- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Bulgaria’s leading archaeological museum, housed in a former mosque and displaying Thracian, Roman, and medieval treasures.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Sofia
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 15
Cheapest price on Oct 15
$109
Average ticket price on Oct 15
$109
Fastest journey on Oct 15
1 d 8 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 15
1 d 8 h 43 m
Buses on Oct 15
2
Distance
1541 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Sofia will cost around $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $109.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Sofia without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 AM32h20Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)8:00 PMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)$1091One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus11:30 PM33h05Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)9:35 AMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)$1091One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 AM32h20Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)8:00 PMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)$1091One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:30 PM33h05Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)9:35 AMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)$1091One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Sofia
Germany
Bulgaria
Buses from Cologne to Sofia run on average 3 times per day, taking around 31h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $75 (€63) but you can travel from only $27 (€23) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 01:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 957 miles (1541 km) distance in 28h 10m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $27 (€23)
Distance 957 miles (1541 km) |
Average bus duration 31h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $75 (€63) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 28h 10m |
First bus 1:45 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $27 (€23)
Cologne to Sofia Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 32h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $109 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 32h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 42h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $159 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 31h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 32h55 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:14PM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 40h21 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:01PM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 39h34 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 33h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $83 |
Live departures
Cologne to Sofia bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Sofia buses for today, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FlixTrain+FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 40h21 | 9:35 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:30 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 33h05 | 9:35 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, October 15 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 32h20 | 8:00 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Sofia buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Union Ivkoni International offer buses services from Cologne to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Sofia.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Sofia.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Sofia.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Sofia.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Sofia.
Bus providers: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International from Cologne to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Sofia with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International for as low as $27 (€23). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
28h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$75 (€63)
FlixBus frequency
3 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
28h 45m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
$90 (€75)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to Sofia
Things to do in Sofia
Discover the best of Sofia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sofia trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery Kvadrat 500
A major branch of the National Gallery featuring Bulgarian and international art in a large modern exhibition space.
- Must visit
Regional History Museum Sofia
This museum traces Sofia’s past from antiquity to modern times, with standout displays in the restored Central Mineral Baths.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
Sofia’s iconic pedestrian boulevard lined with historic buildings, churches, shops, and constant city life.
- Must visit
Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex
A long Roman-era pedestrian zone with ruins, fountains, and metro access, ideal for understanding ancient Serdica.
- Must visit
Borisova Gradina
A vast landscaped park with lakes, sports facilities, and quiet paths, favored by locals for walks and relaxation.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salad
Shopska salad mixes tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onion, and sirene cheese. It is a Bulgarian staple and a classic start to meals across Sofia.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
Tarator is a cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts. It is especially traditional in summer and widely loved in Bulgarian homes.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
Banitsa is a flaky pastry filled most often with eggs and sirene cheese. It is a beloved breakfast and a symbol of Bulgarian home cooking and holidays.
Andre
Upscale venue focused on modern Balkan and Bulgarian tasting menus, polished service, and a contemporary fine dining setting.
Cosmos
Refined Bulgarian restaurant in a historic house, known for seasonal local cuisine, regional wines, and an elegant but warm atmosphere.
Hadjidraganovite Kashti
Traditional Bulgarian tavern with folk style decor, grilled meats, salads, and classic dishes in a lively, old Sofia setting.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for Europe. Hotels, meals, and public transport usually cost less than in major EU capitals, making Sofia good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 15-25 лв. for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- 30-50 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 80+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 4-7 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% if service is good. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
Urban Mobility Sofia
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1,60 лв.
- Day pass
- 4,00 лв.
To the city center
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara -> Serdika, Sofia
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available in metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses through the city validator system.
- Use the same contactless card for inspections and transfers; fare products are linked to the card used at validation.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Sofia 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 Sofia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Sofia can start from as little as $75 (€63) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Sofia is $151 (€127) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Cologne to Sofia is 28h 10m to travel the 957 miles (1541 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Cologne to Sofia leaves at 1:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Sofia leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Cologne to Sofia which require at least one change with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Sofia, you can count on FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Sofia including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Sofia for bus company FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Sofia:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Sofia depends on the bus companies:
- 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 FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cologne to Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Sofia:
- 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 Cologne to Sofia:
- 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 Cologne to Sofia. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cologne to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
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 Sofia, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Taxi scams are common; using official taxis with meters or ride-hailing apps is recommended to avoid overcharging. Avoid unlicensed guides and be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves. Overall, staying alert and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cologne to Sofia
Most Cologne to Sofia buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) station pair, with some services arriving at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика). Use this guide to compare Cologne and Sofia bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cologne
Arrival bus stations in Sofia
Which Cologne station do buses to Sofia leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Sofia leave from Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). The station is 8 miles (13 km) from Cologne city centre at Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · $5
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 16m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · $5
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · $6
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
City-centre transport
Getting to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) from Sofia city centre
Bus78 · 13m · every ~5 min
Subway2 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) from Sofia city centre
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus78 · 12m · every ~5 min
Tram12, 27 · 9m · $2 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 5m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) bus station facilities and services
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Serdika (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km), Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Elevators, ramps.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sofia and Cologne
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