Sofia to Thessaloniki bus with ArdaTur

Thu, Oct 29
+ Add return
FlixBus
ArdaTur
Union Ivkoni International
Infobus
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
ArdaTur
Union Ivkoni International
Infobus
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Thessaloniki

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29

Cheapest price on Oct 29

$30

Average ticket price on Oct 29

$32

Fastest journey on Oct 29

4 h 40 m

Average journey duration on Oct 29

4 h 50 m

Buses on Oct 29

10

Distance

231 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Thessaloniki is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Sofia to Thessaloniki will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast buses

On Thu, Oct 29, we found 10 buses from Sofia to Thessaloniki, including 10 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 29 the direct buses cover the 231 km distance in an average of 4 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .

On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest buses will take 4 h 55 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    0 transfers
  • Infobus7682781
    0 transfers
  • Union Ivkoni International
    0 transfers
  • Union Ivkoni International
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur7630884
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki

BulgariaBulgaria
GreeceGreece
Icon of bus

Buses from Sofia to Thessaloniki run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€8) if you book in advance.

There are 10 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:01, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 3h 50m.

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

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance143 miles (231 km)
  • Average bus duration5h 12m
  • Cheapest ticket price$9 (€8)
  • Buses per day10
  • Direct buses10
  • Fastest bus3h 50m
  • First bus12:01 AM
  • Last bus11:45 PM
  • Cheapest MonthJan
  • Cheapest DaySat
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayWed
  • Least Busy DaySun
  • Best time to book63 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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

Frequently asked questions about your Sofia to Thessaloniki trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sofia to Thessaloniki.

Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Thessaloniki can start from as little as $9 (€8) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Thessaloniki is $30 (€25) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 10 direct buses a day from Sofia to Thessaloniki with FlixBus, ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.

Sofia to Thessaloniki Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$20
Operator
Union Ivkoni
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
12:55PM
Duration
5h25
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
Union Ivkoni
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
09:30PM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
05:00PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:50PM
Arrival Time
10:30PM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
Infobus
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
11:00PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
Union Ivkoni
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
4h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$18

Live departures

Sofia to Thessaloniki bus times

The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Thessaloniki buses for today, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ArdaTur76551235:00 PM Sofia
5h30
10:30 PM Thessaloniki0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur76551235:00 PM Sofia
5h45
10:45 PM Thessaloniki0 transfersDirect
Union Ivkoni International7:30 PM Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
4h55
12:25 AM Thessaloniki, Station Monastiriou (Θεσσαλονίκηб, Στάση Μοναστηρίου)0 transfersDirect
Thursday, October 29
FlixBusFlixBus7:10 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
5h15
12:25 PM Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ)0 transfersDirect
Union Ivkoni International7:30 AM Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
4h45
12:15 PM Thessaloniki, Station Monastiriou (Θεσσαλονίκηб, Στάση Μοναστηρίου)0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur767447710:00 AM Sofia
5h00
3:00 PM Thessaloniki0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur767447710:00 AM Sofia
4h55
2:55 PM Thessaloniki0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur76308841:00 PM Sofia
5h30
6:30 PM Thessaloniki0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur76308841:00 PM Sofia
4h55
5:55 PM Thessaloniki0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Sofia to Thessaloniki buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus and more offer buses services from Sofia to Thessaloniki.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sofia to Thessaloniki.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International or Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Thessaloniki.
  • 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Thessaloniki.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International or Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Thessaloniki.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Thessaloniki.

Bus companies

Bus companies from Sofia to Thessaloniki

Buses from Sofia to Thessaloniki with ArdaTur, Infobus, and Union Ivkoni International. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Infobus Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$24 (€20)
Infobus frequency
2 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.

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 FlixBus Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$9 (€8)
FlixBus frequency
2 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 Union Ivkoni International Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
$12 (€10)
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.

ArdaTur

About
ArdaTur is a bus company based in Haskovo, Bulgaria, established in 1991. It offers extensive bus services across seven countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Germany. ArdaTur operates over 233 daily departures, primarily from major cities like Istanbul, Sofia, and Thessaloniki, providing both intercity and regional routes. The company emphasizes passenger comfort with amenities such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, individual monitors, and complimentary food and drinks on international lines. ArdaTur maintains a modern fleet of over 80 luxury buses and has its own garage and service facility to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ArdaTur Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
$28 (€23)
ArdaTur frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Refund
If the trip is delayed through the fault of the carrier, 100% of the ticket value and compensation for direct costs to the place of departure will be refunded with supporting documents.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are possible when buying a ticket or at Arda Tur offices up to 24 hours before departure during weak periods and 72 hours during busy periods.
Toilets
Accessibility
Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Bikes
Only foldable bikes are allowed.

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sofia and Thessaloniki

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki, you can count on FlixBus, ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus for the best way to get you to Thessaloniki. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Thessaloniki and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki for bus company FlixBus, ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki:
  • ArdaTur
    • Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • Union Ivkoni International
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Service animals allowed.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Thessaloniki depends on the bus companies:
  • ArdaTur
    • Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
  • 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Thessaloniki:
  • ArdaTur
    • One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
  • 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 Thessaloniki:
  • ArdaTur
    • Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
  • 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 Thessaloniki. The following conditions apply:
  • Infobus
    • Small pets allowed in carriers
    • larger pets may require a separate ticket.
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki with the following bus company: FlixBus, ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki with the following bus company: FlixBus, ArdaTur, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.

Complete guide to Thessaloniki

Things to do in Thessaloniki

Discover the best of Thessaloniki — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thessaloniki trip today.

  • Must visit

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

The city’s leading archaeology museum, presenting Macedonian gold, sculpture, and finds that explain Thessaloniki’s ancient history.

  • Must visit

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Major museum of Byzantine art with icons, mosaics, and everyday objects that illuminate a millennium of regional culture.

  • Recommended

Museum of the White Tower

Housed in the White Tower, this museum traces Thessaloniki’s urban story through multimedia displays inside the landmark itself.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Greece: rooms, meals, and buses are reasonable, with lower dining and transit costs than many Western European city breaks.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine at cafes.

Plan your visit to Thessaloniki

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Thessaloniki.

Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Thessaloniki, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transportation, and popular tourist sites. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unlicensed drivers are common, so using official taxi services or pre-booked transportation is advised. Travelers should also be alert to distraction techniques used by scammers in busy spots. Overall, maintaining awareness of belongings and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safe 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.

FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Thessaloniki including taking a bus and flight.
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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Sofia to Thessaloniki

Most Sofia to Thessaloniki buses use the Sofia (София) to Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) station pair, with some services arriving at Thessaloniki, Station Monastiriou (Θεσσαλονίκηб, Στάση Μοναστηρίου). Use this guide to compare Sofia and Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki

Which Sofia station do buses to Thessaloniki leave from?

Buses from Sofia to Thessaloniki leave from Sofia (София). The station is from Sofia city centre at Central Bus Station - Sofia, Tsentralna, bul. "Knyaginya Maria Luiza" 100, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria.
Sofia (София)Central Bus Station - Sofia, Tsentralna, bul. "Knyaginya Maria Luiza" 100, 1202 Sofia, BulgariaWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Sofia (София) from Sofia city centre

Bus36h 31m · $471
38h 30m
39h 1m · $359
57h 18m · $294

Sofia (София) bus station facilities and services

Sofia (София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Small cafes available nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Sofia (София). ATMs are aTM machines available onsite.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Sofia (София).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Sofia (София): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia (София): Facilities are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.

Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, BulgariaWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) from Sofia city centre

Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus78 · 12m · every ~5 min
Tram12, 27 · 9m · $2 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 5m · every ~16 min

Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) bus station facilities and services

Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafeteria Serdika (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km), Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Elevators, ramps.

София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
City-centre transport

Getting to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) from Sofia city centre

Bus78 · 13m · every ~5 min
Subway2 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min

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