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VAR destination photo
SOF destination photo

VARSOF

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior view of the main Balkan Mountain range and the historic landmarks of north-eastern Bulgaria during the flight path westward.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Black Sea Coast

Panoramic views of the Golden Sands and northern coastline during the initial ascent.

🗿

Shumen Monument

The massive 1300 Years of Bulgaria monument perched on the plateau above the city of Shumen.

🏔️

Central Balkan Range

Direct views of the highest peaks of the Stara Planina mountains, often snow-capped in winter.

🏞️

Iskar Gorge Entrance

The beginning of the dramatic canyon carved by the Iskar River as the plane nears the Sofia Valley.

Choose the right side for sunset flights to see the peaks of the Balkan Mountains bathed in golden light. On clear days, you can see as far as the Danube River to the north. Watch for the Madara Plateau shortly after passing Shumen.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Varna Lake

Excellent view of the long lake and the Port of Varna immediately after takeoff.

🌳

Kamchiya Reserve

The dense forests of the Kamchiya biosphere reserve and the meandering river valley to the south.

⛰️

Sredna Gora Peaks

Rolling mountain ridges that run parallel to the Balkan Mountains during the middle of the route.

🏙️

Sofia City South

Aerial view of the southern suburbs and Vitosha Mountain upon final approach.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct northern sun glare. This side offers better views of the Vitosha Mountain during the landing sequence if the approach is from the east. Check for the Thracian Valley in the distance during mid-flight.

Top Activities in Sofia
Route Information

Distance: 364 km (226 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 36 min

Departure: VAR (43.232101, 27.8251)

Arrival: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Route Type: Domestic

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