In April, there are cities where wellness enthusiasts can soak up the warm climate and sunlight. Plovdiv, Bulgaria, quietly became one of Europe's top short break destinations. It offers an exceptional spa experience when it's far less than you pay in the UK.
A new study conducted by Wizz Air, which compares European spa costs with those of its London counterparts, ranks Plovdiv as one of the most affordable cities in relaxing hideouts. In fact, flights between Luton and Plovdiv in London start at just £44, while a stay at the top Landmark Creek Hotel & Wellness costs only £66 per night.
Wizz Air explained: “The return fare from London to Manchester averages £95 and a one-night stay at Savoy of £624, and you can save £609 compared to taking a train to London and staying in Savoy, instead of choosing to fly to Plovdiv and staying at Landmark Creek Hotel & Wellness.”
This makes Plovdiv an affordable option and an ideal place for anyone looking for a rejuvenating break to recharge their energy without a large price tag.
Beyond its exceptional spa, Plovdiv is filled with history and culture as one of the oldest cities in the world. Greek, Slavic, Ottoman and Persian influences are reflected in traditional dance, music, costumes and crafts.
Highlights of Bulgaria's second largest city include the very well-preserved Roman amphitheater dating back to the Gregorian calendar in the second century, as well as Ottoman-era homes that sit alongside Roman ruins.
The city is also twice the European capital culture, boasting the ancient stadium of Philipopolis and the impressive Zumaya Mosque, highlighting its rich cultural diversity.
“The old town of Plovdiv is really attractive,” said Chemikodystra, a reviewer on TripAdvisor, “The Bulgarian and Ottoman style colored timber frame merchant houses are truly wonderful to see, seeing a lot of history on them, like the coloured timber framed houses in Colmer, Alsace. They were built primarily in the 19th century and are now primarily the headland of hotels, restaurants, or local institutions.
“They are located around hills, the walls of the old town and the ancient theatre, making them a very wonderful and fun walk around the old town and a paradise for all history lovers and artists.”
As NOAA reported, on the average of 19c that welcomes you in April, Plovdiv is ideal for discovering on foot while bathing in the Vulcan sunshine.
Top 10 cities in Wizz Air for spa breaks
Grenoble, Francewarsaw, Polandriga, Latviabucharest, Romaniaplovdiv, Bulgariaberlin, Germanybari, Iteryburgas, Bulgariallondon, Ukvilnius, Lithuania
