- Recommended
Regional Archaeological Museum Plovdiv
Major archaeological museum with Thracian, Greek and Roman finds, including notable artifacts from ancient Philippopolis.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$10
Fastest journey
1 h 30 m
Average duration
1 h 30 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
80 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv 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 1 buses that leave Stara Zagora for Plovdiv on Sat, Jun 20, 1 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 80 km distance in an average of 1 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 30 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 1 h 30 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.
3:00 AM1h30Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)4:30 AMPlovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)$101One-way0 transfers
- 3:00 AM1h30Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)4:30 AMPlovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)$101One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $5, and a bus costs an average of $9.
Distance: 49 miles (80 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$10 Average price | $5 Average price Cheapest | $26 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 46m Average total duration Fastest 1h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 27m Average total duration 1h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is a train with an average price of $5 (€4).
This is compared to other travel options from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv costing on average $10 (€8).
The fastest way to travel from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 16m.
Other travel options to Plovdiv take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stara Zagora and Plovdiv including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Stara Zagora 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 $10 (€8) compared to roughly $26 (€21) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $16 (€13). The journey takes 1h 16m versus 1h 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, Plovdiv Express - 2000, Union Ivkoni.
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.
Stara Zagora to Plovdiv Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $9 |
Live departures
Stara Zagora to Plovdiv bus times
The table below shows live departures for Stara Zagora to Plovdiv buses for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:00 AM Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) | 1h30 | 4:30 AM 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 Stara Zagora 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.
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
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Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Stara Zagora to Plovdiv buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as Union Ivkoni, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000, Union Ivkoni and more offer buses services from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv.
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, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000 or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Stara Zagora 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 Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Busbud?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by train.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:15, the last at 20:31. The fastest bus covers the 49 miles (80 km) distance in 1h 25m.
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 $5 (€4)
Distance 49 miles (80 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 25m |
First bus 1:15 AM |
Last bus 8:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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 $5 (€4)
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000 from Stara Zagora to PlovdivYou can travel by bus between Stara Zagora to Plovdiv with Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000 for as low as $5 (€4). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 0m
Cheapest Price
$6 (€5)
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.
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 25m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€8)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
4 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
1 a day
Plovdiv Express - 2000
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Plovdiv Express - 2000 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv can start from as little as $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is $10 (€8) ; 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is 1h 25m to travel the 49 miles (80 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv leaves at 1:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv leaves at 8:31 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv with Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Plovdiv Express - 2000, Union Ivkoni. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000, Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Plovdiv. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Stara Zagora and Plovdiv and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Plovdiv from Stara Zagora is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stara Zagora and Plovdiv including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv for bus company Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
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 Stara Zagora 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.
- 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, 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Since both Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
Most Stara Zagora to Plovdiv buses use the Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) to Plovdiv, Avtogara Sever (Пловдив, Автогара Север) station pair, with some services arriving at Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг). Use this guide to compare Stara Zagora and Plovdiv bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Stara Zagora
Arrival bus stations in Plovdiv
Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)Stara Zagora Bus Station Slavianski, Boulevard Slavianski 18, 6002
Plovdiv, Avtogara Sever (Пловдив, Автогара Север)
City-centre transport
Getting to Plovdiv, Avtogara Sever (Пловдив, Автогара Север) from Plovdiv city centre
Bus21 · 9m · $1 · every ~9 min
12 · 9m · $1 · every ~10 min
99 · 16m · $1 · every ~9 min
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
Most popular bus connections from Stara Zagora
More options for your journey from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Plovdiv and Stara Zagora
Most popular bus connections to Plovdiv
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