Article by: Plovdiv Free Walking Tour (365 Association)
Plovdiv is an ancient city with rich history and heritage. The city is 8000 years old and was conquered by different tribes and nations, which means layers of history and culture.
Today, Plovdiv is the second biggest city in Bulgaria and the cultural center of the country. Speaking about culture, the title European Capital of Culture for 2019 should not surprise you. There isn't one person who visited this beautiful town and disagreed Plovdiv deserved the prestigious title - with its mesmerizing sights, ancient Roman buildings, and impressive Old Town.
To get the most out of your stay in a place so rich in history, visiting the local free tour is the best thing you can do. Thе Free Plovdiv Tour will give you an overall idea of the city, helpful advice from local and personal recommendations. And you will definitely visit the most impressive sights in the city. Let's give you an idea of the most popular and amazing ones among them!
Built at the end of the 1st century, the Roman theater of Plovdiv could gather 6000 people. Rediscovered in the 70s, today, it's one of the symbols of Plovdiv and the host of different festivals and concerts. It's considered to be one of the greatest achievements in the conservation field in Bulgaria. Can you imagine enjoying an opera under the stars on a warm summer night sitting in a Roman theater? This is possible in Plovdiv.
The garden was created in 1892 for the First International Fair in Bulgaria by the Swiss Gardner Lucien Shevalas. Beautiful alleys will take you on a walk around old trees, colorful flowerbeds, and graceful water fountains. Speaking of water fountains, don't miss the Singing Fountains because they are a pleasant way to spend a night out. Colors, lights, and water dance together in rhythm with music in the nights every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in the Tsar Simeon Garden.
Plovdiv is famous for its hills. They are a symbol for the town and can be seen as a part of the flag of the city.
Nebet tepe (tepe meaning hill from Turkish) is the birthplace of Plovdiv and a favorite place in the Old Town. From the top of the hill, everyone can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over the city while staying near the remains of the ancient fortress and the town's defensive walls. Also, this is one lovely spot for observing the sunset.
Another one of the seven hills of Plovdiv, Bunardzhik tepe, is a magnificent park with many small hidden paths to follow to the top. And when you reach the top, you will have a mesmerizing view all around. Also, all the way to the top, you can explore and find different monuments and water fountains. Of course, the most famous one is the soviet monument Alyosha. Standing on top, one can see the 11m tall soldier from everywhere around Plovdiv. As Nebet tepe, Bunardzhik is a perfect place to watch the sunrise, sunset, or the stars on a warm night.
Probably the most popular building in the Old Town of Plovdiv, the Ethnographic Museum is stunning. No wonder it's considered one of the most impressive sights in Plovdiv. The once private home of Argir Kuyumdzhioglu is a beautiful gem from the Revival period. Today it hosts a fascinating exhibition for all who want to learn more about Bulgarian culture and manners from the past. Take some time to sit in the gorgeous yard in front of the house and imagine living in such a house!
Plovdiv is the perfect mix of history, culture, nature, and modern sights. You've now learned the five most impressive sights in town. To explore more and find many of the treasures, don't hesitate to ask your guide from the Free Plovdiv Tour where to go next? Kapana district? Street Art? The Roman Stadium? Sahat tepe? Impressive sights in Plovdiv await you on every corner. You just have to take the time to find them all.
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