Istanbul to Plovdiv bus with ArdaTur

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
FlixBus
ArdaTur
Infobus
Mybus Sofia
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
ArdaTur
Infobus
Mybus Sofia
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Istanbul to Plovdiv

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$27
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$35
Fastest journey on Nov 04
6 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
6 h 40 m
Buses on Nov 04
6
Distance
371 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Istanbul to Plovdiv is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Istanbul to Plovdiv will cost around $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.

Fast buses

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 6 buses from Istanbul to Plovdiv, including 6 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 371 km distance in an average of 6 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 10 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 7 h 20 m 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.

  • ArdaTur0
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur0
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur7626633
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur7726366
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv

TurkeyTurkey
BulgariaBulgaria
Icon of bus

Buses from Istanbul to Plovdiv run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 if you book in advance.

There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 230 miles (371 km) distance in 5h 20m.

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
230 miles (371 km)
Average bus duration
6h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$23
Buses per day
4
Direct buses
4
Fastest bus
5h 20m
First bus
12:30 AM
Last bus
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
21 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

Frequently asked questions about your Istanbul to Plovdiv trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Istanbul to Plovdiv.

Cheap bus tickets from Istanbul to Plovdiv can start from as little as $23 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Istanbul to Plovdiv is $33 ; 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 to Plovdiv leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Istanbul to Plovdiv with FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus, Mybus Sofia. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.

Istanbul to Plovdiv Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
10:30AM
Arrival Time
04:50PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:00AM
Arrival Time
04:45PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
03:20AM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:00PM
Arrival Time
04:45AM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
11:30PM
Arrival Time
04:50AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$31

Live departures

Istanbul to Plovdiv bus times

The table below shows live departures for Istanbul to Plovdiv buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ArdaTur010:30 AM Istanbul
7h20
4:50 PM Plovdiv0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus11:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
6h45
4:45 PM Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur02:30 PM Istanbul
6h10
7:40 PM Plovdiv0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur77266649:00 PM Istanbul
7h20
3:20 AM Plovdiv0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus11:00 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
6h45
4:45 AM Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur772665611:30 PM Istanbul
6h20
4:50 AM Plovdiv0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Istanbul to Plovdiv buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as ArdaTur, Infobus, Mybus Sofia and more offer buses services from Istanbul to Plovdiv.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Istanbul to Plovdiv.

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 ArdaTur, Infobus or Mybus Sofia to find the best option for your trip from Istanbul to Plovdiv.
  • 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.

Bus providers: ArdaTur, FlixBus, Mybus Sofia, Infobus from Istanbul to PlovdivYou can travel by bus between Istanbul to Plovdiv with ArdaTur, FlixBus, Mybus Sofia, Infobus for as low as $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
6h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$34
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.

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
7h 16m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$30
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.

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
5h 20m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
$23
ArdaTur frequency
3 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.

Mybus Sofia

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Mybus Sofia Duration
7h 16m
Cheapest Mybus Sofia Price
$30
Mybus Sofia frequency
1 a day

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Istanbul and Plovdiv

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 to Plovdiv, you can count on FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus, Mybus Sofia for the best way to get you to Plovdiv. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Istanbul and Plovdiv and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv:
  • Infobus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • ArdaTur
    • Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv for bus company FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Istanbul to Plovdiv 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.
  • ArdaTur
    • 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.
  • 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 to Plovdiv.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Istanbul to Plovdiv:
  • Infobus
    • One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
  • ArdaTur
    • One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
  • 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 to Plovdiv:
  • Infobus
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • ArdaTur
    • Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv. 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 Istanbul to Plovdiv with the following bus company: FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv with the following bus company: FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus.

Complete guide to Plovdiv

Things to do in Plovdiv

Discover the best of Plovdiv — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plovdiv trip today.

  • Must visit

Regional Archaeological Museum Plovdiv

Major archaeological museum with Thracian, Greek, and Roman finds. Essential for understanding Plovdiv's long and layered history.

  • Must visit

Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv

Museum in the celebrated 1847 house of merchant Argir Kuyumdzhioglu, showing rich interiors and exhibits on Plovdiv's cultural past.

  • Recommended

Regional History Museum Plovdiv

Housed in a grand Revival mansion, this museum presents Bulgarian history from the 15th to 20th centuries with well-curated period displays.

Bulgarian lev (лв.)

Budget-Friendly for EU city breaks: hotels, meals and local transit are generally cheaper than in Western Europe, with good value for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
10-18 лв. for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
25-45 лв. per person for a meal.
Fine dining
60+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
3-5 лв. for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and small change is fine in cafes.

Plan your visit to Plovdiv

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 Plovdiv.

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 Plovdiv, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use meters and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use official taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
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 to Plovdiv

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Istanbul to Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take a bus between Istanbul and Plovdiv.
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 to Plovdiv

Most Istanbul to Plovdiv buses use the Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) to Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) station pair, with some services arriving at Plovdiv (Пловдив). Use this guide to compare Istanbul and Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv

Which Istanbul station do buses to Plovdiv leave from?

Buses from Istanbul to Plovdiv leave from Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). The station is 3 miles (5 km) from Istanbul city centre at Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, TurkeyWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) from Istanbul city centre

Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) is 5 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainM1a, M1b · 11m · $2 · every ~45 min
Bus91E · 20m · $2 · every ~17 min
TramT4 · 22m · $2 · every ~34 min

Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) bus station facilities and services

Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafeteria Terminal (in the station), Kebab Express (0.2 km), Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and throughout the station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Elevators, ramps.

Bus stations for Istanbul to Plovdiv

Check bus stations information for Istanbul and Plovdiv, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.

When departing from Istanbul , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) . When arriving in Plovdiv , you can end your journey in bus stations like Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг), Plovdiv (Пловдив) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler), which is located around 3 miles (5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг), located 2 away from the city centre.

More options for your journey from Istanbul to Plovdiv

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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