- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Sofia’s main archaeology museum displays Thracian, Roman and medieval finds in a former mosque. It is ideal for understanding Bulgaria’s long history.
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Travel Information
Compare coach and flight for Vienna to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Vienna to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £40. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the coach is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £40, and a flight costs an average of £15.
Distance: 818 km
Compare bus with
Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|
£60 Average Price Cheapest | £83 Average Price |
16h 15m Average total duration 15h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 21m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.5 - 4.9kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Compare prices and tickets Vienna to Sofia by coach or flight
Compare coach 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 Vienna to Sofia
Austria
Bulgaria
Take a train from Vienna to Sofia and enjoy the approximately 818 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
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
Flight from £15
Distance 818 km |
Average train duration 1h 7m |
High Season Jul - Sept |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £15
Train companies: ÖBB | REX from Vienna to Sofia trainsÖBB | REX trains will get you between Vienna and Sofia from £15. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
ÖBB | REX
About
The ÖBB REX is a regional express train operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities and towns across the country. They are semi fast regional trains which call at fewer stations than regular regional trains. There are different ÖBB REX train types like Cityjet, Talent, Desiro and City Shuttle all offering 2nd class tickets only. Some popular ÖBB REX routes include Salzburg to Worgl, Innsbruck to Kufstein and Graz to Seltzhal.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 larger piece included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Vending machines with snacks and drinks on most trains. Some trains have bistro service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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
Sofia History Museum
Set in the former mineral baths, this museum presents Sofia’s urban development, daily life and civic history in a striking historic building.
- Recommended
National Gallery at the Palace
A major national gallery in a former royal palace, showing Bulgarian art from past centuries to modern works in grand historic interiors.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
A broad pedestrian boulevard lined with landmarks, shops and public buildings. It is Sofia’s main walking route for sightseeing and people-watching.
- Recommended
Independence Square
A central square between key institutions and churches, with Roman remains nearby. It is a useful starting point for exploring historic Sofia on foot.
- Recommended
Borisova Gradina
A city garden at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, popular for walks, concerts and open views. It offers a relaxed local atmosphere beyond the busiest centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska salata
Shopska salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and sirene cheese. A national staple closely linked with Bulgarian home cooking and rakia.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
Banitsa is a flaky pastry pie with eggs and white cheese, baked for breakfast and festive occasions. It is one of Bulgaria’s most familiar comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
Tarator is a cold yoghurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic and walnuts. It is a classic summer dish in Bulgaria, especially refreshing in Sofia’s heat.
Cosmos
Stylish restaurant focused on Bulgarian ingredients and contemporary presentation, with a refined dining room suited to a special meal.
Pod Lipite
Traditional Bulgarian restaurant in a historic setting, known for regional dishes, folk-style interiors and a polished but welcoming atmosphere.
Hadjidraganovite kashti
Long-established Bulgarian venue serving grills, salads and classic national dishes in a lively, rustic tavern atmosphere near the city centre.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for Europe: hotels, meals and public transport are cheaper than in many EU capitals, though central areas and upscale venues cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 12-20 лв. for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- 25-45 лв. per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- 80+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 4-6 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Round up in cafés and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is usual for good service if not already included.
FAQs: Vienna to Sofia train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Vienna 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.
The train distance from Vienna to Sofia is 818 km.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Vienna to Sofia.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Vienna to Sofia.
To get from Vienna to Sofia, you can choose from several travel options including coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Vienna to Sofia.
The cheapest way to get from Vienna to Sofia is by flight, costing approximately £15.
Booking trains from Vienna to Sofia in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Vienna to Sofia is considered scenic as it passes through picturesque landscapes including the lush green hills and vineyards of Austria, the historic Danube River, and the rolling mountains of Bulgaria, offering travellers a visually captivating experience.
In Sofia, you can explore Borisova Gradina, a large and scenic park, visit the Sofia Zoo, one of the oldest and largest in the Balkans, and delve into history at the Sofia History Museum. Discover ancient Roman ruins at the Serdika Archaeological Complex, and enjoy performances at the Sofia Opera and Ballet. Don't miss the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, vibrant Vitosha Boulevard, and the National Palace of Culture. Experience the medieval frescoes at Boyana Church and admire the architecture of the Sofia Central Mineral Baths.
To explore Sofia's main attractions, 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Vienna to Sofia.
Most popular train connections from Vienna
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Most popular trains to and from Sofia and Vienna
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