If you are a budget conscious traveller like myself, you may be searching for free things to see and do in each place you plan to visit. Now that I have been here for just about a month, let me tell you about 6 free things to do in Plovdiv that I would not want to miss.
Old Town
This is an uncommon and protected area of the city. Most of the buildings here are houses that were built during the 18th and 19th centuries. They are very unique in that they represent the Bulgarian Revival period.
Most have been refurbished since the 1970’s and 80’s and walking through the cobblestone streets is a magical way to spend a morning or afternoon. Many of the houses are now museums and for only 5 LEV you can see inside the home. However, if you just want to revel in the beauty, simply walk the streets and marvel at all you see.
If a doorway is open, have a peek inside. A lot of times, I was free to roam the courtyards of these houses, and only had to pay if I actually entered the house. So don’t be shy, walk inside if you see an open door.
Kapana District
This is the area of the city that is full of super fun vibes and has an artistic flair. Come here during the daytime to see the coolest street art down almost any street you wander.
Stop in one of many cafés and bars to have a bevvy and snack.
There is even a ‘Central Perk‘, if you want to get your ‘Friends’ on.
At night, this district is cool, full of bars spilling onto the streets, drinks flowing and music grooving. A perfect place to spend an evening.
Pedestrian Walk
Plovdiv boasts the largest pedestrian only shopping walkway in Europe. At almost 2 kilometres long, you can wander at your hearts content down this wide-open paved strip. Lined with shops, restaurants and interesting venues all the way from one end to the other.
Roman Stadium of Philippopolis
Near the centre of the pedestrian street, you will see one of the few Ottoman buildings left in the city, the Dzhumaya Mosque. Also right here is the ancient Roman Stadium of Philippopolis. And its completely free to wander about, climb on, watch a show if there is one going on. Totally free!!
Tsar Simeon’s Garden
Needing an escape from the city or the crowds? Or simply want a dose of natural beauty, head to the upper end of the pedestrian strip and you will see the entrance to a large green space. Tsar Simeon’s Garden was developed in 1892 as part of the cities very first exhibition.
The park boasts numerous flower displays, fountains, seating areas, playgrounds, statues, public art and a couple of cafés and restaurants. It is a real treasure of the city and one of my favourite places to walk through.
Bunardzhik Hill
For a truly unique experience, head over to Bunardzhik Hill and climb up to the Soviet Soldier at the top. This hill was transformed by the communist regime as is evident by many landscape features and of course the massive statue of Alyosha at the top.
The bottom of the hill is park like, with a restaurant, playgrounds and walking paths.
There are in fact so many things to see and do in Plovdiv. I hope this post gives you a small taste of the variety of activities you can fill your days with here.
