- 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 05
Cheapest price
€17
Average price
€18
Fastest journey
7 h 25 m
Average duration
8 h 50 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
378 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 €18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €17.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Varna for Sofia on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 8 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 25 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 12 h 46 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€171One-way0 transfers- 10:45 AM7h25Varna6:10 PMSofia€171One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 PM7h45Varna9:35 PMSofia€171One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 PM12h46Varna5:21 AMSofia€191One-way1 transfer
- 7:50 AM7h25Varna3:15 PMSofia€171One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 AM7h25Varna6:10 PMSofia€171One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 PM7h45Varna9:35 PMSofia€171One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 PM12h46Varna5:21 AMSofia€191One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Varna to Sofia
BulgariaBulgaria
Trains from Varna to Sofia run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €17 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:50, the last at 16:35. The fastest train covers the 234 miles (378 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 234 miles (378 km) |
Average train duration 8h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price €17 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 7h 25m |
First train 7:50 AM |
Last train 4:35 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
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
Live departures
Varna to Sofia train times
The table below shows live departures for Varna to Sofia trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:50 PM Varna | 7h45 | 9:35 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:35 PM Varna | 12h46 | 5:21 AM Sofia | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 7:50 AM Varna | 7h25 | 3:15 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 AM Varna | 7h25 | 6:10 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Bulgarian Railways (BDZh) from Varna to Sofia trainsBulgarian Railways (BDZh) trains will get you between Varna and Sofia from €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
€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 €17, while the average price is around €17.
The train from Varna to Sofia takes 7h 25m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Varna to Sofia is 234 miles (378 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 3 times per day, provided by Bulgarian Railways (BDZh).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Varna to Sofia.
The train journey from Varna to Sofia offers scenic views of Bulgaria's diverse landscape, including lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages.
Yes, you can take the train from Varna to Sofia.
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
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sofia and Varna
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