- Must visit
Archaeological Museum Sandanski
The city’s main museum presents finds from ancient Parthicopolis, including mosaics, sculpture, and material from the Roman period.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Sandanski
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
€10
Average price
€10
Fastest journey
2 h 50 m
Average duration
3 h
Buses per day
4
Distance
126 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Sandanski is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Sandanski will cost around €10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €10.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Sofia for Sandanski on Tue, Aug 04, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct buses cover the 126 km distance in an average of 3 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 50 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest buses will take 3 h 15 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.
3:30 PM2h55Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)6:25 PMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers- 10:30 AM2h50Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)1:20 PMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM3h15Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)11:25 AMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
- 6:40 AM3h00Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)9:40 AMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 AM2h50Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)1:20 PMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM2h55Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)6:25 PMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
- 6:40 AM3h00Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)9:40 AMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM3h15Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)11:25 AMSandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)€101One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Sofia to Sandanski
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Sandanski among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, and a bus costs an average of €9.
Distance: 78 miles (126 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
€10 Average price Cheapest | €30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 28m Average total duration Fastest 2h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Sandanski is a bus with an average price of €10.
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Sandanski is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 58m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Sofia and Sandanski.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Sandanski 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 €10 compared to roughly €30 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €21. The journey takes 2h 58m versus 2h 13m 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, FlixBus.
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 Sandanski Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €9 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 09:25AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €9 |
Operator | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price €10 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price €10 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €9 |
Operator | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price €10 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €9 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €9 |
Operator | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price €10 |
Live departures
Sofia to Sandanski bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Sandanski buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:40 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 3h00 | 9:40 AM Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 3h15 | 11:25 AM Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:30 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 2h50 | 1:20 PM Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:30 PM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 2h55 | 6:25 PM Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара) | 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 Sandanski by bus
Compare 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.
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Why should you book Sofia to Sandanski buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as Union Ivkoni or FlixBus offer buses services from Sofia to Sandanski.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Sandanski.
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 Union Ivkoni or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Sandanski.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Sandanski.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Sandanski
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Sofia to Sandanski run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €9 if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:40, the last at 17:00. The fastest bus covers the 78 miles (126 km) distance in 2h 55m.
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
Distance 78 miles (126 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price €9 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 2h 55m |
First bus 6:40 AM |
Last bus 5:00 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
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
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, FlixBus from Sofia to SandanskiYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Sandanski with Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, FlixBus for as low as €9. 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
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
€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
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
€10
Union Ivkoni International frequency
8 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
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
€8
Union Ivkoni frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Sandanski
Things to do in Sandanski
Discover the best of Sandanski — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sandanski trip today.
- Recommended
Archaeological Park Sandanski
Open-air archaeological museum with conserved ruins and interpretation of the ancient town beneath modern Sandanski.
- Recommended
Episcopal Basilica Museum
Museum display centered on the Episcopal Basilica, notable for preserved mosaics and early Christian history.
- Must visit
Park Saint Vrach
Large landscaped park with walking paths, sculptures, and a mild climate; the city’s best-known place for a relaxed stroll.
- Recommended
Macedonia Street
Main pedestrian street lined with shops and public spaces, ideal for seeing everyday city life and evening walks.
- Recommended
Bulgaria Square
Central town square used for events and gatherings, surrounded by civic buildings and easy to combine with nearby sights.
- Gluten-free
Kapama
Kapama is a slow-baked festive stew of sauerkraut, rice and mixed meats, common in Pirin Macedonia and prized for its rich layered flavor.
- Gluten-free
Banski Starets
Banski starets is a dry-cured pork sausage from the nearby Bansko area, seasoned simply and air-dried in the mountain climate.
- Gluten-free
Chomlek
Chomlek is a slow-cooked casserole of veal or beef, potatoes, onions and red wine, traditional in southwestern Bulgaria.
Mekhana Sveti Vrach
Traditional Bulgarian tavern known for regional dishes, grilled meats and local wine in a rustic, lively atmosphere.
Park Hotel Sandanski Restaurant
Well-known restaurant in Sandanski offering Bulgarian and European dishes with a polished setting suitable for a longer dinner.
Restaurant Maslina
Casual local venue popular for Bulgarian comfort food, salads and barbecue dishes with dependable service.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly versus many European spa towns: lodging, dining, and local transport are generally low cost for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 12-20 лв. for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- 25-45 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 50+ лв. per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 3-5 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Round up in cafes and taxis; leave about 5-10% in restaurants if service is good.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Sandanski
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Sandanski 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 Sandanski, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Sandanski can start from as little as €9 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Sandanski is €10 ; 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 Sandanski is 2h 55m to travel the 78 miles (126 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 Sandanski leaves at 6:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Sandanski leaves at 5:00 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Sofia to Sandanski with Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Sandanski, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Sandanski. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Sandanski and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Sandanski from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Sandanski is May.
Yes, you can take a bus between Sofia and Sandanski.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Sandanski for bus company Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Sandanski:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Sandanski are:
- Sandanski Archaeological Museum, a museum showcasing artifacts from the region's rich ancient history including Roman and Thracian relics
- Park Sveti Vrach, a large and picturesque park offering walking paths, mineral springs, and diverse plant species
- Episcopal Basilica, the remains of a 4th-century basilica featuring impressive mosaics and historical significance
- Rupite, a nearby natural area known for its hot springs and the Vanga Temple, dedicated to the famous Bulgarian prophet
- Sandanski City Art Gallery, a cultural venue exhibiting works by Bulgarian artists and hosting various art events.
The best things to do in Sandanski include:
- Enjoy the Sandanski Spa, renowned for its therapeutic mineral waters and wellness treatments
- Hike in the Pirin National Park, offering scenic trails and diverse natural landscapes
- Visit the Melnik Wine Region, famous for its unique wines and charming vineyards
- Attend a local festival, experiencing traditional Bulgarian music, dance, and cuisine
- Take a day trip to Rozhen Monastery, a historic site with stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Sandanski 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 Sandanski.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Sandanski:
- 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 Sandanski:
- 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 Sandanski. 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 Sandanski with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Sandanski with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Sandanski with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Since both Sofia and Sandanski 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 Sandanski 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 Sandanski, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and markets. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and be aware of pickpockets. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so agreeing on a price before the ride is recommended. Overall, Sandanski is considered a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions should be observed.
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 Sandanski
Most Sofia to Sandanski buses use the Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) to Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара) station pair. Use this guide to compare Sofia and Sandanski 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 Sandanski
Which Sofia station do buses to Sandanski leave from?
Buses from Sofia to Sandanski leave from Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Sofia city centre at Centralna Avtogara, 100 Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd, Sofia, Bulgaria.
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.
Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Sandanski
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sandanski and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Sandanski
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