Sofia to Stara Zagora bus with Ourbus

Mon, Dec 15
+ Add return
Ourbus
City Lines
Karat-S
Citylines
Union Ivkoni - Unibus
1,000+ travel companies
Ourbus
City Lines
Karat-S
Citylines
Union Ivkoni - Unibus
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Stara Zagora

Showing times and prices for Dec 15

Cheapest price

$16

Average price

$17

Fastest journey

3 h 12 m

Average duration

3 h 29 m

Buses per day

4

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 $16.

Fast buses

Of the 4 buses that leave Sofia for Stara Zagora on Mon, Dec 15, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Dec 15 the direct buses cover the 192 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 12 m .

On Mon, Dec 15 the slowest buses will take 4 h 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.

Ourbus
08:00AM4h00
Sofia
12:00PMStara Zagora
$161One-way
0 transfers
Ourbus
02:00PM3h30
Sofia
05:30PMStara Zagora
$171One-way
0 transfers
Ourbus
12:30PM3h15
Sofia
03:45PMStara Zagora
$171One-way
0 transfers
City Lines
02:30PM3h12
Sofia
05:42PMStara Zagora
$171One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Sofia to Stara Zagora

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Stara Zagora 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 3h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €7, and a bus costs an average of €13.

Distance: 119 miles (192 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train

€13

Average price

€9

Average price

Cheapest

4h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 58m

Average total duration

4h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Sofia to Stara Zagora bus times

The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Stara Zagora buses for today, Sunday, December 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 10:18 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
uivk12:30 PM Sofia
3h15
3:45 PM Stara Zagora0 transfersDirect
Monday, December 15
uivk8:00 AM Sofia
4h00
12:00 PM Stara Zagora0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Stara Zagora 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.

Mon
Dec 15
Tue
Dec 16
Wed
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora

BulgariaBulgaria
BulgariaBulgaria
Icon of bus

Buses from Sofia to Stara Zagora run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by train.

There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 4h 0m.

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 $9 (€7)
Distance
119 miles (192 km)
Average bus duration
3h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$16 (€13)
Buses per day
8
Direct buses
8
Fastest bus
4h 0m
First bus
04:00
Last bus
23:30
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 $9 (€7)

Bus providers: Ourbus, City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus, Union Ivkoni from Sofia to Stara ZagoraYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Stara Zagora with Ourbus, City Lines, Karat-S, Citylines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus, Union Ivkoni for as low as $9 (€7). 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
$17 (€14)
City Lines frequency
2 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.
Learn more about City Lines

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
$16 (€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.
Learn more about Karat-S

Ourbus

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
$16 (€13)
Ourbus frequency
7 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.
Learn more about Ourbus

Citylines

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Citylines frequency
2 a day

Union Ivkoni - Unibus

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Union Ivkoni - Unibus frequency
1 a day

Union Ivkoni

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
Union Ivkoni frequency
4 a day

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Stara Zagora can start from as little as $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Stara Zagora is $17 (€14); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Sofia to Stara Zagora bus time is 3 h 10 min   covering the 119 mile (192 km) long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora leaves at 5: 02AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora leaves at 11: 30PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Sofia to Stara Zagora without having to change trains with Pinkbus, City Lines, Citylines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus or Union Ivkoni. There are 7 direct buses from Sofia to Stara Zagora each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora, you can count on Pinkbus, City Lines, Karat-S, Ourbus, Citylines, Union Ivkoni - Unibus or Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Stara Zagora. You can also check all possible bus providers who offer a service between Sofia and Stara Zagora and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.

Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), which is located around 1.3 miles (2.1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара), located 1.4 miles (2.2 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Stara Zagora from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 10 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Sofia to Stara Zagora by bus is September.
You have options as you can travel to Stara Zagora from Sofia 2 different ways: train or 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.
  • Ourbus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora for bus companies City Lines, Karat-S and Ourbus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Stara Zagora are:
  • Regional History Museum, a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits from Stara Zagora's rich history and cultural heritage
  • Roman Forum, the remains of an ancient Roman city center with well-preserved ruins and historical significance
  • Ayazmoto Park, a large urban park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a zoo
  • Antique Forum Augusta Traiana, an archaeological site featuring remnants of a Roman forum and amphitheater
  • Stara Zagora Art Gallery, a gallery displaying a diverse collection of Bulgarian art from various periods.
The best things to do in Stara Zagora include:
  • Geo Milev House Museum, dedicated to the life and work of the famous Bulgarian poet and publicist
  • Explore the vibrant local markets, offering a taste of Bulgarian culture and cuisine
  • Visit the Stara Zagora Opera House for a captivating performance
  • Enjoy a wine tasting tour at a nearby vineyard, experiencing the flavors of the region
  • Participate in a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and historical insights of the city.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers City Lines, Karat-S and Ourbus.
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.
  • Ourbus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Sofia to Stara Zagora, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.

    • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    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).
    • Ourbus
      • 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.
    • Ourbus
      • 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 companies: City Lines, Karat-S and Ourbus
    Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora with the following bus companies: City Lines, Karat-S and Ourbus.
    Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Stara Zagora with the following bus providers: City Lines, Karat-S and Ourbus.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Sofia to Stara Zagora

    Sofia
    Stara Zagora
    The major bus station for departures in Sofia is Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) for your trip from Sofia to Stara Zagora.
    Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Centralna Avtogara, 100 Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd, Sofia, Bulgaria
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 06:00-22:00
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    1 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)
    • Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M2 Train: Sofia Central Station

    More options for your journey from Sofia to Stara Zagora

    Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

    Return journeys for buses from Stara Zagora to Sofia
    Compare all journeys between Sofia and Stara Zagora
    Tickets and more information for coaches to Sofia
    Tickets and more information for coaches to Stara Zagora
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