Travel advices for Plovdiv

Travel advices for Plovdiv:Plovdiv is a beautiful and historic city in Bulgaria that is definitely worth a visit! Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Visit the Old Town

Plovdiv’s Old Town is one of the city’s biggest attractions, and for good reason. With its narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and ancient Roman ruins, it’s a delight to explore. Be sure to visit the Ancient Theater, the Roman Stadium, and the Ethnographic Museum.

Take a stroll along the Maritsa River

The Maritsa River runs through the heart of Plovdiv, and a walk along its banks is a great way to take in the city’s natural beauty. You can also rent a bike or a boat to explore the area.

Try some traditional Bulgarian cuisine

Plovdiv is known for its delicious Bulgarian food, so be sure to try some local specialties such as kavarma, kebapche, and banitsa. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the Old Town and throughout the city where you can sample these dishes.

Attend a cultural event: Plovdiv is a hub for cultural events, with a variety of festivals, concerts, and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. Check the city’s events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

Take a day trip to nearby attractions

Plovdiv is surrounded by several other interesting destinations that are worth a day trip, such as Bachkovo Monastery, Asen’s Fortress, and the Rhodope Mountains.

Wear comfortable shoes

Plovdiv’s Old Town is full of narrow, winding streets and steep hills, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Be respectful of local customs

Bulgarian culture has its own unique customs and traditions, so it’s important to be respectful of these during your visit. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and to avoid pointing with your feet.

Plovdiv is a wonderful destination with plenty to see and do. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have an enjoyable and memorable trip!

How many days do you need in Plovdiv?

The amount of time you need to fully experience Plovdiv depends on your interests and what you want to see and do in the city. However, most visitors find that spending 2-3 days in Plovdiv is sufficient to explore the city’s main attractions and get a feel for its culture and history.

With two days in Plovdiv, you can visit the Old Town, explore the Roman ruins, stroll along the Maritsa River, and try some traditional Bulgarian cuisine. You’ll also have time to attend a cultural event or take a day trip to a nearby attraction, such as Bachkovo Monastery or Asen’s Fortress.

If you have an extra day to spare, you can spend more time exploring the city’s museums, galleries, and parks, or take a guided tour to learn more about Plovdiv’s history and culture. You could also use the extra day to visit some of the lesser-known sights and neighborhoods, or simply relax and soak up the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

Ultimately, the amount of time you spend in Plovdiv depends on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you have two days or a week, there’s plenty to see and do in this charming Bulgarian city.

Is it worth visiting Plovdiv?

Yes, Plovdiv is definitely worth visiting! It’s one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Plovdiv:

Historic Old Town

Plovdiv’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. The narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and ancient Roman ruins make it a delight to explore.

Roman ruins

Plovdiv was once an important city in the Roman Empire, and there are several well-preserved ruins that you can visit, including the Ancient Theater and the Roman Stadium.

Cultural events

Plovdiv is known for its cultural events, including festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. There’s always something happening in the city, and it’s a great place to experience Bulgarian culture.

Delicious Bulgarian food

Plovdiv is known for its traditional Bulgarian cuisine, which includes dishes like kavarma, kebapche, and banitsa. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can sample these delicious dishes.

Surrounding attractions

Plovdiv is surrounded by several other interesting destinations that are worth a day trip, such as Bachkovo Monastery, Asen’s Fortress, and the Rhodope Mountains.

Friendly locals

Bulgarians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and you’re sure to feel welcome in Plovdiv.

Plovdiv is a charming and historic city that’s definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy some delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Plovdiv.

Plovdiv nightlife

Plovdiv has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best places to check out for a night out in Plovdiv:

Kapana District: This trendy neighborhood in the heart of the city is filled with bars and cafes that stay open late into the night. It’s a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Viking Bar

This Viking-themed bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It has a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, and often hosts live music performances.

Bee Bop Cafe

This cozy cafe has a relaxed atmosphere and serves up some of the best cocktails in town. It’s a great place to chill out and enjoy some live jazz or blues music.

Club Fargo

This club is one of the most popular in Plovdiv, and is known for its great music and lively atmosphere. It’s located in the center of the city and stays open until the early hours of the morning.

Groove Music&Art Club

This club is located in the trendy Kapana District, and is a popular spot for electronic music lovers. It often hosts DJs and live music performances, and has a cool, underground vibe.

Vinyl Cafe

This retro-themed bar is a great place to hang out and listen to some vinyl records. It has a laid-back atmosphere and serves up some tasty cocktails.

Plovdiv has a diverse and lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a trendy bar, a lively club, or a cozy cafe, you’re sure to find something to suit your preferences in this charming Bulgarian city.

Is plovdiv safe?

Yes, Plovdiv is generally a safe city for tourists to visit. However, as with any destination, it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions to ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe in Plovdiv:

Be aware of your surroundings: As in any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid dark and quiet streets at night.

Use official taxis

If you need to take a taxi, make sure to use an official one with a meter. Avoid unlicensed taxis, as they may charge you more or take a longer route.

Stay in well-lit areas: Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in quiet areas, and stay in groups if possible.

Watch out for scams

Be aware of common tourist scams, such as people pretending to be police officers or offering to help with your luggage in exchange for money.

Be respectful of local customs

Bulgarians are generally very friendly and welcoming to tourists, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites, and avoid making loud noises or causing disturbances in residential areas.

Plovdiv is a safe and welcoming city for tourists to visit. By taking basic safety precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy your trip to this beautiful Bulgarian city with peace of mind.

Istanbul to Plovdiv

If you are looking to travel from Istanbul to Plovdiv, there are a few transportation options available:

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate daily services between Istanbul and Plovdiv. The journey takes approximately 8-9 hours, depending on traffic and border crossings.

Train

There is no direct train service between Istanbul and Plovdiv, but you can take a train from Istanbul to Sofia and then transfer to a train or bus to Plovdiv. This journey takes approximately 16-17 hours.

Car

You can also drive from Istanbul to Plovdiv, which takes approximately 6-7 hours depending on traffic and border crossings. You will need to cross the border between Turkey and Bulgaria, so make sure to have all necessary documents and permits.

Flight

There are no direct flights between Istanbul and Plovdiv, but you can fly from Istanbul to Sofia and then take a bus or train to Plovdiv. The total journey time is approximately 4-5 hours, including transfers.

Тhe most popular and convenient option for traveling from Istanbul to Plovdiv is by bus. It’s affordable, comfortable, and offers several daily departures.

Where to exchange money in Plovdiv?

If you need to exchange money while in Plovdiv, there are several options available:

Banks (Best option)

Most banks in Plovdiv offer currency exchange services, and this is generally the most secure and reliable option. Some of the major banks in Plovdiv include UniCredit Bulbank, DSK Bank, and First Investment Bank.

Exchange bureaus (Pay extra attention to the both exchange rates)

There are many exchange bureaus located throughout Plovdiv, particularly in the city center and tourist areas. These bureaus often offer competitive rates, but be sure to compare rates and fees before exchanging money.

Hotels

Many hotels in Plovdiv offer currency exchange services, but the rates may be less favorable than those offered by banks or exchange bureaus.

ATMs

ATMs are widely available in Plovdiv, and you can withdraw Bulgarian leva or exchange foreign currency using your bank card. Keep in mind that some ATMs may charge additional fees for foreign transactions.

When exchanging money in Plovdiv, be sure to check the exchange rate and any fees or commissions charged before making a transaction. It’s also a good idea to exchange money in a well-lit, busy area to avoid any potential scams or theft.

Emergency numbers to call in Plovdiv

If you are in an emergency situation in Plovdiv, you can call the following numbers for assistance:

112: This is the general emergency number in Bulgaria, and can be used to contact the police, ambulance, or fire department.

166: This number is specifically for medical emergencies, and can be used to request an ambulance or medical assistance.

150: This number is for the fire department, and can be used to report fires or other emergencies requiring their assistance.

1666: This number is for roadside assistance, and can be used if your vehicle breaks down or you require assistance while driving.

146: This number is for the police, and can be used to report non-emergency incidents or request assistance.

It’s important to note that English may not be widely spoken by emergency responders in Plovdiv, so it’s a good idea to have a translation app or phrasebook on hand in case you need to communicate in Bulgarian.w