Plovdiv spreads across the two banks of the Maritsa River, built around the syenite hills that earned it the nickname "The City of the Seven Hills". The historic core sits on and around the Old Town, while the modern centre, the main pedestrian street and the creative quarter below it handle most of the eating, drinking and evening activity.
For a visitor, the practical question is whether to base yourself in the flat modern centre, on the slopes of the Old Town, or near the transport hubs. This guide covers the areas worth considering, what each suits, and how the accommodation tiers compare.
Best areas to stay in Plovdiv
1. The city centre, around the main street and Dzhumaya Mosque
This is the most convenient base for a first visit. The main pedestrian street runs through the centre, the Dzhumaya Mosque area sits at its heart, and the Old Town is within easy walking distance. You will find the widest mix of places to stay here, from hostels to full-service hotels, along with the bulk of the city's cafes and restaurants on your doorstep.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to walk to the sights rather than plan around transport. Note that the centre is on the flat ground below the hills, so you avoid the climbs unless you head up into the Old Town itself.
2. The Old Town
The Old Town sits on the historic hills and holds the preserved Roman remains, including the Roman theatre, the odeon and the stadium, along with the archaeological complex Eirene. Staying here puts the historic sights immediately around you, and the area is quiet once the day visitors leave.
It suits travellers who prioritise atmosphere and proximity to the ruins over nightlife, and it works for couples or anyone happy to walk up and down the slopes. The trade-off is the hills: the Old Town is elevated above the modern centre, so expect gradients on the way back from the main street and the river.
3. Near the train station
The area around the train station is a practical base rather than a scenic one. It suits travellers arriving or leaving by rail, and those who want a straightforward mid-range hotel stay close to their onward connection.
It is a short distance from the central streets, so you can still reach the main sights on foot, but you are outside the busiest part of the centre.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels and small guest houses, typically in or close to the centre and the Old Town. Expect shared or simple private rooms, common areas, and breakfast included at some places.
- Mid-range: conventional hotels, including options near the train station, with private rooms and standard services.
- Splurge: full-service hotels in the central area, with larger rooms and additional in-room features at the top end.
Best area for a first visit
Base yourself in the city centre around the main street and Dzhumaya Mosque. It puts the pedestrian heart of Plovdiv, the restaurants and the Old Town all within walking distance, and it gives you the widest choice of accommodation. You can see the main sights on foot without needing to work out the city's transport first.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I want to walk to the Roman sights?
The Old Town, where the preserved Roman theatre, odeon and stadium are located, along with the archaeological complex Eirene. Staying in the centre around the main street also keeps you within walking distance of the Old Town.
Where should I stay if I am arriving by train?
The area beside the train station has mid-range hotel accommodation, which keeps your arrival and departure simple while still being close enough to reach the centre.
Is the Old Town hilly?
Yes. The Old Town sits on the hills that give Plovdiv its nickname, so expect slopes between it and the flat modern centre along the river.
What budget options are available in the centre?
Hostels and guest houses, including places a short walk from the city centre and rooms within the Old Town itself. Some include breakfast, and hostel rates are the lowest tier of the options described.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.