- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$21
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$21
Fastest journey on Sep 19
7 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
8 h 50 m
Trains on Sep 19
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 $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 4 trains from Varna to Sofia, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 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 Sat, Sep 19 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$211One-way0 transfers- 10:45 AM7h25Varna6:10 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 PM7h45Varna9:35 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 PM12h46Varna5:21 AMSofia$231One-way1 transfer
- 7:50 AM7h25Varna3:15 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 AM7h25Varna6:10 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 PM7h45Varna9:35 PMSofia$211One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 PM12h46Varna5:21 AMSofia$231One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 bus, with an average ticket price of $30 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 43m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.4 - 0.9kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, while a flight costs an average of $225.
Distance: 234 miles (378 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$225 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 48m Average total duration 7h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Varna to Sofia is a bus with an average price of $30.
This is compared to other travel options from Varna to Sofia:
A bus is $196 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Varna to Sofia costing on average $225.
The fastest way to travel from Varna to Sofia is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 43m.
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Varna and Sofia including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Varna to Sofia among Omio's users.
Live departures
Varna to Sofia train times
The table below shows live departures for Varna to Sofia trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:35 PM Varna | 12h46 | 5:21 AM Sofia | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 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 | |
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, 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 Varna to Sofia
BulgariaBulgaria
Take a train from Varna to Sofia and enjoy the approximately 234 miles (378 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 07:50, the last at 16:35.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22
Distance 234 miles (378 km) |
First train 7:50 AM |
Last train 4:35 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22
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.
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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