7 day itinerary for Plovdiv

Itinerary

Plovdiv is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Here's an ideal itinerary for 7 days in Plovdiv:

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

Upon arrival, take some time to settle in and get acquainted with your surroundings. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the city to get a feel for the layout and see some of the main sights. Start at the Roman Theatre, one of the most impressive ancient structures in Plovdiv. From there, head to the Ancient Stadium, which dates back to the 2nd century AD. Finish the day with a stroll through the charming Old Town, where you can admire the colorful houses and cobblestone streets.

Day 2: Bachkovo Monastery and Asen's Fortress

Today, take a day trip to the nearby Bachkovo Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Bulgaria. The monastery is located in a picturesque valley and is known for its beautiful frescoes and stunning architecture. After visiting the monastery, head to Asen's Fortress, a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the fortress itself is a fascinating piece of history.

Day 3: Kapana Creative District and Ethnographic Museum

Today, explore the Kapana Creative District, a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, cafes, and shops. Take some time to wander the streets and soak up the creative energy of the area. In the afternoon, visit the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the traditional way of life in Plovdiv and the surrounding region. The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century house and features exhibits on folk art, costumes, and crafts.

Day 4: Plovdiv Hills and Wine Tasting

Today, take a break from the city and head to the Plovdiv Hills, a beautiful area just outside the city. Here, you can go hiking, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the stunning views. In the afternoon, visit a local winery for a wine tasting. Bulgaria is known for its excellent wines, and Plovdiv is no exception. Sample some of the local varietals and learn about the winemaking process.

Day 5: Roman Forum and Dzhumaya Mosque

Today, visit the Roman Forum, a large public square that was the center of civic life in ancient Plovdiv. The forum is surrounded by impressive ruins, including the remains of a basilica and a public latrine. From there, head to the Dzhumaya Mosque, one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Bulgaria. The mosque dates back to the 15th century and features stunning Ottoman architecture.

Day 6: Rhodope Mountains and Devil's Throat Cave

Today, take another day trip, this time to the Rhodope Mountains. The mountains are known for their stunning natural beauty and are a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities. While there, visit Devil's Throat Cave, a fascinating natural wonder that features an underground waterfall and a large chamber filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Day 7: Shopping and Departure

On your final day in Plovdiv, take some time to do some shopping. Plovdiv is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, textiles, and woodcarving. Visit the Kapana Creative District or the Old Town for some unique souvenirs. In the afternoon, depart for your next destination, taking with you memories of a wonderful week in Plovdiv.