- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
Major fine arts museum in a former abbey, with strong collections from antiquity to modern art. A core cultural stop in Lyon.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Lyon
Showing times and prices for Jul 18
Cheapest price
$141
Average price
$146
Fastest journey
1 d 11 h 15 m
Average duration
1 d 16 h 19 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
1507 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Lyon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Lyon will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $141.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Sofia to Lyon without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM39h25София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)4:10 PMLyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)$1411One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:20 AM36h55София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)11:15 PMLyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)$1421One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM49h40София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)2:25 AMLyon$1461One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM35h15София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)9:05 AMLyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)$1551One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM35h15София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)9:05 AMLyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)$1551One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:20 AM36h55София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)11:15 PMLyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)$1421One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM39h25София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)4:10 PMLyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)$1411One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM49h40София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)2:25 AMLyon$1461One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Lyon
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $93. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.5 - 3.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $93, and a flight costs an average of $31.
Distance: 936 miles (1507 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$166 Average price Cheapest | $319 Average price | $647 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
33h 6m Average total duration 32h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.5 - 3.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.5 - 9.0kg 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 Lyon is a bus with an average price of $166 (€136).
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Lyon:
A bus is $153 (€126) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sofia to Lyon costing on average $319 (€262).
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Lyon is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 35m.
Other travel options to Lyon take longer:
Bus takes on average 32h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Lyon including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Lyon 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 $166 (€136) compared to roughly $647 (€531) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $481 (€395). The journey takes 32h 36m versus 18h 54m 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, 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 Lyon Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 39h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $138 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 36h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 09:05AM | Duration 35h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $127 |
Live departures
Sofia to Lyon bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Lyon buses for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:20 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 36h55 | 11:15 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 35h15 | 9:05 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, July 18 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 39h25 | 4:10 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 49h40 | 2:25 AM Lyon | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Lyon 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 Lyon buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as FlixBus or Union Ivkoni offer buses services from Sofia to Lyon.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Lyon.
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 FlixBus or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Lyon.
- 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 Lyon.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Lyon.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Lyon.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Lyon
Bulgaria
France
Buses from Sofia to Lyon run on average 2 times per day, taking around 32h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $93 (€76) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 936 miles (1507 km) distance in 30h 45m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $31 (€25)
Distance 936 miles (1507 km) |
Average bus duration 32h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $93 (€76) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 30h 45m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $31 (€25)
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus, Union Ivkoni from Sofia to LyonYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Lyon with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus, Union Ivkoni for as low as $31 (€25). 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
35h 15m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€76)
FlixBus frequency
1 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.
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
29h 30m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€91)
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.
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
28h 30m
Cheapest Price
$104 (€85)
Union Ivkoni frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Lyon
Things to do in Lyon
Discover the best of Lyon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lyon trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Cinéma et Miniature
Museum of cinema miniatures and film props in Vieux Lyon. Popular for detailed sets, special-effects history, and family-friendly exhibits.
- Must visit
Musée des Confluences
Excellent free natural history and ethnography museum with fossils, animals, and global cultures. A strong local favorite, especially for families.
- Must visit
Vieux Lyon
Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes, traboules, courtyards, and major monuments. Essential for atmosphere, history, and walking exploration.
- Must visit
Presqu'île
Central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône, packed with elegant streets, squares, shopping, and many of Lyon’s classic city views.
- Must visit
La Croix-Rousse
Historic silk-workers’ hill district with stairways, murals, markets, and hidden passageways. Great for local character and city panoramas.
Quenelles De Brochet
Pike dumplings in a rich crayfish sauce. A Lyon classic from traditional bouchons, prized for its delicate fish texture and luxurious sauce.
Salade Lyonnaise
Crisp salad of frisée, bacon lardons, croutons, and a poached egg. A staple Lyonnaise bistro dish that reflects the city's hearty cooking style.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cervelle De Canut
Slow-cooked onions with vinegar, often served warm or chilled. This old Lyonnais side dish is traditional in bouchons and pairs well with charcuterie.
L'Auberge Du Pont De Collonges
Refined dining by Paul Bocuse, known for polished French cuisine and iconic Lyon dishes in an elegant, historic dining room.
Le Musée
Well-known traditional bouchon in Vieux Lyon, praised for generous Lyonnais specialties and a lively old-city atmosphere.
Café Comptoir Abel
Historic bouchon near Place Bellecour serving quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and classic regional fare in a warm traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while public transport is good value for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Lyon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Lyon 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 Lyon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Lyon can start from as little as $93 (€76) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Lyon is $166 (€136) ; 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 Lyon is 30h 45m to travel the 936 miles (1507 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 Lyon leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Lyon leaves at 11:30 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Sofia to Lyon which require at least one change with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus, Union Ivkoni. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Lyon, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus, Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Lyon. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Lyon and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Lyon from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 30h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Lyon is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Lyon including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Lyon:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Lyon for bus company Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Lyon are:
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning 19th-century basilica offering panoramic views of the city
- Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Renaissance architecture and narrow cobblestone streets
- Parc de la Tête d'Or, a large urban park featuring a zoo, botanical garden, and lake
- Musée des Confluences, a modern science and anthropology museum with innovative exhibits
- Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest open squares, ideal for shopping and dining.
The best things to do in Lyon include:
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a renowned indoor market offering gourmet food and local specialties
- Take a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône for a unique view of the city
- Explore the traboules, secret passageways in Vieux Lyon
- Attend a performance at the Opéra de Lyon, known for its diverse program
- Visit the Institut Lumière, dedicated to the history of cinema.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Lyon depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- 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, FlixBus.
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 Lyon.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Lyon:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- 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 Lyon:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Lyon. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Lyon with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Lyon with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Lyon with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Since both Sofia and Lyon 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 Lyon among Omio's users.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lyon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist spots, and markets. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Staying alert in busy zones ensures a safer visit.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Lyon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Lyon and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Lyon
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