2-Day Relaxation Getaway Itinerary in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

2 days

Glavnata shopping street on a winter night
Waterfalls near Sitovo, a short drive from Plovdiv
The rowing venue at sunset
Plovdiv Roman theater
Traditional architecture of the old town

About Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Discover the charm of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, one of Europe's oldest cities. This vibrant city is a blend of ancient history and modern culture, boasting a stunning Roman amphitheatre, the picturesque Old Town, and a thriving arts scene. Explore the cobblestone streets, lined with colorful 19th-century houses, art galleries, and trendy cafes. Visit the Ancient Theatre, a well-preserved Roman structure still used for performances. Don't miss the Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum for a glimpse into Bulgarian history and culture. Enjoy local cuisine and wines at the city's numerous restaurants and wineries. Plovdiv, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, promises an unforgettable travel experience.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Old Town and Ancient Theater

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely walk through the Old Town of Plovdiv, where you can admire the beautifully preserved Roman architecture and the charming cobblestone streets. This area is perfect for relaxation and offers a peaceful atmosphere in the morning.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch in a local restaurant in the city center. Try some of the local dishes like Shopska salad, Banitsa, and Kavarma. The city center offers a variety of restaurants with outdoor seating areas where you can relax and watch the world go by.

Afternoon

Visit the Ancient Theater of Philippopolis, one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. Take your time to explore this magnificent monument and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city. Plovdiv is known for its vibrant nightlife, so take this opportunity to relax and enjoy the city lights while savoring delicious Bulgarian cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing stroll along the main pedestrian street in Plovdiv. This area is bustling with life in the evening, with street performers, local artisans, and charming cafes.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the traditional Bulgarian lifestyle and culture.

Lunch

Have lunch in one of the local restaurants near the museum. Try some traditional Bulgarian desserts like Baklava or Garash cake.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon in the Tsar Simeon Garden, a beautiful park in the heart of the city. Relax by the Singing Fountains and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing dinner in a local restaurant. Try some Bulgarian wine, as Plovdiv is known for its excellent local vineyards.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Alyosha Soviet Army Memorial. This monument offers a stunning view of the city, especially in the evening when the city lights start to twinkle.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Old Town

1
Old Town

A historic area with preserved Bulgarian Renaissance architecture, art galleries, museums, and landmarks.

Attractions
Landmarks
Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Ancient Theater of Philippopolis

2
Ancient Theater of Philippopolis

One of the world's best-preserved ancient theaters, located in the city center of Plovdiv. It was constructed in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Domitian, under the rulership of Titus Flavius Cotis. It was only discovered during a landslide in the 1970s and is still in use today for performances.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum

3
Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum

The Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum is a museum of ethnography in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Since 1938, it has occupied the 1847 house of the merchant, Argir Kuyumdzhioglu, in the city's Old Town. The museum features six exhibitions, each in a separate hall.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Tsar Simeon Garden

4
Tsar Simeon Garden

A beautiful garden in the heart of Plovdiv, named after the Bulgarian Tsar Simeon. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden is home to the 'Singing Fountains', a popular attraction among locals and tourists alike.

Parks
Gardens
Alyosha Soviet Army Memorial

5
Alyosha Soviet Army Memorial

Alyosha Soviet Army Memorial is a monumental statue in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The monument is dedicated to the Soviet Army which liberated Bulgaria during WWII. It is located on Bunarjik Hill and offers a panoramic view of the city.

Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Banitsa

Banitsa

A traditional Bulgarian pastry made of whisked eggs and cheese between filo pastry, often enjoyed for breakfast in Plovdiv.

Shopska Salata

Shopska Salata

A refreshing salad made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, raw or roasted peppers, sirene (Bulgarian cheese), and parsley. It's a staple dish in Plovdiv.

Kebapche

Kebapche

A Bulgarian dish of grilled minced meat with traditional spices, often served with sides of salad and chips in Plovdiv.

Tarator

Tarator

A cold soup popular in Plovdiv during the summer, made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, walnut, dill, water, and sunflower or olive oil.

Kavarma

Kavarma

A traditional Bulgarian stew made from pork or chicken meat, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and Bulgarian spices. It's a common dish in Plovdiv.

Sirene po Shopski

Sirene po Shopski

A traditional Bulgarian dish made from sirene (Bulgarian cheese) baked in a pot with eggs and tomatoes. It's a popular comfort food in Plovdiv.

Moussaka

Moussaka

A traditional Bulgarian dish made from potatoes, eggs, and minced pork meat. It's a common main course in Plovdiv.

Rakia

Rakia

A fruit brandy popular in Plovdiv and considered Bulgaria's national drink. It's often served as an aperitif.

Lyutenitsa

Lyutenitsa

A spicy vegetable relish or chutney in Plovdiv. It's made from peppers, aubergines, carrots, garlic, and tomatoes.

Shkembe Chorba

A traditional Bulgarian soup made from tripe, often seasoned with vinegar, garlic, and chili peppers. It's a popular hangover remedy in Plovdiv.

Kiselo Mlyako

A Bulgarian yogurt made from two types of bacteria, Lactobacillus Bulgaricus and Streptococcus Thermophilus. It's a staple dairy product in Plovdiv.

Boza

Boza

A sweet, slightly fermented drink made from millet, maize, wheat, or barley. It's a traditional and popular drink in Plovdiv.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Plovdiv, Bulgaria is from late spring to early fall, specifically May through October. During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's ancient ruins, museums, and beautiful old town. The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals during this period, such as the Night of Museums and Galleries in September and the International Folklore Festival in August. However, if you're a winter sports enthusiast, you might also consider visiting in the winter when you can enjoy skiing in the nearby Rhodope Mountains.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 3

Sun

Liberation Day

March 4

Mon

Day off for Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 3

Fri

Good Friday

May 4

Sat

Holy Saturday

May 5

Sun

Easter Sunday

May 6

Mon

Easter Monday

May 6

Mon

St. George's Day

May 24

Fri

Culture and Literacy Day

September 6

Fri

Unification Day

September 22

Sun

Independence Day

September 23

Mon

Day off for Independence Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Second day of Christmas

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Plovdiv is a compact city, especially the central area and the Old Town. Walking is a great way to explore the city, its beautiful architecture, and its many parks.

Plovdiv has a growing network of bicycle lanes and paths. Bicycles can be rented from various locations throughout the city.

Plovdiv has an extensive public bus network that covers the entire city. Buses are frequent and reliable, and they can take you to all major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis are plentiful in Plovdiv and can be hailed on the street, called by phone, or ordered through a smartphone app. They are a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber and local equivalent TaxiMe, are available in Plovdiv. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Plovdiv's central train station connects the city with other major cities in Bulgaria and the rest of Europe. It's a good option if you're planning to visit other parts of the country or the continent.

Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding region. However, keep in mind that parking can be difficult in the city center.

Plovdiv has a small tram network. It's not as extensive as the bus network, but it can be a convenient way to get around certain parts of the city.

If you're flying into Plovdiv, you can arrange for a private transfer to take you from the airport to your accommodation. This can be a convenient and stress-free way to start your trip.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyлв BGN

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 150; Fire: 160; Police: 166

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Plovdiv, Bulgaria as a first time visitor

1

Bulgarian is the official language in Plovdiv, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and hotels.

2

The currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

3

Plovdiv has a continental climate, with hot summers (average highs of 86°F/30°C) and cold winters (average lows of 23°F/-5°C).

4

Tipping is customary in Bulgaria. In restaurants, it's typical to leave around 10% of the total bill.

5

Public transportation in Plovdiv is reliable and affordable. It includes buses, trolleys, and a small number of trams.

6

Taxis are also readily available, but make sure to use a reputable company to avoid being overcharged.

7

Plovdiv is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

8

Bulgaria is in the Eastern European Time zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

9

Plovdiv has a rich history and culture. It's worth learning a bit about the city's past before your visit to fully appreciate its significance.

10

Bulgarian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local specialties like banitsa (a pastry) and shopska salad.

11

Plovdiv is known for its wine, so consider visiting a local winery or trying some Bulgarian wine at a restaurant.

12

Smoking is very common in Bulgaria and is allowed in many public places, including some restaurants and bars.

13

Bulgaria uses the Type F power socket, the same as most of Europe. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

14

Plovdiv is a pedestrian-friendly city with a compact city center, making it easy to explore on foot.

15

Bulgaria is part of the European Union, but it's not part of the Schengen Area. This means you may need a visa to visit, depending on your nationality.

16

Pharmacies in Bulgaria are well-stocked and can provide assistance for minor health issues. For emergencies, dial 112.

17

Public restrooms are not always easy to find in Plovdiv, so it's a good idea to use the restroom at restaurants or cafes when you have the chance.

18

Plovdiv has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs located in the Kapana district.

19

Bulgarians shake their heads to mean 'yes' and nod for 'no', which can be confusing for foreigners.

20

Bulgaria has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%.

Basic Bulgarian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Здравей

Zdravey

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Довиждане

Dovizhdane

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Моля

Molya

Making a request

Thank you

Благодаря

Blagodarya

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Да

Da

Agreeing or confirming

No

Не

Ne

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Извинете

Izvinete

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Съжалявам

Sazhalyavam

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Говорите ли английски?

Govorite li angliyski?

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

Не разбирам

Ne razbiram

Having difficulty understanding

Where is the bathroom?

Къде е тоалетната?

Kade e toaletnata?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

Колко струва това?

Kolko struva tova?

Shopping or dining

I would like...

Бих искал...

Bih iskal...

Making a request

Help!

Помощ!

Pomosht!

In an emergency

Call the police

Повикайте полицията

Povikayte politsiyata

In an emergency

I need a doctor

Трябва ми лекар

Tryabva mi lekar

In an emergency

Can I use your phone?

Мога ли да използвам телефона ви?

Moga li da izpolzvam telefona vi?

Asking for help

Can you help me?

Можете ли да ми помогнете?

Mozhete li da mi pomognete?

Asking for help

I'm lost

Изгубих се

Izgubih se

Asking for directions

Can you show me on the map?

Можете ли да ми покажете на картата?

Mozhete li da mi pokazhete na kartata?

Asking for directions

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or Jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Hat/Cap for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste

  • Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Body Wash/Soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and Shaving Cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip Balm

  • Hand Sanitizer

  • Travel-size First Aid Kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Flight Tickets

  • Hotel Booking Confirmation

  • Travel Insurance Documents

  • Credit/Debit Cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Emergency Contact Information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for Smartphone

  • Power Bank

  • Headphones/Earbuds

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for Camera

  • Travel Adapter (if needed)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel Pillow

  • Eye Mask

  • Ear Plugs

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Water Bottle

  • Books or Magazines for entertainment

  • Travel Guidebook for Plovdiv

  • Umbrella or Raincoat

  • Reusable Shopping Bag

Weather Conditions

When visiting Plovdiv, Bulgaria, it's important to consider the city's continental climate. Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C), while winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 32°F (0°C) or lower. Therefore, pack your clothing accordingly. If you're planning a summer visit, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen to protect against the strong sun. Despite the heat, remember that Bulgarian culture is quite conservative, so it's advisable to avoid overly revealing clothing, particularly when visiting religious sites. In contrast, if you're visiting in winter, be prepared for the cold. Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Snow is common, so waterproof shoes are also a good idea. Despite the cold, winter can be a beautiful time to visit Plovdiv, as the snow often adds a magical touch to the city's historic sites. Spring and autumn are generally mild, with temperatures ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 68°F (20°C). These seasons can be a great time to visit, as the weather is comfortable and the city is less crowded than in summer. However, rain can be more frequent during these periods, so it's wise to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Regardless of when you visit, keep an eye on the weather forecast. Plovdiv's weather can sometimes be unpredictable, and being prepared will ensure you have the best possible experience.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

7° / -3°

January is the coldest month in Plovdiv, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or prefer less crowded tourist spots.

February

9° / -2°

February is still quite cold, but the temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the end of the Bulgarian winter.

March

15° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. The weather can still be quite unpredictable, so pack a mix of warm and cool clothing.

April

20° / 5°

April is a great time to visit Plovdiv, as the weather is generally mild and the city starts to bloom. It's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

May

25° / 10°

May is a beautiful month to visit Plovdiv, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

June

29° / 14°

June is the start of the summer season in Plovdiv, with high temperatures and long days. It's a perfect time for beach trips and outdoor activities.

July

32° / 16°

July is the hottest month in Plovdiv, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather and want to experience the Bulgarian summer.

August

31° / 16°

August is still quite hot, but temperatures start to drop slightly towards the end of the month. It's a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the summer weather without the extreme heat of July.

September

26° / 12°

September is a great time to visit Plovdiv, as the weather is generally mild and the city starts to show its autumn colors. It's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

October

20° / 7°

October sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop. The weather can still be quite warm, so it's a good time to visit if you prefer milder temperatures.

November

13° / 2°

November is a quiet month in Plovdiv, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

December

7° / -1°

December is the start of the winter season in Plovdiv, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or prefer less crowded tourist spots.

Did you know?

Did you know that Plovdiv is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe, with history dating back over 8,000 years?

1 of 10

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