Key Facts about Plovdiv, Bulgaria

📍 Location

Situated in southern Bulgaria along the banks of the Maritsa River, Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe.

🏞️ Known For

• Its Old Town with cobbled streets and colorful 19th-century houses.

• The Ancient Roman Theater, still in use today.

• Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences.

• A lively arts and cultural scene, especially in the Kapana district.

⏳ Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.

• Summer (July–August): Warm with plenty of outdoor events.

• Autumn (September–October): Ideal for sightseeing and festivals.

• Winter (December–February): Quiet charm with fewer crowds.

💬 Local Language: Bulgarian (Cyrillic alphabet). English is widely understood in tourist areas.

💰 Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

🚆 Getting There

• By Air: Plovdiv Airport (12 km) or Sofia International Airport (145 km).

• By Train/Bus: Good connections from Sofia and other Bulgarian cities.

• By Car: A 1.5–2 hour drive from Sofia via the Trakia Highway.

🌟 Top Attractions

1. Ancient Roman Theater: A remarkably preserved amphitheater with stunning views.

2. Plovdiv Old Town: Museums, churches, and traditional Bulgarian houses.

3. Kapana District: Trendy cafés, art galleries, and street art.

4. Roman Stadium: Hidden beneath the city’s main shopping street.

5. Nebet Tepe Hill: Archaeological ruins with panoramic views of the city.

🍽️ Local Specialties

• Shopska Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and white cheese.

• Kavarma: Slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew.

• Banitsa: Baked pastry with cheese or spinach.

• Lyutenitsa: A spicy pepper and tomato spread.

• Bulgarian Wines: Especially reds from the Thracian Valley.

🎉 Notable Events

• Plovdiv Night of Museums and Galleries (September): Art, music, and performances across the city.

• International Fair Plovdiv (various dates): Trade and cultural exhibitions.

• Kapana Fest (June/September): Music, street food, and art in the creative district.

• Christmas and New Year Festivities: Markets and light displays.