Ancient Forum of Philippopolis
Explore the heart of ancient Plovdiv at the Roman Forum, a free-to-access archaeological site showcasing Roman urban life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds
Ancient Forum of Philippopolis
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the heart of ancient Plovdiv at the Roman Forum, a free-to-access archaeological site showcasing Roman urban life.
"Great ruins to walk around free access to the outdoor area right in the centre of the town!"
Free to Explore
Enjoy the outdoor areas of the Roman Forum for free, right in the heart of Plovdiv! :moneywithwings:
Combine with Theater Visit
Don't miss the adjacent Roman Theater, often used for events. Check schedules! :performing_arts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Preserved Forum Section
City Center
Wander through the well-preserved ruins, imagining life in this ancient Roman hub.

Adjacent Roman Theater
Next to the Forum
A stunningly preserved theater still hosting modern festivals and concerts.

Urban Integration
City Center
See how ancient ruins are seamlessly integrated into the vibrant modern city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Explore the Heart of Ancient Plovdiv
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Explore
Enjoy the outdoor areas of the Roman Forum for free, right in the heart of Plovdiv! :moneywithwings:
Combine with Theater Visit
Don't miss the adjacent Roman Theater, often used for events. Check schedules! :performing_arts:
Partially Excavated
Remember, only a section is excavated. Appreciate the history that's visible! :scroll:
Walkable Location
Easily accessible on foot in the city center, perfect for a quick historical detour. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Explore
Enjoy the outdoor areas of the Roman Forum for free, right in the heart of Plovdiv! :moneywithwings:
Combine with Theater Visit
Don't miss the adjacent Roman Theater, often used for events. Check schedules! :performing_arts:
Partially Excavated
Remember, only a section is excavated. Appreciate the history that's visible! :scroll:
Walkable Location
Easily accessible on foot in the city center, perfect for a quick historical detour. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Roman Forum of Philippopolis to be a valuable and accessible historical site located conveniently in the city center. Many appreciate the free entry and the chance to see ancient ruins integrated into modern Plovdiv, especially when combined with the impressive Roman Theater. Some note that only a portion is excavated, but the overall experience is considered worthwhile.
"Worth a visit, if you are in Plovdiv, especially the preserved section (only a part of the larger whole that has been partially excavated and not yet prepared for visitors). Obviously, pales in comparison with the forum in Rome, that goes without saying, which is understandable since Phillippopolis (Greek/Macedonian name of the city) was just a regional capital, and couldn’t compare with the grandeur of the imperial metropole."
Jay Tkachuk
"Great ruins to walk around free access to the outdoor area right in the centre of the town."
Elise
"The Roman Forum of Philippopolis found in the heart of the city!
Take a quick walk around and you will not regret coming here!
We loved exploring the ancient places found in this old and beautiful city!"
Son Livan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Roman Forum of Philippopolis is located in the very heart of Plovdiv's city center, making it incredibly easy to reach on foot if you're staying nearby. It's a central landmark, so most public transport routes will get you close. Taxis are also readily available.
While direct parking at the forum is unlikely due to its central location, there are several paid parking lots and street parking options in the surrounding city center area. Be prepared for a short walk from your parking spot.
Yes, absolutely! Plovdiv has a good public transport system, and many bus routes stop in the city center, very close to the Roman Forum. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The outdoor areas of the Roman Forum of Philippopolis are generally free to access and explore, offering a great way to experience a piece of ancient history without any cost. :moneywithwings:
As an outdoor archaeological site in the city center, the Roman Forum is typically accessible throughout the day. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event schedules or temporary closures, especially if visiting the adjacent theater.
No, the main excavated areas of the Roman Forum of Philippopolis are usually free to enter and wander around. This makes it a very accessible attraction for all visitors.
Since the Roman Forum is generally free to access, advance booking is not necessary. Enjoy the freedom to visit at your own pace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the ruins of ancient Roman buildings, including parts of the forum itself, and imagine the bustling city life from centuries ago. The well-preserved Roman Theater adjacent to the forum is also a major highlight.
A quick walk-around can take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest. If you plan to also explore the Roman Theater and surrounding area, you might want to allocate 1-2 hours.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available for the forum itself, the site is well-signed. You can often find local guides in Plovdiv who can offer historical context for both the forum and the theater.
The pathways within the excavated areas can be uneven due to the nature of the ruins. While some parts might be manageable, accessibility can be challenging. It's best to be prepared for some uneven terrain.
Capture the scale by shooting from different angles, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. The juxtaposition of ancient ruins with modern Plovdiv offers unique photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Roman Forum itself is an archaeological site and does not have dining facilities. However, it's located in the heart of Plovdiv's city center, surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries offering a wide range of cuisines.
You'll find plenty of dining options just steps away from the forum. Explore the pedestrian streets of Plovdiv's center for traditional Bulgarian food, international cuisine, and cozy cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for vantage points that showcase the scale of the ruins and their integration with the modern city. The Roman Theater offers particularly dramatic shots, especially when lit up or during a performance. :iphone:
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Roman Forum of Philippopolis for personal use. Be mindful of any event setups if you visit during a festival at the theater.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Philippopolis' Roman Past
The site showcases impressive Roman urban planning and architecture, with remnants of colonnades, shops, and public buildings. Its strategic location in the modern city center highlights the layers of history that Plovdiv possesses. The ongoing excavations and preservation efforts continue to reveal more about this fascinating period.
Visitors can appreciate the scale of the forum and imagine the daily activities that took place here centuries ago. The integration of these ancient ruins into the contemporary urban landscape is a testament to Plovdiv's enduring heritage and its ability to blend the old with the new.
The Enduring Legacy of the Roman Theater
Today, the theater is not just a historical monument but a vibrant cultural space. It continues to host a variety of events, including concerts, opera performances, and festivals, drawing both locals and tourists. Experiencing a performance here offers a unique opportunity to connect with history in a truly immersive way, feeling the same atmosphere that ancient audiences would have.
The theater's stunning architecture, with its tiered seating and stage area, provides a dramatic backdrop for any visit. It's a powerful reminder of the sophisticated entertainment and architectural prowess of the Roman Empire, and a beloved part of Plovdiv's modern cultural scene.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit