- Recommended
Regional Historical Museum Blagoevgrad
Main city museum in Varosha presenting archaeology, ethnography, and local history in traditional buildings.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Athens to Blagoevgrad
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- €39
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- €50
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 9 h 45 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 10 h 13 m
- Buses on Nov 02
- 3
- Distance
- 451 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Athens to Blagoevgrad is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Blagoevgrad will cost around €50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €39.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 3 buses from Athens to Blagoevgrad, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 451 km distance in an average of 10 h 13 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 45 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 11 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:15 AM 11h00 Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) 7:15 PM Blagoevgrad, Bus Station €39 1 One-way 0 transfers6:00 PM 9h45 Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) 3:45 AM Blagoevgrad, Bus Station €46 1 One-way 0 transfers
07:00 PM 9h55 Athens 4:55 AM Blagoevgrad €65 1 One-way 0 transfers
6:00 PM 9h45 Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) 3:45 AM Blagoevgrad, Bus Station €46 1 One-way 0 transfers- 0
7:00 PM 9h55 Athens 4:55 AM Blagoevgrad €65 1 One-way 0 transfers 8:15 AM 11h00 Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) 7:15 PM Blagoevgrad, Bus Station €39 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad
Greece
Bulgaria
Buses from Athens to Blagoevgrad run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €33 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:15, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 280 miles (451 km) distance in 9h 45m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance280 miles (451 km)
- Average bus duration10h 17m
- Cheapest ticket price€33
- Buses per day3
- Direct buses3
- Fastest bus9h 45m
- First bus1:15 AM
- Last bus10:00 PM
- Cheapest MonthMay
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DaySat
- Least Busy DaySat
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Athens to Blagoevgrad trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
Cheap bus tickets from Athens to Blagoevgrad can start from as little as €33 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Athens to Blagoevgrad is €53 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad leaves at 1:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Athens to Blagoevgrad with Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, FlixBus, ArdaTur. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Athens to Blagoevgrad Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 02:35AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €44 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €69 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 03:45AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €46 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:55AM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price €60 |
Live departures
Athens to Blagoevgrad bus times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Blagoevgrad buses for tomorrow, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:15 AM Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) | 11h00 | 7:15 PM Blagoevgrad, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:00 PM Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) | 9h45 | 3:45 AM Blagoevgrad, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 7:00 PM Athens | 9h55 | 4:55 AM Blagoevgrad | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Athens to Blagoevgrad buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as Infobus, FlixBus, ArdaTur and more offer buses services from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
Why book with Omio vs Union Ivkoni International?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Union Ivkoni International, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, FlixBus or ArdaTur to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, FlixBus or ArdaTur to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Athens to Blagoevgrad
Buses from Athens to Blagoevgrad with Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, and FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Infobus Duration
9h 55m
Cheapest Infobus Price
€55
Infobus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
10h 50m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€36
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Union Ivkoni International
About
Union Ivkoni International is a prominent bus company based in Sofia, Bulgaria, established in 1992. It is recognized as the largest bus carrier in Bulgaria and a leader in bus transport across Europe. The company offers extensive services, including regular bus lines, bus rentals, and bus tours, with over 715 daily departures to more than 100 towns in Bulgaria and over 150 towns in Central and Western Europe, Greece, and Turkey. Union Ivkoni also operates its own tourist brand, Uni Holidays, providing various excursions, vacations, and plane tickets.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Union Ivkoni International Duration
9h 45m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
€33
Union Ivkoni International frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Additional luggage
10 USD per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Service animals allowed.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
ArdaTur
About
ArdaTur is a bus company based in Haskovo, Bulgaria, established in 1991. It offers extensive bus services across seven countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Germany. ArdaTur operates over 233 daily departures, primarily from major cities like Istanbul, Sofia, and Thessaloniki, providing both intercity and regional routes. The company emphasizes passenger comfort with amenities such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, individual monitors, and complimentary food and drinks on international lines. ArdaTur maintains a modern fleet of over 80 luxury buses and has its own garage and service facility to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ArdaTur Duration
11h 5m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
€41
ArdaTur frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Refund
If the trip is delayed through the fault of the carrier, 100% of the ticket value and compensation for direct costs to the place of departure will be refunded with supporting documents.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are possible when buying a ticket or at Arda Tur offices up to 24 hours before departure during weak periods and 72 hours during busy periods.
Toilets
Accessibility
Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Bikes
Only foldable bikes are allowed.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Athens and Blagoevgrad
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, FlixBus, ArdaTur for the best way to get you to Blagoevgrad. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Athens and Blagoevgrad and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad for bus company Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, FlixBus, ArdaTur.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Athens to Blagoevgrad depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
- Union Ivkoni International
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Athens to Blagoevgrad:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Union Ivkoni International
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Athens to Blagoevgrad:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, FlixBus, ArdaTur
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, FlixBus, ArdaTur.
Complete guide to Blagoevgrad
Things to do in Blagoevgrad
Discover the best of Blagoevgrad — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Blagoevgrad trip today.
Dimitar Penev House Museum
House museum dedicated to Dimitar Penev, showing everyday life and architecture from the National Revival period.
City Art Gallery Blagoevgrad
Art venue hosting rotating exhibitions by Bulgarian artists and cultural events in central Blagoevgrad.
- Must visit
Varosha Quarter
Revival-era neighborhood with cobbled streets, historic houses, and museum sites; the best area for atmosphere and heritage walks.
- Recommended
Todor Alexandrov Boulevard
Main pedestrian boulevard lined with shops and public life; the city's most popular place for strolling and people-watching.
- Recommended
Georgi Izmirliev Square
Central square used for events and gatherings, framed by civic buildings and ideal for orienting yourself in the city center.
- Gluten-free
Kapama
Kapama is a slow-baked winter dish from the Pirin region with sauerkraut, rice, pork, sausage, and spices, prized for its rich layered flavor and festive tradition.
- Gluten-free
Chomlek
Chomlek is a traditional oven-braised stew of beef or veal, onions, wine, and potatoes, cooked slowly in a clay pot and loved in Southwest Bulgaria.
- Gluten-free
Banski Starets
Banski starets is a cured dry sausage from nearby Bansko, seasoned simply and air-dried. It is a classic regional meze with rakia or red wine.
Mehana Starata Kashta
Traditional-style venue focused on Bulgarian cooking, grilled specialties, and regional comfort food served in a cozy tavern atmosphere.
The Downtown
Well-known casual restaurant with a broad Bulgarian and European menu, generous portions, and a central atmosphere suited to groups and families.
Raffy Bar & Gelato
Established Bulgarian tavern known for grilled meats, salads, and traditional dishes in a warm rustic setting popular with locals and visitors.
Bulgarian lev (лв)
Budget-friendly for Bulgaria: dining and local transit are cheap, and hotels usually cost less than in Sofia or major EU city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 8-15 лв for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- 20-35 лв per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 50+ лв per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 3-5 лв for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave about 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and small change is fine in cafes.
Plan your visit to Blagoevgrad
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Blagoevgrad.
The currency used in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is widely preferred in smaller towns and markets, while cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in cities.
In Blagoevgrad, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas and public transport. Avoid unlicensed taxis to prevent overcharging. It's advisable to stay vigilant in nightlife spots and keep personal belongings secure. Scams involving inflated prices for services or goods are rare but can occur, so confirming prices in advance is recommended.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Athens to Blagoevgrad
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Blagoevgrad by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Blagoevgrad, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Athens and Blagoevgrad including taking a bus and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Athens to Blagoevgrad
Most Athens to Blagoevgrad buses use the Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) to Blagoevgrad, Avtogara (Благоевград, Автогара) station pair. Use this guide to compare Athens and Blagoevgrad bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Athens
Arrival bus stations in Blagoevgrad
Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη)Athens, Pl. Karaiskaki 2, 10437
City-centre transport
Getting to Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) from Athens city centre
Bus051 · 4m · €2 · every ~10 min
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού)Ilia Iliou & Lagoumitzi, Athina 117 44, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) from Athens city centre
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) is 3 km from Athens city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) bus station facilities and services
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού). ATMs are available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού): Ramps available for wheelchair access.
Athens ChiouAthens Chiou,Chiou 14,10438
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens Chiou from Athens city centre
Train1 · 4m · €2 · every ~4 min
Bus790, 057 · 4m · €2 · every ~6 min
Blagoevgrad, Avtogara (Благоевград, Автогара)Blagoevgrad Bus Station, bul.Sveti Dimitar Solunski 12, 2700
Most popular buses to and from Blagoevgrad and Athens
Most popular bus connections to Blagoevgrad
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