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@ TravelTelly
2025-04-15 08:43:57Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s oldest continuously inhabited city—and one of the oldest in the world—is a blend of ancient ruins, colorful 19th-century houses, bohemian flair, and buzzing street life. Set on seven hills and split by the Maritsa River, Plovdiv feels like a beautiful secret waiting to be discovered.
It was named European Capital of Culture in 2019, and it's easy to see why—history, art, music, food, and laid-back vibes all collide here effortlessly.
🌟 Top Things to Do in Plovdiv
1️⃣ Old Town (Stari Grad)
- A living museum of cobblestone streets and Revival-era mansions
- Wander among galleries, traditional houses, and hidden courtyards
- Highlights: Balabanov House, Ethnographic Museum, and the lovely Hindliyan House
2️⃣ Roman Theater of Philippopolis
- A stunning 2nd-century amphitheater still used for concerts and events
- Amazing views over the city—especially at sunset
- One of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world
3️⃣ Kapana Creative District
- Once the old artisans’ quarter, now transformed into Plovdiv’s coolest neighborhood
- Full of indie galleries, craft beer bars, street art, and coffee shops
- Great for a chill afternoon or lively night out
4️⃣ Ancient Stadium & Roman Forum
- Right in the city center, explore ruins that date back to Roman times
- The ancient stadium once held over 30,000 spectators
- You’ll literally be walking over layers of history
5️⃣ Nebet Tepe Hill
- One of the original Thracian settlement sites
- Offers panoramic views over Plovdiv—especially at sunset with a local beer in hand
🍽️ What to Eat in Plovdiv
- Shopska salad with juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and sirene cheese
- Kavarma – slow-cooked meat stew, hearty and flavorful
- Mekitsi – fluffy fried dough, best with jam or cheese for breakfast
- Bulgarian wine is fantastic—try a Mavrud red or local white from the Thracian Valley
- Don’t miss the city’s many wine bars and craft beer spots
🏞️ Day Trips from Plovdiv
- Bachkovo Monastery – A peaceful spiritual retreat in the mountains
- Assen’s Fortress – Dramatic hilltop ruins with amazing views
- Hisarya – A spa town with Roman walls and mineral springs
- Rhodope Mountains – Scenic drives, charming villages, and hiking
🎯 Travel Tips
✅ Plovdiv is very walkable, especially the Old Town and Kapana district
✅ Best time to visit: spring to early autumn—pleasant weather and local festivals
✅ The city is great for slow travel—take your time and let it unfold
✅ Combine it with Sofia or Veliko Tarnovo for an epic Bulgarian road trip