BDZ to Offer Festive Steam Locomotive Excursions in Bulgaria

Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) is set to delight train enthusiasts and families this December with a series of special steam locomotive excursions, offering a festive journey back in time. Themed heritage trains will traverse picturesque routes from Sofia to Bankia and Gorna Oreahovitsa to Veliko Tarnovo, complete with seasonal decorations and engaging activities for children.

BDZ’s initiative aims to provide a unique holiday experience, blending the romance of steam power with the magic of winter festivities. Passengers will step aboard meticulously decorated carriages, including the historical “Vitosha Express” retro carriage, where Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be present to distribute gifts and create memorable moments for younger travelers.

Operational Details and Itineraries

The first series of festive steam excursions will depart from Sofia Central Station on Saturday, December 13, pulled by steam locomotive No. 01.23. The train is scheduled to leave Sofia at 9:50 a.m. and arrive in the resort town of Bankia at 10:21 a.m. A significant layover in Bankia will allow passengers to explore the retro carriage, interact with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and participate in organized activities within the resort center. The return journey to Sofia is set for 12:30 p.m., with an expected arrival back in the capital at 1:00 p.m.

This popular route will be repeated on Sunday, December 14, with a slightly adjusted schedule: departure from Sofia at 9:45 a.m., arrival in Bankia at 10:16 a.m., and the return trip commencing at 12:40 p.m., arriving in Sofia at 1:10 p.m. These excursions provide families with a perfect opportunity to enjoy a leisurely winter day with a touch of historical railway charm.

Further north, on December 20, BDZ will introduce a second festive steam train service on the Gorna Oreahovitsa–Veliko Tarnovo–Gorna Oreahovitsa route, powered by steam locomotive No. 16.27. The morning service will depart Gorna Oreahovitsa at 09:50, reaching Veliko Tarnovo at 10:20. The return journey is scheduled to depart Veliko Tarnovo at 11:20, arriving back in Gorna Oreahovitsa at 11:51. An afternoon service will also operate, with a departure from Veliko Tarnovo at 14:05, arriving in Gorna Oreahovitsa at 14:41. The final return leg of the day will depart Gorna Oreahovitsa at 15:40, reaching Veliko Tarnovo at 16:00.

The Veliko Tarnovo route offers passengers stunning views of the Iantra River valley and the unique experience of passing through two tunnels located directly beneath the city’s buildings. The Tărapezitsa station will serve as a convenient stop in both directions, facilitating access for residents of Veliko Tarnovo. All trains will consist of three themed carriages and the special “Vitosha Express” retro carriage, ensuring a consistent festive atmosphere across all services.

Industry Context

These special steam excursions by BDZ underscore a growing trend within the railway industry towards leveraging heritage assets for tourism and passenger engagement. By offering unique, experiential travel, BDZ is not only generating ancillary revenue but also fostering public appreciation for railway history and promoting sustainable, attractive travel alternatives. Such initiatives can serve as a model for other national railway operators looking to enhance their public image, attract new demographics, and capitalize on the enduring appeal of vintage rail travel in an increasingly digital world.