What to do in Plovdiv with kids? After we found out The 10 Best Things to Do in Plovdiv, we decided to dedicate this one to families.
A city of a thousand years, Plovdiv is an industrial, cultural, and tourist hub that secures its place in the heart of every visitor. Besides its rich history dating back to Thracian, Roman, and Ancient Greek times, Plovdiv provides many opportunities for modern entertainment and memorable experiences.
Families with kids can enjoy the city, too, as it has many child-friendly spots where all ages can feel the spirit of Plovdiv.
The city is located on the banks of the Maritza River, with seven hills standing proud and tall in the city center and providing a green escape from the hustle and bustle on the streets.
The Main Pedestrian Street is filled with shops and cafes, which makes it perfect for a family stroll. Tourists are usually amazed to learn of the ancient Roman Stadium dating from the 2nd century AD, which lies underneath Main Street.
A small part of the Stadium is visible near Djumaya Square. This area is named after the mosque built there in 1363 and still functioning.
Nearby is the Old Town – an architectural reserve with cobbled streets and houses from the Bulgarian revival period of the late 19th and early 20th century.
The Ancient Roman Theatre from the 1st century AD is also located on the hills of the Old Town. It’s an amphitheater for 3000 people where concerts and plays are still regularly hosted.
As all parents know, when traveling with kids, having a plan for fun activities and yummy breaks is essential. Here are some suggestions for child-friendly places in Plovdiv.
The Best Things to Do in Plovdiv with Kids
- Children’s Railroad. Hop on the colorful little train going around one of Plovdiv’s hills, the Youth Hill. Kids love it, and adults can enjoy the beautiful scenery and panorama from the last stop. The ride is cheap and takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Horse riding base ‘Frigopan.’ Suitable for all ages, the base is located around 10 kilometers from Plovdiv in the village of Tzaratzovo. There’s a restaurant, a nice playground, and the option to ride either a pony or a big horse.
- Tsar Simeon Garden. Plovdiv’s best-maintained park, Tsar Simeon Garden, or the City Garden as locals call it, provides a true oasis in the heart of the busy city. Its long alleys are surrounded by green grass and flowers. The big lake with the fountains takes on various colors in the evening during the regular light show. There are two children’s playgrounds suitable for all ages, another small lake with colorful fish, and the evergreen attraction for many generations of locals – a stone bear that kids like to climb on.
- Rowing Channel. Plovdiv’s Rowing Channel hosts many national and international competitions, but most of the time, it’s a quiet and spacious place for family walks, jogging, and bike riding. There are numerous restaurants, children’s playgrounds, and easy access to the Maritza River. It’s not in the city center, but taxis aren’t expensive.
- Bunardzhik Hill. One of the most popular of Plovdiv’s hills for walks and sports, Bunardzhik is a green park with many alleys, playgrounds, and people feeding birds and squirrels. Climb to the top for a stunning view of the city!
- Museum of Natural Sciences. The museum exhibits examples of local flora and fauna. There’s a big aquarium and various temporary expositions in addition to the permanent ones.
- Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis. Also referenced as the Great Basilica, it was a Christian church in the 4th century AD. It boasts beautifully preserved mosaic work and an Explorer’s area suitable for children aged 6-12 years.
Where to Eat in Plovdiv
- PizzaLab Self-designed pizza. Nothing can go wrong here, especially when your kids can pick every single ingredient that lands on their plates!
- Plovdiv Stage Park. Plovdiv’s newest festival venue is located in Youth Hill and offers a variety of food options – pizza, french fries, barbecue, burgers, and healthier options like roasted veggies and salads. There are many bars for drinks and a big lawn where kids can play while their parents enjoy a cocktail.
- Central Park. This restaurant has two locations: one is in Youth Hill, and the other is in Tsar Simeon Garden. Both have children’s playgrounds in the immediate vicinity, while the first location also offers an indoor children’s playground.
- Monroe. Located next to Djumaya Square, this restaurant offers a tasty fusion menu and has an indoor children’s playground.
Where to Stay in Plovdiv with Kids
- Park & Spa Hotel Markovo. Located 15 km outside Plovdiv, in Markovo village, this hotel is great for kids because it provides many options for outdoor and indoor play.
- Plovdiv City Center Hotel. Situated on Main Pedestrian Street, this hotel is close to all the essential sights and many bars and restaurants.
- Villa Flavia. This stylish boutique hotel is located on Otets Paisiy str.
- Hotel Noviz. Located on Ruski Blvd, across the street from Bunardzhik Hill, Hotel Noviz is a more affordable solution at a great spot in the city.
Whatever things you choose to do with your kids while staying in Plovdiv, what matters the most is that you feel the city’s spirit. It’s young and old simultaneously, paying respect to the past while planning for the future. Enjoy Plovdiv!
