1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Varna to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Nov 25
Cheapest price
$47
Average price
$50
Fastest journey
7 h 20 m
Average duration
7 h 47 m
Buses per day
3
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 $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Varna for Istanbul on Tue, Nov 25, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Nov 25 the direct buses cover the 259 km distance in an average of 7 h 47 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 20 m .
On Tue, Nov 25 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.
627963408:30PM7h30
Varna05:00AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$471One-way
0 transfers
625981408:00AM8h30
Varna05:30PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$471One-way
0 transfers
009:30PM7h20
Varna05:50AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$581One-way
0 transfers
009:30PM7h20
Varna05:50AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$581One-way
0 transfers
627963408:30PM7h30
Varna05:00AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$471One-way
0 transfers
625981408:00AM8h30
Varna05:30PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$471One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Varna to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Varna to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €27, and a flight costs an average of €152.
Distance: 160 miles (259 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
€31 Average price Cheapest | €313 Average price |
9h 17m Average total duration 8h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Varna to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $50 |
Live departures
Varna to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Varna to Istanbul buses for today, Monday, November 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 1:39 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6223839 | 6:00 AM Varna | 8h30 | 2:30 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 6:30 PM Varna | 7h30 | 2:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 7:30 PM Varna | 7h20 | 2:50 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Varna to Istanbul by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Mon
Nov 24
Nov 24
Tue
Nov 25
Nov 25
Wed
Nov 26
Nov 26
Thu
Nov 27
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Dec 13
Sun
Dec 14
Dec 14
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Varna to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Buses from Varna to Istanbul run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) if you book in advance.
There are 3 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 7h 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 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 7h 30m |
First bus 05:00 |
Last bus 22:30 |
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
Bus providers: ArdaTur, Infobus, City Lines, Citylines, Metro Turizm from Varna to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Varna to Istanbul with ArdaTur, Infobus, City Lines, Citylines, Metro Turizm for as low as $33 (€27). 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 Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
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.
City Lines
About
"City Lines" can refer to several different bus companies. One prominent example is Citylines, a leading Bulgarian bus company headquartered in Sofia. It operates an extensive network of 44 routes, connecting 22 cities across Bulgaria and serving 9 European nations with an average of 19 trips daily. Citylines coaches offer amenities such as air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Another is Rochester City Lines, a family-owned and operated charter bus company in Minnesota, United States, providing services for college, corporate, event, religious, school, and workforce transportation. They offer a fleet including motorcoaches, minibuses, and executive vans. Historically, National City Lines, Inc. (NCL) was a significant public transportation holding company in the United States, founded in 1920. NCL acquired numerous local transit systems, often converting streetcar lines to bus operations, a practice sometimes referred to as "bustitution." Additionally, "City Line" is also the name of a bus rapid transit (BRT) line in Spokane, Washington, operated by the Spokane Transit Authority. This 6-mile route, which opened in 2023, utilizes modern, zero-emission battery-electric buses and connects key areas including downtown Spokane and the University District.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 0m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
City Lines frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; must be booked in advance.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
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 Duration
9h 40m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
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.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 0m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
Metro Turizm
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Metro Turizm frequency
1 a day
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 $44 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Varna to Istanbul is $47 (€38); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Varna to Istanbul bus travel time is 7 h for the 161 mile (259 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Varna to Istanbul leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Varna to Istanbul leaves at 11: 30PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Varna to Istanbul with Arda Tur, City Lines, Metro Turizm or Citylines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
For the best Varna to Istanbul bus to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Arda Tur, Infobus, City Lines, Metro Turizm or Citylines. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services to Istanbul from Varna to compare what amenities they may offer.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара), which is located around 1.6 miles (2.6 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), located 4.8 miles (7.8 km) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month for a bus from Varna to Istanbul is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Varna to Istanbul including taking a bus or flight.
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.
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul for bus providers Infobus and City Lines.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies Infobus and City Lines.
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.
- City Lines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Varna to Istanbul, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
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).
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Varna to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
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.
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Varna to Istanbul with the following bus providers: Infobus and City Lines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul with the following bus companies: Infobus and City Lines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Varna to Istanbul with the following bus providers: Infobus and City Lines.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Varna to Istanbul
Varna
Istanbul
The major bus station for departures in Varna is Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара) for your trip from Varna to Istanbul.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Varna (in the station)
- Bistro Bulgaria (0.5 km)
- Restaurant Sea View (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Varna, Avtogara (Варна, Aвтогара)
- Bus: 14, 22, 41, 148
Varna
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Istanbul is Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) for your trip to Istanbul from Varna.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
5 km
Car connection
O-3 OtoyoluWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Terminal (in the station)
- Kebab Express (0.2 km)
- Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
- Metro: M1A Bus: 83O, 91E, 97G
Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria)
information
İstanbul, Havalimanı (Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1)
information
Most popular bus connections from Varna
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
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
