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SOF destination photo
VAR destination photo

SOFVAR

Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to Varna Airport (Varna)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning vantage point over the rugged spine of the Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina), the historic medieval hills of Veliko Tarnovo, and the dramatic northern Black Sea coastline upon descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Iskar Gorge

Just after takeoff, witness the dramatic limestone cliffs carved by the Iskar River cutting through the mountains.

🏔️

Central Balkan Peaks

Fly parallel to the highest ridges of the Stara Planina range, including Botev Peak.

🏰

Veliko Tarnovo

Spot the winding Yantra River and the medieval Tsarevets Fortress situated on the hills of the former capital.

🗿

Madara Plateau

Look for the massive white limestone cliffs near Shumen, famous for the ancient Madara Rider relief.

🏖️

Northern Coastline

During the final approach, enjoy views of the white cliffs and resorts like Golden Sands north of Varna.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes into the flight for the best mountain views. In winter, the snow-capped Balkan peaks are particularly photogenic from this side.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏔️

Vitosha Mountain

Immediately after departure from Sofia, catch a close-up view of the massive Vitosha dome to the south.

🌹

Rose Valley

View the fertile valley between the Balkan Mountains and Sredna Gora, world-famous for its rose oil production.

💧

Koprinka Reservoir

A large, shimmering body of water that marks the transition into the central part of the country.

🚢

Varna Lake & Port

Observe the long canal and industrial port infrastructure as the plane aligns with the runway at VAR.

🌅

Black Sea Horizon

Catch the first glimpse of the deep blue Black Sea stretching toward the horizon during the descent.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to experience the sunset over the Bulgarian landscape. This side provides a better view of the Varna Port and the city's industrial southern districts during the landing sequence.

Top Activities in Varna
Route Information

Distance: 364 km (226 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 36 min

Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Arrival: VAR (43.232101, 27.8251)

Route Type: Domestic

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