Pedestrianism 🚶♂️
First off, Plovdiv is super pedestrian-friendly. Main Street runs for about 2 km, and the adjacent Kapana quarter is full of charming early 20th-century facades. It's an amazing place to explore and relax between study sessions, with award-winning cafes, restaurants, and designer goods’ shops.
The Old Town 🏛️
If you're a fan of history, Plovdiv's Old Town is the largest of its kind in Bulgaria, with beautiful Ottoman-era buildings from the early to mid-19th century. It's mostly pedestrian (car access is limited), which is perfect for strolling around and soaking up the atmosphere. The Roman Amphitheatre from the 2nd century AD is a must-see! You can even attend a Verdi opera, a rock concert, or a ballet show during spring and summer.
Convenient and Affordable 🏡
Everything in Plovdiv is close at hand. You can cross the city in no more than 20 minutes, even during peak traffic hours. Plus, living here is way more affordable than in Sofia, Bulgaria's capital. Properties cost about 60–65% less, and rents are also significantly lower. This is perfect for med students on a budget!
Cultural Diversity 🌍
Plovdiv has a long history of embracing different cultures and religions, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for international students. You'll find people from all walks of life coexisting peacefully in this vibrant city.
Booming Industrial Area 🏭
Plovdiv is the fastest-growing industrial area in Bulgaria. With more than 100 foreign companies opening production plants here in recent years, the number of ex-pats in the city is rapidly increasing. This creates an exciting environment for students to live and study in.
Universities and International Students 🎓
Plovdiv is home to six universities, including the prestigious Medical University, which hosts around 2,000 international students from Western Europe. So, you'll be in great company as a med student in this bustling city!
In a Nutshell 🌰
I have an apartment in Sofia, but I've chosen to stay in Plovdiv, and I haven't regretted it for a moment. Every person is different, but I'm sure you'll love it here too. ❤️
Plovdiv: Where History Meets Opportunity 🌆
Plovdiv is the perfect blend of historical riches and new opportunities. As a med student, you'll find a vast range of educational and cultural experiences to enjoy. Plovdiv was the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and is considered a key economic, transport, cultural, and educational hub. It's neatly positioned on the banks of the Maritsa river in the popular historical region of Thrace.
Living in Plovdiv 🏠
Plovdiv offers a high quality of life for people of all ages, with safe neighborhoods, real winters, a lower cost of living compared to Sofia, and fantastic areas to live in. The city is highly pedestrianized, making it easy to explore on foot. Plus, there's a strong expat community in Plovdiv, so you'll have the opportunity to meet new friends from all around the world!
So, if you're considering studying medicine in Bulgaria, don't hesitate to choose Plovdiv. This amazing city has so much to offer, and you'll undoubtedly have an unforgettable experience as a med student here.
Social Life and Networking 🍻
Plovdiv's social scene is alive and kicking, with numerous bars, clubs, and cafes where you can unwind and meet new people. This is perfect for building relationships and networking with your fellow med students and expats. From trendy bars in Kapana to laid-back cafes along the Maritsa River, there's a spot for everyone's taste.
Sports and Outdoor Activities 🚴♂️
Plovdiv boasts a range of sports and outdoor activities to keep you fit and healthy during your studies. There are gyms, swimming pools, and yoga studios, as well as stunning parks like Tsar Simeon's Garden, where you can jog or simply relax with a book. If you're a fan of hiking, the nearby Rhodope Mountains provide a great escape from city life.
Travel Opportunities 🚆
Plovdiv's central location in Bulgaria makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the country. The city is well-connected by bus and train, so you can easily plan weekend trips to other destinations like Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, or the Black Sea coast. Don't forget to visit the famous Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site!
Final Thoughts 💭
Choosing Plovdiv as your med school destination will not only provide you with a top-notch education, but also an unforgettable life experience. The city's rich history, cultural diversity, affordability, and vibrant social scene make it the perfect place to call home during your studies.
So, pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure in Plovdiv! 🎉
Want to know more? Check out our other blog posts on everyhting you need to know as an aspiring med student in Plovdiv:
Or our post on other medical university in Bulgaria and how to get a student Visa:
- Medical Universities in Bulgaria 🇧🇬 🩺 - Comparison
- Guide to Applying for a Visa in Bulgaria to Study Medicine 🇧🇬 🩺
