- 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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 13
- Cheapest price on Nov 13
- $45
- Average ticket price on Nov 13
- $45
- Fastest journey on Nov 13
- 8 h 30 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 13
- 8 h 45 m
- Buses on Nov 13
- 2
- Distance
- 475 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Istanbul Airport to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Istanbul Airport to Sofia will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast buses
On Fri, Nov 13, we found 2 buses from Istanbul Airport to Sofia, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Nov 13 the direct buses cover the 475 km distance in an average of 8 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 30 m .
On Fri, Nov 13 the slowest buses will take 9 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.
FlixBus11:00 AM 8h30 Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) 6:30 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) $45 1 One-way 0 transfers- FlixBus
11:00 PM 9h00 Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) 7:00 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) $45 1 One-way 0 transfers
- FlixBus
11:00 AM 8h30 Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) 6:30 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) $45 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
11:00 PM 9h00 Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) 7:00 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) $45 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia
Turkey
Bulgaria
Buses from Istanbul Airport to Sofia run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $41 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:00, the last at 20:00. The fastest bus covers the 295 miles (475 km) distance in 8h 30m.
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
Distance 295 miles (475 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 8h 30m |
First bus 8:00 AM |
Last bus 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Istanbul Airport to Sofia.
Cheap bus tickets from Istanbul Airport to Sofia can start from as little as $41 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Istanbul Airport to Sofia is $44 ; 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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia leaves at 8:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia leaves at 8:00 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Istanbul Airport to Sofia with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Istanbul Airport to Sofia Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Live departures
Istanbul Airport to Sofia bus times
The table below shows live departures for Istanbul Airport to Sofia buses for today, Thursday, November 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 PM Istanbul Airport | 9h00 | 5:00 AM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, November 13 | |||||
| FlixBus | 11:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 8h30 | 6:30 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Istanbul Airport to Sofia buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Istanbul Airport to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Istanbul Airport to Sofia.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Istanbul Airport to Sofia.
Bus providers: FlixBus from Istanbul Airport to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Istanbul Airport to Sofia with FlixBus for as low as $41. 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
8h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$41
FlixBus frequency
2 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Istanbul Airport and Sofia
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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Istanbul Airport and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Istanbul Airport 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Istanbul Airport to Sofia:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Istanbul Airport to Sofia:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Istanbul Airport 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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus.
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.
Plan your visit to Sofia
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 Sofia.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Istanbul Airport to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Istanbul Airport 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Istanbul Airport and Sofia 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 Istanbul Airport to Sofia
Most Istanbul Airport to Sofia buses use the Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) to Sofia (София) station pair, with some services arriving at София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2). Use this guide to compare Istanbul Airport and Sofia bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Istanbul
Arrival bus stations in Sofia
Sofia (София)Central Bus Station - Sofia, Tsentralna, bul. "Knyaginya Maria Luiza" 100, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia (София) from Sofia city centre
Bus36h 31m · $470
38h 30m
39h 1m · $359
57h 18m · $294
Sofia (София) bus station facilities and services
Sofia (София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Small cafes available nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sofia (София). ATMs are aTM machines available onsite.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia (София).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia (София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia (София): Facilities are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
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
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)Sofia International Airport (SOF), булевард „Христофор Колумб“ 1, 1540 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) from Sofia city centre
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) is 6 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) bus station facilities and services
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) 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 Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София). ATMs are aTMs are available nearby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София): The station has basic accessibility.
Most popular bus connections from Istanbul Airport
More options for your journey from Istanbul Airport to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sofia and Istanbul Airport
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