Day 2: Self-Walking Tour
Weather Update: Sunny, High of 19°C
Height Above Sea Level: 164 Metres (538 ft)
A Day of Discovery: My Plovdiv Itinerary
My day in Plovdiv was packed with exploration, and I'm excited to share it with you. I slept reasonably well and managed to get out early enough to beat some of the crowds. By the afternoon, however, the city centre was bustling. While the major sights are close together, you’ll still end up walking about 11 km. Thankfully, Plovdiv is quite flat and very walkable—though comfortable shoes are a must!
Breakfast: Chicken Doner Kebab – 9 BGN (NZD 8.92)
1. A Glimpse into Ottoman History
My first stop was the Dzhumaya Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. Its intricate details and peaceful atmosphere made for a lovely start to the day. The steps leading to the entrance could be a challenge for those with mobility issues, but the view from outside is equally rewarding. I spent a while simply admiring the craftsmanship and absorbing the sense of history.
Dzhumaya Mosque:
The mosque is located in the centre of Plovdiv and was built in 1363–1364 on the site of the Sveta Petka Tarnovska Cathedral Church after the conquest of Plovdiv by the Ottoman army. The mosque is large, with nine domes and a 33 m × 27 m (108 ft × 89 ft) prayer hall. There is a minaret at the northeast corner of the main façade. Interior wall paintings date to the late 18th to early 19th cents.
2 Stepping Back in Time
Next, I wandered to the Roman Stadium—an incredible reminder of Plovdiv’s ancient roots. Standing in this partially buried arena, it’s easy to imagine gladiators battling as the crowds roared above. There are a few steps to manage, but there are also viewing platforms that offer great perspectives without the need to climb.
The Stadium of Philippopolis was the ancient Roman stadium of Philippopolis (modern Plovdiv), built in the 2nd century AD, during the Roman imperial period. It is among the largest and best-preserved buildings from the time of the Roman Empire in the Balkan peninsula. At the time the stadium was built, Philippopolis was the capital of the Roman province of Thracia.
3. Municipality of Plovdiv: A Modern Hub with Historic Roots
A short walk took me to the Municipality of Plovdiv. While the building itself isn’t a major attraction, the square surrounding it is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city’s rhythm. It's flat, accessible, and a nice spot to pause.
4. Clock Tower: A Bird's-Eye View (With a Climb!)
Perched on Nebet Tepe hill, the Clock Tower offers stunning panoramic views of Plovdiv. Reaching it involves a bit of a climb—not too long, but steep in places. As a senior, I found it a challenge, but the effort was absolutely worth it. The views of the city and nearby park made for a rewarding rest at the top.
Sahat tepe – the Clock Hill of Plovdiv
This place got its name because of a small clock tower situated on one of its tops. It is one of the oldest functioning clock towers on the Balkan peninsula. It dates back all the way to the 16th century when even cities like Thessaloniki, Odrin and nowadays Istanbul. The clock tower was made of wood but unfortunately, a fire destroyed the wooden clock tower. Over time, it underwent changes, the most serious of which was in 1812 (according to the Arabic inscription above the entrance). Now built out of stone it can survive the tests of time. The construction that remains on top of the hill till today is almost 18 meters high and was modeled after lighthouses.
5. Knyaz Aleksandar I Boulevard: Strolling Through Plovdiv’s Heart
This main pedestrian boulevard is a joy to explore. Lined with shops, cafés, and beautiful buildings, it's mostly flat and easy to navigate. I took my time meandering down the street, stopping to admire the architecture and enjoy a cold beer at an outdoor café—one of the day’s highlights.
Before the Liberation of Bulgaria it was a small muddy street. It was given its current name in 1881. In 1901 one of the first tram lines in the city were constructed on the street. The boulevard became a market street with a number of shops. After the world wars the boulevard's appearance changed significantly. New buildings were constructed on the place of the old two-floor edifices and the number of shops increased dramatically.
6 & 7. Roman Forums: Echoes of Ancient Life
Plovdiv is home to not one but two Roman Forums—ancient gathering places that hint at the grandeur of Philippopolis, as it was once known. The terrain is uneven in parts, so good shoes are important. Walking among the marble columns and along the cobblestone paths left me with an eerie, almost magical feeling—knowing that people walked these same streets thousands of years ago.
The Roman Forum of Philippopolis (Bulgarian: Римски форум на Пловдив, Rimski forum na Plovdiv) is a rectangular forum (plaza) surrounded by the ruins of several ancient administrative buildings at the centre of the ancient city of Philippopolis (modern Plovdiv). It was the centre of public, administrative, commercial and religious life in the ancient city. Meetings, discussions, celebrations and state events were held there.
8. Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis: A Mosaic Masterpiece
A must-see for any visitor, the Episcopal Basilica is a treasure trove of Roman-era mosaics. Entry was 12 BGN (NZD 11.94), and worth every lev. The site is partly sheltered to protect the artwork, and raised walkways make it easy to explore. The basilica stands on what was once a Roman temple to the imperial cult, where emperors were worshipped as divine. When Christianity rose to prominence, they built the basilica right on top of it—a symbolic statement that a new God, Jesus Christ, now reigned.
9. St. Marina Church: A Spiritual Sanctuary
My final stop was the peaceful St. Marina Church. Its interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, and the quiet atmosphere invites reflection. I lit a candle, took a moment to breathe, and appreciated the spiritual and artistic significance of this sacred space.
Plovdiv: A City That Inspires
My day in Plovdiv proved just how timeless this city truly is. From ancient Roman ruins to vibrant modern life, it offers something for every traveller. If you're looking for a destination that blends history, culture, and accessibility, Plovdiv is a gem worth discovering.
Age is no barrier to adventure. I hope my journey encourages you to embrace your own. With every step I take, I aim to raise awareness for arthritis while showing that it’s never too late to explore. Travel can be liberating, empowering—and just plain fun.
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Tomorrow brings a new day and a new adventure.
Thanks for joining me on this journey. And if you feel the call to travel, maybe consider spending a few weeks—or longer—with me, hostel-hopping and living freely.
– Andrew (Inspire Seniors Travel)