- Must visit
Varna Archaeological Museum
The city’s flagship museum, famous for the Varna Gold treasure and rich Thracian, Greek, Roman, and medieval collections. One of the most important museum visits in Varna.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Sofia to Varna
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Varna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $21, and a flight costs an average of $88.
Distance: 234 miles (378 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$21 Average price Cheapest | $25 Average price | $130 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 34m Average total duration 10h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 8m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration Fastest 4h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Varna is a train with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Varna:
A train is $4 (€3) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sofia to Varna costing on average $25 (€20).
A train is $109 (€88) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sofia to Varna costing on average $130 (€105).
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Varna is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 45m.
Other travel options to Varna take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 38m.
Train takes on average 10h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Sofia and Varna including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Varna among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Bulgarian Railways (BDZh).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Varna by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Sofia to Varna
BulgariaBulgaria
Trains from Sofia to Varna run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:15, the last at 17:05. The fastest train covers the 234 miles (378 km) distance in 7h 31m.
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 234 miles (378 km) |
Average train duration 10h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 7h 31m |
First train 7:15 AM |
Last train 5:05 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Train companies: Bulgarian Railways (BDZh) from Sofia to Varna trainsBulgarian Railways (BDZh) trains will get you between Sofia and Varna from $21 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 31m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh) frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Varna
Things to do in Varna
Discover the best of Varna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varna trip today.
- Recommended
Retro Museum
A private museum with vintage socialist-era cars, household objects, and memorabilia. Popular for its nostalgic atmosphere and unusual photo opportunities.
- Recommended
Naval Museum
A well-regarded museum covering Bulgarian maritime history, ship models, naval artifacts, and the preserved torpedo boat Drazki in the garden.
- Must visit
Sea Garden
Varna’s signature seaside park with promenades, gardens, monuments, viewpoints, and access to cultural sites. The city’s essential walking area.
- Must visit
Varna Beach Promenade
A lively waterfront walking stretch popular in warm months for sea views, sunsets, and easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.
- Recommended
Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
The main central pedestrian-friendly shopping and strolling street, lined with historic facades, shops, and city life. A natural part of any first visit.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salata
A classic Bulgarian salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It is one of the country’s most iconic starters and very common in Varna.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
A cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts. It is especially popular on the Black Sea coast in summer because it is light and refreshing.
- Gluten-free
Mussels In White Wine
Black Sea mussels cooked with white wine, garlic, and herbs. Varna is a natural place to try them thanks to its coastal location and seafood tradition.
Staria Chinar
A well-known Varna restaurant serving Bulgarian dishes, grilled meats, and Black Sea specialties in a traditional, lively setting.
Parmy Family Restaurant
An established restaurant in Varna known for reliable Bulgarian and European dishes, generous portions, and a casual atmosphere.
Mr Baba
A popular seaside restaurant with a ship-themed interior, known for seafood, fish, and pleasant views near the coast.
Bulgarian Lev
Affordable by European beach-city standards. Food, coffee, and local transport are low cost; summer hotels near the sea rise in price.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- BGN 10-18 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- BGN 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- BGN 70+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- BGN 3-6 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10% in restaurants if service is good. Round up in taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff; not expected for counter service.
TicketVarna
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.00 BGN
- Day pass
- 4.00 BGN
To the city center
Varna Spirka -> Varna Central Railway Station
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Validate your ticket immediately after boarding; inspectors regularly check on buses and trolleybuses.
- Card payment is available in many buses through onboard validators, but carry some cash or use the official app as backup.
FAQs: Trains from Sofia to Varna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Varna by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Varna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Sofia to Varna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $21 (€17).
The train from Sofia to Varna takes 7h 31m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Sofia to Varna leaves at 7:15 AM.
The distance by train from Sofia to Varna is 234 miles (378 km).
The last train from Sofia to Varna leaves at 5:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Sofia to Varna.
Yes, there is a direct train from Sofia to Varna. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Bulgarian Railways (BDZh).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Sofia to Varna.
The cheapest way to get from Sofia to Varna is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Sofia to Varna offers scenic views of Bulgaria's diverse landscapes, including the picturesque Balkan Mountains, lush countryside, and charming villages, making it a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Sofia to Varna is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 31m and covers 234 miles (378 km). The frequency of trips is 5 per day for trains.
In Varna, you can enjoy a dolphin show at Dolphinarium Varna or explore vibrant local markets for traditional crafts and foods. Take a boat tour along the Black Sea coast for stunning views, or visit the Naval Museum to delve into Bulgaria's maritime history. Experience Varna's nightlife in its lively bars and clubs. For best sights, visit the Varna Archaeological Museum, home to the world's oldest gold treasure, wander the scenic Sea Garden, admire the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, explore the medieval Aladzha Monastery, or discover the ancient Varna Roman Baths.
For a fulfilling visit to Varna, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows time to explore the city's key attractions, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Sofia to Varna.
Since both Sofia and Varna are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Varna among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is widely preferred in smaller towns and markets, while cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in cities.
In Varna, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches, markets, and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use meters and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official transportation services and be vigilant with personal belongings to ensure a safe visit.
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.
Most popular train connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Varna
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Most popular trains to and from Varna and Sofia
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