Plovdiv is in south-central Bulgaria, approximately 90 miles (145 km) southeast of Sofia and 155 miles (250 km) from the Black Sea. It is located in the southern part of the Plain of Plovdiv on the banks of the Maritsa River.

If you are planning a trip to Plovdiv, there are plenty of excellent places to stay. However, for the best experience, we strongly recommend staying in Kapana. It’s the trendy neighborhood between the Old Town and the City Center. The charm and ambiance of the Old Town are nice, but there are far more food and drink options in Kapana – and a pedestrian tunnel connects the two together! The castle marker on the map below is the heart of the Kapana District, with the best restaurants nearby. We suggest staying as close to it as possible, depending on your budget and preferences.

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The best month to visit Plovdiv depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.

The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Plovdiv during the summer is moderate due to the elevation and surrounding hills.

Below is a chart showing each month’s average high and low temperatures so you can decide what is best for you.

The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Plovdiv is April thru May and October thru November. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.

Plovdiv is a popular tourist destination but doesn’t get too overcrowded – even in the summer. Even so, you will find fewer crowds in the shoulder season.

We spent the entire month of July in Plovdiv. The weather was pretty hot most of the time we were there – but, to be fair, there was a historic heat wave across Europe at the time.

April, May, October, and November are good months to visit Plovdiv for the best value and no crowds. You should expect cool weather during these months and pack accordingly.

The Plovdiv International Airport (PDV) is about 16 km (10 miles) from Plovdiv and takes about 20 minutes by taxi, which should cost around €10-15. The train only takes 18-20 minutes and costs about €1 to get to Plovdiv, but, unfortunately, it leaves from Mavrudovo, which is almost 2 miles from the airport.

Eastern European Time (EET; UTC+02:00).

The lev is the currency of Bulgaria.

Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria. However, English is widely spoken in Plovdiv.

Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Bulgaria if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Bulgaria, check out our article on traveling visa-free.

Bulgaria’s electrical outlets are Type C and F. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter. It’s the same adapter used for the rest of Europe.

Bulgaria operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

We recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins if you have many items to plug in. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.

Travelers will want a SIM card for Bulgaria. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.

To get a local SIM card, you must find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.

We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased before arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.

The train system in Bulgaria makes rental cars unnecessary for most destinations. However, rental cars are needed to reach smaller towns and explore the countryside. In addition to the major car rental companies found in the United States, Sixt and Europcar are common throughout Europe. For a comparison of rental car offers from large international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria is absolutely worth visiting! As the second-largest city in Bulgaria and one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Plovdiv has a rich history and vibrant culture, making it a must-see destination. From its ancient Roman ruins to its charming Old Town, lined with colorful houses and cobblestone streets, Plovdiv offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring archaeological sites, visiting art galleries, or indulging in delicious Bulgarian cuisine, Plovdiv has something for everyone.

If you want more information, we explored this question in depth in our article “Is Plovdiv Worth Visiting?”

Plovdiv, Bulgaria is cheaper than more popular tourist destinations like Vienna, Austria, and Budapest, Hungary. However, the cost ultimately depends on the level of luxury required. We prepared a Budget for a Month in Plovdiv that analyzes all the necessary expenses.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria is known for its rich history and architectural heritage. The city is renowned for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD and is still used for performances today. Plovdiv’s Old Town, with its charming National Revival-era houses and narrow lanes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to its cultural significance.

Furthermore, Plovdiv is a melting pot of different cultures and influences. It has been inhabited by Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Bulgarians throughout history, each leaving their mark on the city’s culture and architecture. This diverse heritage is evident in the city’s mix of architectural styles, ranging from Roman ruins to Ottoman-era mosques and charming Bulgarian Revival houses.

Plovdiv is generally considered a safe city for tourists. Like any city, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is recommended to take common safety precautions such as keeping your belongings secure, avoiding dark or isolated areas at night, and being cautious of pickpockets. Overall, Plovdiv has a low crime rate and is a popular destination for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to stay informed about any current safety advisories or warnings issued by local authorities or your embassy before traveling.

Yes, Plovdiv is undeniably pretty. With its picturesque Old Town, lined with colorful National Revival-era houses and cobblestone streets, Plovdiv possesses a unique charm that captivates visitors. The city’s well-preserved Roman amphitheater and ancient ruins add to its beauty and historical significance. Plovdiv’s blend of architectural styles creates a harmonious juxtaposition, making it a delight for those with an appreciation for aesthetics. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow lanes of the Old Town or enjoying panoramic views from the hills, Plovdiv offers plenty of visual appeal to satisfy even the most discerning traveler.

The number of days you should spend in Plovdiv depends on your interests and schedule. However, to fully explore and appreciate all the city has to offer, spending at least two to three days in Plovdiv is recommended. This will allow you to visit the main attractions, such as the Old Town, Roman amphitheater, and various museums. Additionally, you’ll have time to immerse yourself in the local culture, try traditional Bulgarian cuisine, and soak up the charming atmosphere of this ancient city. If you have more time, a day trip to the nearby Bachkovo Monastery or Asen’s Fortress is well worth the time and effort. For a list of the best things to see and a suggested walking tour, check out our article “29 Best Things to See in Plovdiv.”

Plovdiv is located in the historical region of Thrace, in south-central Bulgaria. This region is known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage.

To get to Plovdiv, there are several convenient options available. If you prefer flying, the nearest international airport is Plovdiv International Airport. From there, you can take a train to the city center, but it’s not the most convenient method. If you need door-to-door service, then a taxi from the airport to the front door of your hotel is best. To arrange a taxi or private transfer, we recommend GetTransfer.

If you’re already in Bulgaria, you can also take advantage of the train network. Plovdiv is connected to major cities like Sofia, Burgas, Varna, and Veliko Tarnovo, making it accessible by rail.