What is the Rhodope Narrow Gauge Railway?
The Rhodope Narrow Gauge Railway is a historic train route that winds through the Bulgarian Rhodope Mountains. It is one of the most beautiful and distinctive railway lines in Europe, rich in history and charm.
The line runs from the starting station of Septemvri (between Pazardzhik and Kostenets) via Velingrad, Yakoruda, Belitsa and Bansko to Dobrinishte, covering a total of 125 kilometres.
Built in the early 20th century, this railway line was once an indispensable link between the remote villages and towns in the western part of the Rhodopes.
It played an important role in the transport of passengers, goods and raw materials such as wood and minerals.
Nowadays, the narrow-gauge railway mainly operates as a tourist train, offering travellers a nostalgic journey back in time.
The route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, past rivers, forests and mountain villages.
Along the way, you will pass countless panoramic views, bizarre rock formations and the highest railway station in the Balkans: Avramovo.
The old trains have been carefully maintained, which makes the journey even more authentic. As the rhythmic sound of the wheels on the rails echoes, you can fully enjoy the peace and beauty of the Bulgarian mountains.
Today, the Rhodope narrow-gauge railway is a popular attraction for both local travellers and foreign tourists looking for a unique experience in Bulgaria. The journey not only showcases the impressive landscape of the Rhodope Mountains, but also a piece of the region's rich culture and history.
A special detail: the railway was built entirely by hand, day and night, by hundreds of workers. In addition, the track gauge is narrower than usual (740 mm), allowing the train to run smoothly through the mountains - exactly what makes this journey so special and relaxing.
Facilities in the nostalgic carriages
The carriages are equipped with upholstered seats and heating, making them much more comfortable than the old carriages with wooden benches and wood-burning stoves. These carriages serve the passenger trains on the line and undergo thorough repairs and modernisation every five years.
Nowadays, they are equipped with toilets, power sockets, LED lighting, comfortable seats with armrests and sometimes curtains.
Once a day, a train with a bistro runs.
Sights along the line
The Septemvri - Dobrinishte line is a national treasure with its history, technical parameters and landscape. It connects the most beautiful mountains in the country, and hiking trails to natural and historical sights start from each station.
These include the mineral waters of Varvara, the last fallen Rhodope fortress of Tsepina and the carpet workshop in Kostandovo, whose carpets adorn a number of palaces in Western Europe.
But don't forget the spa capital of the Balkans: Velingrad.
The resort of Yundola, the southernmost Rhodope fortress of Kalyata near Yakoruda, Treshtenik with its many trails to the higher parts of Rila, the Bear Park near Belitsa and the digital nomad paradise of Semkovo are also located near the railway line.
And we haven't even mentioned the resort village of Banya, Razlog (the town between the three mountains with the oldest Bulgarian calendar), the ski capital of the Balkans, Bansko, and Dobrinishte with its mineral water and ski resort.
How and where can I buy tickets?
You can find the timetable online on the Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) website.
Tickets can be purchased on the BDZ website (button below) or on the train itself (cash only). Please note that it can be busy during peak season, especially in summer.
Are you travelling to Septemvri station or starting your journey here? Then you can easily transfer to trains to major cities such as Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna.
Discover more in the region
The narrow-gauge railway is just one of many unique experiences in the Bansko region.
Discover activities in every season – from winter mountain adventures to summer nature walks.