Choose a connection point between Sofia and Kiev. There is no direct train between the two cities.
Book your ticket out of Sofia through Rail Europe's Web site (see Resources below) or call 1-888-382-RAIL. Prices will be moderate.
Use a travel agent to purchase your ticket from your connection city to Kiev. Ukranian train tickets are only sold at the station, railroad offices and some travel agencies.
Decide which class of ticket you'd like to buy. Sitting on a train for almost 3 days can be tedious. On most trains with a first, second or third class ticket, you will also be assigned a bed. Many trains also offer extra space and privacy based on how much you're willing to spend. If you're trying to save money and can sleep without a bed, seat-only options offer a cost-effective way to travel from Sofia to Kiev.
Decide whether you'll be returning to Sofia or continuing on to another city before you book your tickets. If you know when you'll be returning to Sofia, a return ticket will be the most cost-effective way to travel. If you don't know when you'll be leaving, choose a one-way ticket. If you know when you'll be leaving Kiev and continuing onto another city, consider a multi-leg journey.
Plan out how long you are going to be gone, including the time it takes to get to/from Sofia and Kiev (approximately 3 days), as well as how much sightseeing time you want for each city, if any.
Research the sights in both Sofia and Kiev. This will help you plan out how many days you need in each place to see everything you want.