Why is the narrow gauge train from Bansko a mandatory stop?
Whether you are in Bansko for the ski season or for a summer mountain vacation, the narrow-gauge railway offers a unique perspective on three of the largest Bulgarian mountains: Pirin, Rila and the Rhodope Mountains. The Septemvri – Dobrinishte route, on which Bansko is a key stop, is a true engineering masterpiece. The train overcomes huge elevation changes through a complex system of tunnels and spiral climbs, known as “figures of eight” and “figures of six”.
🚉 Bansko Train Station: Location and access
Bansko Railway Station is located at Todor Alexandrov Street“. The location is extremely convenient:
- From the historic center and the Holy Trinity Church: 10-12 minutes on foot.
- From the starting station of The Gondola: about 25 minutes walk (or a short taxi for 5-7 BGN).
- Parking: There are enough free parking spaces around the station if you are coming by car from the surrounding villages.
Current timetable of the narrow-gauge railway from Bansko for 2026
Trains on the narrow gauge line run daily, but their frequency is limited to 4 trains per day in each direction. It is important to plan the weather Please be careful as delays are possible due to the mountainous terrain.
Direction: Bansko → Dobrinishte (Short route)
This 15-minute hike is perfect for a quick afternoon relaxation in the thermal springs of Dobrinishte.
| Train No. | Departs from Bansko | Arrives in Dobrinishte |
|---|---|---|
| PV 16101 | 06:12 a.m. | 06:27 a.m. |
| PV 16103 | 10:45 a.m. | 11:00 a.m. |
| PV 16105 | 2:38 p.m. | 2:53 p.m. |
| PV 16107 | 6:35 p.m. | 6:50 p.m. |
Direction: Bansko → Velingrad → Septemvri
This is the main line leading to the highest station in the Balkans and the SPA capital Velingrad.
| Departs from Bansko | Avramovo Train Station | Velingrad | September |
|---|---|---|---|
| 05:35 a.m. | 06:55 a.m. | 08:15 a.m. | 11:35 a.m. |
| 10:20 a.m. | 11:40 a.m. | 12:55 p.m. | 4:05 p.m. |
| 2:10 p.m. | 3:30 p.m. | 4:45 p.m. | 8:05 p.m. |
| 6:05 p.m. | 7:25 p.m. | 8:40 p.m. | — |
Ticket prices and discounts
Traveling with the narrow gauge railway from Bansko is not only romantic, but also extremely affordable. BDZ maintains social prices that make the excursion budget-friendly even for large families.
- Bansko – Dobrinishte: about 1.60 – 2.00 BGN.
- Bansko – Velingrad: about 5.50 – 7.00 BGN.
- Bansko – September (entire route): about 10.00 – 14.00 BGN.
How to save? If you buy A round-trip ticket, you receive a 10% discount. Pensioners, students and pupils with valid cards travel with a 50% discount. Children under 7 years old ride for free, but without the right to a separate seat (unless paid extra).
Top 4 day trip routes from Bansko
1. Mineral baths in Dobrinishte
The easiest option. The trip is short, and in Dobrinishte you will find the “Alfa SPA” complex or the public bath with healing water. Perfect for ending a day of skiing.
2. To the highest station: Avramovo (1267 m)
Avramovo station is located in the saddle between Rila and the Rhodope Mountains. The views during the climb from Yakoruda to Avramovo are breathtaking. You can get off, have a picnic among the alpine meadows and catch the train back.
3. Belitsa and the Dancing Bear Park
You get off at Belitsa station. From there, there are taxis that will take you to the Four Paws Foundation Park in about 15-20 minutes. This is a favorite route for families with children.
4. Velingrad – the SPA capital
The journey takes about 2 and a half hours one way. Velingrad offers beautiful parks (Lake Kleptuza) and numerous hotels with mineral pools, available to outside visitors for a daily fee.
📸 Expert tips for photographers and travelers
- Best side to sit: When you leave Bansko for Velingrad, sit down at left side on the wagon. This way you will have a frontal view of the gorges and precipices.
- The windows: Most carriages allow you to open the windows. This is great for reflection-free photos, but watch out for branches and tunnels.
- Provisions: There is no restaurant car or vending machines on the train. Get water and food from the supermarkets in Bansko before departure.
- Winter travel: In winter, the train runs through snowdrifts and the view is like something out of a fairy tale, but the stations can be very cold. Dress warmly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I buy tickets online?
Yes, through the BDZ website (tickets.bdz.bg). You must show the QR code to the conductor. We recommend purchasing in advance for weekends.
Are there toilets on the train?
Yes, there is a small toilet in each carriage, but the hygiene is basic. It is better to use the ones at the stations in Bansko or Velingrad.
Are bicycles transported?
Yes, the narrow gauge is very popular with cyclists. There is a small fee for a bicycle (about 2 BGN) and it is usually left in the vestibule of the carriage or in a special van, if there is one.
🚂 Plan your adventure today!
The narrow gauge railway is the heart of the Rhodope Mountains and the pride of Bansko. Don't miss this experience!
