Dzhumaya Square
Planning a day trip to a city you've never been to can be quite challenging. After all, there’s just so much that you can do in a day right? Plovdiv is a charming and lively city that will surely delight you with its incredible beauty, sites, attractions and long and interesting history. Here’s how to spend 24 hours in Plovdiv and get the best out of your trip there:
Quick breakfast stop…
The Turkish coffee and pastry shop ‘’Dzhumaya’’ is located on the busy square just next to the Roman Stadium. It’s a good place to come and drink some tea, coffee and try a traditional Turkish dessert or pastry.
Multi Culti
Prefer a more filling breakfast? Stop by Multi Culti for a quick breakfast or brunch and indulge in some interesting culinary inventions. Breakfast options include freshly baked croissants, homemade cakes, sweets, Börek (baked filled pastries). Top that with some coffee, tea or refreshing homemade lemonade.
Morning: Main Street & Kapana District
Main Street
The centre in Plovdiv is a great place to walk around and get to know the city. The Main Street stretches through most of the centre, connecting many of the key sites and attractions. It’s currently the longest pedestrian zone in Europe and it’s pedestrian-friendly meaning you can get around on foot and see more without the need for transport. Along the centre, you’ll find countless cafes (many outdoor), bars, restaurants, fast-food chains and shops (both local and international).
Kapana District
The Kapan District is your next stop! You can stroll down the cobblestoned streets of this charming district, enjoying the pleasant atmosphere of the city over a nice craft beer or a genuine Bulgarian meal. The district boasts with amazing bars, cafes, restaurants and shops where you can purchase all kinds of hand-made items. The entire neighbourhood is in fact dedicated to the creative industries and it’s a very popular spot where the locals and guest of the city like to hang out.
Noon: Old Town & Nebet Tepe
Old Town
The Old Town is an absolute must-see site if you’re visiting Plovdiv. The historical and archaeological reserve is full of galleries, museums and stunning National Revival houses that you can visit. Stroll down the Old Town to learn all about the rich history of the city and see some very well preserved ruins from Roman times such as the Ancient Theatre (a venue that’s still in use today).
Nebet Tepe
Nebet Tepe is one of Plovdiv’s 7 remaining hills that’s located at the top of the Old town. The spot offers some incredible panoramic views of Plovdiv and the region. You can enjoy watching a sunset there while taking some amazing pictures. Locals love to hang out at the hill with their friends and family, just soaking in the atmosphere of the city. The hill is actually the birthplace of Plovdiv (it was first settled by Thracians 6000 years ago) and you can see some ancient remains there.
While at Nebet Tepe, you can grab some lunch at the Rahat Tepe Restaurant. There you’ll find all kinds of traditional meals such as clay pot classics with meat and veggies, the shopska salad and many BBQ types of meats and sausages.
Photo Studio Classic
Photo Studio Classic is a great place in the Old Town where you can go and enjoy a fun photoshoot to remember Plovdiv by. You’ll get a chance to dress up in authentic Bulgarian costumes while having your photo taken in different environments typical of Bulgarian folklore.
Natural Cosmetics Shop Vishna
Why not do some shopping in the Kapana District? The neighbourhood is full of shops that sell all kinds of handmade items such as accessories, leather bags, cosmetics and of course, clothes! For some amazing souvenirs visit the PLOVEDIV Store and get yourself something unique to remember Plovdiv by. Natural Cosmetics Shop Vishna is a great stop for those interested in natural cosmetics, while Adriana Robert Atelier offers its customers quality leather bags and other items.
Evening: Garden of Tsar Simeon, Singing Fountains & Bar Morado
Garden of Tsar Simeon
The Garden of Tsar Simeon is amongst the best places in town where you can enjoy a pleasant walk with family and loved ones. The garden is great to visit any time of the day and if you stop by at night you can marvel at the incredible view of the beautiful Singing Fountains. You can watch the light show which takes place there every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening from 21:30 (summer season only).
Singing Fountains
Just opposite the fountains, you’ll find the popular venue - Morado Premium Club. The place comes with an incredible view of the Singing Fountains and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink during the warmer months. The menu features some amazing cocktails, as well as other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you’re hungry you can order some pizza and other snacks.
