Sofia to Varna train with Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)

Wed, Apr 15
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Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Sofia to Varna

Showing times and prices for Apr 16

Cheapest price

$21

Average price

$22

Fastest journey

7 h 31 m

Average duration

10 h 27 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

378 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Sofia to Varna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Sofia to Varna will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Sofia for Varna on Thu, Apr 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 16 the direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 10 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 31 m .

On Thu, Apr 16 the slowest trains will take 19 h 5 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.

  • Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
    7:15 AM7h35
    Sofia
    2:50 PMVarna
    $211One-way
    0 transfers
  • Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
    10:21 AM7h31
    Sofia
    5:52 PMVarna
    $211One-way
    0 transfers
  • Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
    1:20 PM7h35
    Sofia
    8:55 PMVarna
    $211One-way
    0 transfers
  • Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
    5:05 PM19h05
    Sofia
    12:10 PMVarna
    $231One-way
    1 transfer

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 3h 33m. 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 $76.

Distance: 234 miles (378 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$22

Average price

Cheapest

$30

Average price

$121

Average price

10h 34m

Average total duration

10h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 59m

Average total duration

6h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 33m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

-

CO2 emissions

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.1 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Sofia to Varna train times

The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Varna trains for today, Wednesday, April 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)10:21 AM Sofia
7h31
5:52 PM Varna0 transfersDirect
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)1:20 PM Sofia
7h35
8:55 PM Varna0 transfersDirect
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)5:05 PM Sofia
19h05
12:10 PM Varna1 transfer
Thursday, April 16
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)7:15 AM Sofia
7h35
2:50 PM Varna0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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
BulgariaBulgaria
Icon of train

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
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Sofia to Varna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $22 (€17).
The train from Sofia to Varna takes 7h 31m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Sofia to Varna is 234 miles (378 km).
The first train from Sofia to Varna leaves at 7:15 AM.
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

Most popular trains to and from Varna and Sofia

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