From Sofia: Plovdiv Guided Day Tour
Are you planning to visit Bulgaria and want to explore its rich history and culture? If so, the Plovdiv Guided Day Tour from Sofia is a great choice for you. This tour will take you to the second-largest city in Bulgaria, Plovdiv, which is also one of the oldest towns in the world.
Here’s how you can plan your tour:
Step 1: Book Your Tour
To join the Plovdiv Guided Day Tour, you need to book your place in advance. You can do this online by visiting the GetYourGuide website and clicking on the link provided. The tour includes a guided tour, transportation, and entrance fees, making it a hassle-free experience for you.
Step 2: Plan Your Day
The tour departs from Sofia in the morning, so make sure you get a good night’s sleep and have breakfast before leaving. The tour duration is approximately 9 hours, so keep that in mind when planning your day.
Step 3: Learn About Plovdiv’s History
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to learn about Plovdiv’s history dating back to Troya and Mycenae. A guided tour of the old town will take you through the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods, up to the present day. The tour will help you discover the history and culture of the 7000-year-old settlement.
Highlights
Some of the highlights of the tour include a visit to Plovdiv’s Roman monuments, discovering the beauty of Bulgarian Revival architecture and learning more about Bulgarian history in the oldest town in Europe.
Full Description
The tour will start with transportation from Sofia to Plovdiv. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, you will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the old town. The tour will take you through the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods, up to the present day. You will discover the history and culture of the 7000-year-old settlement, including a visit to Plovdiv’s Roman monuments.
After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the city on your own. You can grab a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs or take a stroll around the city. The tour includes transportation back to Sofia.
Not Suitable For
Please note that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
Final Thoughts
The Plovdiv Guided Day Tour from Sofia is an excellent opportunity to explore Bulgaria’s rich history and culture. You will visit one of the oldest towns in the world and learn about its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The tour includes transportation, a guided tour of the old town and entry fees, making it a hassle-free experience for you.
Book your tour today and experience the beauty of Plovdiv for yourself!
Insider’s Guide to Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv is a historical city located in the south-central region of Bulgaria. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture, Plovdiv serves as a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins or indulging in contemporary art, Plovdiv has something to offer for everyone.
Local Attractions
Plovdiv Old Town: The Old Town of Plovdiv is a historic district filled with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and intriguing architecture. The area boasts galleries, museums, antique shops, and many cafes and restaurants. It is perfect for a leisurely stroll to discover the quaint, winding streets, Gothic revival and Baroque architecture, and the ethereal atmosphere.
Ancient Roman Theater: This ancient theater, built 2000 years ago by the Romans, is a well-known historical site and is still in use today for opera and music performances. The Theater can hold up to 7,000 people and is a spectacular venue to enjoy a cultural event.
Bachkovo Monastery: Located about 13 km south of Plovdiv, the Bachkovo Monastery is one of the most famous Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Bulgaria. The remarkable architecture of the monastery’s church, St. Mary, the murals, paintings, and icons in the church, and the magnificent courtyard are the highlights of this peaceful retreat.
Dining Spots
The local food and drink scene in Plovdiv is vibrant and varied. Here are some must-visit dining spots to try out when you’re in town:
Shtastlivitsa: Shtastlivitsa is known for its innovative take on Bulgarian cuisine. Their macaroni with Bulgarian cheese, creamy potato soup, and homemade ice cream are highly recommended.
Hemingway: Hemingway is a chic and trendy bar in Plovdiv, with a large variety of drinks and food options. Their freshly squeezed fruit juice and refreshing cocktails are a must-try.
Kapana: Kapana Quarter is central to the city’s art, music, and fashion scenes. It is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee, dine at a local restaurant or relax with a glass of Bulgaria’s excellent wines.
Cultural Experiences
Art and Culture Center of Foundation Plovdiv 2019: The Foundation Plovdiv 2019 is an excellent venue to experience contemporary art and culture. This center has both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces in its multi-story facility. You’ll find concerts, art shows, and many other cultural events happening here.
Philippopolis Art and Culture Center: The Philippopolis Art and Culture Center are located in the heart of the city. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. The center offers guided tours of the Old Town, art exhibitions, and workshops on traditional Bulgarian crafts.
Bulgarian National Opera: The Bulgarian National Opera is located in the Ancient Roman Theater, and it is said to have the best acoustics in Bulgaria. The Opera house hosts opera and ballet performances throughout the year, and attending a show is a cultural experience not to miss while in town.
Local History
The history of Plovdiv spans over thousands of years. Here are some historical locations to visit:
Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum: The Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum features exhibits that document the lifestyle and culture of the people who have lived in Southern Bulgaria throughout the ages. It also has a collection of traditional Bulgarian clothing, pottery, and folk art.
Hissar Kapiya: Hissar Kapiya is one of the gates in the ancient walls of Plovdiv. It leads visitors to the Roman Stadium, built in the 2nd century AD, which accommodates up to 30,000 spectators. Walking along the walls is a scenic experience in and of itself.
Plovdiv Roman Stadium: The Plovdiv Roman Stadium is a historical site that is worth exploring. It was built around the 2nd century AD and is said to have been one of the largest sports halls in the Balkans.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
Bulgarian Revival Architecture Quarter: The Bulgarian Revival Architecture Quarter is a charming and quiet district, away from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. The area has many art studios, workshops, and cafes to discover.
Bunardjik Hill: Bunardjik Hill is the perfect location to capture panoramic views of the city. It is also home to the iconic Plovdiv ‘We Celebrate’ sign, which is a favorite photo spot for tourists and locals alike.
Kuklen Monastery: Kuklen Monastery is located just a few kilometers outside of Plovdiv, and it provides visitors with a peaceful and picturesque retreat. The quiet atmosphere, scenic views, and breathtaking frescoes will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after your visit.
Plovdiv is an incredible city with something for everyone. With its ancient ruins, cultural events, historical sites, food and drink scene, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, this city is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation.
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