Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s ancient yet lively second-largest city, is a must-visit for anyone eager to explore Balkan charm and Roman history. Known affectionately as the “City of the Seven Hills,” Plovdiv is located along the Maritsa River in the middle of the country. Famous for its Roman amphitheater and old town, this city mixed a millennia-old historical background with modern energy. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Plovdiv, you’ve come to the right place.
Historically, Plovdiv has been a crossroads of civilizations since its founding by the Thracians over 6,000 years ago. The Romans left an indelible mark here with architectural gems like the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis and the Roman Stadium. A bustling tourist industry ensures a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to charming guest houses.
Beyond its ancient landmarks, Plovdiv has attractions like the Ethnographic Museum, which displays exhibits on local crafts and traditions. The Kapana Creative District is a trendy hotspot with galleries and cafes. Don’t miss out on the Alyosha Monument, which honors Soviet soldiers from World War II. Lastly, Sahat Tepe offers panoramic views from an old clock tower.
The atmosphere in Plovdiv is relaxed and welcoming. It has a thriving arts scene and hosts events like the International Fair Plovdiv and Night of Museums and Galleries. With its mix of lively streets and tranquil parks, there’s no shortage of activities day or night.
Keep reading this guide to uncover more about this fascinating city and find the best area to stay in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, based on my visit to the city.
Accommodation Options in Plovdiv, Bulgaria
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Plovdiv?
The best area to stay in Plovdiv is the Old Town (Стар град/Star Grad). Walking through Plovdiv’s Old Town is like stepping back in time with its charming cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and historical landmarks. This area is perfect for those who love history and culture, as you’ll find museums, galleries, and ancient Roman ruins.
Find available accommodation in Old Town Plovdiv.
Best Hotels in Plovdiv’s Old Town
- Best five-star hotel: Gallery 37 Powered by ASTON
- Best four-star hotel: Boutique Hotel Boris Palace & Restaurant
- Best three-star hotel: Villa Flavia Heritage Boutique Hotel
- Best budget hotel: Roots Hotel and Wine Bar
- Best B&B: HillHouse Plovdiv
The Best Areas to Stay in Plovdiv, Bulgaria
1. Star Grad (Old Town): Best Location for Sightseeing in Plovdiv
Home to ancient streets, Roman-era theaters, and traditional Bulgarian houses, the OId Town is the best area for tourists in Plovdiv.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Plovdiv:
- Rich history
- Unique architecture
- Roman amphitheater
- Charming cobblestone streets
- Numerous art galleries
- Ethnographic museum
- Ancient ruins nearby
- Wide variety of restaurants
- Relaxing atmosphere
- Close to public transportation
- Vibrant nightlife scene
Not far from the Roman Theater, there’s a sign that reads “PLOVEDIV.” While it might at first seem like a confusing play on words (Love + Plovdiv), soon you’ll agree with it.
Star Grad, or the Old Town, is the heart of the Bulgarian city. It displays the layers of its incredibly long history.
The area is known for its Roman roots and is surrounded by the seven hills which Plovdiv is famously built upon. While several other cities, including Lisbon, Istanbul, and Rome itself, were purportedly built on seven hills, there’s something very unique about this Plovdiv district.
Among the most notable Roman-era attractions are the Ancient Stadium and Ancient Theater. Considered some of the best-preserved Roman structures outside of Italy, these sites give an insight into life during the times when Plovdiv, then called Philippopolis, was an important city in the Roman province of Thrace.
From millennia-old buildings to the elegant charm of its Secession Art Nouveau houses, it might sound cliched, but Star Grad is a true open-air museum. The Regional Ethnographic Museum is a prime example of traditional Bulgarian architecture and exhibits various aspects of local culture.
Other notable museums include the Pharmacy Museum Hippocrates, which outlines the development of pharmacy in Bulgaria, and numerous house museums such as Hindliyan’s House, Nedkovich House, and House-Museum Klianty. These once-homes preserve unique collections and historical artifacts within their original settings.
For nature and panoramic city views, lookouts and parks such as Nebet Tepe, Dzhambaz Tepe, and Sahat Tepe provide excellent spots and selfie opportunities.
At night, Star Grad transforms with its lively bars, quaint cafés, and cultural events. The area regularly hosts live music performances.
Nearby bus lines facilitate transportation in Star Grad, efficiently connecting this historic district with other parts of Plovdiv, including the railway and bus stations. Taxi services are also readily available.
This area’s accommodation offer includes many hotels, from mid to high-end options.
Best Hotels in Plovdiv’s Old Town
Seda Club Hotel – Small Luxury Hotels
Located in Plovdiv and with International Fair Plovdiv reachable within a 15-minute walk, Gallery 37 Powered by ASTON has express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a garden.
Boutique Hotel Boris Palace & Restaurant
Boris Palace Boutique Hotel is a luxuriously appointed hotel in the heart of the ancient town of Plovdiv, close to the Amphitheater and the Roman Stadium.
Villa Flavia Heritage Boutique Hotel
Located in Plovdiv and with Plovdiv Roman Theater reachable within a 2-minute walk, Villa Flavia Heritage Boutique Hotel has express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a garden, free WiFi, and a terrace.
Roots Hotel and Wine Bar
Located in Plovdiv and with International Fair Plovdiv reachable within a 16-minute walk, Roots Hotel and Wine Bar provides concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a garden.
HillHouse Plovdiv
Offering air-conditioned rooms in the Plovdiv Center district of Plovdiv, HillHouse Plovdiv is a 15-minute walk from International Fair Plovdiv.
2. Kapana Cultural District: Best Location for Nightlife and Shopping
Kapana is Plovdiv’s creative district, packed with trendy cafes, artisan shops, and lively bars.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Plovdiv:
- Central location
- Vibrant nightlife
- Historical buildings
- Trendy cafes
- Boutique shops
- Street art
- Craft beer bars
- Cozy atmosphere
- Art galleries
Located northeast of the Dzhumaya Mosque and just a few minutes from Plovdiv’s main street, Kapana, which translates to The Trap, is one of Plovdiv’s up-and-coming districts.
Kapana has a long history stretching back centuries. It emerged as a center for artisans around five centuries ago. This legacy has transformed it into one of the city’s most notable artistic hubs, where tradition meets contemporary creativity. The local authorities have revitalized this small neighborhood, establishing it as an important center for art and creativity.
Today, over 80% of the narrow streets in Kapana are pedestrian-only. This makes it the favorite destination for young travelers drawn to its artistic vibe.
The district offers several options for nightlife, from laid-back bars featuring live music to energetic clubs. The many cafes contribute to its bohemian vibe.
Kapana’s central location within Plovdiv makes transportation convenient. its proximity to the city’s main street ensures easy access to different parts of Plovdiv via public transit or on foot.
Best Hotels in Kapana
Hotel Dafi
Hotel Dafi enjoys a central location in Plovdiv next to Djumaya Square. It offers elegant and spacious rooms with free WiFi internet access.
Mini Hotel-Bohemi
Plovdiv’s Mini Hotel-Bohemi is located in the Kapana artistic neighborhood. The property is located steps from the Old Town and a 10-minute walk from the Plovdiv International Fair.
3. Plovdiv Station: Best Location for Backpackers
Plovdiv Central Station is surrounded buget hotels and restaurants catering to backpackers.
Plovdiv Central is the main train station in Plovdiv. Positioned south of the Old Town, the station is approximately 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from the city center.
The railway station is a major transportation hub in the region and provides services for domestic and international routes. Trains from Plovdiv connect to major cities such as Sofia, Varna, Burgas, and Istanbul.
In addition to rail transport, the station is adjacent to the long-distance bus station. Many bus lines converge here, offering connections throughout Plovdiv and beyond.
The area surrounding Plovdiv Central Railway Station has accommodations that are typically more budget-friendly compared to those in more central parts of the city.
Although the vicinity around the train station might lack the historic charm seen in Plovdiv’s Old Town, it compensates with its budget accommodation and great infrastructure.
Best Hotels near Plovdiv Railway Station
Hotel Leipzig
Hotel Leipzig features a central location at the foot of one of the Seven Hills of Plovdiv, offering sophisticated and state-of-the-art interiors with impeccable services
A&M Hotel
A&M Hotel with free parking provides accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. Among the facilities at this property are room service and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
Hotel Puldin COOP
Conveniently located in the center of Plovdiv, Hotel Puldin COOP provides air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a bar. This 2-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a shared lounge.
Where to Stay in Plovdiv: A Personal Take
I recently traveled to Plovdiv as part of my journey through Bulgaria. Plovdiv is a charming city with a mix of ancient history and modern culture. I stayed at the HillHouse Plovdiv, a cozy and comfortable guesthouse with a convenient location that made exploring the city easy.
One of my favorite parts of Plovdiv was walking through the Kapana district. It’s known as the creative heart of the city, with lots of colorful street art, trendy cafes, and boutique shops. I spent hours wandering around, taking photos, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the local culture.
The Old Town of Plovdiv is also a must-visit. It’s filled with historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and fascinating museums. I recommend spending at least half a day exploring this area to appreciate its beauty. For anyone planning a trip to Plovdiv, I highly suggest staying in either Kapana or the Old Town to get the most out of your visit. These areas offer the best mix of convenience and cultural experience.
Staying in Plovdiv: Useful Information for Your Visit
Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, is rich in culture and history. It is easy to get there from Sofia, either by train or bus, and takes about two hours. You can also reach it directly from Burgas or Varna by bus.
The city has a mix of modern and old architecture, making it interesting to explore. Plovdiv is walkable, especially the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Buses are the main mode of public transport.
Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like ‘kapama,’ which is a hearty meat and sauerkraut stew, and ‘banitsa,’ a delicious flaky pastry filled with cheese.
Plovdiv has a continental climate. Winters can be cold, with temperatures around 0°C. Summers are hot, often reaching 35°C. Spring and fall are mild, making them the best times to visit.
One must-see attraction is the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This Roman-era amphitheater is still used for performances today.
Other notable places include the Plovdiv Roman Stadium, Nebet Tepe Hill for panoramic views, and the Kapana Creative District, known for its art scene.
For accommodations, staying in the Old Town offers an experience amid historical surroundings. The Kapana area is great for those who enjoy vibrant nightlife. For budget travelers, look for guesthouses or hostels outside the central area but still within walking distance.
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