So I am a little biased about this post simply because I was born here.
Plovdiv is one of the most amazing places in the world. Filled with culture and spirit, the streets of Plovdiv are intertwined with sculptures of wars and churches lined with candles lit up by Bulgarians wishing their family and friends health love and happiness. The importance of past Bulgaria is visible in Plovdiv as the city maintains and supports “Old Plovdiv.” This.is.one.of.the.most.beautiful.places.in.the.world.
If you need further advice on this city, please write to us. We go back often to visit family and are always experiencing new places in this beautiful city.
Here are my favorite places/things in Plovdiv:
1. Plovdiv Roman Theater. This theater is located in “Old Plovdiv” or “Stari Grad” in Bulgarian. It overlooks all of Plovdiv. Plays and concerts still echo in this theater. I recommend grabbing an espresso and sitting in silence for 30 minutes thinking about your life and the path you have taken. Trust me, you will gain some guidance sitting in this ancient theater.
2. Statue of Alyosha. My grandpa used to hike up to this statue a long time ago. Once a place for young couples to get away from the city and families to hold picnics, it is now unfortunately decorated with graffiti. I don’t recommend hiking up to the statue now unless you are with a big group, but you can enjoy the statue from a far as it boasts high above the buildings in Plovdiv. The statue represents the Soviet Army and Bulgaria’s liberation from Nazi Germany. If you do want the best views of the city, standing next to Alyosha will be your best bet.
3.Trimontium Princess Hotel Plovdiv. This is the most beautiful hotel here in Plovdiv. I highly recommend splurging on a room here as it is located right in downtown Plovdiv.
4. Joana Restaurant. Want the most authentic Bulgarian food? This is the place to go. The whole restaurant is decorated in Bulgarian artifacts and the food is AMAZE! This restaurant is located right in the complex I grew up in so we frequented this place often if we wanted to splurge on a night out. Things to try: Shopska salata, kababchita, Kamanitza Beer, lutinitza, kartofi c sirine, sarmichki.
http://www.bgpolis.eu/index.php?lg=en&tab=4&id=1076
5. Maritsa (Марица) River. This river spans Plovdiv. Take some time soaking in the history of this river.
http://www.bulgariainside.eu/en/articles/Maritsa-River/704/index.html
6. Gambling? Yes, Plovdiv has this too. We visited this casino when we went back to Bulgaria in 2010. I recommend going in and playing a hand. There is a great cafe right next to it as well that has wonderful espressos and cocktails.
7. Shopping? The best shopping in town is in the Center (главната) of Plovdiv Knyaz Aleksandar I street. Boutique shops and international brand shops mix between electronic stores and souvenir shops. People watching is done best here as the center serves as a mixing plate of beautiful Bulgarian women, laughing children, and elderly. I recommend walking to the center and experiencing the energy of 100 cafe shops engulfed in laughter and cigarette smoke.
8. Banitza. There are a lot of bakeries and cafe shops that sell this amazing Bulgarian pastry. It will change your life. Trust me.
Here are some great pictures of Plovdiv, Bulgaria:
Safe Travels, G + P
forkglasspassport© 