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Exploring Bulgaria you’d come upon one great attraction after another. With so much to do and see in Plovdiv, Backpacking is such a rich and delightful experience.
A Plovdiv blog is all you need to decide amongst the top things to do in Plovdiv.
Going on a 5 days trip is sufficient to see some of the most interesting places in Plovdiv. But if you can spare couple of days more that’s even better, you can take the sights more slowly. Here are the best things to see in Plovdiv along with a list of the most interesting things to do in Plovdiv:
1. Ancient Theater of Philippopolis
Quick Facts:
- It is constructed mainly using bricks, marble.
- Easy to get to Ancient Theater of Philippopolis is located in the city center of Plovdiv.
- The ancient theater was built somewhere around the 90s.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
2. Plovdiv Roman Stadium
Quick Facts:
- The roman stadium stretches for a length of around m m.
Without a doubt this wonderful roman stadium is one amongst the top things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
3. Old Town
Located in the heart of the city is the charming old town of Plovdiv.
The best of your time would be spent wandering these cobblestone streets that weave under archways and stumbling into rustic old structures. Additionally, if you have got a sweet tooth gelato parlors have myriad of flavors to offer.
Quick Facts:
- Spreading over an expanse of 35 ha, it’s difficult to see it all in one go.
- The old town is located on three of Plovdiv’s Hills – Nebet Tepe, Dzhambaz Tepe.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
4. Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is an ethnography museum showcasing the people and culture of Plovdiv region.
The museum depicts Bulgaria’s rich heritage with details spanning centuries. Everything that defines a civilisation, an era can be found here – traditional clothing, decorative items such as jewelry, household items such like furniture, and crafts such as pottery.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv features include six exhibitions.
- The ethnography museum was built somewhere around 19th-century.
An incredible sight, Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv scores high in the list of the best things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
5. Nebet Tepe
An prominent archaeological site with a number of historical digs.
Awaken the Indiana Jones in you as you discover hidden corners and uncover secrets! The foundations and walls of many of these constructions may still be seen today.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
6. Alyosha Monument
Erected as a monument, Alyosha Monument is a beautifully sculpted statue in Plovdiv.
A natural crowd puller, Alyosha Monument is right up there in the list of best things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
7. Dzhumaya Mosque
A beautiful mosque with a long history located in the central area of Plovdiv.
The interiors of the mosque are quite impressive as well. The historical mosque has been a well kept structure.
Quick Facts:
- A the Sveta Petka Tarnovska Cathedral Church after the conquest of Plovdiv used to be here before the historical mosque was built.
- Easy to get to Dzhumaya Mosque is located in central Plovdiv.
- The historical mosque was built somewhere around 15th century.
- Evident throughout its structure is the Ottoman architecture style.
Address: ul. ‘Zhelezarska’, 4000 Staria grad, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
8. Plovdiv Regional Historical Museum
Plovdiv Regional Historical Museum is a museum housing historical artefacts.
The collection includes artefacts related with the history of the region.
Quick Facts:
- The history museum was built somewhere around 15th century.
With so much to offer, no wonder Plovdiv Regional Historical Museum is one of the top things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria Independence Day might affect these hours
9. Garden of Tsar Simeon
Garden of Tsar Simeon is a beautifully landscaped park spread over a large area in Plovdiv.
It will not be wrong to say that Garden of Tsar Simeon is truly an icon of landscape architecture.
The park has a small lake where you can spot ducks swimming enjoying their day. A riot of colour erupts in the spring and early summer.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
10. Singing Fountains
Particularly known as a musical fountain complete with flashy lights.
The fountain combines and synchs moody music and colorful lights.
A natural crowd puller, Singing Fountains is right up there in the list of best things to do in Plovdiv.
12. Aquapark ‘Aqualand’
Spread over a large, Aquapark ‘Aqualand’ is a fun destination for the whole family.
The water park has several fun rides, water slides, tubing wave pool and a wave machine.
Life guards as well as staff keep watch on the guests at all times. There is also a children’s pool to keep them engaged.
Quick Facts:
- Also worth seeing here include a children’s pool, changing rooms.
Without a doubt this wonderful waterpark is one amongst the top things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
13. House-Museum Hindliyan
House-Museum Hindliyan is a house museum with a focus on showcasing personal items.
This magnificent mansion and garden may be enjoyed by everyone even who know little about the person. The home has been preserved as a museum to provide a glimpse into his life.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
14. Gate ‘Hisar Kapia’
Quick Facts:
- The old gate was built somewhere around 11th.
With so much to offer, no wonder Gate ‘Hisar Kapia’ is one of the top things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
15. Dzhendem tepe
Overlooking the city of Plovdiv is the iconic Dzhendem tepe.
You will get to see some really awesome views as you gently make your way up. Carry a packed lunch as there are plenty of spots to do little picnic here.
Quick Facts:
- The city hill is located at an elevation of 307 m.
- Easy to get to Dzhendem tepe is located in the western part of town.
- The city hill houses the city’s main temple.
- The city hill is located Hilltop.
16. Church of St Constantine and Helena
Church of St Constantine and Helena, the centuries old landmark, is considered to be one of Plovdiv’s most gorgeous churches.
There is so much beauty in this church, from the front facade to the interior that it’s hard to choose a favorite. The cemetry is where the famous and powerful people of the Plovdiv are buried.
Quick Facts:
- The church was built somewhere around 223.
- The church was opened on 1832.
An incredible sight, Church of St Constantine and Helena scores high in the list of the best things to do in Plovdiv.
Address: pl. ‘Hisar kapiya’, 4000 Staria grad, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
17. Church of the Holy Mother of God
Church of the Holy Mother of God is a landmark monastery built centuries ago.
The magnificent library houses countless books, mostly old religious works, and is in very good condition. Checkout the dark underground wine cellar, which adds an interesting character to the place.
Quick Facts:
- The christian monastery was opened on 1852.
Address: ul. ‘Saborna’ 2, 4000 Staria grad, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
18. Regional Archaeological Museum
The Regional Archaeological Museum carefully collects and presents various archaeological finds of the area.
As you would expect, a visit to the city’s archaeological museum is a fascinating journey through many cultures and civilizations.
The galleries are packed with stellar exhibitions that have fascinated academics for decades. A treasure trove of relics including clay figures, pottery, leather shoes and coins discovered at the digs are displayed carefully.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Regional Archaeological Museum features include 100,000+ cultural artifacts.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
19. Plovdiv Rowing Venue
If you are interested in seeing a working port in action you are at the right place.
Quick Facts:
- The port was opened on 1988.
Add it to your Plovdiv trip if you have time.
20. Cultural Center Trakart
Cultural Center Trakart is a complex playing host to cultural and artistic events.
The center holds a variety of aorkshops, artistic presentations and musical performances. Check out online to see the events happening here.
Address: bul. ‘Tsar Boris III Obedinitel’ 89, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
21. Museum of Natural Sciences
Museum of Natural Sciences is a great place to learn more about the biodiversity of the region.
. Kids will love the terrarium, they can even learn how to make one themselves.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Museum of Natural Sciences features include aquarium plus geology, zoology.
- Also worth seeing here include geology, zoology.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
22. Sahat hill in Plovdiv
A historical clock tower standing majestically in Plovdiv city center.
23. Aviation Museum
Aviation Museum is dedicated to the history of aviation in the Plovdiv region.
The museum visually explores the military as well as civil aviation history.
Even if you are not an expert the amazing vintage aircraft collection is bound to make an impression on you. It is a museum every aviation enthusiast will be ecstatic to visit.
Add it to your Plovdiv trip if you have time.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
24. Lauta park
Lauta park is a large landscaped park, an oasis of greenery, located in Plovdiv.
It is a good way to reconnect with nature – relax under the shady trees, watch the kids play.
One of my favorite thing to do here is simply grabbing a book, and lying down on the lap of green. Spring is the season when hundreds of flowers are on full blossom.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
25. Great Basilica
A beautiful addition to city’s architecture, Great Basilica is a house of christian worship located in Plovdiv.
A donation at the entrance is optional but encouraged, since it will go towards the preservation of this piece of history. The cemetry has got quite a few notable person buried.
Quick Facts:
- The church was built somewhere around 4th.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: boulevard ‘Knyaginya Maria Luiza’ 3, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
26. Rimski Stadion’ Square
Rimski Stadion’ Square is a busy public square located in the city of Plovdiv.
27. Odeon of Philippopolis
Spread over a large area Odeon of Philippopolis are the ruins of the ancient Rome.
In the attached museum you can see a display of coins & ceramics that the ancient civilization used. Although much is destroyed, but amongst the ruins you can still see many of the majestic columns still standing.
Quick Facts:
- The roman ruins was built somewhere around 2nd century.
- Evident throughout its structure is the Ancient Roman architecture style.
Add it to your Plovdiv trip if you have time.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
28. Sveta Marina church
A beautiful addition to city’s architecture, Sveta Marina church is a pretty old church located in Plovdiv.
A special feature of the basilica is its high altar and ceiling, embellished with gold trimmings all around. The adjoining cemetry has got quite a few famous people buried.
Quick Facts:
- The church was opened on 1851.
Address: ul. ‘Doctor Georgi Valkovich’ 7, 4000 Staria grad, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
29. House-Museum Klianty
House-Museum Klianty is a museum built honoring one of the city’s most illustrious citizens/residents.
And even if are clueless about the person, you can still appreciate the magnificent house and its garden. This house museum is an excellent place to learn more about the person and his works.
Add it to your Plovdiv trip if you have time.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
30. Lamartine’s House
Lamartine’s House is a house turned museum established in the honor of Bulgaria’s one of the top cultural icons.
The mansion has been preserved as a museum to provide a glimpse into the life of this noteworthy personnel.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria Independence Day might affect these hours
31. City gallery of fine arts
A prominent art gallery with a collection of a variety of contemporary art.
Add it to your Plovdiv trip if you have time.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
32. Otdih i cultura’
Otdih i cultura’ is a beautifully landscaped park spread over a large area in Plovdiv.
This fabulous park was developed with the sole aim to promote the good health of the citizen.
It’s easy to spend an entire day here, wandering through these flourishing gardens. Amble along on the crunchy gravel path and enjoy the foliage that spreads through the park.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
33. Roman Forum
At this beautiful site are the ever lasting remains of a Roman forum.
The place was once a bustling ancient town – a confluence of public, commercial, religious and administrative activity.
Truly a magnificent place for the history lovers. The colorful mosaics and the remains of the giant coloums are some of the highlight of the site.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Roman Forum features include theater now used for festivals.
- The roman forum was built somewhere around 1st century.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
35. Plovdiv Zoo
A nice city zoo sheltering a myriad of animals.
Start with the educational center, it has a wealth of information on some of the top residential animals of the zoo. You’ll meet a wide array of primates including gorillas, orangutans and chimpanzees.
Quick Facts:
- Easy to get to Plovdiv Zoo is located in Bulgaria’s second largest city.
- The zoo’s collection include and keeping.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
36. Sveta Petka Church
Don’t forget to pay a visit to Sveta Petka Church, which is regarded to be one of Plovdiv’s most beautiful churches.
As this is a sacred location, anyone who want to enter are advised to cover their knees and shoulders. It is well worth to pay a small donation, as it goes towards supporting the ongoing upkeep of this piece of history.
Address: boulevard ‘Knyaginya Maria Luiza’ 10, 4000 Kamenitsa 1, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
37. Municipal Institute ‘Ancient Plovdiv’
Municipal Institute ‘Ancient Plovdiv’ is a specialized research institute located in the city of Plovdiv.
Municipal Institute ‘Ancient Plovdiv’ serves as an important site for researchers in the field.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria Independence Day might affect these hours
38. Sv.Nedelya church
Sv.Nedelya church, one of city’s medieval church, is one of the city’s many architectural gems.
In the church grounds there is a cemetry as well. The inside of the church is adorned with a variety of gorgeous artwork.
Quick Facts:
- The church was opened on 1832.
39. Eastern gate of Philippopolis
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
40. House-museum of Atanas Krastev (Nacho Kulturata)
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House-museum of Atanas Krastev (Nacho Kulturata) is a museum dedicated to one of the most prominent personalities of the city.
House-museum of Atanas Krastev (Nacho Kulturata) is where once he lived, and which is now a museum about his life and works.
Address: Ул.’Цар Ивайло 4, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
41. Cathedral of St Louis
Cathedral of St Louis is a majestic Cathedral standing tall in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
As you walk down you will observe gilded furniture and ornately carved benches dating hundreds of years. The Church’s front façade is comprised of majestic stone columns and beautiful sculptured sculptures of holy figures.
Quick Facts:
- Brought to life by the architect Kamen Petkov, cathedral is a classic example of fine Neoclassical architecture.
- The cathedral was opened on 1858.
- The cathedral belongs to the Roman Catholic faith, but is visited by others too.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Plovdiv trip.
Address: boulevard ‘Knyaginya Maria Luiza’ 3, 4000 Tsentar, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
But beyond the famous attractions in Plovdiv, there is something that pulls you back again and again, perhaps it’s the city’s charm. In this Plovdiv travel blog post, I have listed not just what to see in Plovdiv but also what to do.
And if you plan it well, these popular tourist attractions in Plovdiv can be easily covered in a short itinerary. If you have any questions or suggestions on sightseeing in Plovdiv, I would love to hear them in the comments section below.