Bulgaria is one of Europe's hidden gems. It's not as popular as France, Italy, Greece, or other Balkan states, but it should be. Not only is there so much to see and do, but it is also one of the cheaper places to visit in Europe.
You don't have to spend a lot to live large in Bulgaria, but you can also take advantage of its affordability and maximize your trip.
One of the best places in Bulgaria to do that is Plovdiv, the country's second-largest city. You don't need to spend a lot to feel the city and to experience its ancient culture and architecture.
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Travel Tips
Getting to Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv is not that difficult to get to, and it is usually very cheap. From London, direct flights from Stansted to Plovdiv start at $40. It takes three and a half hours on Ryanair.
If you are planning on seeing more of Bulgaria and stopping in Sofia before Plovdiv, you can take a two-hour train or a bus for only $10 one-way. Getting to the city doesn't cost much, and it is well worth it once you arrive.
Places to Stay
Like many European cities, there are options for places to stay. You can go for the luxury accommodation, which will be much cheaper than in a place like Paris or Rome, or you can stay at one of the city's many guesthouses. If you do, you will be rewarded with unique experiences, fantastic hospitality, and low prices.
According to the experts at the site MoneyPug, which is known as a platform for finding cheap holidays, in the historic Old Town, where most tourists spend their time, you can stay at one of these accommodations for as little as $20. You won't regret the unique look into Bulgarian culture. You will be treated right.
Food & Drink
Since the Old Town is touristy, it is best to venture outside of it to get the best prices on food and drinks.
You will likely have a meal or two in the Old Town, as well as drinks, but if you take the time to get out of the tourist zone, you will find cheap plates, great drinks, and friendly locals. This is the best way to eat and drink in Bulgaria.
Not only will it be cheaper, the food will also be better, and the atmosphere will be authentic. A great way to eat and drink is to head to Kapana.
Go for a walk around this artistic and vibrant neighborhood. Look for places where the locals spill out onto the street and sit outside. You will be in for good food, drinks, and times.
Cheap Activities in Plovdiv
There is no shortage of great things to do in Plovdiv, many of which are affordable. Something you can't miss is the ancient Roman Theater.
While you can still see a show here, visiting this architectural and historical landmark doesn't cost anything. It seats 7,000 people, and the view of the mountains is spectacular.
Another option is to picnic at the Star Simeon Gardens, where you can enjoy the scenery for free. The fountains light up on weekend evenings, creating a romantic atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
Visiting the Kapana neighborhood is another must. Come for dinner but stay for the nightlife. Spend some time here; the artsy environment is inspiring.
Finally, walking the main pedestrian street is a great way to learn about Roman history. Stroll past mosques and cafes, stopping for a beverage when you see fit. Don't forget to wear good shoes. The Roman cobblestone streets are not soft.
Getting Around
While walking is the most popular way to get around Plovdiv, public transportation is cheap and can be a bit confusing. Utilize it to get out of the main tourist areas and see a part of the city that few visitors do. Taxis are also cheaper than in most places in Europe.
Plovdiv is one of the best destinations for budget travelers. It offers culture, architecture, history, food, drink, and friendly people in a small area. Don't miss out on this must-see destination. It is, after all, the 2019 European Capital of Culture.
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This story was published in partnership with Cheap Travel To Go and Money Pug.
