Plovdiv travel guide

The official currency of Plovdiv, Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), and it's recommended to have some on hand for smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards. Credit cards are, however, widely accepted in larger businesses, hotels, and restaurants. It's advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any potential blocks on your card due to foreign transactions.

ATMs are readily available throughout the city and offer a convenient way to access cash. Keep in mind that fees may apply. As for budgeting, Plovdiv is generally considered a cost-effective destination, but prices can increase during the peak tourist season. It's always wise to budget for a little extra than planned to account for unexpected expenses.

While visiting Plovdiv, you'll discover that Bulgarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken among the younger population and in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Bulgarian phrases can enhance your experience. Phrases such as 'Zdravei' (Hello), 'Blagodarya' (Thank you), and 'Kolko struva?' (How much?) can be useful. Be aware that Bulgarians nod when they mean 'No' and shake their heads for 'Yes', which can be a bit confusing. Lastly, Bulgarians appreciate it when foreigners make an effort to speak their language, so don't be shy to use your newly learned phrases.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria enjoys a moderate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are typically hot and dry with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Heatwaves can push the mercury up to 40°C, making it important for visitors to stay hydrated and use sun protection. Winters (December to February), on the other hand, are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 20°C.

The city receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with May being the wettest month. Despite this, Plovdiv is known for its sunny weather, boasting over 300 days of sunshine per year. Travelers should be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly in the transitional seasons. It's always a good idea to pack a variety of clothing suitable for different weather conditions when visiting Plovdiv.

Home to plenty of top attractions, Plovdiv is more than just a wonderful city in Bulgaria. Plovdiv is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Bulgaria.

One fascinating sight in Plovdiv is the unforgettable Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Plovdiv. This remarkable attraction is located at ул. Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria and is open for visitors Monday - Friday, between 09:30-11:45.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Bulgaria, check out our list of top attractions in Plovdiv below. Discover the best places to visit in Plovdiv, including the fascinating Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, Singing Fountains, Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis, Alyosha Monument, and Old Town of Plovdiv.

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Plovdiv.

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Plovdiv.

Plovdiv offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Bus Tours, and Private Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Bulgaria.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Plovdiv by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Travelers in Plovdiv can choose from 14 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Plovdiv one of the best travel destinations in Bulgaria.

Plovdiv also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Red Church Perushtitsa Self-Guided is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 9 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Plovdiv.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Plovdiv and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Plovdiv below.

Discover the best things to do in Plovdiv. Choose from 75 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Plovdiv. Click the green button to view your options.

Plovdiv is a city that offers a rich culinary scene, where traditional Bulgarian cuisine meets modern gastronomy. From the bustling Kapana district, known for its vibrant street food scene, to the upscale restaurants in the city center, there's a wide array of dining options. One of the best places to eat in Plovdiv is Shtastlivitsa, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Bulgarian dishes like 'shopska salata', a refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and Bulgarian cheese, and 'kavarma', a hearty meat stew. For a more casual experience, head to the local bakeries for 'banitsa', a delicious pastry filled with cheese or meat. Don't leave without trying 'rakia', a strong Bulgarian brandy typically served with salads. For a unique gastronomic experience, consider joining a local food tour, which will take you to hidden gems and allow you to sample a variety of dishes. Remember, dining in Plovdiv is not just about the food, but also about embracing the local culture and traditions.

Plovdiv, the enchanting city of Bulgaria, is a paradise for shoppers who appreciate distinctive fashion, local craftsmanship, and unique souvenirs. The city's main shopping district, Kapana, is an artistic neighborhood that doubles as the best place to go shopping in Plovdiv. Here, you’ll find a mix of boutiques selling locally made clothes, jewelry, and accessories, as well as art galleries and craft shops. Don't miss the opportunity to buy a traditional Bulgarian 'Rose Oil' product, a must-buy souvenir. For a modern shopping experience, visit the Grand Mall; with over 200 stores, it's the largest shopping center in the city.

For those interested in local produce and traditional Bulgarian items, the Central Market is a must-visit. Here you'll find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local delicacies. Shopping in Plovdiv is incomplete without trying the local Bulgarian pottery, famous for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. It's an ideal souvenir to remind you of the beautiful and historic city of Plovdiv. The city’s shopping hours are typically from 10 am to 9 pm, with some stores closed on Sundays. Carry some local currency for small shops and market stalls, as they might not accept credit cards.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city, brimming with ancient history and vibrant culture, offers numerous free attractions that leave a lasting impression. One of the best free things to do in Plovdiv is exploring the Old Town. This architectural and historical reserve is filled with beautifully preserved 19th-century houses, ancient ruins, and charming cobblestone streets. Visit the Nebet Tepe hill for a breathtaking panorama of Plovdiv, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. While there, explore the remnants of an ancient fortress. A free stroll in the Tsar Simeon's Garden, one of the city's most beautiful parks, offers an enchanting experience, especially when the iconic Singing Fountains come to life in the evening. Another must-see is the Roman Stadium of Philippopolis, located right in the city center. This ancient sports complex could accommodate up to 30,000 spectators in its heyday. Finally, immerse yourself in local culture by attending one of the many free concerts, exhibitions, or festivals that the city hosts throughout the year. Plovdiv truly proves that you don't need to spend to enjoy a rich and rewarding travel experience.

The most popular way to experience Plovdiv is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Bulgaria. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Plovdiv on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Bulgaria, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Bulgaria, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Plovdiv, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Plovdiv below.

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Bulgaria. In fact, you can choose from as many as 215 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Plovdiv, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Bulgaria.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Plovdiv.

For an epic vacation, discover Plovdiv and other top destinations in Bulgaria on a top-rated holiday like the Cheap 10-Day Bulgaria Road Trip Vacation from Plovdiv traveling east to Bankya, Veliko Tarnovo, Kavarna, and Burgas. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Plovdiv, but also in other top places to visit in Bulgaria. If Singing Fountains, Alyosha Monument, Nebet Tepe, Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, and Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Plovdiv, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Bulgaria City Break in Plovdiv and spend as little as 80 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Plovdiv, including the fantastic Singing Fountains, Old Town of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve, Nebet Tepe, Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, and Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis.

Get more Plovdiv vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Bulgaria that match your needs and budget.

Discover and compare 215 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Plovdiv.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Plovdiv get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Bulgaria. Your customized holiday package to Plovdiv is only a few clicks away!

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Plovdiv, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Bulgaria. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Plovdiv, Bulgaria, in January.

The cheapest one-way flight to Plovdiv costs around 31 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air UK. The flight leaves on January 9 at 4 and departs from Luton airport in LON, England.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Plovdiv cost approximately 720 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 12 and the return flight is scheduled on May 5. The flight time is around 22 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Sofia.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Bulgaria and the city of Plovdiv from your city of departure.

Travelers visiting Plovdiv in Bulgaria can fly to Plovdiv airport directly from 1647 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Plovdiv airport and the city of Plovdiv in Bulgaria depart from Plovdiv airport in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica, and Cochin International airport in Kochi, India.

Travelers can fly to Bulgaria by choosing from from 2 weekly flight(s) from Plovdiv; from 2 weekly flight(s) from Kingston; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi.

The airline that operates most flights to Bulgaria is Indonesia AirAsia. Indonesia AirAsia offers 14 scheduled flight routes to Bulgaria.

Discover the most popular flights to Plovdiv below. Click to view flights to Plovdiv, Bulgaria from destinations all across the globe.

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Plovdiv provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Plovdiv. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Plovdiv on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Plovdiv that match the information provided.

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Plovdiv to find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Bulgaria at their own pace.

This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Plovdiv.

Check out all options available in Plovdiv and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Bulgaria below.

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Plovdiv. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Bulgaria. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Travelers in Bulgaria can catch flights to domestic airports in Varna, Sofia, and Burgas. Domestic flights in Bulgaria are operated by 2 airlines: Wizz Air UK, and Ryanair. There are around 5 scheduled flight routes operating to Plovdiv on a weekly basis.

From Plovdiv, travelers can book scheduled flights to 3 domestic destinations.

Traveling to another city or region in Bulgaria? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Plovdiv to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Bulgaria on the selected dates.