- Must visit
Nikola Vaptsarov House Museum
The town’s leading museum preserves the poet’s home, manuscripts, and exhibits on his life. Essential for understanding Bansko’s cultural identity.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Bansko
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 10
Cheapest price on Oct 10
$17
Average ticket price on Oct 10
$17
Fastest journey on Oct 10
3 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Oct 10
3 h 9 m
Buses on Oct 10
3
Distance
96 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Bansko is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Bansko will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast buses
On Sat, Oct 10, we found 3 buses from Sofia to Bansko, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 10 the direct buses cover the 96 km distance in an average of 3 h 9 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .
On Sat, Oct 10 the slowest buses will take 3 h 12 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.
11:25 AM3h10Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)2:35 PMBansko, Bus Station$171One-way0 transfers- 8:30 AM3h12Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)11:42 AMBansko, Bus Station$171One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM3h05Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)12:50 PMBansko, Bus Station$171One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM3h05Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)12:50 PMBansko, Bus Station$171One-way0 transfers
- 11:25 AM3h10Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)2:35 PMBansko, Bus Station$171One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 AM3h12Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)11:42 AMBansko, Bus Station$171One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Bansko
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Sofia to Bansko run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) if you book in advance.
There are 11 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest bus covers the 59 miles (96 km) distance in 1h 9m.
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 59 miles (96 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€11) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 1h 9m |
First bus 12:01 AM |
Last bus 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 42 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
Sofia to Bansko Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 08:42AM | Duration 3h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 09:42AM | Duration 3h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 11:42AM | Duration 3h12 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 02:35PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:17PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 2h43 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:27PM | Arrival Time 04:09PM | Duration 2h42 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 03:58PM | Arrival Time 07:04PM | Duration 3h06 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 08:11PM | Duration 2h41 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 10:17PM | Duration 2h47 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:33PM | Arrival Time 10:33PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:47PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 2h43 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:57PM | Arrival Time 10:36PM | Duration 2h39 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:13PM | Arrival Time 09:52PM | Duration 1h39 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Live departures
Sofia to Bansko bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Bansko buses for tomorrow, Saturday, October 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 3h12 | 11:42 AM Bansko, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:45 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 3h05 | 12:50 PM Bansko, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:25 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 3h10 | 2:35 PM Bansko, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sofia to Bansko buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as Infobus offer buses services from Sofia to Bansko.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Bansko.
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 Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Bansko.
- 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.
Bus providers: Infobus, Union Ivkoni International from Sofia to BanskoYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Bansko with Infobus, Union Ivkoni International for as low as $13 (€11). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 Infobus Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$24 (€20)
Infobus frequency
10 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.
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 Union Ivkoni International Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
$13 (€11)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
3 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.
Complete guide to Bansko
Things to do in Bansko
Discover the best of Bansko — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bansko trip today.
- Recommended
Neofit Rilski House Museum
Well-preserved Revival house museum of the scholar and educator Neofit Rilski. Displays period interiors and tells Bansko’s educational story.
- Recommended
Velyanova House Museum
Fortified merchant home with rich wall paintings and wooden interiors. It is one of Bansko’s finest examples of Bulgarian Revival domestic art.
- Must visit
Old Town
Bansko’s atmospheric old quarter has stone houses, museums, churches, and courtyards. It is the best area for slow walks and historic character.
- Recommended
Nikola Vaptsarov Square
Main central square framed by civic buildings and monuments. A practical meeting point and a good place to feel the town’s everyday rhythm.
- Recommended
Pirin Street
Popular pedestrian route in the ski zone with shops and hotels nearby. It is lively in winter and useful for reaching the gondola area on foot.
- Gluten-free
Kapama
Slow-cooked pork with sauerkraut, rice and spices, baked in a clay pot. A signature Bansko winter dish with rich mountain flavor.
- Gluten-free
Chomlek Sausage
Traditional Bansko cured pork sausage, seasoned with cumin, pepper and local spices, then dried. A classic mountain meze.
- Gluten-free
Banski Bob
Hearty bean stew often cooked with vegetables, herbs and sometimes meat. Common in Pirin mountain homes and taverns.
Come Prima
Refined restaurant in Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko, known for elegant European dining and polished service.
Matsurev Han
Popular traditional restaurant with live music, local dishes and a rustic setting suited to hearty mountain dinners.
Molerite
Traditional механа known for Bansko specialties, grilled meats and folklore atmosphere near the old town.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for a ski resort. Meals and coffee are cheaper than major Alpine resorts, while local buses and many everyday services remain low cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 15-25 лв. for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- 30-50 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 60+ лв. per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 3-6 лв. for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
A 5-10% tip is appreciated in restaurants if service is good. Round up in cafes and for taxis, or add a small tip for helpful service.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Bansko
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Bansko 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 Bansko, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Bansko can start from as little as $13 (€11) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Bansko is $30 (€25) ; 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 Sofia to Bansko is 1h 9m to travel the 59 miles (96 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 Sofia to Bansko leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Bansko leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there are 11 direct buses a day from Sofia to Bansko with Union Ivkoni International, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Bansko, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, Infobus for the best way to get you to Bansko. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Bansko and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Sofia , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Sofia (София), Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София), Sofiya Airport - Terminal T1, Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) . When arriving in Bansko , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bansko, Bus Station, Razlog, Bus Station (Разлог, Автогара), Banya (Баня) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sofia (София), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bansko, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
Yes, you can take a bus between Sofia and Bansko.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Bansko for bus company Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Bansko:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Bansko depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a 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, Infobus.
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 Sofia to Bansko.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Bansko:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- 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 Sofia to Bansko:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Bansko. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Bansko with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Bansko with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Bansko with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
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 Bansko, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on ski lifts. It's important to use official taxi services to avoid overcharging. Some visitors have reported inflated prices at certain mountain restaurants or equipment rentals, so comparing prices beforehand is advisable. Always secure valuables and be vigilant when withdrawing cash from ATMs.
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 Sofia to Bansko
Most Sofia to Bansko buses use the Sofia (София) to Bansko, Avtogara (Банско, Автогара) station pair. Use this guide to compare Sofia and Bansko bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Sofia
Arrival bus stations in Bansko
Which Sofia station do buses to Bansko leave from?
Buses from Sofia to Bansko leave from Sofia (София). The station is from Sofia city centre at Central Bus Station - Sofia, Tsentralna, bul. "Knyaginya Maria Luiza" 100, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria.
Sofia (София)Central Bus Station - Sofia, Tsentralna, bul. "Knyaginya Maria Luiza" 100, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia (София) from Sofia city centre
Bus36h 31m · $473
38h 30m
39h 1m · $361
57h 18m · $296
Sofia (София) bus station facilities and services
Sofia (София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Small cafes available nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sofia (София). ATMs are aTM machines available onsite.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia (София).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia (София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia (София): Facilities are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)Sofia International Airport (SOF), булевард „Христофор Колумб“ 1, 1540 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) from Sofia city centre
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) is 6 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) bus station facilities and services
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София). ATMs are aTMs are available nearby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София): The station has basic accessibility.
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1))Sofia Airport Departure Terminal 1, bul. "Christopher Columbus" 1, 1528
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1)) from Sofia city centre
Bus84 · 28m · every ~9 min
84 · 30m · every ~9 min
Subway4 · 49m · $1 · every ~13 min
Shuttle13m · $21
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
14m · $78
Bansko, Avtogara (Банско, Автогара)Bansko Bus Station, ul.Patriarh Evtimij 4, 2770
More options for your journey from Sofia to Bansko
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bansko and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Bansko
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