- Must visit
Regional History Museum Stara Zagora
Major regional museum presenting archaeology, ethnography, and history, including exceptional finds from prehistoric and Roman Stara Zagora.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Stara Zagora
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
€17
Average price
€17
Fastest journey
3 h 11 m
Average duration
3 h 14 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Stara Zagora is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Stara Zagora will cost around €17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €17.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Sofia for Stara Zagora on Mon, Aug 03, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 03 the direct buses cover the 192 km distance in an average of 3 h 14 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 11 m .
On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest buses will take 3 h 18 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.
02:30 PM3h18Sofia5:48 PMStara Zagora€171One-way0 transfers- 05:30 PM3h12Sofia8:42 PMStara Zagora€171One-way0 transfers
- 011:00 AM3h11Sofia2:11 PMStara Zagora€171One-way0 transfers
- 011:00 AM3h11Sofia2:11 PMStara Zagora€171One-way0 transfers
- 05:30 PM3h12Sofia8:42 PMStara Zagora€171One-way0 transfers
- 02:30 PM3h18Sofia5:48 PMStara Zagora€171One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Sofia to Stara Zagora run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €12 but you can travel from only €8 by train.
There are 7 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 3h 10m.
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 €8
Distance 119 miles (192 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price €12 |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 7 |
Fastest bus 3h 10m |
First bus 3:00 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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 €8
Sofia to Stara Zagora Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €13 |
Operator | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 02:11PM | Duration 3h11 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 05:48PM | Duration 3h18 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 08:42PM | Duration 3h12 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €17 |
Live departures
Sofia to Stara Zagora bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Stara Zagora buses for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 11:00 AM Sofia | 3h11 | 2:11 PM Stara Zagora | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 2:30 PM Sofia | 3h18 | 5:48 PM Stara Zagora | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 5:30 PM Sofia | 3h12 | 8:42 PM Stara Zagora | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sofia to Stara Zagora buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines, Union Ivkoni and more offer buses services from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
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 City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines, Union Ivkoni, BG Razpisanie from Sofia to Stara ZagoraYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Stara Zagora with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines, Union Ivkoni, BG Razpisanie for as low as €8. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
Average Duration
3h 12m
Cheapest Price
€14
City Lines frequency
3 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.
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
3h 48m
Cheapest Price
€13
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.
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
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
€13
Union Ivkoni International frequency
11 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.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
€15
Citylines frequency
2 a day
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
€12
Union Ivkoni frequency
5 a day
BG Razpisanie
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18h 10m
BG Razpisanie frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Stara Zagora
Things to do in Stara Zagora
Discover the best of Stara Zagora — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stara Zagora trip today.
- Must visit
Neolithic Dwellings Museum
Preserved Neolithic dwellings from the 6th millennium BCE, among Europe’s best-preserved prehistoric homes and a unique archaeological attraction.
- Recommended
Museum Augusta Traiana
Underground museum beneath the modern post office, showing a Roman street level and urban remains from ancient Augusta Traiana.
- Must visit
Ayazmoto Park
Large central park famous for straight alleys, greenery, sculptures, and open space; ideal for walking and a defining part of the city.
- Recommended
Tsar Simeon Veliki Boulevard
Main pedestrian boulevard lined with shops and public buildings, perfect for a stroll and for experiencing the city’s everyday rhythm.
- Recommended
Central City Square
Historic central square near key civic buildings and Roman remains, often used for events and a practical starting point for sightseeing.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
A baked filo pastry pie with white cheese and eggs, eaten across Bulgaria for breakfast. In Stara Zagora it is a staple in bakeries and homes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
A chilled yogurt, cucumber, dill, and walnut soup. It is especially popular in the hot Thracian summers and showcases Bulgaria’s famous yogurt.
- Gluten-free
Kebapche
Grilled minced meat rolls seasoned with cumin and pepper. A classic Bulgarian barbecue dish widely loved in Stara Zagora taverns and beer gardens.
Chevermeto
Traditional Bulgarian tavern known for grilled meats, salads, and rakia in a rustic mehana setting popular with locals.
Uniqato
Casual local spot for barbecue, salads, and hearty Bulgarian comfort food with a relaxed atmosphere.
Forum Restaurant
Established restaurant offering Bulgarian and European dishes in a more polished setting, suitable for a longer dinner.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for Bulgaria: hotels, meals, and local transport are usually cheaper than in Sofia and many EU city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 12-20 лв. for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- 25-40 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 50+ лв. per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 3-5 лв. for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10%. For taxis, round up the fare. In cafes, small change is enough.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Stara Zagora can start from as little as €12 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Stara Zagora is €13 ; 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 Stara Zagora is 3h 10m to travel the 119 miles (192 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 Stara Zagora leaves at 3:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 7 direct buses a day from Sofia to Stara Zagora with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines, Union Ivkoni. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines, Union Ivkoni, BG Razpisanie for the best way to get you to Stara Zagora. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Stara Zagora and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Sofia , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), Sofia (София) . When arriving in Stara Zagora , you can end your journey in bus stations like Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара), Stara Zaragora .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара), located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Stara Zagora including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- 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 Stara Zagora for bus company Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Stara Zagora depends on the bus companies:
- City Lines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% 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 Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S.
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 Stara Zagora.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Stara Zagora:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- 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 Stara Zagora:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- 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 Stara Zagora. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- 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 Stara Zagora with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Karat-S.
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 Stara Zagora, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Scams involving inflated prices at some local markets or restaurants can occur, so it’s advisable to agree on prices beforehand. Overall, the city is considered relatively safe, but staying alert in busy spots helps ensure a smooth visit.
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 Stara Zagora
Most Sofia to Stara Zagora buses use the Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) to Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) station pair, with some services arriving at Stara Zaragora. Use this guide to compare Sofia and Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora
Which Sofia station do buses to Stara Zagora leave from?
Buses from Sofia to Stara Zagora 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.
София, (Sofia)
City-centre transport
Getting to София, (Sofia) from Sofia city centre
Bus36h 31m · €397
38h 30m
39h 1m · €303
57h 18m · €248
Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)Stara Zagora Bus Station Slavianski, Boulevard Slavianski 18, 6002
Stara Zaragora
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Stara Zagora
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Stara Zagora and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Stara Zagora
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