- Must visit
Istanbul Modern
Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Varna to Istanbul
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 10
Cheapest price on Oct 10
$39
Average ticket price on Oct 10
$39
Fastest journey on Oct 10
8 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Oct 10
8 h 30 m
Buses on Oct 10
1
Distance
259 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Varna to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Varna to Istanbul will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Fast buses
On Sat, Oct 10, we found 1 buses from Varna to Istanbul, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 10 the direct buses cover the 259 km distance in an average of 8 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 30 m .
On Sat, Oct 10 the slowest buses will take 8 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
71811208:30 PM8h30Varna5:00 AMIstanbul$391One-way0 transfers
- 71811208:30 PM8h30Varna5:00 AMIstanbul$391One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Varna to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Buses from Varna to Istanbul run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 42m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $26 if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 160 miles (259 km) distance in 6h 30m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 160 miles (259 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 6h 30m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Varna to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator LikeBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $53 |
Live departures
Varna to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Varna to Istanbul buses for today, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7456586 | 8:30 PM Varna | 8h30 | 5:00 AM Istanbul | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Varna to Istanbul buses with Omio?
ArdaTur as well as Infobus, FlixBus, LikeBus and more offer buses services from Varna to Istanbul.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ArdaTur tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ArdaTur?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ArdaTur, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, FlixBus or LikeBus to find the best option for your trip from Varna to Istanbul.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare ArdaTur with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Varna to Istanbul.
Bus providers: ArdaTur, Infobus, LikeBus, FlixBus from Varna to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Varna to Istanbul with ArdaTur, Infobus, LikeBus, FlixBus for as low as $26. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Infobus Duration
7h 20m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$33
Infobus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$26
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
ArdaTur
About
ArdaTur is a bus company based in Haskovo, Bulgaria, established in 1991. It offers extensive bus services across seven countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Germany. ArdaTur operates over 233 daily departures, primarily from major cities like Istanbul, Sofia, and Thessaloniki, providing both intercity and regional routes. The company emphasizes passenger comfort with amenities such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, individual monitors, and complimentary food and drinks on international lines. ArdaTur maintains a modern fleet of over 80 luxury buses and has its own garage and service facility to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ArdaTur Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
$31
ArdaTur frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Refund
If the trip is delayed through the fault of the carrier, 100% of the ticket value and compensation for direct costs to the place of departure will be refunded with supporting documents.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are possible when buying a ticket or at Arda Tur offices up to 24 hours before departure during weak periods and 72 hours during busy periods.
Toilets
Accessibility
Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Bikes
Only foldable bikes are allowed.
LikeBus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average LikeBus Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest LikeBus Price
$43
LikeBus frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Discover the best of Istanbul — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istanbul trip today.
- Must visit
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Major archaeology museum complex displaying masterpieces from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world.
- Must visit
Kariye Museum
Restored church-museum famed for exceptional Byzantine mosaics and frescoes that rival the city’s most celebrated monuments.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic square between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, ideal for walking among Istanbul’s greatest imperial monuments.
- Must visit
İstiklal Avenue
Lively pedestrian avenue lined with historic passages, shops, consulates, and culture venues in the heart of Beyoğlu.
- Must visit
Galata Neighborhood
Historic uphill quarter around the tower with narrow lanes, old facades, and photogenic walks toward Karaköy.
Adana Kebab
Grilled minced lamb kebab from southeastern Turkey, served with vegetables and lavash. A staple in Istanbul kebab houses and a classic local favorite.
- Gluten-free
Midye Dolma
Rice pilaf, currants, pine nuts, and herbs stuffed into mussel shells. A famous Istanbul street food, especially along waterfront districts.
- Vegetarian
Baklava
Layers of thin dough with pistachios or walnuts and syrup. An Ottoman dessert strongly associated with Istanbul's historic sweet shops.
Matbah Restaurant
Historic Sultanahmet restaurant known for refined Ottoman dishes and elegant service in a classic setting near major sights.
Asmalı Cavit
Beloved meyhane in Beyoğlu serving classic meze, rakı, and seasonal seafood in a lively, traditional tavern environment.
Balıkçı Sabahattin
Established Bosphorus fish restaurant known for fresh seafood, meze, and water views. A polished choice for a classic Istanbul dinner.
Turkish lira (₺)
Moderate for major city breaks: dining and transit are reasonable, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more than many nearby Turkish destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ₺250-450 for street food or simple lokanta meal.
- Mid-range
- ₺600-1,200 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ₺1,500+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- ₺90-160 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% if service not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
FAQs: Bus from Varna to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Varna to Istanbul by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Varna to Istanbul can start from as little as $26 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Varna to Istanbul is $41 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Varna to Istanbul is 6h 30m to travel the 160 miles (259 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Varna to Istanbul leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Varna to Istanbul leaves at 10:30 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Varna to Istanbul with ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus, LikeBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Varna to Istanbul, you can count on ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus, LikeBus for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Varna and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Varna , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Varna, Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара) . When arriving in Istanbul , you can end your journey in bus stations like Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Varna, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), located 5 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Varna and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul for bus company ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Varna to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Varna to Istanbul depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- ArdaTur
- Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Varna to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Varna to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Varna to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Varna to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul with the following bus company: Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Türkiye uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its currency. Travelers often find cards widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases, local markets, and rural regions where card acceptance may be limited.
In Istanbul, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without a meter, unofficial tour guides offering expensive or fake services, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, agree on prices beforehand, and stay vigilant in busy areas to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Varna to Istanbul
Most Varna to Istanbul buses use the Varna to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) station pair, with some services arriving at İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1). Use this guide to compare Varna and Istanbul bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Varna
Arrival bus stations in Istanbul
Which Varna station do buses to Istanbul leave from?
Buses from Varna to Istanbul leave from Varna. The station is from Varna city centre at Varna, Mladost, 9009 Varna, Bulgaria.
VarnaVarna, Mladost, 9009 Varna, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Varna from Varna city centre
TRUE
Varna bus station facilities and services
Varna has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack bar and vending machines on site.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM located in the main hall.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varna.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varna: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varna: Wheelchair ramps and accessible entrances.
Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара)bul. "Vladislav Varnenchik" 158, 9000 Varna, Blgariya
City-centre transport
Getting to Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара) from Varna city centre
Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара) is 1 km from Varna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus14, 22, 41, 148
Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара) bus station facilities and services
Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Varna (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.5 km), Restaurant Sea View (0.7 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара): Elevators, ramps.
Which Istanbul station do buses from Varna arrive at?
Buses from Varna to Istanbul most often arrive at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Some services arrive at İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Istanbul arrival station.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey
City-centre transport
Getting to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) from Istanbul city centre
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) is 5 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainM1a, M1b · 11m · $1 · every ~45 min
Bus91E · 20m · $1 · every ~17 min
TramT4 · 22m · $1 · every ~34 min
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) bus station facilities and services
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Terminal (in the station), Kebab Express (0.2 km), Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and throughout the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Elevators, ramps.
İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1)Tayakadın, Terminal Caddesi No:1, 34283 Arnavutköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
City-centre transport
Getting to İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1) from Istanbul city centre
İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1) is 32 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainM11 · 1h 18m · $2 · every ~8 min
BusHvl-3 · 1h 19m · $8 · every ~3 min
Shuttle43m
45m
İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1) bus station facilities and services
İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options available including fast food and cafes.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available at designated areas. ATMs are aTMs available near entrance doors.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1): Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
More options for your journey from Varna to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Varna
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