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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Mar 15
Cheapest price
$115
Average price
$115
Fastest journey
1 d 8 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 8 h 30 m
Buses per day
1
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 $115 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $115.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Sofia for Cologne on Sun, Mar 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Mar 15 the direct buses cover the 1541 km distance in an average of 1 d 8 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 8 h 30 m .
On Sun, Mar 15 the slowest buses will take 1 d 8 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.
08:50PM32h30
Sofia05:20AMCologne
$1151One-way
0 transfers
08:50PM32h30
Sofia05:20AMCologne
$1151One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $77. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.5 - 3.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, and a flight costs an average of $24.
Distance: 957 miles (1541 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
$129 Average price Cheapest | $132 Average price |
31h 53m Average total duration 31h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 8m Average total duration Fastest 3h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.5 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.6 - 9.2kg 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 Cologne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 34h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 32h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $98 |
Live departures
Sofia to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Cologne buses for today, Saturday, March 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 3:31 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 32h00 | 4:50 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 8:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 39h51 | 12:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Cologne 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.
Sun
Mar 15
Mar 15
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Mar 21
Mar 21
Why should you book Sofia to Cologne buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Karat-S, Ourbus, Trans Jug and more 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 Karat-S, Ourbus or Trans Jug 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 Karat-S, Ourbus or Trans Jug 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.
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 23m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $77 (€63) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) 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 31h 10m.
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 $24 (€20)
Distance 957 miles (1541 km) |
Average bus duration 31h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€63) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 31h 10m |
First bus 00:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest month Jul |
Cheapest day Wed |
High season Apr - Jun |
Low season Oct - Dec |
Busiest day Thu |
Least busy day Fri |
Best day to book ahead 35 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 $24 (€20)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus, Trans Jug from Sofia to CologneYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Cologne with FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus, Trans Jug for as low as $24 (€20). 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 Duration
31h 10m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€63)
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.
Karat-S
About
Karat-S is a prominent bus operator based in Sofia, Bulgaria, with an extensive transportation network across Europe. The company offers both national and international bus services, connecting various cities in countries like Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Serbia, in addition to numerous routes within Bulgaria. Karat-S is known for its affordable and punctual services, making it a popular choice for both tourists and daily commuters. Amenities often include air conditioning, adjustable seats, and sometimes Wi-Fi and restrooms, though availability can vary by vehicle. Karat-S operates over 18 daily departures and has a strong presence with offices and points of sale across Europe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
32h 0m
Cheapest Price
$143 (€117)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20) 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. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
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 packed in a bike bag.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
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
29h 0m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€107)
Ourbus 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.
Trans Jug
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
35h 10m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€107)
Trans Jug frequency
1 a day
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Cologne can start from as little as $77 (€63) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Cologne is $129 (€106) ; 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 Cologne is 31h 10m to travel the 957 miles (1541 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 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, Karat-S, Ourbus, Trans Jug. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus, Trans Jug 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.
A trip to Cologne from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 31h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Cologne is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Cologne including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne for bus company FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Cologne:
- Karat-S
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Ourbus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cologne are:
- Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic masterpiece with twin spires
- Museum Ludwig, renowned for its extensive collection of modern art including works by Picasso and Warhol
- Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its thousands of love locks and panoramic views of the Rhine River
- Old Town (Altstadt), a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional beer halls
- Cologne Zoo, one of the oldest and most diverse zoos in Germany, home to a wide variety of animal species.
The best things to do in Cologne include:
- Cologne Chocolate Museum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and production of chocolate
- Rhine River Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Cologne's skyline and iconic landmarks
- Visit the Botanical Gardens Flora, a beautiful park with diverse plant species and stunning floral displays
- Explore the Belgian Quarter, known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street art
- Attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and diverse musical performances.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Cologne depends on the bus companies:
- Karat-S
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
- 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.
- Ourbus
- 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 FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus.
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 Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Cologne:
- Karat-S
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Ourbus
- 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:
- Karat-S
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Ourbus
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Cologne. The following conditions apply:
- Karat-S
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- 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, Karat-S, Ourbus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Karat-S, Ourbus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Sofia to Cologne
Sofia
Cologne
The major bus station for departures in Sofia is София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) for your trip from Sofia to Cologne.
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
information
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
1 km
Car 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
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar 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
The major bus station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) for your trip to Cologne from Sofia.
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMAccessibilityWCinformation
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystraßeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystrasseWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
- Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19
Köln, ZOB
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Breslauer PlatzWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria im ZOB (in the station)
- McDonald's (0.2 km)
- Vapiano (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, ZOB
- Bus: 132, 133, 250 Metro: U5, U18 Train: S6, S11, S12
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
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
Most popular bus connections to Cologne
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