- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$123
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$173
Fastest journey on Oct 29
1 d 8 h
Average journey duration on Oct 29
1 d 11 h 23 m
Buses on Oct 29
6
Distance
1541 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Cologne will cost around $173 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $123.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Sofia to Cologne without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus+
FlixTrain10:50 PM43h57София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)5:47 PMCologne Hbf$1231One-way2 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM32h00София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)5:50 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$1261One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:20 AM34h15София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)8:35 PMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$1401One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus+FlixTrain1:45 AM41h11София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)5:56 PMCologne Hbf$1761One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM34h05София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)10:50 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$2311One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM32h00София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)5:50 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$1261One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM34h05София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)10:50 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$2311One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:20 AM34h15София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)8:35 PMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$1401One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM35h25София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)12:10 PMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$2441One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus+FlixTrain1:45 AM41h11София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)5:56 PMCologne Hbf$1761One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Cologne
Bulgaria
Germany
Buses from Sofia to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 31h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $81 (€68) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 957 miles (1541 km) distance in 29h 15m.
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
Flight from $29 (€24)
Distance 957 miles (1541 km) |
Average bus duration 31h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $81 (€68) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 29h 15m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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
Flight from $29 (€24)
Frequently asked questions about your Sofia to Cologne trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sofia to Cologne.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Cologne can start from as little as $81 (€68) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Cologne is $152 (€128) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Sofia to Cologne leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Sofia to Cologne which require at least one change with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Sofia to Cologne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 35h25 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $165 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 30h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 30h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 33h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $140 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 32h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $103 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 32h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 32h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 36h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $151 |
Live departures
Sofia to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Cologne buses for today, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:20 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 33h20 | 7:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 32h00 | 5:50 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus+FlixTrain | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 44h00 | 5:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus+FlixTrain | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 44h06 | 5:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, October 29 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 35h25 | 12:10 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 34h05 | 10:50 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus+FlixTrain | 1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 41h11 | 5:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sofia to Cologne buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Union Ivkoni International offer buses services from Sofia to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Cologne.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Cologne.
Bus providers: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International from Sofia to CologneYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Cologne with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International for as low as $29 (€24). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 FlixBus Duration
29h 15m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$81 (€68)
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.
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
30h 0m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
$89 (€75)
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sofia and Cologne
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne for bus company FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Cologne depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- 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 Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Cologne. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Complete guide to Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Must visit
Kolumba
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
Plan your visit to Cologne
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Cologne including taking a bus and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Sofia to Cologne
Most Sofia to Cologne buses use the София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Sofia and Cologne 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 Cologne
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
City-centre transport
Getting to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) from Sofia city centre
Bus78 · 13m · every ~5 min
Subway2 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) from Sofia city centre
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus78 · 12m · every ~5 min
Tram12, 27 · 9m · $2 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 5m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) bus station facilities and services
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Serdika (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km), Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Elevators, ramps.
Which Cologne station do buses from Sofia arrive at?
Buses from Sofia to Cologne most often arrive at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Some services arrive at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 16m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · $5
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · $6
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · $5
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
More options for your journey from Sofia to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cologne and Sofia
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
