- Must visit
Regional History Museum Kardzhali
Main regional museum presenting archaeology, ethnography, and nature collections that explain Kardzhali’s layered history.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Kardzhali
Showing times and prices for Aug 27
Cheapest price
€14
Average price
€14
Fastest journey
4 h
Average duration
4 h
Buses per day
1
Distance
205 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Kardzhali is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Kardzhali will cost around €14 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €14.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Sofia for Kardzhali on Thu, Aug 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 27 the direct buses cover the 205 km distance in an average of 4 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h .
On Thu, Aug 27 the slowest buses will take 4 h 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.
10:00 AM4h00Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)2:00 PMKardzali, Bus Station€141One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 AM4h00Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)2:00 PMKardzali, Bus Station€141One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Sofia to Kardzhali
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Kardzhali among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €13. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €13, and a bus costs an average of €13.
Distance: 127 miles (205 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€15 Average price Cheapest | €43 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Kardzhali is a bus with an average price of €15.
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Kardzhali is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Kardzhali including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Kardzhali 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 €15 compared to roughly €43 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €27. The journey takes 4h 0m versus 3h 8m 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 Group Plus, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, BG Razpisanie.
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 Kardzhali Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Group Plus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price €15 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €14 |
Live departures
Sofia to Kardzhali bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Kardzhali buses for today, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 4h00 | 2:00 PM Kardzali, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Kardzhali by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Thu
Aug 27
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Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
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Sep 02
Why should you book Sofia to Kardzhali buses with Omio?
Group Plus as well as Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, BG Razpisanie and more offer buses services from Sofia to Kardzhali.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Kardzhali.
Why book with Omio vs Group Plus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Group Plus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss or BG Razpisanie to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Kardzhali.
- 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 Group Plus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Kardzhali.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss or BG Razpisanie to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Kardzhali.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Kardzhali.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Kardzhali
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Sofia to Kardzhali run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €13 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 17:00. The fastest bus covers the 127 miles (205 km) distance in 4h 0m.
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 127 miles (205 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price €13 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 4h 0m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 5:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 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: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus from Sofia to KardzhaliYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Kardzhali with Union Ivkoni International, Infobus. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
€16
Infobus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
Union Ivkoni International
About
Union Ivkoni International is a prominent bus company based in Sofia, Bulgaria, established in 1992. It is recognized as the largest bus carrier in Bulgaria and a leader in bus transport across Europe. The company offers extensive services, including regular bus lines, bus rentals, and bus tours, with over 715 daily departures to more than 100 towns in Bulgaria and over 150 towns in Central and Western Europe, Greece, and Turkey. Union Ivkoni also operates its own tourist brand, Uni Holidays, providing various excursions, vacations, and plane tickets.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
€13
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.
Complete guide to Kardzhali
Things to do in Kardzhali
Discover the best of Kardzhali — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kardzhali trip today.
- Recommended
Archaeological Exposition of the Regional History Museum
Museum section displaying Thracian finds, medieval artifacts, and key discoveries from Perperikon and nearby sites.
- Recommended
Ethnographic Exposition of the Regional History Museum
Ethnographic displays of Rhodope crafts, costumes, and everyday life, useful for understanding local multicultural traditions.
- Recommended
Prostor Park
Central city park with fountains, shaded walks, and leisure areas, popular for everyday strolls and family breaks.
- Recommended
Arda Riverfront
Riverside area along the Arda offering open views, local life, and pleasant walking especially around sunset.
- Recommended
Kardzhali Reservoir Shore
Scenic reservoir shore area used for walks, photography, and relaxed views over one of southern Bulgaria’s largest lakes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Kachamak
Kachamak is a Rhodope cornmeal dish, often topped with white brined cheese and butter. It is a mountain staple linked to the region around Kardzhali.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Patatnik
Patatnik is a Rhodope potato pie with onion, herbs, and sometimes sirene cheese. It is one of the best-known traditional foods in Southern Bulgaria.
- Vegetarian
Klin
Klin is a Rhodope baked pie made with rice, eggs, and cheese in thin pastry. It is traditional at family gatherings and village feasts.
Meatsa House
Traditional Bulgarian restaurant known for grilled dishes, salads, and hearty regional cooking in a casual setting.
Hotel Ida Restaurant
Established restaurant and hotel venue serving Bulgarian and Balkan dishes with a spacious, classic atmosphere for groups and families.
Friends Bar & Dinner
Casual local venue popular for pizza, grills, and drinks. A reliable central option with broad appeal and relaxed service.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for Bulgaria: hotels, meals, and local transport usually cost less than in Sofia or coastal resorts.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 8-15 лв. for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- 20-35 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 40+ лв. per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 3-5 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not required. Leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and add small change in cafes.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Kardzhali
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Kardzhali 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 Kardzhali, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Kardzhali can start from as little as €13 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Kardzhali is €15 ; 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 Kardzhali is 4h 0m to travel the 127 miles (205 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 Kardzhali leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Kardzhali leaves at 5:00 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Sofia to Kardzhali with Group Plus, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, BG Razpisanie. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Kardzhali, you can count on Group Plus, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, BG Razpisanie for the best way to get you to Kardzhali. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Kardzhali and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Sofia , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Sofia (София), Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) . When arriving in Kardzhali , you can end your journey in bus stations like Kardzhali, Kardzali, Bus Station .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 Kardzhali, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Kardzhali from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Kardzhali is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Kardzhali including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali for bus company Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Kardzhali are:
- Perperikon, an ancient Thracian city and archaeological complex with ruins and historical significance
- Kardzhali Dam, a large reservoir offering scenic views and opportunities for water activities
- Regional History Museum, showcasing exhibits on the history and culture of the Kardzhali region
- Stone Mushrooms, a natural rock formation resembling mushrooms, located near the village of Beli Plast
- Ustra Fortress, the remains of a medieval fortress situated on a hill, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The best things to do in Kardzhali include:
- Visit the beautiful Kardzhali Reservoir for fishing, boating, and picnicking with stunning natural views
- Explore the enchanting Stone Mushrooms, perfect for photography and adventure
- Discover the rich history and heritage at the Regional History Museum
- Hike to the Ustra Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views
- Enjoy a day trip to the nearby Devil's Bridge, an architectural marvel surrounded by picturesque scenery.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Kardzhali depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- Union Ivkoni International
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Kardzhali:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Union Ivkoni International
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Kardzhali:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Kardzhali with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Since both Sofia and Kardzhali are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Kardzhali among Omio's users.
The currency used in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is widely preferred in smaller towns and markets, while cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in cities.
In Kardzhali, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transport. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. While violent crime is rare, staying vigilant in unfamiliar neighborhoods and securing personal belongings is recommended. Scams involving inflated prices at local markets have been reported, so agreeing on prices beforehand is important.
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 Kardzhali
Most Sofia to Kardzhali buses use the Sofia (София) to Kardzhali station pair, with some services arriving at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара). Use this guide to compare Sofia and Kardzhali 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 Kardzhali
Which Sofia station do buses to Kardzhali leave from?
Buses from Sofia to Kardzhali 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 · €397
38h 30m
39h 1m · €303
57h 18m · €248
Sofia (София) bus station facilities and services
Sofia (София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Small cafes available nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sofia (София). ATMs are aTM machines available onsite.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia (София).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia (София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia (София): Facilities are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)Centralna Avtogara, 100 Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd, Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) from Sofia city centre
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus78 · 13m · every ~5 min
Subway2 · 3m · €1 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) bus station facilities and services
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) 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 main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара): Elevators, ramps.
Which Kardzhali station do buses from Sofia arrive at?
Buses from Sofia to Kardzhali most often arrive at Kardzhali. Some services arrive at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Kardzhali arrival station.
KardzhaliKardzhali Center, bul. "Bulgaria" 94, 6600 Kardzhali, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Kardzhali from Kardzhali city centre
Kardzhali is 2 km from Kardzhali city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Kardzhali bus station facilities and services
Kardzhali has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kardzhali. ATMs are available at Kardzhali.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kardzhali.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kardzhali: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kardzhali: Ramps available for wheelchair access.
Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара)Kardzhali Center, bul. "Bulgaria" 94, 6600 Kardzhali, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара) from Kardzhali city centre
Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара) is 2 km from Kardzhali city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара) bus station facilities and services
Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack bar available inside.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара). ATMs are available at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kŭrdzhali, Avtogara (Кърджали, Автогара): Wheelchair accessible entrances and facilities.
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Kardzhali
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kardzhali and Sofia
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