- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Bulgaria’s main archaeological museum, housed in a former Ottoman mosque, with major Thracian, Roman, and medieval collections.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Pirot to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Jun 26
Cheapest price
$16
Average price
$16
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
2 h 38 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
79 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Pirot to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Pirot to Sofia will cost around $16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Pirot for Sofia on Fri, Jun 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 26 the direct buses cover the 79 km distance in an average of 2 h 38 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Fri, Jun 26 the slowest buses will take 2 h 40 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.
6:15 AM2h35Pirot, Main Bus Station9:50 AMSofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)$161One-way0 transfers- 5:00 PM2h40Pirot, Main Bus Station8:40 PMSofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)$161One-way0 transfers
- 6:15 AM2h35Pirot, Main Bus Station9:50 AMSofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)$161One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 PM2h40Pirot, Main Bus Station8:40 PMSofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)$161One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Pirot to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Pirot to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a bus costs an average of $16.
Distance: 49 miles (79 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $26 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Pirot to Sofia is a bus with an average price of $17 (€14).
The fastest way to travel from Pirot to Sofia is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Pirot and Sofia.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Pirot to Sofia among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $17 (€14) compared to roughly $26 (€21) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $9 (€7). The journey takes 2h 35m versus 1h 18m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Niš ekspres, Niš-ekspres.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Pirot to Sofia Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Niš ekspres | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Niš ekspres | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Niš ekspres | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Niš ekspres | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $16 |
Live departures
Pirot to Sofia bus times
The table below shows live departures for Pirot to Sofia buses for today, Thursday, June 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 AM Pirot, Main Bus Station | 2h35 | 9:50 AM Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:00 PM Pirot, Main Bus Station | 2h40 | 8:40 PM Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Pirot to Sofia by bus
Compare bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02
Jul 02
Why should you book Pirot to Sofia buses with Omio?
Niš ekspres as well as FlixBus, Niš-ekspres, Auto Kodeks and more offer buses services from Pirot to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Pirot to Sofia.
Why book with Omio vs Niš ekspres?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Niš ekspres, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Niš-ekspres or Auto Kodeks to find the best option for your trip from Pirot 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.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Niš-ekspres or Auto Kodeks to find the best option for your trip from Pirot to Sofia.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Pirot to Sofia
Serbia
Bulgaria
Buses from Pirot to Sofia run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:15, the last at 17:00. The fastest bus covers the 49 miles (79 km) distance in 2h 35m.
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 49 miles (79 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€14) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 2h 35m |
First bus 6:15 AM |
Last bus 5:00 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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
Bus providers: Niš ekspres, FlixBus, Niš-ekspres, Auto Kodeks from Pirot to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Pirot to Sofia with Niš ekspres, FlixBus, Niš-ekspres, Auto Kodeks for as low as $16 (€14). 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 Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€12)
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.
Niš ekspres
About
Niš Ekspres is a prominent bus company based in Niš, Serbia, established in 1951. It is recognized as the largest and most frequently used public intercity transportation provider from Niš, offering urban, intercity, and international services. The company operates over 336 daily departures to destinations within Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and other neighboring countries. Popular domestic routes include connections between major cities like Subotica, Novi Sad, Zaječar, Niš, Pirot, Bela Palanka, and Belgrade. Niš Ekspres also provides bus rentals, repair services, and organized tours. Onboard amenities often include air conditioning, and on select routes, Wi-Fi and charging ports are available.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€14)
Niš ekspres frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
5€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a 10% fee. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
Amenities on board the bus
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Assistance with boarding and alighting.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
Niš-ekspres
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Niš-ekspres frequency
2 a day
Auto Kodeks
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 10m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Auto Kodeks frequency
1 a day
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.
- Recommended
National Gallery Square 500
The country’s largest art museum, displaying Bulgarian and international art in a grand modern complex near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Recommended
Sofia History Museum
A well-curated city museum inside the former Central Mineral Baths, covering Sofia’s urban, political, and cultural history.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
Sofia’s main pedestrian boulevard, lined with shops and lively city views, with Vitosha Mountain often visible at the southern end.
- Recommended
Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex
A central open-air archaeological zone integrated into the modern city, popular for walking, photos, and easy access to Roman ruins.
- Recommended
Borisova Gradina
Sofia’s best-known large park, offering tree-lined walks, monuments, sports areas, and a local daily-life atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salata
A classic Bulgarian salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It is one of the country’s most iconic dishes and a staple in Sofia restaurants.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
A traditional baked pastry made with thin layers of dough, eggs, and white cheese. It is a beloved breakfast and snack across Sofia and Bulgaria.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
A cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts, especially popular in warm weather. It is refreshing and distinctly Bulgarian.
Moma Bulgarian Food and Wine
An established central Sofia restaurant focused on refined Bulgarian cuisine, local wines, and stylish interiors inspired by national traditions.
Shtastlivetsa Vitoshka
A popular and established restaurant on Vitosha Boulevard offering a broad menu, dependable service, and a lively atmosphere suited to a casual meal in central Sofia.
Hadjidraganov's Houses
A well-known traditional Bulgarian restaurant with folklore decor, regional specialties, and a rustic atmosphere popular with visitors seeking classic local dishes.
Bulgarian Lev
Affordable by European capital standards. Public transport, casual dining, and coffee are low cost; hotels vary by season and location.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- BGN 10-18 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- BGN 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- BGN 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- BGN 3-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
About 10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips for hotel staff are appreciated but not required. No tip is expected for counter service.
CG Sofia
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.60 BGN
- Day pass
- 4.00 BGN
To the city center
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara -> Serdika, Sofia
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate your ticket immediately after boarding buses, trams, or trolleybuses, or before entering the metro platform area.
- Card payment is available in the metro and on many vehicles via contactless bank card or digital wallet, but carry a backup payment method in case a validator is unavailable.
FAQs: Bus from Pirot to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Pirot 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 Pirot to Sofia can start from as little as $16 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Pirot to Sofia is $17 (€14) ; 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 Pirot to Sofia is 2h 35m to travel the 49 miles (79 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 Pirot to Sofia leaves at 6:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Pirot to Sofia leaves at 5:00 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Pirot to Sofia with Niš ekspres, Niš-ekspres. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Pirot to Sofia, you can count on Niš ekspres, FlixBus, Niš-ekspres, Auto Kodeks for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Pirot and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Sofia from Pirot is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Pirot to Sofia is May.
Yes, you can take a bus between Pirot and Sofia.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Pirot to Sofia for bus company Niš ekspres, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Pirot to Sofia:
- Niš ekspres
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Assistance with boarding and alighting.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Sofia are:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning Orthodox cathedral known for its impressive architecture and golden domes
- Vitosha Boulevard, a vibrant pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants
- National Palace of Culture, a multifunctional conference and exhibition center surrounded by beautiful gardens
- Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its medieval frescoes
- Sofia Central Mineral Baths, a historic building showcasing beautiful architecture and housing a museum.
The best things to do in Sofia include:
- Borisova Gradina, a large and scenic park ideal for leisurely walks and outdoor activities
- Sofia Zoo, one of the oldest and largest zoos in the Balkans, home to a wide variety of animals
- Sofia History Museum, offering insights into the city's rich past and cultural heritage
- Serdika Archaeological Complex, where you can explore ancient Roman ruins in the heart of the city
- Sofia Opera and Ballet, where you can enjoy world-class performances in a beautiful setting.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Pirot to Sofia depends on the bus companies:
- Niš ekspres
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a 10% fee. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
- 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 FlixBus.
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 Pirot to Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Pirot to Sofia:
- Niš ekspres
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- 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 Pirot to Sofia:
- Niš ekspres
- 5€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Pirot to Sofia. The following conditions apply:
- Niš ekspres
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Pirot to Sofia with the following bus company: Niš ekspres, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Pirot to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Pirot to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Sofia is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Pirot to Sofia among Omio's users.
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 Pirot to Sofia
Most Pirot to Sofia buses use the Pirot, Main Bus Station to Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) station pair. Use this guide to compare Pirot and Sofia bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Pirot
Arrival bus stations in Sofia
Pirot, Main Bus Station
Which Sofia station do buses from Pirot arrive at?
Buses from Pirot to Sofia arrive at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика). Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 0 miles (1 km) from Sofia city centre.
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 · $1 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · $1 · 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.
Most popular bus connections from Pirot
More options for your journey from Pirot to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sofia and Pirot
Most popular bus connections to Sofia
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