- Must visit
Archaeological Museum of Kavala
Main archaeological museum with finds from Kavala, Philippi, and the wider region, from prehistory to Roman times.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Kavala
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Kavala among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, and a flight costs an average of $75.
Distance: 133 miles (215 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $196 Average price | $83 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 50m Average total duration 6h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Kavala is a bus with an average price of $44.
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Kavala:
A bus is $152 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sofia to Kavala costing on average $196.
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Kavala is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Kavala take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Kavala including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Kavala 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 $44 compared to roughly $83 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $40. The journey takes 6h 20m versus 4h 12m 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 Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni.
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 Kavala Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Kavala 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 Kavala buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as City Lines or Union Ivkoni offer buses services from Sofia to Kavala.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Kavala.
Why book with Omio vs Union Ivkoni International?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Union Ivkoni International, but also compare tickets for the likes of City Lines or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Kavala.
- 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 Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Kavala.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu 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 Kavala.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Kavala
Bulgaria
Greece
Buses from Sofia to Kavala run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $30 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:00, the last at 16:15. The fastest bus covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 6h 30m.
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 133 miles (215 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 30m |
First bus 8:00 AM |
Last bus 4:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, City Lines, Union Ivkoni from Sofia to KavalaYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Kavala with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni for as low as $30. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$44
City Lines frequency
1 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.
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
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
$35
Union Ivkoni International frequency
2 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.
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
$16
Union Ivkoni frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Kavala
Things to do in Kavala
Discover the best of Kavala — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kavala trip today.
- Recommended
Kavala Tobacco Museum
Modern museum presenting Kavala’s tobacco trade, labor history, and urban identity through documents and exhibits.
- Recommended
Museum of Muhammad Ali
Museum in the Muhammad Ali house area exploring his life and Kavala’s ties to Egypt and Ottoman history.
- Must visit
Panagia District
Old town peninsula of cobbled lanes, colorful houses, and major monuments, ideal for wandering and views.
- Must visit
Kavala Promenade
Busy waterfront promenade lined with sea views, ferries, and city life, especially lively at sunset.
- Recommended
Port of Kavala Area
Central harbor area combining boats, open views, and easy access to shops, monuments, and walking routes.
- Vegetarian
Kourabiedes Neas Karvalis
Kourabiedes of Nea Karvali are buttery almond shortbread cookies dusted with sugar, a famous regional sweet linked to refugee tradition near Kavala.
Bakaliaros Skordalia
Bakaliaros skordalia is fried salt cod served with a strong garlic potato dip, a beloved Greek coastal dish commonly enjoyed in Kavala tavernas.
- Gluten-free
Fresh Sardines Or Anchovies
Sardeles or gavros grilled or marinated are everyday catches in Kavala, valued for their freshness from the North Aegean and simple seaside preparation.
Yalos
Established restaurant in the old city area known for refined Greek cooking, seafood, and a more polished atmosphere for dinner.
Sousouro
Well-known seafood taverna by the water, popular for fresh fish, grilled octopus, and classic meze in a relaxed harbor setting.
To Koutoukaki
Traditional taverna style venue serving regional meze, grilled meats, and cooked dishes with a casual local feel.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Greece: rooms, tavern meals, and local buses are fair in season, but seafront hotels and summer dining cost more than smaller mainland towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or rounded. In restaurants, leave 5-10% for good service. Round up in cafes and taxis; small tips are appreciated, not required.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Kavala, Mitropolitou Chrisostomou - KTEL -> Kavala Central Square
- Distance
- 700 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy bus tickets before boarding when possible; onboard availability and payment methods can vary by route.
- Card or contactless payment is not reliably confirmed for Kavala city buses, so carry a small amount of cash.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Kavala
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Kavala 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 Kavala, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Kavala can start from as little as $30 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Kavala is $44 ; 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 Kavala is 6h 30m to travel the 133 miles (215 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 Kavala leaves at 8:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Kavala leaves at 4:15 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Sofia to Kavala with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Kavala, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Kavala. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Kavala and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Kavala from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Kavala is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Kavala including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Kavala for bus company Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Kavala:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Kavala are:
- Kavala Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea
- Imaret, an architectural masterpiece and former Ottoman religious complex now serving as a luxury hotel
- The Aqueduct, an impressive 16th-century structure also known as Kamares, providing a glimpse into the city's past
- Archaeological Museum of Kavala, housing artifacts from the Neolithic to the Byzantine period
- Philippi Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient ruins and an early Christian basilica.
The best things to do in Kavala include:
- Take a leisurely walk along the Kavala waterfront, enjoying the sea views and vibrant atmosphere
- Visit the Tobacco Museum, which showcases the city's history as a major tobacco trading center
- Enjoy a boat tour to the nearby island of Thassos, known for its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes
- Experience local cuisine at a traditional taverna, savoring dishes like fresh seafood and moussaka
- Attend a cultural event or festival, such as the Cosmopolis Festival, celebrating music and arts from around the world.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Kavala 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.
- 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, 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 Kavala.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Kavala:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- 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 Kavala:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Kavala. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Kavala with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Kavala with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Kavala with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Since both Sofia and Kavala 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 Kavala among Omio's users.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Kavala, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Avoid unlicensed taxis and always agree on fares beforehand to prevent overcharging. Be wary of street vendors offering deals that seem too good to be true, as scams targeting visitors have been reported. Staying vigilant in nightlife spots and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe experience.
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 Kavala
Most Sofia to Kavala buses use the Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) to Kavala, Port (Καβάλα, Λιμάνι) station pair, with some services arriving at Kavala, Mitropolitou Chrisostomou - KTEL (Καβάλα, Μητροπολίτου Χρυσοστόμου - ΚΤΕΛ). Use this guide to compare Sofia and Kavala 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 Kavala
Which Sofia station do buses to Kavala leave from?
Buses from Sofia to Kavala leave from Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Sofia city centre at Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria.
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) from Sofia city centre
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus78 · 12m · every ~5 min
Tram12, 27 · 9m · $1 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · $1 · every ~20 min
M2 · 5m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) bus station facilities and services
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Serdika (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km), Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Elevators, ramps.
Kavala, Port (Καβάλα, Λιμάνι)
Kavala, Mitropolitou Chrisostomou - KTEL (Καβάλα, Μητροπολίτου Χρυσοστόμου - ΚΤΕΛ)
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Kavala
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kavala and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Kavala
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