What is Plovdiv like? An In-Depth Look at the City of Plovdiv

Plovdiv is the second largest city in Bulgaria and boasts old city ruins that can be traced back to the Thracians who lived there thousands of years ago. Located at the foot of the Rhodope Mountains, Plovdiv has one foot deep in history and another in modern times. It’s a vibrant, walkable city that gives you a good glimpse into Eastern Europe without letting go off the convenience of today.

With its rich and diverse culture, sunny weather, and historical sites, Plovdiv is a fantastic travel destination for anyone looking to explore a city with an intriguing past. So, what is Plovdiv like?

Climate and Weather

Plovdiv is one of the sunniest cities in Bulgaria, with about 1872 hours of sunshine each year. On average, temperatures range between 5-10 degrees Celsius in the winter months with lows rarely dropping below 0, to 26-28 degrees Celsius in the summer months. During harsh winters, there may be some snowfall and frost, however, since Bulgaria is located in a mild zone, only short winters last from December to March. Moreover, the air humidity by the end of the summer is much drier than in other regions of Bulgaria.

Cityscape

The cityscape of Plovdiv is a unique blend of traditional architecture and modern convenience. Many of the old buildings combined with a rich selection of modern shops and restaurants can be explored in the historic Old Town section of the city. Spread across 10 hills, or “tepe” as they are referred to by residents, it’s easy to spend hours strolling down cobblestone streets and wandering through Plovdiv’s many parks. The city itself consists mainly of 19th century buildings that are renowned for their distinctive style, with flat roofs and walls covered in either blue or yellow tones.

Culture and Entertainment

Plovdiv is a city that has embraced its long history and offers a wonderful selection of cultural activities. Home to many different ethnic groups throughout history, it has earned its well-deserved title of “Cultural Capital of Bulgaria” multiple times. From traditional music performances to international festivals hosted around the city center and its many amphitheaters, or watching one of the frequent theatre performances or modern art exhibitions, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy while they explore.

Other cultural attractions include historic churches throughout the city as well as interesting archaeological sites such as the Roman Stadium and various Thracian tombs. What’s more, museums such as the Roman Forum and Ethnographic Museum offer additional insight into centuries of Bulgarian culture.

Nightlife

Plovdiv has a vibrant nightlife that has appealed to locals and tourists alike for decades now. From cocktail bars with terraces overlooking the city to “mehani” restaurants playing traditional Bulgarian music, there are plenty of options for anyone looking for fun in this lively city. For those looking to stay out all night, local clubs offer techno and house music that locals love to dance to until morning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Plovdiv is a beautiful and picturesque city with plenty of cultural attractions and a vibrant nightlife that all kinds of visitors can appreciate. Its combination of ancient ruins and modern amenities makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore a city with a rich history and sporting vibrant culture. For those looking to explore Eastern Europe without sacrificing convenience, Plovdiv is the perfect city break spot! For further information, you may consult the official Plovdiv 2019 website.

An Insider’s Guide to Plovdiv – Bulgaria’s Best-Kept Secret

If you’re looking for an off-beat destination with rich history, cultural diversity, beautiful architecture, and delicious food, look no further than Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. With a history that dates back to the 6th millennium BCE, Plovdiv has a rich history and a vibrant present that tourists can immerse themselves in.

Attractions to Visit in Plovdiv

Visitors can explore the city’s past and present by exploring its many museums, galleries, historic sites, and cultural centers. Some of the must-visit attractions in Plovdiv include:

• The Old Town of Plovdiv: A well-preserved open-air museum filled with narrow streets, historic houses, beautiful mosaics, and ancient ruins.
• The Roman Theater: One of the most iconic and well-preserved Roman theaters in the world, with a capacity of 7,000 spectators that makes it still being used, and stunning views of the city from the top.
• The Ethnographic Museum: A showcase of the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the Bulgarian people, where visitors can learn about the rich heritage and customs of the region.
• The Kapana Creative District: A vibrant cultural and artistic hub filled with street art, galleries, studios, shops, and cafes.
• The Bachkovo Monastery: A 11th-century Orthodox monastery nestled in the Rhodope Mountains that showcases the rich religious and artistic traditions in Bulgaria.

Dining Spots to Try in Plovdiv

Foodies will delight in the range of dining spots in Plovdiv, from traditional Bulgarian eateries to modern gourmet restaurants. Some of the best places to try include:

• The Pavaj: A trendy gastronomic restaurant nestled in the Old Town with an outdoor seating area, great Bulgarian cuisine and local wines.
• The Smokini: A Mediterranean-style restaurant located in a restored century-old house, providing a beautiful combination of delicious food and breath-taking views.
• The Rahat Tepe: A little cozy restaurant located in the heart of Kapana, which takes traditional Bulgarian dishes and gives them a modern twist.
• The Hills: A boutique hotel with a restaurant offering farm-to-table dishes with organic ingredients and Mediterranean cuisine.
• The Puldin Restaurant: A traditional Bulgarian restaurant located in a renovated house, serving up local specialties and delicious Bulgarian wine.

Cultural Experiences to Have in Plovdiv

Perhaps one of the most enriching experiences visitors can have in Plovdiv is to immerse themselves in the local culture. Some of the ways to do this include:

• The Plovdiv International Fair: A to-go annual event in the city, where people from around the world gather up to showcase their culture and commerce. There are always some interesting events taking place, and it’s worth visiting.
• The Art Walk Kapana: One of the city’s largest art festivals with vivid colors, music, and performances held annually through streets and galleries of the creative district.
• The Assenova Fortress: A medieval fortress located 15 km from Plovdiv that dates back to the 13th century and a prominent architectural site with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.
• The Thracian Kings’ Temples: Ancient Thracian sanctuaries dating back to the 5th and 4th centuries BCE, located in the Sredna Gora Mountains and close to Plovdiv.
• The Zlatyu Boyadzhiev Gallery: A former house of the Bulgarian artist Zlatyu Boyadzhiev transformed into a gallery showcasing his works and traveling exhibits.

Local History in Plovdiv

Plovdiv has a rich history that spans over the ages, and visitors can discover it by:

• The Roman Heritage: Plovdiv was once known as Roman town Heraclea and was an essential economic and cultural center in the province. One should visit the Roman aqueduct, stadium and theatre to understand its impact.
• The Ancient Stadium: The home of the events used in the 2nd century CE, now buried under the streets of the city, but still visible at the pedestrian tunnel.
• The Ottoman Rule: Visitors should not miss the experience to learn about the city’s Ottoman history, its unique architecture, and the vibrant multicultural life that developed during centuries of rule by the Empire.
• The Communist Heritage: Visitors can learn about the life under communism looking at the many mausoleums scattered around the city. Also, the city had received many public buildings, palaces, towers, etc. during the communist era, and they still add to its eclectic look.
• The Bulgarian Revival: During the 18th and 19th century CE, Bulgaria saw a period of significant intellectual and cultural boom which resulted in the formation of Plovdiv’s most beautiful and architecturally stunning monuments.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions for Plovdiv

Plovdiv has plenty of hidden gems, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path. Here are some suggestions to try:

• The Small Basilica: A small 5th-century CE early Christian church hidden in a narrow street of the Old Town.
• The Tobacco City: An old tobacco factory in the eastern part of the city now transformed into a unique and conglomerate social and arts center hosting concerts, exhibitions, markets, and artistic workshops.
• The Trakart: A small private museum displaying valuable Tracian artifacts, including the largest Thracian chariot discovered in Bulgaria.
• The Sarnitsa Lake: A little mountainous paradise an hour away from Plovdiv, ideal for day picnics, hiking, and even fishing.
• The Love Bridge: A recent addition to the city’s romantic side, a small bridge, decorated with locks and ribbons, similar to the most famous one in Paris.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, Plovdiv is a unique and vibrant destination that offers both an immersive cultural experience and a peaceful urban escape. With its rich history, architectural beauty, and diverse dining and entertainment options, Plovdiv is a must-visit destination for any avid traveler looking for something new and exciting to embark on. So why not explore Plovdiv for yourself?