Here’s your practical guide for backpackers traveling from Bucharest to Ruse:
How to Travel from Bucharest to Ruse?
You can travel from Bucharest to Ruse primarily by bus, train, or rideshare, with buses generally being the most convenient and budget-friendly option for backpackers. The distance is approximately 70-80 km, crossing the Friendship Bridge over the Danube River.
What are the Best Budget Options for Getting from Bucharest to Ruse?
The best budget options for getting from Bucharest to Ruse are typically buses and rideshares.
1. Bus: Buses offer a direct and usually frequent service. Operators like FlixBus and various local companies connect Bucharest’s main bus stations (e.g., Autogara Militari, Autogara Nord) to Ruse’s Central Bus Station.
- Price: Bus tickets typically range from €10-25 (estimated), generally aligning with the €15-40 budget for short European bus routes.
- Travel Time: Expect the journey to take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including border crossing time.
- Booking: It’s advisable to book online through operator websites or aggregators. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance typically offers better prices, potentially saving 10-30% (estimated).
2. Train: A direct train service connects Bucharest Nord to Ruse Central. While scenic, it can sometimes be slower and less frequent than buses.
- Price: Train tickets typically cost €15-30 (estimated), generally aligning with the €20-80 range for European train travel.
- Travel Time: The journey usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, factoring in border checks.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the train station or through CFR Călători (Romanian Railways) or BDZ (Bulgarian Railways) websites.
3. Rideshare: Platforms like BlaBlaCar are popular in the region for carpooling.
- Price: Rideshare options often cost €8-15 (estimated), falling within the €10-30 range for shared transport.
- Travel Time: This can be the fastest option, often taking around 1.5 hours, depending on the driver and border wait.
- Booking: Arrange through the respective rideshare app, confirming details with the driver.
How Can AllInMap Help Backpackers in Bucharest and Ruse?
AllInMap can assist backpackers by helping them find free amenities like public toilets, Wi-Fi hotspots, and drinking water fountains in both Bucharest and Ruse, making budget travel easier.
