1. Rock Out In Roman Surroundings
Few cultural venues are as charming and dramatic as Plovdiv's ancient theater. Located pretty much in the center of the modern city (Philippopolis in ancient times), the 28-row arena was used for plays, hunting exhibitions, and gladiatorial contests. The blood sports may have gone, but these days the theater is very much alive, hosting plays, music and spellbinding opera performances. It's also a hub for the city's Folklore Festival and the Sounds of the Ages rock festival. If you get the chance, it's an amazing place to watch a show.
2. Millennia Of Magic To Discover
Plovdiv's Old Town has UNESCO protected status, and has the official designation of an "Architectural and Historical Reserve." More importantly, three thousand years of continuous habitation have left a fascinating neighborhood for visitors to explore. Built on three hills (so bring sturdy shoes!), the Old Town is home to the Ancient Theater, the Roman Stadium, as well as numerous examples of Bulgarian Revival architecture, with its colorful houses and unique designs.
3. A Magnificent Mansion And Cultural Center
If you want a vivid window into 19th century Bulgarian culture, there's no better place to head than the Balabanov House. With its rich red exterior, the house is instantly recognizable, and has an authentic centuries-old appearance. However, don't be fooled. The house was rebuilt in the 70s as a cultural museum. These days, its Bulgarian art displays, ceiling carvings, and antique exhibitions are a delight, as are its regular schedules of chamber music concerts, which take place in spring and the fall.
4. A Revival Masterpiece And Historical Treasure
Nothing gives visitors a better idea of how diverse Bulgarian Revival era architecture was than by following up a trip to the Balabanov House with a few hours at the Ethnographical Museum. The museum is housed in a remarkable blue 19th century building, whose curves and golden decorations look something like the prow of a galleon. After being wowed by the exterior, the inside is just as astonishing, with period floral tiles and a wealth of traditional fabrics and costumes to see. After that, exhibitions about everyday life in Bulgaria are the frosting on an amazing cake.
5. Light Shows And Lush Greenery In The City Center
Quite possibly Bulgaria's most attractive urban park, the Tsar Simeon Garden was laid out in the 1890s, and is a blissful place to explore on a sunny day. From the restored statue of the Greek goddess Demeter, to the Viennese Pavilion, the park is full of photo opportunities and places to picnic. But it really comes into its own at night. If you're there at 21:30, reserve a spot beside the Lake of the Singing Fountains, which becomes the setting for a spectacular music and light show.
