Trains

The trains are mostly like British rail about 30 years ago: 8 seat compartments with a side passage.

The trains are very old and slow, but offer a cheap service and you get a great view of the country side. The added bonus is that you will end up talking to your fellow passengers in some form or other, and have a very social journey.

Bulgarians are very social, and will share what little food they have - be prepared to do the same as you will be in that carriage together for some time. Don't expect to have a buffet car, so make sure you have water at least! I can't say much positive about the toilet facilities either.....

Summer 2005 Margaret, Naomi and myself when from Sofia to Plovdiv - about 145 kilometres. It cost about 24 leva (£8.00), but it took 6 hours.