Sofia to Madrid bus with Union Ivkoni International

Fri, Jul 31
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Union Ivkoni International
FlixBus
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Union Ivkoni International
FlixBus
Alsa
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Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Madrid

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$302

Average price

$393

Fastest journey

2 d 9 h 35 m

Average duration

2 d 10 h 56 m

Buses per day

5

Distance

2253 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Sofia to Madrid will cost around $393 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $302.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Sofia to Madrid without transferring at least 2 times.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    10:50 PM59h05
    София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    8:55 AMMadrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
    $3021One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    1:45 AM57h45
    София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    10:30 AMMadrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
    $3571One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    1:45 AM62h10
    София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    2:55 PMMadrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
    $3971One-way
    3 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    10:50 PM58h05
    София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    7:55 AMMadrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
    $4191One-way
    3 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    10:50 PM57h35
    София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    7:25 AMMadrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
    $4881One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Madrid

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 2.3 - 5.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $33, and a bus costs an average of $126.

Distance: 1399 miles (2253 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Driving

$240

Average price

$209

Average price

Cheapest

$813

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

52h 53m

Average total duration

52h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 30m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

29h 25m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

2.3 - 5.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

6.8 - 13.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Union Ivkoni International

Most popular bus company

Wizz Air

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 Madrid is a flight with an average price of $209.

This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Madrid:

A flight is $31 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sofia to Madrid costing on average $240.

The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 30m.

Other travel options to Madrid take longer:

Bus takes on average 52h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Madrid 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 $240 compared to roughly $813 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $573. The journey takes 52h 23m versus 29h 25m 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.

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 Madrid Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:45AM
Arrival Time
03:35PM
Duration
62h50
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$228
Operator
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
09:30AM
Duration
49h30
Departure days
Tue, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$177
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:50PM
Arrival Time
07:25AM
Duration
57h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$188

Live departures

Sofia to Madrid bus times

The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Madrid buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
57h35
7:25 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
58h05
7:55 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses3 transfers
Friday, July 31
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
62h10
2:55 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:45 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
57h45
10:30 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Madrid 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 Madrid buses with Omio?

Union Ivkoni International as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Sofia to Madrid.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Madrid.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Madrid.
  • 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 Madrid.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Madrid.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Madrid.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Sofia to Madrid

BulgariaBulgaria
SpainSpain
Icon of bus

Buses from Sofia to Madrid run on average 3 times per day, taking around 52h 23m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $126 but you can travel from only $33 by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1399 miles (2253 km) distance in 49h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $33
Distance
1399 miles (2253 km)
Average bus duration
52h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$126
Buses per day
3
Fastest bus
49h 30m
First bus
12:40 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
77 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 $33

Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus from Sofia to MadridYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Madrid with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus for as low as $33. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
57h 45m
Cheapest Price
$126
FlixBus frequency
3 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
49h 0m
Cheapest Price
$148
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.

Complete guide to Madrid

Things to do in Madrid

Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.

  • Must visit

Museo del Prado

World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.

  • Must visit

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

Leading modern art museum best known for Picasso’s Guernica, plus major works by Dalí and Miró.

  • Must visit

Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza

Celebrated collection of European masters from Van Eyck to Hopper in a refined palace setting.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Western Europe: hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and public transport is good value for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.

FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Madrid

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Madrid can start from as little as $126 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Madrid is $240 ; 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 Madrid is 49h 30m to travel the 1399 miles (2253 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 Madrid leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Madrid leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Sofia to Madrid which require at least one change with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Madrid, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Madrid. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Madrid and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Madrid from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 49h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Madrid is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Madrid:
  • 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 Madrid for bus company Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Madrid are:
  • Prado Museum, a renowned art museum housing European masterpieces from the 12th to the early 20th century
  • Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family with opulent architecture and historical artifacts
  • Retiro Park, a large and popular park in the city center featuring sculptures, a lake, and the Crystal Palace
  • Plaza Mayor, a grand square surrounded by historic buildings and a hub for cultural events and markets
  • Gran Vía, a bustling street known for its shopping, theaters, and vibrant nightlife.
The best things to do in Madrid include:
  • Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere
  • Mercado de San Miguel, a historic market offering a variety of gourmet foods and traditional Spanish delicacies
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, known for its eclectic bars and live music venues
  • Attend a flamenco show to experience traditional Spanish dance and music
  • Visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, for a tour or to catch a football match.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Madrid 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 Madrid.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Madrid:
  • 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 Madrid:
  • 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 Madrid. 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 Madrid with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Madrid with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Madrid with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Since both Sofia and Madrid 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Madrid among Omio's users.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Madrid, the main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and on public transportation. Common scams involve distraction techniques, such as someone asking for signatures on petitions or offering friendship bracelets, to steal valuables. Travelers should also be cautious of unlicensed taxi drivers and always use official transport services. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and keeping belongings secure helps minimize risks.
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 Madrid

Most Sofia to Madrid buses use the София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) to Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses station pair, with some services arriving at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid). Use this guide to compare Sofia and Madrid 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 Madrid
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
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, BulgariaWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
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.

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