Discover Plovdiv: The Ultimate 5 Day Adventure

Explore the ancient city of Plovdiv without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Plovdiv is a perfect destination for those on a limited budget, with a variety of affordable accommodations, cheap food options, and plenty of free attractions to explore. You can wander through charming cobblestone streets of the ancient Old Town, visit the Roman amphitheatre and the ancient stadium, and enjoy gorgeous panoramic views from Nebet Tepe hill. Don't forget to check out the colorful Kapana district, filled with art galleries, street art, and trendy cafes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Plovdiv!

  • Check-in at Hotel Leipzig, a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Grab a coffee and a nibble at Pavaj – think fancy toasties and delicious cakes.
  • Explore the old town – narrow streets, colourful houses and ancient Roman ruins.
  • Take a stroll along Kapana, the arts and crafts district, lined with quirky shops and bars.
  • Enjoy dinner at Hemingway, a cosy restaurant with a great selection of Bulgarian wines.
Day 2

Plovdiv's Natural Side

  • Head to Brestovitsa for a wine-tasting tour of Villa Yustina winery.
  • Visit the Bachkovo Monastery, one of the oldest and largest Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Europe.
  • Have lunch at The Red House, a restaurant located in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains.
  • Stop by Asen's Fortress for spectacular views of the surrounding hills.
  • End the day with dinner at Hadjidraganov's Houses, a traditional Bulgarian restaurant that serves up hearty portions.
Day 3

Plovdiv's Art Scene

  • Grab breakfast at Gossip, a quirky café with a retro vibe.
  • Explore the art galleries in Kapana – visit Philippopolis, a contemporary art space.
  • Take a break at Kanaal, a trendy bar that serves up amazing cocktails.
  • Check out the street art in the district of Stolipinovo.
  • Dine at Puldin Restaurant, a local favourite that serves up Bulgarian classics.
Day 4

Day Trip to Buzludzha Monument

  • Take a day trip to discover the abandoned Buzludzha Monument, a former Communist headquarters.
  • Stop by the Shipka Memorial Church on the way.
  • Bring your own lunch and enjoy a picnic at the Monument's grounds.
  • Hike up to the top of the Monument for stunning views.
  • Stop for dinner at The Old House in Kazanlak, a restaurant that serves up tasty Bulgarian cuisine.
Day 5

Final Day in Plovdiv

  • Grab breakfast at Patisserie Dzhonatan, a bakery with mouth-watering pastries.
  • Take a stroll in Tsar Simeon's Garden, a park with gorgeous fountains and monuments.
  • Visit the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world.
  • Have lunch at Rahat Tepe, a restaurant with fantastic views of Plovdiv's skyline.
  • End the day with a drink at Artnewscafe, a hip bar located in the city centre.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Plovdiv, Bulgaria by plane is to fly into Plovdiv airport (PDV) from major cities like Frankfurt, Vienna or Istanbul.

Car

One can take the E80 route from Sofia, which is approximately a two-hour drive or from Istanbul which is around a six-hour drive.

Train

There are no direct train connections to Plovdiv, however one can take the train to Sofia first and then transfer to a bus or a taxi to reach Plovdiv.

Boat

There are no waterways to reach Plovdiv, as it is an inland city.

Bus

The best way to get to Plovdiv, Bulgaria by bus is to take a direct bus from Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria that runs on a regular basis.

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