Ancient roots
The Three Hills preserve traces of the earliest settlements and the ancient city known as Philippopolis during the Roman period.
Discover the city
Plovdiv — history, culture, and a lively urban spirit
Plovdiv brings together a heritage spanning millennia with creative neighbourhoods, green spaces, and a relaxed urban atmosphere. Traces of Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Bulgarian Revival history remain part of the modern city and can be explored on foot.
A city of many historical layers
Roman Philippopolis
The Ancient Theatre, Roman Stadium, Forum, and Odeon reveal the city's importance as a major centre in the province of Thrace.
The Old Town
Cobbled streets, churches, and richly decorated Bulgarian Revival houses form one of the country's most recognisable architectural ensembles.
Contemporary culture
Galleries, festivals, independent studios, and the Kapana district continue Plovdiv's cultural tradition in a contemporary form.
What to see in Plovdiv
Most central attractions are close to one another and can be combined into a walking route.
Ancient Plovdiv
Walk along cobbled streets between Revival houses, museums, galleries, Hisar Kapia, and Nebet Tepe.
Ancient Theatre
One of Plovdiv's defining landmarks and a striking example of Roman architecture that continues to host cultural events.
Roman Stadium
Part of the ancient structure is visible at Dzhumaya Square, beside the main pedestrian street.
Dzhumaya Mosque
A historic mosque in the heart of Plovdiv, beside the Roman Stadium and the main pedestrian street.
Rowing Canal
A peaceful green area for walking, running, and cycling beside the water that also hosts sporting events.
Kapana
A creative district of narrow streets, studios, galleries, cafés, and restaurants beside the Old Town.
Main Street and Tsar Simeon Garden
The pedestrian centre connects the Roman Stadium, public squares, shops, and one of the city's best-loved gardens.
Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis
An ancient basilica with remarkable early Christian mosaics, displayed in a modern visitor centre close to the city centre.
Eastern Gate of Philippopolis
The monumental eastern entrance to the ancient city reveals a broad Roman street, stone paving, and remains of colonnades.
Forum of Philippopolis — West Agora
The western part of the Roman city's central square reveals remains of colonnades, public buildings, and commercial spaces.
Forum of Philippopolis — North Agora
The northern part of the ancient forum preserves archaeological remains in the heart of modern Plovdiv.
Late Antique Eirene Building
An ancient residence with richly decorated fourth- and fifth-century mosaics, preserved in situ in the Archaeological Underpass.
Places to visit around Plovdiv
Plovdiv is a convenient base for cultural, nature, and spa trips across the region. Journey times should be checked for your chosen transport.
Bachkovo Monastery
A historic Orthodox monastery at the foot of the Rhodope Mountains, easily combined with a nature excursion.
Rhodope Mountains
Mountain landscapes, villages, and walking routes lie within convenient reach to the south of Plovdiv.
Hisarya
A town known for its mineral springs and well-preserved sections of late Roman defensive walls.
Asen’s Fortress
A medieval fortress on a rocky ridge above Asenovgrad, known for its preserved church and panoramic views towards the Rhodope Mountains.