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Things to do in Plovdiv

• Take a day trip to Bachkovo Monastery

  
  

  Bachkovo Monastery, founded in 1083, is the second largest in Bulgaria and among the oldest Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Europe. Situated just a short drive from Plovdiv in the scenic Rhodope Mountains, it is an ideal destination for a day trip. The complex features two spacious courtyards, several historic churches, and a refectory adorned with detailed frescoes from the 17th century.

  At the heart of the main church is a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, which attracts pilgrims from all over the country. The monastery remains an active religious site, home to monks who maintain daily worship, creating a peaceful and genuine spiritual environment. Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding area, with forest trails and riverside restaurants offering regional specialties such as garlic cheese dip and potato-cheese pie. On weekends, a small market nearby sells local products like honey, jams, and fruit brandy. Travel to the monastery is simple, with options including direct buses from Plovdiv or organized tours.

  
  

• Enjoy the views from Dzhendem Tepe

  
  

  Dzhendem Tepe, also known locally as Youth Hill, is the tallest of Plovdiv's hills and provides a more natural setting compared to the others. Unlike hills that feature ancient ruins or urban development, this area resembles a park, filled with forest trails, open meadows, and abundant greenery. The shaded paths, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, offer a pleasant hiking experience, especially during the warmer months.

  The walk to the summit typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, and from the top, visitors are treated to panoramic views of Plovdiv and the surrounding plains, with the Rhodope and Balkan mountains visible on clear days. The hill features distinctive rock formations that attract local climbers, as well as a television tower and a small cafe where hikers can rest and enjoy refreshments. It remains a quieter spot compared to the hills near the Old Town, frequented mostly by locals out for exercise or a peaceful outing, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience a quieter side of the city while enjoying nature.

  
  

• Ancient Thracian Adventure: Valley of the Kings Day Trip

  
  

  Take a full-day trip from Plovdiv to the Valley of the Thracian Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds some of the most remarkable tombs from the 5th century BC. Surrounded by forested hills, the area offers a calm and scenic setting as you explore ancient burial sites. A guide will lead you through five significant tombs, sharing insights into the customs, beliefs, and burial practices of the Thracian elite, who were laid to rest with their possessions.

  The tour continues to Stara Zagora, a city where centuries of human history are layered together. After a meal in the central district, you will walk through the remains of Augusta Trayana, a Roman city founded in the 2nd century AD. Highlights include preserved mosaics in a Roman-era house, offering a glimpse into daily life during that period. The visit also includes the Museum of Religions, set within one of the oldest mosques in the Balkans, providing a rare look into the region's diverse spiritual heritage.

  To complete the journey, the final stop brings you to a Neolithic settlement featuring two of the best-preserved prehistoric houses in Europe, dating back to the 7th millennium BC. These early homes, along with the artifacts found within them, reveal how people lived thousands of years ago. This experience offers a rich perspective on Bulgaria’s history, from ancient civilizations through Roman rule to prehistoric times.

  
  
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• Rhodope Mountains Adventure: Bachkovo Monastery, Asen Fortress & Wonder Bridges

  
  

  This guided day trip from Plovdiv takes you through the scenic Rhodope Mountains, beginning with a visit to Asen's Fortress near Asenovgrad. The medieval ruins offer a striking look into Bulgaria’s past, with a well-preserved 12th-century church featuring original religious iconography. From the fortress, panoramic views stretch across the surrounding landscape, and a carved stone inscription left by King Ivan Asen provides a rare historical detail that connects you directly to the site’s royal origins.

  The tour continues to Bachkovo Monastery, the second largest in the country and a site with over a thousand years of history. Known for its peaceful setting, the monastery is filled with intricate architecture and colorful frescoes, including a sacred 14th-century icon of the Virgin Mary. Walking through the arched corridors and quiet courtyards offers a calm and reflective experience, while the artistry on display in the murals reveals the depth of religious and cultural tradition preserved here.

  The final destination is the Wonderful Bridges, a group of natural marble arches located high in the mountains at 1,450 meters above sea level. Formed by river erosion over time, these rock formations create an impressive landscape to explore. Before reaching the site, the tour includes a stop at a small mountain chalet surrounded by pine forest for a local meal. A short hike through the area allows for a closer look at the arches, making it a rewarding end to a journey filled with history, nature, and cultural discovery.

  
  
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• Historic Day Trip: Plovdiv Old Town & Asen's Fortress

  
  

  This full-day tour from Sofia offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s deep historical roots with a visit to Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. The trip begins with a comfortable two-hour drive, followed by a guided walk through Plovdiv’s cobbled streets. Along the way, you will see well-preserved 19th-century houses that reflect life during the Ottoman period and visit the Roman Theater, which remains a functioning venue for performances. The guide provides thoughtful explanations without overwhelming detail, and you are given two hours of free time to explore the area on your own, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or relax at a café along the pedestrian zone.

  The journey continues with a short drive to Asen's Fortress, a medieval structure dramatically positioned on a cliff. Here, you can stroll through the ruins, step inside the preserved church, and admire expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The location is especially suited for photography, with its combination of historical charm and natural scenery.

  The entire excursion lasts around nine and a half hours, making it ideal for travelers based in Sofia who want to explore more of Bulgaria without needing to change accommodations. The small group size, limited to 18 participants, allows for a more personal and relaxed experience. Many visitors appreciate the balance the guide maintains between offering insights and allowing quiet time for individual discovery.

  
  
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• Wonderful Bridges & Rhodope Mountain Cuisine Tour

  
  

  Embark on a full-day journey from Plovdiv through the scenic Rhodope Mountains, where the natural beauty of the Wonderful Bridges awaits. These towering stone arches, formed over millions of years by flowing water, rise nearly 100 meters above the ground. The quiet echo of the stream below and the vastness of the formations create a peaceful, almost surreal atmosphere. Visitors often pause not just to take photos but to absorb the moment in stillness.

  The experience continues in the village of Kosovo, where cobblestone streets and wooden houses with intricately carved balconies offer a glimpse into Bulgaria’s rural past. Life here appears unchanged for generations, and the traditional setting is further enriched by a Rhodope-style lunch. Served in a local restaurant frequented by residents rather than tourists, the meal features slow-cooked meats, regional cheeses, and time-honored recipes unique to the mountains.

  Before returning to Plovdiv, the tour stops at Bachkovo Monastery, Bulgaria’s second-largest monastery, founded in the 11th century. Its forested surroundings and historical significance provide a quiet and reflective end to the day. Inside, colorful frescoes and centuries-old architecture reflect its cultural and spiritual legacy, including its role in protecting lives during World War II. This trip brings together nature, history, and authentic local flavors in a meaningful and memorable way.

  
  
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• Visit the Ancient Roman Theater

  
  
  
  
  

  The Ancient Roman Theater in Plovdiv is one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world, dating back to the 1st century AD. What's really cool is that it was only discovered in the 1970s after a landslide revealed parts of it. Now fully restored, it sits dramatically on one of Plovdiv's hills, offering spectacular views of the Rhodope Mountains in the distance.

  The theater still hosts performances during the summer months, including concerts, operas, and theater shows. Watching a performance here as the sun sets is pretty magical - you're literally sitting in the same seats people used almost 2,000 years ago! Even if there's no show happening when you visit, it's worth climbing up just to see the impressive architecture and imagine what it must have been like when gladiators and performers entertained crowds of up to 7,000 people. The acoustics are so good that even today performers barely need microphones when they're on stage.

  
  

• Visit the Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis

  
  

  Located in the center of Plovdiv, the Roman Stadium of Philippopolis partially lies beneath the main pedestrian street. Constructed in the 2nd century AD, the stadium once accommodated up to 30,000 spectators for athletic events. Today, only the northern section is visible, while the rest remains hidden beneath the modern city, yet the exposed portion offers a striking glimpse into the city's ancient heritage.

  The site has been thoughtfully incorporated into the urban landscape, featuring a glass platform that allows visitors to view the original seats and track from above. A 3D mapping show, presented hourly, projects a visual reconstruction of the stadium as it would have appeared in Roman times. Access to the main viewing area is free, while a small fee grants entry to the lower level, where visitors can walk among the preserved ruins. Positioned along Glavnata near Dzhumaya Mosque, the stadium is easy to include in a tour of the city center and highlights the layers of history that shape Plovdiv today.

  
  

• Hike up Nebet Tepe Hill

  
  

  Nebet Tepe, one of Plovdiv’s iconic seven hills, provides some of the most expansive views of the city. It holds the remains of Plovdiv’s earliest settlement, which dates back to around 4000 BC and later served as a strategic fortress during the Thracian and Roman periods. Today, visitors can see stone walls and foundations that reflect over six millennia of continuous human presence on the site.

  Reaching the top involves a short walk of about 15 to 20 minutes from the Old Town, though the path becomes rocky near the summit, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Sunset is an ideal time to visit, as the fading light casts a warm glow over the city and reveals distant views of the Rhodope Mountains. Locals often gather here in the evenings, creating a relaxed atmosphere. With its elevated position and mix of ancient, Ottoman, and modern structures below, Nebet Tepe is also a favored location for capturing photographs of Plovdiv’s layered landscape.

  
  

• Stroll through the Tsar Simeon Garden

  
  

  Located in the center of Plovdiv, Tsar Simeon Garden provides a peaceful and scenic retreat from the city's busy streets. Established in the 1890s, the park is known for its elegant layout and is a popular spot for both residents and tourists. One of its main attractions is the singing fountains, which come to life in the evenings with synchronized water, light, and music displays that draw many visitors.

  Beyond its signature fountains, the garden features shaded pathways, colorful flower beds, and quiet seating areas. Small bridges cross over tranquil ponds, and various sculptures and monuments add charm to the surroundings. Traditional ice cream vendors continue to serve timeless favorites that remain popular among locals. Its location, bordered by the city’s main shopping street and cultural landmarks, makes it a convenient place to pause between sightseeing or enjoy casual outdoor performances during summer weekends.

  
  

Where to stay in Plovdiv

Best hotels in Plovdiv:

• Clepsydra Residence (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Clepsydra Residence is a delightful choice in the center of Plovdiv, just a short walk from the city's top attractions. This 4-star hotel provides comfortable rooms equipped with essentials like air conditioning, free WiFi, and electric kettles for a convenient start to your day. Guests can unwind in the garden or shared lounge after exploring the city.

  The location is a highlight, situated on a peaceful street while remaining close to must-visit spots like the Roman Theater and Nebet Tepe. A terrace offers stunning views of the city, making it a great place to relax. Guests also appreciate the staff's friendliness and helpfulness throughout their stay.

  Clepsydra Residence is an excellent base for exploring Plovdiv, thanks to its proximity to key attractions. While parking may be a challenge, the central location means you can easily navigate the city on foot.

  
  

• SimplyComfy (homestay)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  SimplyComfy is a cozy choice in Plovdiv's old town, just a quick 2-minute walk from the main attractions, making it incredibly convenient for sightseeing. The rooms are clean, quiet, and comfortable, with some offering balconies that provide lovely views of the city.

  The friendly and helpful owners, fluent in English and some German, have created a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the shared kitchen and relax in the charming garden area. The accommodations include thoughtful amenities like air conditioning and free WiFi for a pleasant stay.

  The location is a standout feature, situated on a quiet street while keeping you close to the old town's highlights. It's an excellent base for exploring cobblestone streets, Roman ruins, museums, and trendy cafes, making SimplyComfy a relaxing and convenient option for your time in Plovdiv.

  
  

• Vizualiza Residence Hotel (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  VIZUALIZA Residence Hotel is a stylish choice located in the vibrant center of Plovdiv, just steps from the main street and the city’s top attractions. The rooms are modern, spacious, and designed for maximum comfort, making them an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring.

  The staff are welcoming and attentive, always ready to share local tips and recommendations to enhance your stay. The on-site restaurant serves delicious meals, with breakfast being a particular highlight you won’t want to miss.

  With its central location, luxurious rooms, and amenities like a fitness center and sauna, VIZUALIZA Residence Hotel offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, it promises a relaxing and enjoyable experience in Plovdiv.

  
  

• Hotel Jägerhof (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Hotel Jägerhof in Plovdiv offers a stylish and modern setting for a comfortable stay. The spacious, well-equipped rooms feature thoughtful additions like coffee machines and minibars, complemented by excellent cleanliness and attention to detail.

  Guests can enjoy an impressive breakfast with plenty of options to kick-start their day. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and bar for convenient dining and a fitness center for those looking to stay active during their visit.

  Situated about a 10-minute walk from Plovdiv Plaza, the hotel provides easy access to explore the city. The friendly and helpful staff contribute to a pleasant experience, making Hotel Jägerhof a fantastic choice for a relaxing stay in Plovdiv.

  
  

Best hostels in Plovdiv:

• Temple House (boutique hostel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Temple House is a fantastic option in the lively center of Plovdiv, just steps from major attractions and the bustling pedestrian street. The rooms are clean and comfortable, complete with air conditioning to keep you cool during warm summer days.

  The shared spaces are a standout feature, including a spacious co-working area with plenty of natural light and a well-equipped kitchen for preparing meals. Whether you prefer dorms or private rooms, Temple House caters to solo travelers and groups alike. The balconies also offer great views of the city center.

  Temple House covers the essentials with comfortable beds, regular cleaning, and friendly staff. The relaxed and social atmosphere makes it a welcoming place to stay. For its location and price, it’s an excellent base for exploring the charm of Plovdiv.

  
  

• Pijama Hostel (hostel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Pijama Hostel offers a cozy and convenient stay in the vibrant center of Plovdiv, just a 5-minute walk from the Roman Theater and close to numerous restaurants and bars. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, featuring bunk beds with curtains for added privacy. Guests can make use of a shared kitchen for meal preparation and a common area to relax and connect with fellow travelers.

  The staff are friendly and accommodating, providing free WiFi throughout the hostel and an optional airport shuttle service. A self check-in system adds flexibility, allowing guests to arrive at their convenience.

  While the hostel isn't luxurious, it is clean, budget-friendly, and ideal for exploring the city. Keep in mind that it’s located up a flight of stairs, which could be challenging for those with mobility concerns.