There are two operational funicular railways in Bulgaria. Interestingly, both short lines were opened recently and were built to facilitate tourist access to popular attractions. There were plans to build a funicular in Albena, but the project was probably abandoned.
Funicular Railway in Veliko Tarnovo – Veliko Tarnovo is probably the most beautiful Bulgarian city, often visited by tourists from all over the world. Until recently, reaching the city center from the railway station, located about 3 kilometers away, was a problem. Additionally, the climbing and long walks on the winding and steep streets in the center were quite tiresome. Particularly exhausting was the walk to Trapezitsa Hill with its ruins of fortifications and numerous churches. Therefore, a project for building a funicular railway was proposed as early as 2008.
The funicular railway to Trapezitsa Hill was officially opened at the end of 2014. The lower station of the funicular is located right next to the Trapezitsa railway station, and the 135-meter track has a 30-degree incline. The cabin can accommodate 25 people. The ride to the top of the hill takes about two minutes. The funicular does not operate in temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius and below 5 degrees Celsius. Bulgarian media reports that only round-trip tickets can be purchased, meaning if someone rides the funicular up the hill and walks down, they will not be eligible for a partial refund for the walk down.
In 2016, the historic Trapezitsa railway station was renovated, making train access to the main attractions of Veliko Tarnovo much easier than before.
Funicular Railway in Belchin – the second Bulgarian funicular railway is less known – it connects the village of Belchin in the Sofia Province with the Tsari Mali Grad fortress located on a hill. There is little written about this funicular, but the place itself has a rich history.
Due to the short distance from Sofia (the nearest railway station, Samokov, is located 50 km from the capital), it was decided to revitalize the fortress, build the funicular railway, and create infrastructure to attract tourists. The work was carried out between 2013 and 2016 as part of a public-private partnership. Samokov is also known for its mineral water springs.
The funicular to Tsari Mali Grad can carry 6 people at a time and moves very slowly.
Related articles:
Train travel in Bulgaria – a comprehensive guide
Bulgaria by train – what to see
