- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Bulgaria’s leading archaeological museum, housed in a former mosque and displaying Thracian, Roman, and medieval treasures.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Varna to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Aug 07
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$21
Fastest journey
7 h 25 m
Average duration
7 h 32 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
368 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Varna to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Varna to Sofia will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Varna for Sofia on Fri, Aug 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Aug 07 the direct trains cover the 368 km distance in an average of 7 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 25 m .
On Fri, Aug 07 the slowest trains will take 7 h 45 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.
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7:50 AM7h25Varna3:15 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers- 10:45 AM7h25Varna6:10 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 PM7h45Varna9:35 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 AM7h25Varna3:15 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 AM7h25Varna6:10 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 PM7h45Varna9:35 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Varna to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Varna to Sofia 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 1h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $21, and a flight costs an average of $87.
Distance: 228 miles (368 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $145 Average price | $23 Average price | $109 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 18m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration 8h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Varna to Sofia is a train with an average price of $22 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Varna to Sofia:
A train is $1 (€0.84) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Varna to Sofia costing on average $23 (€18).
A train is $124 (€100) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Varna to Sofia costing on average $145 (€118).
The fastest way to travel from Varna to Sofia is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 25m.
Train takes on average 8h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Varna and Sofia including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Varna to Sofia 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 $22 (€17) compared to roughly $109 (€88) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $87 (€71). The journey takes 8h 48m versus 5h 16m 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.
Live departures
Varna to Sofia train times
The table below shows live departures for Varna to Sofia trains for today, Thursday, August 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:50 AM Varna | 7h25 | 3:15 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 AM Varna | 7h25 | 6:10 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:50 PM Varna | 7h45 | 9:35 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:35 PM Varna | 12h46 | 5:21 AM Sofia | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Varna to Sofia by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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.
Fri
Aug 07
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Varna to Sofia
Serbia
Bulgaria
Trains from Varna to Sofia run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:50, the last at 16:35. The fastest train covers the 228 miles (368 km) distance in 7h 25m.
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 228 miles (368 km) |
Average train duration 8h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 7h 25m |
First train 7:50 AM |
Last train 4:35 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 Varna to Sofia trainsBulgarian Railways (BDZh) trains will get you between Varna and Sofia 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh) frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Sofia
Things to do in Sofia
Discover the best of Sofia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sofia trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery Kvadrat 500
A major branch of the National Gallery featuring Bulgarian and international art in a large modern exhibition space.
- Must visit
Regional History Museum Sofia
This museum traces Sofia’s past from antiquity to modern times, with standout displays in the restored Central Mineral Baths.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
Sofia’s iconic pedestrian boulevard lined with historic buildings, churches, shops, and constant city life.
- Must visit
Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex
A long Roman-era pedestrian zone with ruins, fountains, and metro access, ideal for understanding ancient Serdica.
- Must visit
Borisova Gradina
A vast landscaped park with lakes, sports facilities, and quiet paths, favored by locals for walks and relaxation.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salad
Shopska salad mixes tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onion, and sirene cheese. It is a Bulgarian staple and a classic start to meals across Sofia.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
Tarator is a cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts. It is especially traditional in summer and widely loved in Bulgarian homes.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
Banitsa is a flaky pastry filled most often with eggs and sirene cheese. It is a beloved breakfast and a symbol of Bulgarian home cooking and holidays.
Andre
Upscale venue focused on modern Balkan and Bulgarian tasting menus, polished service, and a contemporary fine dining setting.
Cosmos
Refined Bulgarian restaurant in a historic house, known for seasonal local cuisine, regional wines, and an elegant but warm atmosphere.
Hadjidraganovite Kashti
Traditional Bulgarian tavern with folk style decor, grilled meats, salads, and classic dishes in a lively, old Sofia setting.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for Europe. Hotels, meals, and public transport usually cost less than in major EU capitals, making Sofia good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 15-25 лв. for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- 30-50 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 80+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 4-7 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% if service is good. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
FAQs: Trains from Varna to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Varna to Sofia 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 Sofia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Varna to Sofia can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $22 (€17).
The train from Varna to Sofia takes 7h 25m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Varna to Sofia is 228 miles (368 km).
The first train from Varna to Sofia leaves at 7:50 AM.
The last train from Varna to Sofia leaves at 4:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Varna to Sofia.
Yes, there is a direct train from Varna to Sofia. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Bulgarian Railways (BDZh).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Varna to Sofia.
The cheapest way to get from Varna to Sofia is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
Yes, the train journey from Varna to Sofia offers scenic views of Bulgaria's diverse landscapes, including the picturesque Balkan Mountains and charming rural areas.
A day trip from Varna to Sofia is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 25m and the distance is 228 miles (368 km). The frequency is 5 per day for trains.
In Sofia, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or outdoor activities in Borisova Gradina, visit the Sofia Zoo to see a wide variety of animals, and learn about the city's past at the Sofia History Museum. Explore ancient Roman ruins at the Serdika Archaeological Complex or experience world-class performances at the Sofia Opera and Ballet. Don't miss the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, vibrant Vitosha Boulevard, and the National Palace of Culture. Visit the Boyana Church for its medieval frescoes and explore the Sofia Central Mineral Baths, a historic site with beautiful architecture.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Sofia allows visitors to explore its main attractions, such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, and the National Palace of Culture, while also enjoying the local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Varna to Sofia.
Sofia is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Varna to Sofia 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 Sofia, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Taxi scams are common; using official taxis with meters or ride-hailing apps is recommended to avoid overcharging. Avoid unlicensed guides and be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves. Overall, staying alert and securing personal belongings helps 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.
More options for your journey from Varna to Sofia
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Most popular trains to and from Sofia and Varna
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