-7 days

Electricity

electricity icon

Electricity

220-240V,
50Hz
Plug Socket icon

Plug Type

• Type F (Two round pins with earth clips)
Plug types
Click To View Plug Types

Activities To Do In Plovdiv

Best Time To Visit

The ideal months to visit Plovdiv are May through September.

  • Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures and blooming flora make it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions.
  • Summer (June-August): Warm and lively, with numerous festivals and events; however, it can be crowded.
  • Autumn (September-November): Pleasant weather with fewer tourists, ideal for sightseeing and cultural experiences.
  • Winter (December-February): Cold with occasional snow; some attractions may have reduced hours.

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

Safety Level icon

SAFETY Level

Safe. Plovdiv is considered safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. Standard precautions are recommended, especially in crowded areas.

The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.

Spoken Languages

The official language is Bulgarian, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Learn The Language

  • Hello: Zdravei (Здравей)
  • Thank you: Blagodarya (Благодаря)
  • Yes: Da (Да)
  • No: Ne (Не)
  • How much is this?: Kolko struva tova? (Колко струва това?)
  • Where is the bathroom?: Kade e toaletnata? (Къде е тоалетната?)

Deals, Money-Saving & Best Value Tips

Plovdiv is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, offering budget-friendly accommodations, inexpensive local dining, and low-cost attractions.

  • Take public transport or walk to explore the city affordably.
  • Eat at local restaurants for authentic and budget-friendly meals.
  • Book accommodations in advance for better deals.
  • Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Low

Price levels are estimates based on multi‑year averages. Actual prices can change with season, exchange rates, and special events. Always confirm current rates and deals before booking.

Check out our traveling coupons and make your trip more affordable

What To Pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrains.
  • Season-appropriate clothing; summers are warm, winters can be cold.
  • A travel adapter for Type F sockets.
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
  • Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during summer months.
Categories: Transportation
left-turn and straight-ahead arrows in a Bulgarian city intersection
Left Turns on Green Require Extra Attention
In Bulgaria, left turns on green lights often require yielding to oncoming traffic—stay alert
Categories: Traveling | Transportation
Mountain Driving in Bulgaria
Be Prepared for Mountain Driving in Bulgaria
Mountain driving in Bulgaria requires caution—expect narrow roads, winter hazards, and tricky routes.

GetReady

Plan your trip seamlessly with our trusted partners and expert guidance. Follow these steps to book everything you need or connect with a local tour guide for personalized support

Step 1: Find the Perfect Accommodation

Explore a wide range of hotels, boutique stays, and vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury options to cozy family stays, find the best place for your trip.

Step 2: Book Your Flights

Secure the best flight deals for your destination. With our trusted partners, booking flights is quick and hassle-free.

Step 3: Let a Tour Guide Help

Not sure where to start? A professional local tour guide can create a customized itinerary or assist you in planning your trip. Make your journey seamless and stress-free.

Step 4: Rent a Car

Travel at your own pace by renting a car. Whether you’re exploring cities or embarking on a road trip, find reliable and convenient car rental options.

Step 5: Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself and your loved ones with comprehensive travel insurance. Our partners offer plans to cover every aspect of your journey.

Step 6: Need a Visa?

Check visa requirements for your destination and apply quickly with trusted services. Simplify the process and ensure you’re ready to travel without delays.

FAQs

The Ancient Roman Theater, Kapana District, and Plovdiv Old Town are top attractions.
You can travel by train, bus, or car. The journey takes about 2 hours.
Walking is ideal, but taxis and public transport are also available.
No, Plovdiv is quite affordable compared to other European cities.
Banitsa (pastry), Shopska salad, and Kavarma (stew) are local favorites.
Yes, Plovdiv is generally safe, though common precautions should be taken against pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Help Us Improve

If you visited
Plovdiv
click here to share your tips and stories.

This will help us improve our guides for the entire travelers community.

Related Articles

Check out our related articles and blog posts to learn even more about the destination.
Bulgaria - Perfect Family Destination
Why Bulgaria is a Perfect Family Destination

Don’t Travel Alone

Share with your friends and family

Join travel lovers and get exclusive travel tips, coupons and more!

Register

Now!