Bulgaria is preparing to transform regional travel with the construction of a new high-speed railway that will directly connect the towns of Yambol and Elhovo to the Turkish border at Lesovo, opening a seamless route to Edirne. Scheduled for completion in 2027, the 71-kilometer project is designed to strengthen cross-border tourism and significantly reduce travel times for both visitors and freight.
The rail line will allow passenger trains to reach speeds of 160 km/h and freight trains up to 120 km/h. Currently, a train journey between Istanbul and the Bulgarian border can take four hours, but with the new system, this time will shrink to just one and a half hours. Freight transport will also benefit, with travel times dropping from more than eight hours to three and a half.
The project includes two main phases. The first is a 39 km rehabilitation and electrification of the Yambol–Elhovo line. The second is a new 32 km section from Elhovo to Lesovo, which will host a modern rail border crossing. Three stations are planned along the route, easing congestion at the already busy Svilengrad–Kapıkule checkpoint.
Tourism is expected to see the biggest gains. Edirne, one of Turkey’s most visited cities, will be within easy reach for Bulgarian travelers eager to explore landmarks like the Selimiye Mosque and Edirne Palace. Turkish tourists will also find it simpler to explore Bulgarian destinations, with the link serving as a gateway to Eastern Europe. Istanbul will become an accessible day-trip destination for Bulgarians, encouraging more cultural exchange and short stays.
Funded in part by the European Union under its TEN-T program, this project reflects Bulgaria’s broader efforts to modernize infrastructure and align with the European transport network. Officials believe the line will promote sustainable travel, strengthen regional economies, and open new opportunities for both leisure and business tourism.
By cutting travel times and improving accessibility, this ambitious high-speed rail promises to bring Bulgaria and Turkey closer than ever, fostering economic growth and cultural connection across the border.
Bulgaria to Launch High-Speed Rail Link to Turkey by 2027 Boosting Tourism and Connectivity
