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The cheapest and fastest buses from Stara Zagora to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Apr 03
Cheapest price
$17
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
3 h 8 m
Average duration
3 h 33 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Stara Zagora to Sofia 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 Sofia 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 4 buses that leave Stara Zagora for Sofia on Fri, Apr 03, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Apr 03 the direct buses cover the 192 km distance in an average of 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .
On Fri, Apr 03 the slowest buses will take 4 h 15 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.
7:45 PM3h20Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)11:05 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$171One-way0 transfers- 5:00 PM3h30Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)8:30 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$171One-way0 transfers
- 10:07 AM3h08Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)1:15 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$171One-way0 transfers
- 3:00 AM4h15Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)7:15 AMSofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)$171One-way0 transfers
- 10:07 AM3h08Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)1:15 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$171One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 PM3h20Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)11:05 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$171One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 PM3h30Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)8:30 PMSofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)$171One-way0 transfers
- 3:00 AM4h15Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)7:15 AMSofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)$171One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Stara Zagora to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Stara Zagora to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $10, and a bus costs an average of $17.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train |
|---|---|
$18 Average price | $11 Average price Cheapest |
4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 3h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration 5h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Stara Zagora to Sofia Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 10:07AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 3h08 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Live departures
Stara Zagora to Sofia bus times
The table below shows live departures for Stara Zagora to Sofia buses for today, Thursday, April 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:45 PM Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) | 3h20 | 8:05 PM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, April 3 | |||||
| 12:00 AM Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) | 4h15 | 4:15 AM Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:07 AM Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) | 3h08 | 10:15 AM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:00 PM Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) | 3h30 | 5:30 PM Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) | 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 Sofia 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.
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Why should you book Stara Zagora to Sofia buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as City Lines, Citylines, Union Ivkoni and more offer buses services from Stara Zagora to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stara Zagora to Sofia.
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, Citylines or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Stara Zagora to Sofia.
- 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 Sofia.
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 Sofia.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia
BulgariaBulgaria
Buses from Stara Zagora to Sofia run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by train.
There are 9 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 3h 8m.
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 $10 (€8)
Distance 119 miles (192 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 9 |
Fastest bus 3h 8m |
First bus 4:00 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
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 $10 (€8)
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines, Union Ivkoni from Stara Zagora to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Stara Zagora to Sofia with Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines, Union Ivkoni for as low as $10 (€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 4m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€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.
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 20m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
8 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 4m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Citylines frequency
2 a day
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
Union Ivkoni frequency
6 a day
FAQs: Bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stara Zagora to Sofia 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 Sofia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Stara Zagora to Sofia can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Stara Zagora to Sofia is $18 (€15) ; 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 Sofia is 3h 8m 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 Stara Zagora to Sofia leaves at 4:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct buses a day from Stara Zagora to Sofia 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 Stara Zagora to Sofia, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, City Lines, Citylines, Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Stara Zagora and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Stara Zagora , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) . When arriving in Sofia , you can end your journey in bus stations like Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), Sofiya Airport - Terminal T1, Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара), which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Sofia from Stara Zagora is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 8m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stara Zagora and Sofia including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia for bus company Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Sofia are:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning Orthodox cathedral known for its impressive architecture and golden domes
- Vitosha Boulevard, a vibrant pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants
- National Palace of Culture, a multifunctional conference and exhibition center surrounded by beautiful gardens
- Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its medieval frescoes
- Sofia Central Mineral Baths, a historic building showcasing beautiful architecture and housing a museum.
The best things to do in Sofia include:
- Borisova Gradina, a large and scenic park ideal for leisurely walks and outdoor activities
- Sofia Zoo, one of the oldest and largest zoos in the Balkans, home to a wide variety of animals
- Sofia History Museum, offering insights into the city's rich past and cultural heritage
- Serdika Archaeological Complex, where you can explore ancient Roman ruins in the heart of the city
- Sofia Opera and Ballet, where you can enjoy world-class performances in a beautiful setting.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Stara Zagora to Sofia 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.
- 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.
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 Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Stara Zagora to Sofia:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) 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 Stara Zagora to Sofia:
- City Lines
- 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 Stara Zagora to Sofia. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Stara Zagora to Sofia with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International, City Lines.
Since both Stara Zagora and Sofia 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 Sofia 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 Sofia, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Taxi scams are common; using official taxis with meters or ride-hailing apps is recommended to avoid overcharging. Avoid unlicensed guides and be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves. Overall, staying alert and securing personal belongings 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Stara Zagora to Sofia
Stara Zagora
Sofia
The major bus station for departures in Stara Zagora is Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара) for your trip from Stara Zagora to Sofia.
Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Sofia from Stara Zagora.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
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
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1))
information
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Serdika (in the station)
- Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km)
- Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
- Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M1, M2 Train: Sofia Central Station
Most popular bus connections from Stara Zagora
More options for your journey from Stara Zagora to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sofia and Stara Zagora
Most popular bus connections to Sofia
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