- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Bulgaria’s main archaeological museum, housed in a former Ottoman mosque, with major Thracian, Roman, and medieval collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Varna to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$21
Fastest journey
7 h 25 m
Average duration
7 h 32 m
Trains per day
3
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
Of the 3 trains that leave Varna for Sofia on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 378 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 Sun, Jun 21 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, bus, and flight for Varna to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the bus 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 50m. 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 $85.
Distance: 234 miles (378 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$21 Average price Cheapest | $24 Average price | $102 Average price | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 10m Average total duration 8h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 2m Average total duration 7h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 50m 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 Varna to Sofia is a train with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Varna to Sofia:
A train is $3 (€3) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Varna to Sofia costing on average $24 (€20).
A train is $81 (€66) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Varna to Sofia costing on average $102 (€83).
The fastest way to travel from Varna to Sofia is by flight with an average journey time of 50m.
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 32m.
Train takes on average 8h 40m.
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.
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.
Live departures
Varna to Sofia train times
The table below shows live departures for Varna to Sofia trains for today, Saturday, June 20. 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, bus, or flight
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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 $21 (€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 $21 (€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
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.
- Recommended
National Gallery Square 500
The country’s largest art museum, displaying Bulgarian and international art in a grand modern complex near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Recommended
Sofia History Museum
A well-curated city museum inside the former Central Mineral Baths, covering Sofia’s urban, political, and cultural history.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
Sofia’s main pedestrian boulevard, lined with shops and lively city views, with Vitosha Mountain often visible at the southern end.
- Recommended
Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex
A central open-air archaeological zone integrated into the modern city, popular for walking, photos, and easy access to Roman ruins.
- Recommended
Borisova Gradina
Sofia’s best-known large park, offering tree-lined walks, monuments, sports areas, and a local daily-life atmosphere.
- 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 dishes and a staple in Sofia restaurants.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
A traditional baked pastry made with thin layers of dough, eggs, and white cheese. It is a beloved breakfast and snack across Sofia and Bulgaria.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
A cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts, especially popular in warm weather. It is refreshing and distinctly Bulgarian.
Moma Bulgarian Food and Wine
An established central Sofia restaurant focused on refined Bulgarian cuisine, local wines, and stylish interiors inspired by national traditions.
Shtastlivetsa Vitoshka
A popular and established restaurant on Vitosha Boulevard offering a broad menu, dependable service, and a lively atmosphere suited to a casual meal in central Sofia.
Hadjidraganov's Houses
A well-known traditional Bulgarian restaurant with folklore decor, regional specialties, and a rustic atmosphere popular with visitors seeking classic local dishes.
Bulgarian Lev
Affordable by European capital standards. Public transport, casual dining, and coffee are low cost; hotels vary by season and location.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- BGN 10-18 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- BGN 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- BGN 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- BGN 3-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
About 10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips for hotel staff are appreciated but not required. No tip is expected for counter service.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.60 BGN
- Day pass
- 4.00 BGN
To the city center
Sofia Sever, Sofia -> Sofia Central Railway Station, Sofia
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Validate paper tickets immediately after boarding; inspectors regularly check tickets on buses, trams, and the metro.
- Card payment is available in the Sofia Metro and on many vehicles via contactless validators, but carry a backup payment method for older buses or trams.
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 $21 (€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 cheapest way to get from Varna to Sofia is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Varna to Sofia offers scenic views of Bulgaria's diverse landscape, including lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages.
A day trip from Varna to Sofia is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 25m. However, there are 5 train trips per day covering the 234 miles (378 km) distance.
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.
Since both Varna and Sofia 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 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
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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