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Bunardzhika Hill Plovdiv
Hill of the Liberators · Alyosha Monument · Best Sunset Viewpoint
About Bunardzhika Hill
Bunardzhika Hill (Хълм „Бунарджика“), also called the Hill of the Liberators, is one of the three historic hills of Plovdiv, together with Nebet Tepe and Dzhambaz Tepe. It rises in the centre of the city and is best known today for the Alyosha Monument at its summit and for sweeping 360° views over Plovdiv.
The name Bunardzhika comes from the Turkish word "bunar" (well or spring); in Ottoman times the slope was dotted with wells that supplied the neighbourhood below, which is why locals also call it the "Hill of the Wells". Today the hill is a free public park with shaded walking paths, stairways and open esplanades.
History of the Hill
The 1881 Liberators' Monument
In 1881, only three years after the Liberation of Bulgaria, a monument to the Russian soldiers who fell in the 1877–1878 Russo-Turkish War was raised on the hill — giving Bunardzhika its second name, the Hill of the Liberators. Decades later, in the 1950s, the old monument was removed to make way for the Alyosha Monument.
The Alyosha Monument
The Alyosha Monument — officially the Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha" — was unveiled in 1957 and stands on the summit of Bunardzhika Hill. It is one of Plovdiv's most recognised landmarks and a favourite sunset viewpoint.
A Public Park Today
After 1989 the future of the monument was debated many times, but it was never removed. Today Bunardzhika Hill is maintained by Plovdiv Municipality as a public recreational and cultural site, open to everyone free of charge.
Related
The Alyosha Monument stands on top of Bunardzhika Hill — read the full visitor guide for history, opening information, transport and FAQs.
Back to the Alyosha Monument guide →Best Views & Sunset
The summit esplanade around the Alyosha Monument is one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Plovdiv. From here you can see the whole city, the Maritsa river and the Rhodope mountains on the horizon.
Sunset is the most popular time: the low light turns the city golden and the esplanade fills with photographers and couples. Arrive 30–40 minutes before sunset to find a good spot. Early mornings are quiet and cooler in summer.
How to Get Here
From Plovdiv Old Town / Centre
From the Ancient Roman Stadium, follow Hristo G. Danov Street towards Ruski Boulevard (бул. „Руски“). After about 15 minutes of walking you reach the foot of Bunardzhika Hill; from there the park paths lead to the top in 20–25 minutes.
From Plovdiv Airport
Plovdiv Airport (PDV) is about 13 km from the city centre. Take a taxi or rental car to the foot of Bunardzhika Hill — around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. There is no direct public transport from the airport.
From the Railway & Bus Station
The Central Railway Station and Yug bus station are about 20 minutes on foot along Ruski Boulevard to the foot of the hill. Alternatively take a taxi to the park entrance (5 minutes).
By Public Transport
City buses run along Ruski Boulevard and stop near the hill (get off around Markovo Tepe shopping centre). From the stop it is a 10–15 minute walk to the park entrance.
Walking
All three approaches (from the Old Town, Tsar Simeon Garden, or the railway station) converge on the park at the foot of Bunardzhika Hill. The climb to the Alyosha Monument takes about 20–25 minutes along scenic, shaded paths.
Driving
The summit road is closed to private cars. Park on the streets around the foot of the hill and walk up the final section.
Walking Route Up the Hill
Start at the park entrance at the foot of Bunardzhika Hill
Follow the main alley and stairways up through the greenery
Reach the summit esplanade with the Alyosha Monument
Take in the 360° panorama of Plovdiv from the terrace
Stay for sunset or head back down the western path
Facilities Around the Monument
Bunardzhika Hill is a public park — services on the summit are limited, but the city centre is just a short walk away. Here is an overview of the types of facilities you can expect nearby.
Public Toilets
Public restrooms are available near the monument esplanade and at the main park entrance, usually open during the warmer months.
Parking
Street parking is available on the streets around the foot of the hill. The road to the summit is closed to private cars.
Restaurants & Cafés
There are no food vendors on the summit. Restaurants, cafés and kiosks can be found at the foot of the hill and along Ruski Boulevard in the city centre.
Hotels & Guesthouses
A wide range of hotels, hostels and guesthouses is available in central Plovdiv and near the Old Town, within walking distance of the hill.
Supermarkets & Shops
Supermarkets, convenience stores and souvenir shops are located in the centre and around the Markovo Tepe shopping area close to the hill.
Fuel & EV Charging
Petrol stations are available on the main city avenues and the ring road, and some of them offer electric vehicle charging points.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bunardzhika Hill
How long does it take to climb Bunardzhika Hill?
From the foot of the hill, the walk to the summit takes about 20–25 minutes at a relaxed pace along shaded paths and stairways.
Is Bunardzhika Hill free to visit?
Yes. The hill and the Alyosha Monument are a free public park, open 24/7, year-round.
Can I drive to the top of Bunardzhika Hill?
No. The summit road is closed to private cars. Park on the streets around the foot of the hill and walk up.
What is the best time to visit Bunardzhika Hill?
Late afternoon for the sunset panorama is the most popular time. Early mornings are quieter and cooler in summer.
Why is it called the Hill of the Liberators?
Because an 1881 monument to the Russian soldiers who liberated Bulgaria in the 1877–1878 war once stood here, giving the hill its second name.
Map Location
Bunardzhika Hill, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plus Code: 4PVQ+G4 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Sources & Further Reading
This page was compiled from the following official and reference sources. Visitor numbers and opening hours are indicative — always check the official websites before your trip.