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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Athens
Showing times and prices for Nov 24
Cheapest price
$77
Average price
$77
Fastest journey
11 h 30 m
Average duration
12 h
Buses per day
2
Distance
525 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Athens is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Athens will cost around $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Sofia for Athens on Mon, Nov 24, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Nov 24 the direct buses cover the 525 km distance in an average of 12 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 30 m .
On Mon, Nov 24 the slowest buses will take 12 h 30 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.
006:00PM11h30
София, (Sofia)05:30AMAthens (Αθήνα)
$771One-way
0 transfers
626813705:00PM12h30
София, (Sofia)05:30AMAthens (Αθήνα)
$771One-way
0 transfers
006:00PM11h30
София, (Sofia)05:30AMAthens (Αθήνα)
$771One-way
0 transfers
626813705:00PM12h30
София, (Sofia)05:30AMAthens (Αθήνα)
$771One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Athens
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Athens among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €28, and a flight costs an average of €35.
Distance: 326 miles (525 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
€54 Average price Cheapest | €178 Average price |
12h 37m Average total duration 12h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Sofia to Athens Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Live departures
Sofia to Athens bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Athens buses for today, Sunday, November 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 7:55 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 3:00 PM София, (Sofia) | 12h30 | 3:30 AM Athens (Αθήνα) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 4:00 PM София, (Sofia) | 11h30 | 3:30 AM Athens (Αθήνα) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6247523 | 5:00 PM София, (Sofia) | 11h30 | 4:30 AM Athens (Αθήνα) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Athens
Bulgaria
Greece
Buses from Sofia to Athens run on average 4 times per day, taking around 12h 7m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:00, the last at 23:44. The fastest bus covers the 326 miles (525 km) distance in 11h 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 326 miles (525 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 11h 0m |
First bus 04:00 |
Last bus 23:44 |
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: Ourbus, City Lines, Infobus, ArdaTur, Citylines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus from Sofia to AthensYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Athens with Ourbus, City Lines, Infobus, ArdaTur, Citylines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus for as low as $34 (€28). 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
11h 30m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
City Lines frequency
2 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.
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
11h 0m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€51)
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.
Ourbus
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
11h 30m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
Ourbus frequency
2 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.
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
ArdaTur frequency
1 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
11h 30m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
Union Ivkoni - Unibus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 0m
Union Ivkoni - Unibus frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Athens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia 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 Sofia to Athens can start from as little as $41 (€33) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Athens is $63 (€52); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Sofia to Athens bus time is 11 h 30 min covering the 326 mile (525 km) long trip, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Sofia to Athens leaves at 7: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Sofia to Athens leaves at 8: 30PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Sofia to Athens with Ourbus, City Lines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus or Citylines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
For the trip from Sofia to Athens you can take a bus with Ourbus, City Lines, Arda Tur, Infobus, Brittany Ferries, Union Ivkoni - Unibus or Citylines. Be sure to check out all possible bus companies that offer services between Sofia and Athens on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), which is located around 1.3 miles (2.1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Athens Chiou, located 0.6 miles (906 m) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month to travel from Sofia to Athens by bus is October.
You have options as you can travel to Athens from Sofia 2 different ways: bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Athens:
- Ourbus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Athens for bus companies Ourbus, City Lines and Infobus.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers Ourbus, City Lines and Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Athens depends on the bus companies:
- Ourbus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
- 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.
- 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 Sofia to Athens, 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 Sofia to Athens.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Athens:
- Ourbus
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- 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 Sofia to Athens:
- Ourbus
- 10 USD per additional bag.
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Athens. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Athens with the following bus companies: Ourbus, City Lines and Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Athens with the following bus providers: Ourbus, City Lines and Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Athens with the following bus providers: Ourbus, City Lines and Infobus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Sofia to Athens
Sofia
Athens
The major bus station for departures 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 from Sofia to Athens.
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
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Serdika (in the station)
- Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km)
- Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
- Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M1, M2 Train: Sofia Central Station
София, (Sofia)
information
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Athens is Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) for your trip to Athens from Sofia.
Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη)
information
Athens Chiou
information
Athens, Akominatou / Favierou (Αθήνα, Ακομινάτου / Φαβιέρου)
information
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού)
information
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Athens
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Athens and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Athens
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