- Must visit
Topkapı Palace Museum
Former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans, known for its courtyards, treasury, sacred relics, and Bosphorus views.
2nd cheapest
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$521•One-way
Sofia (София)
Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$451•One-way
2nd Fastest
Sofia (София)
Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$401•One-way
2nd cheapest, Fastest
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$521•One-way
Cheapest
Sofia (София)
Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$361•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Sofia to IstanbulShowing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$45
Fastest journey
8h 0m
Average duration
8h 52m
Buses per day
5
Distance
497 km
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Prices include taxes and may change depending on availability. Any additional fees can be reviewed before payment. The total price will be finalized once the purchase is completed.
Sofia to Istanbul bus with ArdaTur
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 15m. 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 $36, and a flight costs an average of $61.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$40 Average price Cheapest | $166 Average price | $109 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 17m Average total duration 6h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 15m Average total duration Fastest 4h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $40 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Istanbul:
A bus is $125 (€103) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sofia to Istanbul costing on average $166 (€136).
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 15m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $40 (€33) compared to roughly $109 (€90) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $68 (€56). The journey takes 6h 47m versus 6h 1m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus, Citylines, Huntur, Luks Yonca.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Sofia to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 10:15AM | Duration 10h16 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $36 |
Live departures
Sofia to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Istanbul buses for today, Monday, July 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 11:00 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 8h30 | 7:30 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 7231723 | 1:30 PM Sofia (София) | 8h30 | 10:00 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7223155 | 7:00 PM Sofia (София) | 9h05 | 4:05 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:00 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 8h00 | 7:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7231733 | 11:59 PM Sofia (София) | 10h16 | 10:15 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Istanbul 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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Why should you book Sofia to Istanbul buses with Omio?
ArdaTur as well as FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus, Citylines and more offer buses services from Sofia to Istanbul.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ArdaTur tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ArdaTur?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ArdaTur, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus or Citylines 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 ArdaTur with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Istanbul.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Buses from Sofia to Istanbul run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€30) if you book in advance.
There are 5 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 6h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€30) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 6h 59m |
First bus 12:20 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 70 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
Bus providers: ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus, Citylines, Huntur, Luks Yonca from Sofia to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Istanbul with ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus, Citylines, Huntur, Luks Yonca for as low as $36 (€30). 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
8h 30m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€34)
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.
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
8h 30m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€30)
City Lines frequency
3 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
6h 59m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€30)
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 Duration
8h 5m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€30)
ArdaTur frequency
5 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
9h 0m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€35)
Citylines frequency
2 a day
Huntur
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 30m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Huntur frequency
1 a day
Luks Yonca
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 0m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
Luks Yonca 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.
- Recommended
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Major museum complex with outstanding collections from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world, including the Alexander Sarcophagus.
- Recommended
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
Set in the former Ibrahim Pasha Palace, this museum is noted for carpets, calligraphy, woodwork, and ethnographic displays.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic heart of the old city, surrounded by Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and major Byzantine and Ottoman monuments.
- Must visit
Istiklal Avenue
Istanbul’s best-known pedestrian avenue, lined with historic buildings, shops, passages, galleries, and lively street life.
- Recommended
Galataport
Redeveloped waterfront promenade with public art, Bosphorus views, and strong recent popularity among visitors and social media users.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
A sesame-crusted ring bread sold by street vendors and bakeries, eaten throughout Istanbul as a classic breakfast or snack.
- Vegetarian
Menemen
A traditional Turkish breakfast dish of eggs cooked with tomatoes and green peppers, often shared with bread in Istanbul homes and lokantas.
Balık Ekmek
A famous Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread, strongly associated with the Bosphorus and Eminönü waterfront.
Mikla
A well-known fine dining restaurant with modern Turkish cuisine, rooftop views, and a polished atmosphere in Beyoğlu.
Karaköy Lokantası
A beloved modern lokanta serving traditional Turkish home-style dishes by day and refined meze in a stylish setting by night.
Hamdi Restaurant
An established restaurant near Eminönü known for kebabs, traditional Southeastern Turkish dishes, and sweeping Golden Horn views.
Turkish lira
Moderate for most tourists. Food and transit are good value, while hotels in central areas can be costly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 150-300 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- TRY 400-900 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- TRY 1,500+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- TRY 80-150 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Around 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and delivery drivers.
Istanbul Senin
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 27 TRY
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
İstanbul Havalimanı, Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1, Istanbul -> Sirkeci Station, Istanbul
- Distance
- 41 km
- Travel time
- 55 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for Metro, Tram, Ferry and Bus travel; single-use paper tickets cost more per ride.
- Card payment is generally not accepted directly on municipal buses and trams, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
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 $36 (€30) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Istanbul is $40 (€33) ; 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 5 direct buses a day from Sofia to Istanbul with ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus, Citylines, Huntur, Luks Yonca. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Istanbul, you can count on ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus, Citylines, Huntur, Luks Yonca 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.
A trip to Istanbul from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 59m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Istanbul is January.
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:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul for bus company ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines.
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:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Istanbul. 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.
- 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: ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, FlixBus, City Lines, Infobus.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Sofia will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Istanbul among Omio's users.
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 София, (Sofia) to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) station pair, with some services arriving at Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria). 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
София, (Sofia)
City-centre transport
Getting to София, (Sofia) from Sofia city centre
Bus36h 31m · $482
38h 30m
39h 1m · $368
57h 18m · $301
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 · $22
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
Which Istanbul station do buses from Sofia arrive at?
Buses from Sofia to Istanbul most often arrive at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Some services arrive at Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Istanbul arrival station.
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.
Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria)
City-centre transport
Getting to Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria) from Istanbul city centre
TrainM1a, M1b · 19m · $1 · every ~45 min
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
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
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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