- Must visit
Acropolis Museum
Athens’ premier archaeological museum, displaying finds from the Acropolis with excellent modern galleries and views of the Parthenon. A top priority for first-time visitors.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Ruse to Athens
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$90
Average price
$106
Fastest journey
18 h 29 m
Average duration
18 h 29 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
679 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Ruse to Athens is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ruse to Athens will cost around $106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Ruse for Athens on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 679 km distance in an average of 18 h 29 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 18 h 29 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 18 h 29 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.
11:31 PM18h29Ruse6:00 PMAthens$901One-way0 transfers- 10:31 PM18h29Ruse5:00 PMAthens$1221One-way0 transfers
- 11:31 PM18h29Ruse6:00 PMAthens$901One-way0 transfers
- 10:31 PM18h29Ruse5:00 PMAthens$1221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Ruse to Athens
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Ruse to Athens among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $90. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.7 - 1.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $90, and a flight costs an average of $103.
Distance: 421 miles (679 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$102 Average price Cheapest | $200 Average price | $246 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 40m Average total duration 18h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 43m Average total duration Fastest 3h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.0 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Ruse to Athens is a bus with an average price of $102 (€84).
This is compared to other travel options from Ruse to Athens:
A bus is $97 (€80) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ruse to Athens costing on average $200 (€164).
The fastest way to travel from Ruse to Athens is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 43m.
Other travel options to Athens take longer:
Bus takes on average 18h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ruse and Athens including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ruse to Athens 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 $102 (€84) compared to roughly $246 (€202) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $144 (€118). The journey takes 18h 10m versus 12h 17m 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 Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines.
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.
Ruse to Athens Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 17h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 10:31PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 18h29 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 11:31PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 18h29 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $90 |
Compare prices and tickets Ruse to Athens by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight 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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Why should you book Ruse to Athens buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as City Lines or Citylines offer buses services from Ruse to Athens.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ruse to Athens.
Why book with Omio vs Union Ivkoni International?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Union Ivkoni International, but also compare tickets for the likes of City Lines or Citylines to find the best option for your trip from Ruse to Athens.
- 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 Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ruse to Athens.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ruse to Athens.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Ruse to Athens
Bulgaria
Greece
Buses from Ruse to Athens run on average 1 times per day, taking around 18h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $90 (€74) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:30, the last at 19:00. The fastest bus covers the 421 miles (679 km) distance in 17h 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 421 miles (679 km) |
Average bus duration 18h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $90 (€74) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 17h 30m |
First bus 1:30 AM |
Last bus 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 3 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: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines from Ruse to AthensYou can travel by bus between Ruse to Athens with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines for as low as $90 (€74). 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
17h 20m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€76)
City Lines frequency
1 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.
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 Duration
19h 0m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
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.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17h 20m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Athens
Things to do in Athens
Discover the best of Athens — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Athens trip today.
- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Greece’s largest archaeological museum, famous for Mycenaean gold, classical sculpture, and major masterpieces from across the country.
- Recommended
Museum of Cycladic Art
Highly regarded museum with elegant displays of Cycladic figurines and ancient Greek art, popular with both locals and visitors.
- Must visit
Plaka
Athens’ historic old quarter with neoclassical lanes, small squares, and easy access to major sights. A classic area for walking and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Monastiraki Square
Lively central square known for city energy, flea-market streets, and postcard views toward the Acropolis.
- Must visit
Lycabettus Hill
Top city viewpoint with sweeping panoramas, especially popular for sunset and skyline photos.
Moussaka
A classic baked dish of layered eggplant, potato, minced meat, and béchamel. It is one of the most iconic Greek comfort foods served in tavernas across Athens.
Souvlaki
Grilled skewered meat, usually pork or chicken, often served with pita, onions, and tomatoes. It is a staple Athenian street food and a must-try for visitors.
- Vegetarian
Spanakopita
A savory pie filled with spinach, herbs, and feta cheese in flaky phyllo pastry. It is a popular everyday snack and traditional bakery item in Athens.
Karamanlidika Tou Fani
A famous deli-restaurant in central Athens known for cured meats, cheeses, meze, and a lively modern taverna atmosphere blending tradition with contemporary style.
Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani
An established and highly regarded central Athens venue for Greek meze, regional products, and casual dining with strong local character.
Klimataria
A historic traditional taverna known for classic Greek dishes, house wine, and old Athens charm. It is especially popular for an authentic local dining experience.
Euro
Moderate for Europe. Budget eats are affordable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-5 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, leave 5-10% for good service; more only for excellent service.
OASA Telematics
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.20
- Day pass
- EUR 4.10
To the city center
Athens, Leoforou Kifisou - KTEL Kifisou -> Omonia Square, Athens
- Distance
- 6 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
- Validate your ticket before boarding and keep it until the end of your trip because inspections are common.
- On most Athens buses and trams, you cannot tap a bank card directly onboard, so buy and load an ATH.ENA Ticket or ATH.ENA Card first.
FAQs: Bus from Ruse to Athens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ruse to Athens 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 Athens, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Ruse to Athens can start from as little as $90 (€74) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ruse to Athens is $102 (€84) ; 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 Ruse to Athens is 17h 30m to travel the 421 miles (679 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 Ruse to Athens leaves at 1:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ruse to Athens leaves at 7:00 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Ruse to Athens with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Ruse to Athens, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines for the best way to get you to Athens. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Ruse and Athens and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Ruse , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Ruse, Avtogara (Русе, Автогара), Ruse (Русе), Ruse, Avtogara Iztok (Русе, Автогара Изток) . When arriving in Athens , you can end your journey in bus stations like Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη), Athens (Αθήνα), Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού), Athens Chiou .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Ruse, Avtogara (Русе, Автогара), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Athens from Ruse is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Ruse to Athens is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ruse and Athens including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ruse to Athens for bus company Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ruse to Athens:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Athens are:
- Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel featuring iconic structures like the Parthenon and offering panoramic views of the city
- Acropolis Museum, a modern museum housing artifacts from the Acropolis and providing insights into ancient Greek civilization
- Ancient Agora of Athens, a historic site that was once the heart of public life in Athens, featuring ruins and a reconstructed Stoa
- National Archaeological Museum, Greece's largest museum, showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts from various archaeological locations across the country
- Plaka, a charming historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant local shops and cafes.
The best things to do in Athens include:
- Mount Lycabettus, enjoy panoramic views of Athens from the city's highest point
- Explore the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, where you can find antiques, souvenirs, and local crafts
- Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and host of the first modern Olympic Games
- Take a stroll through the National Garden of Athens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
- Experience a traditional Greek performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient stone theatre.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Ruse to Athens depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- 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 Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
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 Ruse to Athens.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ruse to Athens:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- 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 Ruse to Athens:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Ruse to Athens. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ruse to Athens with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ruse to Athens with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ruse to Athens with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Since both Ruse and Athens are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ruse to Athens among Omio's users.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Athens, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist sites, and markets. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, keep valuables secure, and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
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 Ruse to Athens
Most Ruse to Athens buses use the Ruse, Avtogara (Русе, Автогара) to Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) station pair, with some services arriving at Athens (Αθήνα). Use this guide to compare Ruse and Athens bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Ruse
Arrival bus stations in Athens
Ruse, Avtogara (Русе, Автогара)Ruse Tsar Osvoboditel, Tsar Osvoboditel 156, 7012
Ruse (Русе)
Ruse, Avtogara Iztok (Русе, Автогара Изток)
Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη)Athens, Pl. Karaiskaki 2, 10437
City-centre transport
Getting to Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) from Athens city centre
Bus051 · 4m · $2 · every ~10 min
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού)
Athens ChiouAthens Chiou,Chiou 14,10438
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens Chiou from Athens city centre
Train1 · 4m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus790, 057 · 4m · $2 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Ruse
More options for your journey from Ruse to Athens
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Athens and Ruse
Most popular bus connections to Athens
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