Giro d’Italia 2026 will be the 109th edition of one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world – the Tour of Italy.
The race will take place from 8 May to 31 May 2026 and will begin with a historic start in Bulgaria, which will host the Grande Partenza (Big Start). The first three stages of the race will be held in the country before the peloton moves on to Italy.
The official start will be in Nessebar, while the traditional finish will take place in Rome.
Plovdiv will host the start of Stage 3 of Giro d’Italia 2026. The stage is 174 km long and includes a total of 1,600 meters of elevation gain, promising a dynamic and challenging race for the riders.

Full Event Program:
May 5 – Plovdiv Shines with Giro
Conceptual artistic lighting of key historical and architectural landmarks of Plovdiv in the colors of Giro d’Italia: the Ancient Theatre, the Roman Stadium, and houses in the Old Town.
Installation of city branding dedicated to hosting Giro d’Italia.
A spectacular urban installation – a replica of the Giro d’Italia trophy, Trofeo Senza Fine.

May 9 – Giro d’Italia Warm-up Party
DJ stage at the starting area – Central Square.

May 10 – Start Day
12:00 – City parade along the pedestrian zone, Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Street, featuring musicians and performers from Plovdiv’s cultural institutions – from the city center to the стартовата площадка (starting area).
12:30 – Concert by “The Foundation” at the Ancient Theatre.
13:00 – Official start of the Giro d’Italia – Central Square.
13:00 – City cycling parade with participants of all ages, including numerous games with special prizes, as well as music.

The events are part of the program of the Plovdiv 2019 Foundation and the Municipality of Plovdiv for hosting one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world – Giro d’Italia.