3Plovdiv, Bulgaria

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Plovdiv, has been continuously inhabited for over 6,000 years. Known for its vibrant cultural history, Plovdiv was once a Thracian settlement before being conquered by the Romans, and later becoming an important city in the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

The city is renowned for its beautifully preserved Roman amphitheater, which is still used for performances today, as well as its ancient forum and aqueducts. The Old Town of Plovdiv, with its cobblestone streets and colorful 19th-century buildings, is a picturesque area to explore. The city’s rich mix of Thracian, Roman, and Ottoman history makes it one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations.