My First Overnight Sleeper Train in Bulgaria
When I told people I was catching the overnight sleeper train from Sofia to Burgas, I received a few raised eyebrows. But after experiencing a major health issue last year, which meant driving wasn’t an option for me, the train seemed like the perfect alternative.
I booked my ticket online through the BDZ website (https://www.bdz.bg/bg), which was surprisingly easy. For around €30, I chose a Business Class sleeper, giving me a private compartment for the journey. Considering it would also save me a night’s accommodation, it felt like great value.
Boarding the train didn’t quite go to plan. I managed to get on the wrong carriage! Fortunately, a conductor quickly came to my rescue and escorted me through several carriages to my cabin.
My first impression? Spotlessly clean.
The bed was already made with fresh sheets, a clean pillowcase and a blanket. The compartment was air-conditioned, I could lock the door from the inside, and I had my own private wash basin. I was also pleasantly surprised by how clean the shared toilet was. My only tip would be to pack a small packet of tissues, as there wasn’t any toilet paper provided.
The train left around 11 pm, and after settling in, I drifted off to sleep surprisingly easily. I didn’t wake once during the night until there was a gentle tap on my cabin door about 15 minutes before arriving in Burgas just before 6 am.
Stepping off the train after a full night’s sleep was a wonderful way to begin my trip. I was visiting a friend, and our timing couldn’t have been better. We were there to experience the beautiful Bulgarian tradition of July Morning, watching the sun rise over the Black Sea together.
A few days later, I returned via Plovdiv on a daytime train. The carriage was almost empty, making for another relaxed and comfortable journey.
Would I take Bulgaria’s sleeper train again?
Without hesitation.
It’s affordable, comfortable, surprisingly well-maintained, and a wonderfully stress-free way to travel across the country. Sometimes slowing down is part of the adventure.
