Romanian Railway Company (CFR) to Establish Direct Routes Between Bucharest, Sofia, and Istanbul During Summer Season
Romania's rail company CFR Călători has unveiled new daily direct train services, set to commence in June 2025.
Beginning June 13, the international train "România" will travel directly from Bucharest Nord to Varna, departing at 10:11 and arriving in Varna at 20:55, with operations ceasing on October 12, 2025.
From June 14, the same train will also link Bucharest Nord to Sofia and Istanbul (Halkali terminal), departing at the same hour, arriving in Sofia at 20:35 and continuing on to Istanbul. This connection is scheduled to run daily until October 13, 2025.
A return service from Varna (07:45 departure) to Bucharest Nord (17:32 arrival) will be available daily between June 14 and October 13, 2025.
Below is a summary of the scheduled routes:
- June 13: Bucharest Nord – Varna Departure: 10:11 Arrival: 20:55 (Varna)
- June 14: Bucharest Nord – Sofia Departure: 10:11 Arrival: 20:35 (Sofia)
- June 14: Bucharest Nord – Istanbul (Halkali) Departure: 10:11* Arrival (Halkali): Not specified, train continues after Sofia
*The same train, departing at 10:11, serves both Sofia and Istanbul/Halkali from June 14.
The expanded train services are expected to improve public-transit and transportation networks, benefiting various industries such as tourism and finance. With the automotive industry potentially facing increased exports to Bulgaria and Turkey, these direct train services could provide a more reliable and efficient mode of transport for goods as well.
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