- Must visit
Istanbul Modern
Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Istanbul
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$36
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$42
Fastest journey on Oct 13
8 h
Average journey duration on Oct 13
8 h 31 m
Buses on Oct 13
6
Distance
502 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Istanbul will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast buses
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 6 buses from Sofia to Istanbul, including 6 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct buses cover the 502 km distance in an average of 8 h 31 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest buses will take 9 h 5 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.
705702811:59 PM10h16Sofia10:15 AMIstanbul$361One-way0 transfers- 07:00 PM9h05Sofia4:05 AMIstanbul$391One-way0 transfers
- 76333528:30 AM8h30Sofia5:00 PMIstanbul$391One-way0 transfers
- 01:30 PM8h30Sofia10:00 PMIstanbul$441One-way0 transfers
FlixBus11:00 AM8h30София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)7:30 PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$451One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:00 PM8h00София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)7:00 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$451One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:00 AM8h30София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)7:30 PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$451One-way0 transfers
- 76333528:30 AM8h30Sofia5:00 PMIstanbul$391One-way0 transfers
- 01:30 PM8h30Sofia10:00 PMIstanbul$441One-way0 transfers
- 07:00 PM9h05Sofia4:05 AMIstanbul$391One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Buses from Sofia to Istanbul run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:20, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 6h 59m.
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 311 miles (502 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 6h 59m |
First bus 12:20 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 91 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 Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 10:15AM | Duration 10h16 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Live departures
Sofia to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Istanbul buses for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7632502 | 1:30 PM Sofia | 8h30 | 10:00 PM Istanbul | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7630327 | 7:00 PM Sofia | 9h05 | 4:05 AM Istanbul | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:00 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 8h00 | 7:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7619845 | 11:59 PM Sofia | 10h16 | 10:15 AM Istanbul | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| 7633352 | 8:30 AM Sofia | 8h30 | 5:00 PM Istanbul | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:00 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 8h30 | 7:30 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 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 Istanbul buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as ArdaTur, Infobus, Mybus Sofia and more offer buses services from Sofia to Istanbul.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Istanbul.
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 ArdaTur, Infobus or Mybus Sofia to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul.
- 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 Istanbul.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Istanbul.
Bus providers: ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus, Mybus Sofia from Sofia to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Istanbul with ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus, Mybus Sofia for as low as $33. 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
8h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$41
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.
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
6h 59m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$36
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.
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
Average ArdaTur Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
$33
ArdaTur frequency
4 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.
Mybus Sofia
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Mybus Sofia Duration
7h 59m
Cheapest Mybus Sofia Price
$36
Mybus Sofia frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Discover the best of Istanbul — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istanbul trip today.
- Must visit
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Major archaeology museum complex displaying masterpieces from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world.
- Must visit
Kariye Museum
Restored church-museum famed for exceptional Byzantine mosaics and frescoes that rival the city’s most celebrated monuments.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic square between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, ideal for walking among Istanbul’s greatest imperial monuments.
- Must visit
İstiklal Avenue
Lively pedestrian avenue lined with historic passages, shops, consulates, and culture venues in the heart of Beyoğlu.
- Must visit
Galata Neighborhood
Historic uphill quarter around the tower with narrow lanes, old facades, and photogenic walks toward Karaköy.
Adana Kebab
Grilled minced lamb kebab from southeastern Turkey, served with vegetables and lavash. A staple in Istanbul kebab houses and a classic local favorite.
- Gluten-free
Midye Dolma
Rice pilaf, currants, pine nuts, and herbs stuffed into mussel shells. A famous Istanbul street food, especially along waterfront districts.
- Vegetarian
Baklava
Layers of thin dough with pistachios or walnuts and syrup. An Ottoman dessert strongly associated with Istanbul's historic sweet shops.
Matbah Restaurant
Historic Sultanahmet restaurant known for refined Ottoman dishes and elegant service in a classic setting near major sights.
Asmalı Cavit
Beloved meyhane in Beyoğlu serving classic meze, rakı, and seasonal seafood in a lively, traditional tavern environment.
Balıkçı Sabahattin
Established Bosphorus fish restaurant known for fresh seafood, meze, and water views. A polished choice for a classic Istanbul dinner.
Turkish lira (₺)
Moderate for major city breaks: dining and transit are reasonable, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more than many nearby Turkish destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ₺250-450 for street food or simple lokanta meal.
- Mid-range
- ₺600-1,200 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ₺1,500+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- ₺90-160 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% if service not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Istanbul 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 Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Istanbul can start from as little as $33 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Istanbul is $38 ; 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 Istanbul is 6h 59m to travel the 311 miles (502 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 Istanbul leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Istanbul leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Sofia to Istanbul with FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus, Mybus Sofia. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Istanbul, you can count on FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus, Mybus Sofia for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Istanbul 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), София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2), Sofiya Airport - Terminal T1, Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) . When arriving in Istanbul , you can end your journey in bus stations like Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) .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 Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), located 5 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul for bus company FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul 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.
- 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.
- ArdaTur
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, ArdaTur, 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 Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus, ArdaTur, Infobus.
Türkiye uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its currency. Travelers often find cards widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases, local markets, and rural regions where card acceptance may be limited.
In Istanbul, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without a meter, unofficial tour guides offering expensive or fake services, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, agree on prices beforehand, and stay vigilant in busy areas to avoid these issues.
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 Istanbul
Most Sofia to Istanbul buses use the Sofia (София) to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) station pair. Use this guide to compare Sofia and Istanbul 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 Istanbul
Which Sofia station do buses to Istanbul leave from?
Buses from Sofia to Istanbul 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 · $474
38h 30m
39h 1m · $362
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.
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 · $1 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
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
Which Istanbul station do buses from Sofia arrive at?
Buses from Sofia to Istanbul arrive at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) is 3 miles (5 km) from Istanbul city centre.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey
City-centre transport
Getting to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) from Istanbul city centre
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) is 5 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainM1a, M1b · 11m · $1 · every ~45 min
Bus91E · 20m · $1 · every ~17 min
TramT4 · 22m · $1 · every ~34 min
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) bus station facilities and services
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Terminal (in the station), Kebab Express (0.2 km), Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and throughout the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Elevators, ramps.
More options for your journey from Sofia to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Sofia
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