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Varna to Istanbul from $14: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Varna, Bulgaria
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Varna to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$14 by trainBest price
261 kmDistance
3h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Varna to Istanbul with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$24-32
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
13h  28m
Estimated price
$14-32
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 261 km
Duration: 3h 41m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  40m
Estimated price
$34-53
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  6m
Estimated price
$67-100
Company
Turkish Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  41m
Estimated price
$221-490

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $34 $34 $34 $34 $34 $34 $34
Fly $173 $289 $158 $173 $219 $252 $336
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Varna to Istanbul

Traveling from Varna, Bulgaria to Istanbul, Turkey involves a journey through coastal charm and vibrant city life, offering you a blend of serene beachscapes and bustling markets.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia.
• Rich in history and cultural experiences.
Beyoğlu
• Bustling Istiklal Street offers shops and cafes.
• Vibrant nightlife and art scene attract locals and tourists.
Kadıköy
• Trendy vibe with local markets and eateries.
• Great views of the Bosphorus from parks.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visit to Istanbul's highlights can greatly enhance your experience.

Hagia Sophia
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer fewer crowds and stunning light.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays are ideal; explore the museum's treasures without weekend rush.
Grand Bazaar
Visit in the late morning for a quieter shopping experience before peak hours.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a mix of Mediterranean and continental climates, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best times to explore the city comfortably. Weather can significantly impact your travel experience, from enjoying outdoor sights during the pleasant shoulder seasons to braving the heat or occasional rain in summer and winter.

Dining in Istanbul: A Culinary Journey

Don’t miss trying a traditional kebab at Çiya Sofrası in Kadıköy, where the smoky flavors and diverse regional specialties showcase the rich tapestry of Turkish cuisine. Unlike the more straightforward seafood dishes you might find in Varna, this experience immerses you in a vibrant atmosphere filled with aromatic spices and colorful presentations that truly reflect the essence of Istanbul.

Varna - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Varna and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
0700 20 544
Website
https://ardatur.bg/en/

Bus from Varna Central Bus Station to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
22-29
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
https://www.citylines.eu

Bus from Varna to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
22-29
Contact phone
+359 (0) 885754058
Website
burgasbus.info

Bus from Varna to Burgas South

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
22-29
Train
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Varna to Dimitrovgrad

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
22-29

Train from Dimitrovgrad to Svilengrad

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
22-29

Train from Svilengrad to Halkali

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
22-29
Plane
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Varna (VAR) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
223-224
Drive

Drive from Varna to Istanbul

Average Duration
6h 6m
Estimated price
63-98

Varna to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Varna and Istanbul offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Average price
€64 - €101
Departure Point
Varna station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Departure Point
Varna Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Departure Point
Varna Central Bus Station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your bus ticket in advance with Arda Tur, the main operator for this route, to secure the best prices, which range from €23 to €29; you can find their website at Arda Tur.
• Familiarize yourself with Istanbul Esenler Otogari before arrival; it's one of the largest bus stations in Turkey, and you can navigate it better by checking the station map at Esenler Otogari Map.
• Prepare for customs procedures when crossing the border; have your passport and any necessary documentation ready as the bus will stop at the border for checks, which might add to your total travel time.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Varna to Istanbul.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Varna and Istanbul is approximately 260.7 km. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes to reach Istanbul from Varna by plane, 13 hours and 31 minutes by train, 6 hours and 3 minutes by car, and 9 hours and 6 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Varna to Istanbul is by train, as it is relatively inexpensive and can take around 13 hours and 31 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only around 3 hours and 41 minutes.
When traveling from Varna to Istanbul the prices for train tickets range from €11 to €22. For bus transportation, the prices vary from €20 to €29.
The best way to travel from Varna to Istanbul without a car is by bus via Malko Tarnovo. This option takes approximately 9 hours and 6 minutes and costs between €19 and €32. Another option is to take the train, which takes about 13 hours and 31 minutes and costs between €11 and €22. Alternatively, you can fly from Varna to Istanbul, which takes around 3 hours and 41 minutes and costs between €182 and €436.
Yes, there is a direct link between Varna and Istanbul. You can take a direct bus from Varna Central Bus Station to Istanbul Esenler Otogari, which takes approximately 9 hours and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train from Varna to Istanbul, with transfers at Dimitrovgrad, Kapikule, and Halkali, which takes about 13 hours and 31 minutes.
The flight between Varna and Istanbul is typically around 1 hour. The prices for this flight can vary between €188 and €432.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Istanbul with over 1596 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at €22.