- 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 Sliven to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$22
Average price
$22
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
4 h 13 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
246 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sliven to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sliven to Sofia will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Sliven for Sofia on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 246 km distance in an average of 4 h 13 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 4 h 50 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.
10:20 AM3h20Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)1:40 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$221One-way0 transfers- 2:15 PM4h30Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)6:45 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$221One-way0 transfers
- 6:15 PM4h50Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)11:05 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$221One-way0 transfers
- 10:20 AM3h20Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)1:40 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$221One-way0 transfers
- 2:15 PM4h30Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)6:45 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$221One-way0 transfers
- 6:15 PM4h50Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)11:05 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Sliven to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sliven to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $13, and a bus costs an average of $19.
Distance: 152 miles (246 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$20 Average price | $13 Average price Cheapest | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 16m Average total duration 4h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration Fastest 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sliven to Sofia is a train with an average price of $13 (€11).
This is compared to other travel options from Sliven to Sofia:
A train is $6 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sliven to Sofia costing on average $20 (€16).
The fastest way to travel from Sliven to Sofia is by train with an average journey time of 4h 43m.
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sliven and Sofia including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sliven 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 $20 (€16) compared to roughly $61 (€50) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $42 (€34). The journey takes 4h 46m versus 3h 4m 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, Union Ivkoni, Citylines, Union Ivkoni.
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.
Sliven to Sofia Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 08:21AM | Duration 4h21 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 09:28AM | Duration 4h28 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Live departures
Sliven to Sofia bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sliven to Sofia buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:20 AM Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара) | 3h20 | 1:40 PM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:15 PM Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара) | 4h30 | 6:45 PM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:15 PM Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара) | 4h50 | 11:05 PM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sliven to Sofia by train or bus
Compare train and 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
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Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
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Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Sliven to Sofia buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as City Lines, Union Ivkoni, Citylines, Union Ivkoni and more offer buses services from Sliven to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sliven to Sofia.
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, Union Ivkoni, Citylines or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Sliven 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sliven to Sofia.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Sliven to Sofia.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sliven to Sofia
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Sliven to Sofia run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by train.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 152 miles (246 km) distance in 4h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $13 (€11)
Distance 152 miles (246 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 30m |
First bus 4:00 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $13 (€11)
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni, Citylines from Sliven to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Sliven to Sofia with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni, Citylines for as low as $13 (€11). 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
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
City Lines frequency
3 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
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€16)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
4 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.
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Union Ivkoni frequency
2 a day
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Citylines frequency
2 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 Sliven to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sliven 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 Sliven to Sofia can start from as little as $19 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sliven to Sofia is $20 (€16) ; 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 Sliven to Sofia is 4h 30m to travel the 152 miles (246 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 Sliven to Sofia leaves at 4:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sliven to Sofia leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Sliven to Sofia with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni, Citylines, Union Ivkoni. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sliven to Sofia, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni, Citylines, Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sliven and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Sofia from Sliven is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sliven to Sofia is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sliven and Sofia including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sliven to Sofia:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sliven to Sofia for bus company Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
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 Sliven to Sofia 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 Sliven to Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sliven to Sofia:
- 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 Sliven to Sofia:
- 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 Sliven to Sofia. 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 Sliven to Sofia with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sliven to Sofia with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sliven to Sofia with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Since both Sliven and Sofia 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 Sliven 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 Sliven to Sofia
Sliven
Sofia
The major bus station for departures in Sliven is Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара) for your trip from Sliven to Sofia.
Sliven, Avtogara (Сливен, Автогара)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Sofia is Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) for your trip to Sofia from Sliven.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station
Public transit options for Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)
- Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M2 Train: Sofia Central Station
Most popular bus connections from Sliven
More options for your journey from Sliven to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sofia and Sliven
Most popular bus connections to Sofia
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