Is it Worth Visiting Plovdiv? An In-Depth Guide to Bulgaria’s Second City

Bulgaria’s second-largest city, Plovdiv, is known for its long history, colourful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the heart of the Thracian Plain, Plovdiv blends ancient and modern like few other cities in Europe. But is it worth visiting? For those planning a trip to Bulgaria, here is an in-depth guide to Plovdiv, carefully weighing up its attractions against any potential drawbacks.

History and Culture

Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, with a history spanning over 8,000 years. It was once the capital of ancient Thrace and later became part of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. This rich heritage is reflected in the city’s architecture, with Roman ruins, Ottoman-era houses, and Baroque facades all jostling for attention.The Old Town is the highlight of Plovdiv’s historical and cultural offerings. Here, visitors can wander along the narrow cobbled streets, admiring the architecture and browsing the quaint shops and galleries. The highlight of the Old Town is undoubtedly the Ancient Theatre, which dates back to the 1st century AD and has been restored to host concerts and performances.The city is also home to a host of museums, including the Regional Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Natural History. These showcase Bulgaria’s history, culture, and natural environment and are well worth a visit.

Food and Drink

Bulgarian cuisine is hearty and filling, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Plovdiv is no exception, with a bustling food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Traditional Bulgarian dishes include kavarma (a type of stew), banitsa (a savoury pastry), and kebabche (grilled meatballs).Plovdiv is also home to a vibrant wine scene, with several wineries located in and around the city. The region is particularly known for its red wine, with the Mavrud grape variety being a local favourite. Wine tasting tours are available, offering visitors the chance to sample some of Bulgaria’s best vintages.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Plovdiv has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The highlight is the annual Plovdiv International Fair, which has been held since 1892 and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Other notable events include the Opera Open festival and the Kapana Fest, a celebration of art, music, and food held in the city’s creative neighbourhood.The city also has a lively nightlife, with a range of bars and clubs to suit all tastes. The Kapana district is particularly popular, with its trendy bars and live music venues.

The Downsides

While Plovdiv has much to offer, there are some downsides to consider. One is the city’s air pollution, which can be particularly bad in the winter months. Another is the traffic congestion, which can make driving in the city a challenge.Visitors should also be aware of the occasional stray dog in the streets, although the city has made efforts to address this issue in recent years.

Conclusion

So, is it worth visiting Plovdiv? Absolutely. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food and drink, Plovdiv offers something for everyone. While there are some drawbacks, these pale in comparison to the city’s many attractions. So book your trip, pack your bags, and prepare to be enchanted by Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second city.

An Insider’s Guide to Plovdiv – Bulgaria’s Second City

Plovdiv is an ancient city located in the south of Bulgaria, often referred to as the ‘City of the Seven Hills.’ This city has a rich history, beautiful architecture, a vibrant cultural scene, and is home to some of the most exquisite local cuisine that is worth a visit. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the main attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Plovdiv an unforgettable experience.

Attractions

Plovdiv is full of historic and cultural gems, and it’s challenging to see everything in just one trip. Some must-visit attractions include:

– The Old Town – Plovdiv’s Old Town is a must-visit, with its narrow cobbled streets and colorful 19th-century houses, which have been beautifully restored. The Old Town is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

– The Roman Amphitheatre – Located in the heart of the city center, the Roman Amphitheatre is an impressive structure that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is the most significant ancient monument in Plovdiv and is still used for events and performances today.

– The Kapana District – This area has become the trendy spot in Plovdiv, a hub of local art, creativity, food, and drink. It’s streets are full of murals, street art, cafes, and bars, making a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

– The Nebet Tepe Hill – This hill offers the best panoramic view of Plovdiv, and is located in the Old Town. Hiking up to this hill during sunset is highly recommended to experience the romantic and serene atmosphere of the city.

Dining Spots

Plovdiv is full of fantastic and affordable cuisine, offering flavors and tastes that are unique to the region. Here are just a few examples.

– Rahat Tepe – A Bulgarian restaurant located in the Old Town, offering delicious local cuisine and live music in a traditional setting. Make sure to try the Shopska Salad and fried cheese/banitsa.

– Smokini – This restaurant combines traditional Bulgarian food with modern flare. Located in Kapana, it is perfect for tasting Bulgarian wine and Mediterranean cuisine.

– Villa Yustina – Bulgarian wine culture is thriving, and Villa Yustina is a great way to explore and experience it. The vineyard restaurant offers a tranquil atmosphere, amazing views from the terrace, and a wine degustation menu, featuring some of the region’s best vintages.

Cultural Experiences

Plovdiv has a rich cultural heritage, dating back over 7000 years, and is home to numerous events and festivals. Some of these experiences include:

– Plovdiv International Short Film Festival – this festival brings together cinematic talent from all over the world.

– Kapana Fest – Kapana Fest is a three-day festival held in June, showcasing contemporary art, music, and food in the heart of Plovdiv.

Local History

Plovdiv’s history goes back to ancient times, and the city remains one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural and historical destinations. Some of the best ways to explore the city’s history include:

– The Regional Ethnographic Museum – Located in the Old Town, this museum offers an extensive collection that showcases the richness of Bulgaria’s cultural heritage.

– The Roman Stadium – It is the largest ancient structure in Plovdiv, built in the 2nd-century AD and once held up to 30,000 spectators.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for a unique experience or want to take a break from tourists’ hotspots, here are some ideas:

– Take a stroll in the City Garden – Located between the Singing Fountains and the Main Street, City Garden is a haven for locals. It has numerous walking paths, cafes, and flower beds.

– The Rowing Canal – The Rowing Canal is located in the city’s outskirts, near the district of Plovdiv-Rakovski. It is a peaceful and picturesque location that offers rowing, kayaking, and cycling opportunities, as well as jogging or just a stroll.

To sum up, Plovdiv is a city that shouldn’t be missed. From its long and rich history to the incredible cuisine and cultural experiences, it is a city that has something to offer for everyone. As you plan your visit, refer back to this guide to make the most of your trip to Plovdiv.