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The cheapest and fastest buses from Plovdiv to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Jan 19
Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$37
Fastest journey
5 h
Average duration
5 h 43 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
371 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Plovdiv to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plovdiv to Istanbul will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Plovdiv for Istanbul on Mon, Jan 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jan 19 the direct buses cover the 371 km distance in an average of 5 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h .
On Mon, Jan 19 the slowest buses will take 6 h 15 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.
638724102:15AM6h30
Plovdiv09:45AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$321One-way
0 transfers
011:59PM5h00
Plovdiv05:59AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$371One-way
0 transfers
009:00PM6h05
Plovdiv04:05AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$371One-way
0 transfers
003:30PM5h30
Plovdiv10:00PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$371One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus01:15PM6h15
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)08:30PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$391One-way
0 transfers
011:59PM5h00
Plovdiv05:59AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$371One-way
0 transfers
003:30PM5h30
Plovdiv10:00PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$371One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus01:15AM5h45
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)08:00AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$391One-way
0 transfers
009:00PM6h05
Plovdiv04:05AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$371One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus01:15PM6h15
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)08:30PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$391One-way
0 transfers
Plovdiv to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 05:59AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Live departures
Plovdiv to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Plovdiv to Istanbul buses for today, Sunday, January 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 10:44 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 11:15 AM Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) | 6h15 | 5:30 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 1:30 PM Plovdiv | 5h30 | 7:00 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 7:00 PM Plovdiv | 6h05 | 1:05 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 9:59 PM Plovdiv | 5h00 | 2:59 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:15 PM Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) | 5h45 | 5:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6387241 | 12:15 AM Plovdiv | 6h30 | 6:45 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Plovdiv to Istanbul 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Buses from Plovdiv to Istanbul run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
There are 5 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 6h 0m.
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 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 6h 0m |
First bus 00:30 |
Last bus 23:30 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Plovdiv to Istanbul start from as low as $27 (€22) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $31 (€25) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 7 daily trains from Plovdiv to Istanbul with 5 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 6h 0m but the average duration is 6h 29m
Train Operators
- Travel from Plovdiv to Istanbul with City Lines, ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus, and Citylines
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is City Lines.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) and arrive in Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
- First train typically departs at 12:30 AM and the last at 11:30 PM
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: City Lines, ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus, Citylines, Alpar Turizm from Plovdiv to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Plovdiv to Istanbul with City Lines, ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus, Citylines, Alpar Turizm for as low as $27 (€22). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
City Lines
About
"City Lines" can refer to several different bus companies. One prominent example is Citylines, a leading Bulgarian bus company headquartered in Sofia. It operates an extensive network of 44 routes, connecting 22 cities across Bulgaria and serving 9 European nations with an average of 19 trips daily. Citylines coaches offer amenities such as air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Another is Rochester City Lines, a family-owned and operated charter bus company in Minnesota, United States, providing services for college, corporate, event, religious, school, and workforce transportation. They offer a fleet including motorcoaches, minibuses, and executive vans. Historically, National City Lines, Inc. (NCL) was a significant public transportation holding company in the United States, founded in 1920. NCL acquired numerous local transit systems, often converting streetcar lines to bus operations, a practice sometimes referred to as "bustitution." Additionally, "City Line" is also the name of a bus rapid transit (BRT) line in Spokane, Washington, operated by the Spokane Transit Authority. This 6-mile route, which opened in 2023, utilizes modern, zero-emission battery-electric buses and connects key areas including downtown Spokane and the University District.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 0m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
City Lines frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; must be booked in advance.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
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
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
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 Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
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 Duration
8h 15m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
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.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Citylines frequency
2 a day
Alpar Turizm
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Alpar Turizm frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plovdiv to Istanbul 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 Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Plovdiv to Istanbul can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Plovdiv to Istanbul is $31 (€25); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Plovdiv to Istanbul bus time is 5 h covering the 230 mile (371 km) long trip, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul leaves at 12: 30AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul leaves at 11: 00PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Plovdiv to Istanbul without having to change trains with Arda Tur, City Lines, FlixBus, Infobus, Alpar Turizm or Citylines. There are 6 direct buses from Plovdiv to Istanbul each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best Plovdiv to Istanbul bus to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Arda Tur, City Lines, FlixBus, Infobus, Alpar Turizm or Citylines. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services from Plovdiv to Istanbul to compare what amenities they may offer.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг), which is located around 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), located 4.8 miles (7.8 km) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month for a bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul is November.
Yes, you can take a bus between Plovdiv and Istanbul.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul for bus companies City Lines, FlixBus and Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers City Lines, FlixBus and Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Plovdiv to Istanbul depends on the bus providers:
- City Lines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% 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.
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Plovdiv to Istanbul, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Plovdiv to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Plovdiv to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul with the following bus providers: City Lines, FlixBus and Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul with the following bus providers: City Lines, FlixBus and Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul with the following bus providers: City Lines, FlixBus and Infobus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Plovdiv to Istanbul
Plovdiv
Istanbul
The major bus station for departures in Plovdiv is Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) for your trip from Plovdiv to Istanbul.
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)
information
Пловдив, Централна гара (Plovdiv, Tsentralna gara)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Istanbul is Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) for your trip to Istanbul from Plovdiv.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
5 km
Car connection
O-3 OtoyoluWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Terminal (in the station)
- Kebab Express (0.2 km)
- Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
- Metro: M1A Bus: 83O, 91E, 97G
Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria)
information
İstanbul, Alibeyköy Cep Otogarı
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
8 kmCar connection
Çevre Yolu CaddesiWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Alibeyköy (in the station)
- Kebab House (0.2 km)
- Simit Sarayı (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for İstanbul, Alibeyköy Cep Otogarı
- Bus: 36CE, 49T, 49Z Metro: M7
Most popular bus connections from Plovdiv
More options for your journey from Plovdiv to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Plovdiv
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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