Plovdiv: Europe’s Oldest City and Wine Capital 2025
Often called the “City of Seven Hills,” Plovdiv holds the prestigious title of the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe. It is a place where Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and colorful 19th-century mansions coexist with a trendy, modern art scene.
In 2025, Plovdiv was named the European Wine Capital, making it an especially exciting time to visit.
History and Description
Plovdiv’s history spans 8,000 years, beginning with the Thracians. It was later conquered by Philip II of Macedon (renamed Philippopolis) and became a vital Roman provincial capital called Trimontium (City of Three Hills). After centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman rule, it emerged as a cultural leader during the Bulgarian National Revival.
The Old Town: A hilltop "architectural reserve", famous for its winding cobblestone streets and "Plovdiv Baroque" mansions.
The modern vibe: Down below the hills, the city is vibrant and youthful, centered around one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and the artistic Kapana district.
Typical foods
Bulgarian cuisine is a hearty mix of Balkan, Mediterranean and Ottoman influences.
Shopska salad: The national dish - tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and onions topped with a thick layer of white brine cheese (sirene).
Banitsa: A crispy filo pastry filled with cheese and eggs, typically eaten for breakfast with Ayran (a salty yogurt drink).
Kyufte & Kebapche: Grilled meat patties or sausages seasoned with cumin and herbs.
Tarator: A refreshing cold soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and walnuts (perfect for hot summers).
Plovdiv Wine: As the 2025 Wine Capital, try the local Mavrud, a dark, heavy red wine unique to the Thracian Valley.
Activities and Festivals
Top Things to Do
Ancient Roman Theater: One of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. It’s still used today for opera and concerts.
Roman Stadium: Located literally beneath the main pedestrian street; you can walk down parts of it.
Nebet Tepe: Climb this hill at sunset for the best panoramic views of the city.
Kapana (“The Trap”): A former artisan quarter, now filled with galleries, craft beer bars, and cozy cafes.
Festivals 2025
Opera Open (June-August): Massive performances in the Roman Theater.
Hills of Rock (July): Bulgaria's largest rock and metal festival.
Young Wine Festival (November): A celebration where the houses of the Old Town open their doors for wine tastings.
Old Town Festivities (September): Cultural events and traditional crafts throughout the historic district.
Shops and Shopping
Glavnata (Main Street): A massive pedestrian street stretching for almost 2 km, lined with international brands (H&M, Zara) and local shops.
Kapana District: The best place for "concept stores", handmade jewelry and local art.
Mall Plovdiv & Plovdiv Plaza: Large, modern shopping malls with cinemas and international food stalls.
Magura Street: Known for its antique shops and art galleries in the Old Town.
Nature
Plovdiv is built on and around hills (tepes), providing green havens in the city:
Tsar Simeon Garden: A central park with the singing fountains that provide a light and music show on summer evenings.
Youth Hill (Dzhendem Tepe): The highest of the hills, offering rocky paths and a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Rock Basin (Grebnata Baza): A massive artificial canal surrounded by forest, popular for cycling, jogging and long walks.
Rhodope Mountains: Just a 20-minute drive south, these mountains offer world-class hiking and the famous Bachkovo Monastery.