Western Europe's cities can start to feel a bit samey after a while, but with Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton offering flights to a plethora of destinations, there's no reason not to explore further afield. For those seeking something a bit different, Eastern Europe is just a three-hour flight from London, and Plovdiv is an excellent starting point for your continental adventure. This modest city, home to just over 340,000 people, nestles on the banks of the Maritsa River and is Bulgaria's second-largest city.
It's renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and architectural landmarks, having been inhabited since ancient times. READ MORE: The beautiful town often named 1 of UK's prettiest that randomly has direct trains to London Plovdiv has been under the rule of Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and others, resulting in a captivating mix of cultures and influences. The Old Town is one of Plovdiv's most significant landmarks, an architectural reserve boasting well-preserved buildings from the Bulgarian Renaissance period.
This area also houses numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. Other must-see sights in Plovdiv include the Ancient Theatre, constructed in the first century and one of the world's best-preserved ancient theatres. There's also the Roman Stadium, built in the second century and one of the largest ancient stadiums in the Balkans.
Plovdiv, a city rich in history and culture, is also a buzzing modern hub with a thriving arts sc.