- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. A cornerstone of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art and a top priority for first-time visitors.
Cheapest price
$150
Average price
$184
Fastest journey
2 d 5 h
Average duration
2 d 8 h 48 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
2253 km
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 $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $150.
Of the 3 buses that leave Sofia for Madrid on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct buses cover the 2253 km distance in an average of 2 d 8 h 48 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 5 h .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest buses will take 2 d 11 h 5 m 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.
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBusOmio 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 $127.
Distance: 1399 miles (2253 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$242 Average price | $211 Average price Cheapest | $821 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 |
![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Madrid:
A flight is $31 (€26) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sofia to Madrid costing on average $242 (€197).
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Bus takes on average 52h 23m.
Tickets start at around $242 (€197) compared to roughly $821 (€667) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $579 (€470). 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, 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 57h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $151 |
Operator | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 53h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $171 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 59h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $383 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 59h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $233 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 57h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $393 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 58h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $150 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 58h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $246 |
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Madrid buses for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:50 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 59h05 | 8:55 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 2 transfers | |
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 | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Sofia to Madrid run on average 3 times per day, taking around 52h 23m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $127 (€103) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) 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.
Distance 1399 miles (2253 km) |
Average bus duration 52h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $127 (€103) |
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 |
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
Spain’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. A cornerstone of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art and a top priority for first-time visitors.
Madrid’s leading modern art museum, best known for Picasso’s Guernica alongside major works by Dalí and Miró. Essential for modern and contemporary art lovers.
A major museum spanning European painting from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Its broad collection complements the Prado and Reina Sofía perfectly.
Madrid’s most famous park, ideal for walking, boating, and relaxing among monuments and formal gardens. A top city experience for nearly every visitor.
Madrid’s best-known avenue, lined with historic architecture, theaters, shops, and rooftop views. Energetic by day and night, it is one of the city’s defining walks.
The symbolic heart of Madrid and a major meeting point, home to the Kilómetro Cero marker and famous public celebrations. Constantly busy and central.
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, traditionally served in stages with broth, vegetables, chickpeas, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most emblematic comfort dishes.
A classic Madrid sandwich of fried squid rings in crusty bread, especially associated with bars around Plaza Mayor. It is a simple local staple and iconic snack.
A rich traditional stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla in a paprika-forward sauce. It is a historic tavern dish closely linked to Madrid cuisine.
Prestigious flamenco venue with acclaimed dining, known for refined Spanish cuisine in an intimate historic setting. It combines performance and high-end gastronomy.
Historic traditional restaurant famous for roast suckling pig and Castilian classics. It offers an old-world atmosphere and is one of Madrid’s most iconic dining rooms.
Well-known classic restaurant celebrated for huevos rotos and traditional Spanish cooking. It is a long-established spot with a lively, polished tavern feel.
Moderate for Western Europe. Museums and transport are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave EUR 1-2 in cafés and 5-10% at restaurants for very good service. Tipping is appreciated, not required.
Official public transport app
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses -> Puerta del Sol, 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.

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