- Must visit
Museo del Prado
World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Madrid
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$279
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$293
Fastest journey on Oct 29
2 d 10 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
2 d 10 h 35 m
Buses on Oct 29
2
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 $293 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $279.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Sofia to Madrid without transferring at least 2 times.
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus10:50 PM 58h20 София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) 8:10 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) $279 1 One-way 2 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
10:50 PM 58h50 София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) 8:40 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses $307 1 One-way 3 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
10:50 PM 58h20 София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) 8:10 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) $279 1 One-way 2 transfers - FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
10:50 PM 58h50 София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) 8:40 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses $307 1 One-way 3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Madrid
Bulgaria
Spain
Buses from Sofia to Madrid run on average 3 times per day, taking around 52h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $98 (€82) but you can travel from only $30 (€25) 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 46h 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 $30 (€25)
Distance 1399 miles (2253 km) |
Average bus duration 52h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $98 (€82) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 46h 30m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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 $30 (€25)
Frequently asked questions about your Sofia to Madrid trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sofia to Madrid.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Madrid can start from as little as $98 (€82) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Madrid is $239 (€202) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
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.
Sofia to Madrid Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 62h10 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $252 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 56h00 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $172 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 58h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $168 |
Live departures
Sofia to Madrid bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Madrid buses for today, Wednesday, October 28. 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 | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 58h20 | 8:10 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 58h50 | 8:40 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Bus providers: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International from Sofia to MadridYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Madrid with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International for as low as $30 (€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 FlixBus Duration
46h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$98 (€82)
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 Union Ivkoni International Duration
49h 30m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
$137 (€115)
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sofia and Madrid
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
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.
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.
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 {providersWithBike}.
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.
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 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.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers gardens, a boating lake, monuments, and relaxed walks in the city center.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Lively grand avenue known for architecture, shopping, theaters, and nonstop energy from day to night.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
Elegant boulevard linking major museums and landmarks, ideal for a classic central Madrid walk.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables, and broth, especially traditional in Madrid and often served in stages.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Crisp fried squid rings served in a baguette roll. This iconic Madrid street food is especially linked to bars around Plaza Mayor.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla in a rich sauce. A classic old Madrid tavern dish with deep local roots.
DSTAgE
Refined two-Michelin-star dining focused on seasonal Spanish produce, with elegant modern cooking in a polished fine-dining room.
Malacatín
Traditional Madrid restaurant known for cocido madrileño served in stages, with an old-school dining room and loyal local following.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic century-old tavern famed for roast suckling pig and Castilian dishes in a classic, wood-lined setting near Plaza Mayor.
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.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Madrid Estación Sur de Autobuses -> Puerta del Sol
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless bank cards work on EMT Madrid city buses, but Metro usually requires a transport card or ticket.
- Buy the 10-trip ticket if you will make several journeys; it is valid on Metro zone A and EMT buses.
Plan your visit to Madrid
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Madrid.
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.
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
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.
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 · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
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 · $2 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · $2 · 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.
Which Madrid station do buses from Sofia arrive at?
Buses from Sofia to Madrid most often arrive at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses. Some services arrive at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Madrid arrival station.
Madrid, Estación Sur de AutobusesCalle de Mendez Alvaro, 83, 28045 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses from Madrid city centre
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses is 3 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC5, C10, C7 · 2m · $2 · every ~23 min
C10, C7 · 8m · $2 · every ~8 min
C3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · $2 · every ~15 min
BusN11 · 16m · $2 · every ~11 min
N13 · 18m · $2 · every ~15 min
148 · 45m · $5 · every ~30 min
Subway6 · 24m · $3 · every ~48 min
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses bus station facilities and services
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafetería de la estación (in the station), Restaurante El Brillante (0.5 km), La Taberna de Domínguez (0.7 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the waiting area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses: Elevators, ramps.
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)Av. de la Hispanidad, s/n, 28042 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) from Madrid city centre
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) is 12 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus203, N27 · 1h 2m · $11 · every ~45 min
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) bus station facilities and services
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rodilla, Mahoudrid
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are aTMs located throughout T4, major cards accepted .
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid): WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid): Step-free access, elevators, accessible toilets.
More options for your journey from Sofia to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Madrid and Sofia
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