- Must visit
Regional Archaeological Museum Plovdiv
Major archaeological museum with Thracian, Greek, and Roman finds. Essential for understanding Plovdiv's long and layered history.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
kr99
Average price
kr99
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 kr99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr99.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Stara Zagora for Plovdiv on Tue, Aug 04, 1 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 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 Tue, Aug 04 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)kr991One-way0 transfers
- 3:00 AM1h30Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)4:30 AMPlovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)kr991One-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 kr47. 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 kr47, and a bus costs an average of kr84.
Distance: 49 miles (80 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr92 Average price | kr47 Average price Cheapest | kr249 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 kr47.
This is compared to other travel options from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv:
A train is kr45 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv costing on average kr92.
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 kr92 compared to roughly kr249 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr157. 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, 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 Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr90 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr90 |
Operator | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price kr99 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr84 |
Live departures
Stara Zagora to Plovdiv bus times
The table below shows live departures for Stara Zagora to Plovdiv 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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.
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
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Aug 05
Aug 05
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Aug 06
Fri
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Aug 07
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Aug 08
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Aug 10
Why should you book Stara Zagora to Plovdiv buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as 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 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 kr84 but you can travel from only kr47 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 kr47
Distance 49 miles (80 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price kr84 |
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 kr47
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000, Union Ivkoni from Stara Zagora to PlovdivYou can travel by bus between Stara Zagora to Plovdiv with Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Plovdiv Express - 2000, Union Ivkoni for as low as kr47. 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
kr59
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
kr90
Union Ivkoni International frequency
5 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.
Plovdiv Express - 2000
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Plovdiv Express - 2000 frequency
1 a day
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 25m
Cheapest Price
kr70
Union Ivkoni 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.
- Must visit
Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
Museum in the celebrated 1847 house of merchant Argir Kuyumdzhioglu, showing rich interiors and exhibits on Plovdiv's cultural past.
- Recommended
Regional History Museum Plovdiv
Housed in a grand Revival mansion, this museum presents Bulgarian history from the 15th to 20th centuries with well-curated period displays.
- Must visit
Old Town
Plovdiv's historic hill district with cobbled lanes, Revival houses, and major monuments. The city's most atmospheric walking area.
- Must visit
Kapana
Creative central quarter filled with lanes, street art, galleries, and events. Popular for strolling and discovering Plovdiv's contemporary vibe.
- Recommended
Knyaz Alexander I Street
Long pedestrian thoroughfare linking key sights, shops, and Roman remains. A practical and lively route for first-time visitors.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salata
Shopska salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onion, and grated sirene cheese. A Bulgarian staple often eaten before rakia and common across Plovdiv.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Patatnik
Patatnik is a Rhodope potato cake with onion, herbs, and sometimes sirene. It reflects the nearby mountain region and is a beloved local comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Kavarma
Kavarma is a slow-cooked clay-pot stew of pork or chicken with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It is a classic hearty Bulgarian dish served in traditional taverns.
Puldin Restaurant
Established Bulgarian restaurant in Old Town known for traditional dishes, wine, and a historic house setting with a refined but welcoming atmosphere.
Dayana Restaurant 1
Popular traditional tavern serving grilled meats, salads, and Bulgarian classics in a lively rustic setting near the center.
Restaurant Rahat Tepe
Stylish fine dining venue with contemporary Bulgarian and European plates, polished service, and strong wine options in central Plovdiv.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-Friendly for EU city breaks: hotels, meals and local transit are generally cheaper than in Western Europe, with good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 10-18 лв. for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- 25-45 лв. per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- 60+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 3-5 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and small change is fine in cafes.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.00 лв.
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) -> Plovdiv Central Square
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Buy tickets on board from the conductor or driver when available; carry small cash in лв. as card payment is not consistently available on Plovdiv buses.
- Validate or keep your ticket until the end of the ride, and use Moovit for live route planning because official real-time tools are limited.
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 kr84 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Stara Zagora to Plovdiv is kr92 ; 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, 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, 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 Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) station pair, with some services arriving at Plovdiv, Avtogara Sever (Пловдив, Автогара Север). 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 Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг)
City-centre transport
Getting to Plovdiv, Avtogara Yug (Пловдив, Автогара Юг) from Plovdiv city centre
Bus7, 20, 26 · 9m · kr12 · every ~22 min
16 · 17m · kr12 · every ~7 min
27 · 18m · kr12 · every ~7 min
Plovdiv, Avtogara Sever (Пловдив, Автогара Север)
City-centre transport
Getting to Plovdiv, Avtogara Sever (Пловдив, Автогара Север) from Plovdiv city centre
Bus21 · 9m · kr12 · every ~9 min
12 · 9m · kr12 · every ~10 min
99 · 16m · kr12 · every ~9 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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