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

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

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$14 - Night train, trainBest price

261 kmDistance

1h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul to Varna 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.

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Type	Mo 20/01	Tu 21/01	We 22/01	Th 23/01	Fr 24/01	Sa 25/01	Su 26/01
Bus	$34	$34	$34	$34	$34	$34	$34
Fly	$202	$158	$159	$247	$167	$167	$166

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Istanbul - Varna operators

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

Plane

Website

turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Varna (VAR)

Average Duration

1h 3m

Estimated price

€20110-2014

Train

Contact phone

+35929311111

Website

bdz.bg

Train from Halkali to Dimitrovgrad

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

€2015-2011

Train from Dimitrovgrad to Varna

Average Duration

4h 58m

Estimated price

€2015-2011

Bus

Contact phone

0700 20 544

Website

ardatur.bg

Bus from Istanbul Esenler Otogari to Varna Central Bus Station

Average Duration

9h 30m

Estimated price

€4470-4471

Contact phone

+49 30 300 137 300

Website

flixbus.de

Bus from Istanbul Esenler bus station to Varna

Average Duration

9h 15m

Estimated price

€31-49

Contact phone

+359 (0) 885754058

Website

burgasbus.info

Bus from Istanbul to Burgas South

Average Duration

Estimated price

€2017-2018

Bus from Burgas South to Varna

Average Duration

Estimated price

€2015-2019

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

Traveling between Istanbul and Varna 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

Halkali station

Arrival Point

Varna station

Departure Point

Istanbul Airport

Arrival Point

Varna Airport

Departure Point

Istanbul Esenler Otogari station

Arrival Point

Varna Central Bus Station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Book your ticket in advance through the Arda Tur website (ardatur.com) or other operators like Metro Turizm (metroturizm.com.tr) to secure your seat and compare prices, as buses tend to fill up, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Bring a light jacket or a shawl as the bus can get a bit chilly during the journey from Istanbul to Varna, and it's a good idea to layer up for comfort during the 9-hour ride.

• Upon arrival at Varna Central Bus Station, use the 'Varna Transport' app to check local public transport options, as buses and trams are readily available for easy access to the city center, beaches, and other tourist attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Istanbul to Varna.

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The distance between Istanbul and Varna is approximately 260.7 km. By plane, the typical travel time is 1 hour and 46 minutes. By train, it takes approximately 15 hours and 19 minutes to reach Varna from Istanbul. If traveling by car, the journey typically takes around 6 hours and 2 minutes, while by bus, the travel time is around 8 hours and 30 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Istanbul to Varna is by train, with fares ranging from €10 to €22. While it is an affordable option, it is important to consider that the journey takes approximately 15 hours and 19 minutes. For a more time-efficient option, flying is the best choice, with a travel time of only 1 hour and 46 minutes. However, it is worth noting that airfare prices range from €183 to €440.

The prices for a train journey between Istanbul and Varna range from €10 to €22. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip from Varna to Istanbul vary from €9 to €17.

To get from Istanbul to Varna without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 455.4 km, and it usually takes around 6 hours and 2 minutes to drive from Istanbul to Varna. Rental prices for a car can vary, but you can expect to pay around €64 - €101 for the journey.

The best way to travel from Istanbul to Varna without a car is by bus via Burgas. This route takes approximately 8 hours and costs around €23-€37. Another option is to fly, which is the fastest method, taking only 1 hour and 46 minutes, but can be more expensive, ranging from €183-€440. A third option is to take the train, which is the longest route, taking 15 hours and 19 minutes, but is a more affordable option, costing around €10-€22.

Yes, there is no direct train service between Istanbul and Varna. However, there are train services available with transfers that take approximately 15 hours and 19 minutes. Buses, on the other hand, offer a direct link between the two cities, with a journey time of around 8 hours and 30 minutes.

The flight between Istanbul and Varna typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it the quickest mode of transportation between the two cities. The cost of a flight can vary, with prices ranging from €189 to €439.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Varna. With over 1395 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at €27 per night, giving you a range of affordable choices.