Public transport in Plovdiv will be free during the final hours of 2025 and throughout January 1, 2026, following a decision approved by the city’s Municipal Council. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve mobility and accessibility during New Year celebrations.
Mayor Kostadin Dimitrov announced the measure during the council session, describing it as a way to ease access to the city center and encourage residents to take part in festive events. He said the decision reflects the municipality’s intention to support safer, more convenient travel during one of the busiest nights of the year.
According to the approved plan, buses and other forms of public transport will operate free of charge from the evening of December 31 until the end of January 1. City officials expect the move to reduce traffic congestion, limit parking pressure in central areas, and create a more relaxed holiday atmosphere.
The initiative has been implemented with the support of carrier Petko Angelov, who backed the idea of encouraging residents to leave their cars at home. Angelov said free transport would make it easier for people to reach central locations and enjoy holiday events without worrying about traffic or parking.
Beyond the New Year period, the Municipal Council also approved changes to public transport fares starting in 2026. From January, passengers will travel with a ticket priced at one lev, equivalent to approximately €0.51. This represents a notable reduction compared to current fares.
From February 1, 2026, the ticket price will be reduced further to 50 euro cents. Mayor Dimitrov explained that the step is part of a broader adjustment of local transport and service fees, aimed at making public services more affordable for residents.
The mayor emphasized that the fare changes are intended to encourage greater use of public transport in the long term. By keeping prices low, the municipality hopes to promote sustainable mobility and reduce reliance on private vehicles across the city.
During the same session, Dimitrov addressed concerns related to paid parking in Plovdiv’s Blue Zone. He assured councilors and residents that although prices will be updated administratively, there are no plans to increase parking charges.
The scope and regulation of the Blue Zone are expected to undergo further refinement. Discussions are ongoing about possible adjustments to its operation, including zoning and enforcement, but officials stressed that any changes would not result in higher fees for drivers.
The Municipal Council also approved amendments to the ordinance governing local fees and service prices. These changes form part of a wider effort to align municipal services with current economic conditions while maintaining affordability.
In addition, councilors adopted Plovdiv’s Cultural Calendar for the coming year, increasing its budget by 10 percent. Mayor Dimitrov described the move as an investment in the city’s cultural life, highlighting the importance of festivals, performances, and public events in strengthening community engagement.
The expanded cultural budget is expected to support a range of initiatives, including concerts, exhibitions, and traditional celebrations. City officials believe these activities play a key role in attracting visitors and enhancing Plovdiv’s reputation as a cultural hub.
During his remarks, Dimitrov also commented on the stalled renovation of the Plovdiv Concert Hall. He noted that reconstruction work has been halted for another month due to an ongoing dispute between the contractor and the contracting authority, the Ministry of Culture.
According to the mayor, the municipality has fulfilled all its obligations related to the project. However, progress now depends on resolving issues at the national level, as the Ministry of Culture oversees the contract.
The delay has raised concerns among cultural organizations and residents, as the concert hall is a major venue for performances in the city. Dimitrov said the municipality remains ready to move forward as soon as the dispute is settled.
Overall, the council session highlighted a mix of short-term and long-term measures aimed at improving urban life in Plovdiv. From free transport during New Year celebrations to lower fares, cultural investments, and stable parking fees, city leaders signaled a commitment to accessibility and community-focused policies as 2026 approaches.