- Recommended
Regional Archaeological Museum Plovdiv
Major archaeological museum with Thracian, Greek and Roman finds, including notable artifacts from ancient Philippopolis.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Plovdiv
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$24
Average price
$35
Fastest journey
1 h 50 m
Average duration
2 h
Buses per day
6
Distance
132 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv will cost around $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Sofia for Plovdiv on Sat, Jun 20, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 132 km distance in an average of 2 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 50 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 2 h 10 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.
08:00 AM2h10Sofia (София)10:10 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$241One-way0 transfers- 08:15 AM1h55Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:10 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$311One-way0 transfers
- 08:20 AM1h50Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:10 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$311One-way0 transfers
- 08:00 AM2h19Sofia (София)10:19 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$421One-way0 transfers
- 08:15 AM2h04Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:19 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$421One-way0 transfers
- 08:20 AM1h50Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:10 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$311One-way0 transfers
- 08:15 AM1h55Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:10 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$311One-way0 transfers
- 08:20 AM1h59Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:19 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$421One-way0 transfers
- 08:15 AM2h04Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София)10:19 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$421One-way0 transfers
- 08:00 AM2h10Sofia (София)10:10 AMPlovdiv (Пловдив)$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Sofia to Plovdiv
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Plovdiv among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $7, and a bus costs an average of $10.
Distance: 82 miles (132 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$15 Average price | $8 Average price Cheapest | $35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration 3h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Plovdiv is a train with an average price of $8 (€6).
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Plovdiv:
A train is $7 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sofia to Plovdiv costing on average $15 (€12).
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Plovdiv is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 6m.
Other travel options to Plovdiv take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Plovdiv including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Plovdiv 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 $15 (€12) compared to roughly $35 (€28) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $20 (€16). The journey takes 2h 6m versus 1h 47m 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 Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus, Group Plus, Citylines, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, Union Ivkoni, BG Razpisanie.
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 Plovdiv Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:19AM | Duration 2h19 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 10:19AM | Duration 2h04 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $12 |
Live departures
Sofia to Plovdiv bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Plovdiv buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 8:00 AM Sofia (София) | 2h19 | 10:19 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:00 AM Sofia (София) | 2h10 | 10:10 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:15 AM Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) | 2h04 | 10:19 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:15 AM Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) | 1h55 | 10:10 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:20 AM Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) | 1h50 | 10:10 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:20 AM Sofia, Sofia International Airport (София, Летище София) | 1h59 | 10:19 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 11:00 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 2h15 | 1:15 PM Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Plovdiv by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02
Jul 02
Fri
Jul 03
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Jul 09
Why should you book Sofia to Plovdiv buses with Omio?
Karat-S as well as Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, City Lines and more offer buses services from Sofia to Plovdiv.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Plovdiv.
Why book with Omio vs Karat-S?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Karat-S, but also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus or City Lines to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Plovdiv.
- 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 Karat-S with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus or City Lines to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Plovdiv.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Plovdiv.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Plovdiv
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Sofia to Plovdiv run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) but you can travel from only $7 (€6) by train.
There are 11 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:31. The fastest bus covers the 82 miles (132 km) distance in 1h 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
Train from $7 (€6)
Distance 82 miles (132 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $10 (€8) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 1h 45m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 11:31 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 70 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
Train from $7 (€6)
Bus providers: Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus, Citylines, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, BG Razpisanie from Sofia to PlovdivYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Plovdiv with Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus, Citylines, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, BG Razpisanie for as low as $7 (€6). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Karat-S
About
Karat-S is a prominent bus operator based in Sofia, Bulgaria, with an extensive transportation network across Europe. The company offers both national and international bus services, connecting various cities in countries like Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Serbia, in addition to numerous routes within Bulgaria. Karat-S is known for its affordable and punctual services, making it a popular choice for both tourists and daily commuters. Amenities often include air conditioning, adjustable seats, and sometimes Wi-Fi and restrooms, though availability can vary by vehicle. Karat-S operates over 18 daily departures and has a strong presence with offices and points of sale across Europe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€8)
Karat-S frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20) 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. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
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 packed in a bike bag.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€17)
Infobus frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
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
City Lines frequency
6 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.
Group Plus
About
Group Plus Ltd. is a Bulgarian coach company headquartered in Sofia, operating an extensive network of 25 routes across the country. They connect 12 popular destinations like Ravda, Sunny Beach, Varna, and Shumen, with an average of 23 trips daily. The company prides itself on a modern fleet with high safety standards, offering amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and power outlets, with some coaches also featuring restrooms. Group Plus Ltd. is known for its affordable fares for journeys within Bulgaria.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Group Plus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 20 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 50% 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; reservation required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
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
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
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
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€9)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
3 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
Union Ivkoni frequency
2 a day
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Citylines frequency
3 a day
Grup Plus - Etap Adresss
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€8)
Grup Plus - Etap Adresss frequency
1 a day
BG Razpisanie
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 15m
BG Razpisanie frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Plovdiv
Things to do in Plovdiv
Discover the best of Plovdiv — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plovdiv trip today.
- Recommended
Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
Housed in the elegant Kuyumdzhioglu House, this museum presents Bulgarian folk culture, crafts and period interiors.
- Recommended
Hindliyan House
Beautiful 19th-century merchant house museum in the Old Town, known for richly decorated rooms and preserved frescoes.
- Must visit
Plovdiv Old Town
The city’s most atmospheric district, filled with cobbled streets, National Revival houses and major archaeological landmarks.
- Must visit
Kapana
Creative central quarter known for narrow streets, design shops, street art and a lively cultural scene popular with younger visitors.
- Must visit
Nebet Tepe
Historic hilltop area with archaeological remains and one of the best sunset viewpoints in Plovdiv.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salad
A classic Bulgarian salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It is one of the country’s most recognizable dishes and commonly eaten in Plovdiv.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Patatnik
A traditional Rhodope potato dish made with grated potatoes, onions, and spearmint, often pan-cooked until crisp. It is strongly associated with southern Bulgaria near Plovdiv.
- Gluten-free
Kavarma
A slow-cooked stew usually made with pork or chicken, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, often baked in an earthenware pot. It is a staple of Bulgarian tavern cooking.
Hebros Restaurant
An established fine-dining restaurant in the Old Town, set in a historic house and known for refined Bulgarian cuisine and an elegant atmosphere.
Pavaj
A popular central Plovdiv restaurant known for modern Bulgarian and Mediterranean dishes, quality wine, and a lively yet stylish atmosphere in Kapana.
Rahat Tepe
A well-known hilltop restaurant with panoramic views over Plovdiv, serving Bulgarian classics, grilled dishes, and wines in a scenic setting.
Bulgarian Lev
Affordable for most visitors. Meals, coffee, and local transport cost less than in many EU city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- BGN 10-18 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- BGN 25-45 per person.
- Fine dining
- BGN 70+ per person.
- Coffee
- BGN 3-6 for coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips for hotel staff are appreciated, but not required.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.00 BGN
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug -> Plovdiv Center
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Single urban bus tickets in Plovdiv are typically bought on board from the conductor or driver, so keep small cash in BGN ready.
- Card payment availability on buses is not consistently guaranteed, so do not rely on paying by card on board.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Plovdiv
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Plovdiv can start from as little as $10 (€8) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Plovdiv is $15 (€12) ; 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 Plovdiv is 1h 45m to travel the 82 miles (132 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 Plovdiv leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Plovdiv leaves at 11:31 PM.
Yes, there are 11 direct buses a day from Sofia to Plovdiv with Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus, Group Plus, Citylines, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, Union Ivkoni, BG Razpisanie. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Plovdiv, you can count on Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus, Group Plus, Citylines, Grup Plus - Etap Adresss, Union Ivkoni, BG Razpisanie for the best way to get you to Plovdiv. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Plovdiv and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Plovdiv from Sofia is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Plovdiv is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Plovdiv including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Plovdiv:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Karat-S
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Plovdiv for bus company Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Plovdiv are:
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, a well-preserved Roman theater still used for performances and events
- Old Town Plovdiv, a historic area with cobblestone streets and traditional Bulgarian architecture
- Kapana Creative District, a vibrant neighborhood known for its art galleries, cafes, and cultural events
- Plovdiv Roman Stadium, the remains of a large Roman stadium partially visible in the city center
- Alyosha Monument, a Soviet-era statue offering panoramic views of the city from a hilltop location.
The best things to do in Plovdiv include:
- Regional Ethnographic Museum, a museum showcasing Bulgarian cultural heritage and traditional crafts
- Visit the Plovdiv City Garden, a relaxing green space perfect for a leisurely stroll
- Explore the Plovdiv Regional Historical Museum, which offers insights into the city's rich past
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in the Thracian Valley, known for its excellent local wines
- Attend a cultural event or festival, such as the Plovdiv Jazz Fest or the International Folklore Festival.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- Karat-S
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
- 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 Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
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 Plovdiv.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Karat-S
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20) 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 Plovdiv:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Karat-S
- 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 Plovdiv. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- Karat-S
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Plovdiv with the following bus company: Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Plovdiv with the following bus company: Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Plovdiv with the following bus company: Karat-S, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, City Lines, Group Plus, FlixBus.
Since both Sofia and Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv among Omio's users.
The currency used in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is widely preferred in smaller towns and markets, while cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in cities.
In Plovdiv, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use meters and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use official taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
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 Plovdiv
Most Sofia to Plovdiv buses use the Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1)) to Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) station pair, with some services arriving at Plovdiv, Tsentralna Gara (Пловдив, Централна Гара). Use this guide to compare Sofia and Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1))Sofia Airport Departure Terminal 1, bul. "Christopher Columbus" 1, 1528
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1)) from Sofia city centre
Bus84 · 28m · every ~9 min
84 · 30m · every ~9 min
Subway4 · 49m · $1 · every ~13 min
Shuttle13m · $22
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
14m · $79
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)Centralna Avtogara, 100 Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd, Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) from Sofia city centre
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus78 · 13m · every ~5 min
Subway2 · 3m · $1 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) bus station facilities and services
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара): Elevators, ramps.
София, (Sofia)
City-centre transport
Getting to София, (Sofia) from Sofia city centre
Bus36h 31m · $484
38h 30m
39h 1m · $370
57h 18m · $303
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)
City-centre transport
Getting to Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) from Plovdiv city centre
Bus7, 20, 26 · 9m · $1 · every ~22 min
16 · 17m · $1 · every ~7 min
27 · 18m · $1 · every ~7 min
Plovdiv, Tsentralna Gara (Пловдив, Централна Гара)
City-centre transport
Getting to Plovdiv, Tsentralna Gara (Пловдив, Централна Гара) from Plovdiv city centre
Bus7, 20, 26 · 11m · $1 · every ~22 min
16 · 13m · $1 · every ~7 min
27 · 19m · $1 · every ~7 min
Пловдив, Централна гара (Plovdiv, Tsentralna gara)
City-centre transport
Getting to Пловдив, Централна гара (Plovdiv, Tsentralna gara) from Plovdiv city centre
Bus7, 20, 26 · 11m · $1 · every ~22 min
16 · 13m · $1 · every ~7 min
27 · 19m · $1 · every ~7 min
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Plovdiv
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Plovdiv and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Plovdiv
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
