What a lovely day we had in Plovdiv last Saturday.
When I started this newsletter a year ago, I didn't really plan to do day trips (the last one to Buzludzha was a blast too!).
But talking to expats, and being one myself many times, one thing I notice is that many people haven't really explored Bulgaria much outside of Sofia.
And I always try to think: what would an expat love to do on a weekend?
So I had a free Saturday and decided to make it work. I enjoy travelling so much and sharing about Bulgaria is something I've always been doing. I wanted to make a cosy, friendly trip to Plovdiv. Not a tourist trip. Just a small friendly group exploring one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria. And it's super close to Sofia.
And why not do it by train!
Our group of 5, from France, Bulgaria, the Netherlands and Finland, took the train from Sofia at 8am. Three hours of nonstop conversation. Enough time to meet, share stories and learn more about each other in a non-rushed way.
We didn't stop talking for the whole journey 😄 Conversations went from space travel, to flies vs mosquitos, to where in the world the best ramen is, to stories about travelling in Japan, South Korea, Chile, and so much more. Such a good way to spend a Saturday.
Once we arrived in Plovdiv, we started with lunch at Smokini (recommended). They have a really good and affordable lunch menu. Then a walk through Kapana art district's cute streets. Up to the Old Town. A visit to Balabanova House, a traditional rich family's home from the 19th century. Nebet Tepe with its amazing views over Plovdiv and the hills. And the Amphitheatre, which was free that day!
We ended with a long coffee break in the sun, a street kebab, and a train back to Sofia.
Thank you all for joining – and see you on our next trip?
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