- Must visit
Regional Archaeological Museum Plovdiv
Major museum with rich Thracian, Greek, Roman, and medieval finds, including the Panagyurishte Treasure exhibit when hosted.
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$41
Fastest journey
7 h
Average duration
7 h 7 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
226 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Plovdiv is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thessaloniki to Plovdiv will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Of the 8 buses that leave Thessaloniki for Plovdiv on Tue, Jun 02, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 02 the direct buses cover the 226 km distance in an average of 7 h 7 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h .
On Tue, Jun 02 the slowest buses will take 7 h 20 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.

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0Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Thessaloniki to Plovdiv among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 7h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a bus costs an average of $23.
Distance: 140 miles (226 km)
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 20m Average total duration Fastest 7h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Tickets start at around $33 (€27) compared to roughly $91 (€73) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $58 (€46). The journey takes 7h 50m versus 5h 14m 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 ArdaTur, City Lines, Infobus, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni, Citylines.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 12:05AM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
The table below shows live departures for Thessaloniki to Plovdiv buses for today, Monday, June 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
6905414 | 8:00 AM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h30 | 3:30 PM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
6905414 | 8:15 AM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h15 | 3:30 PM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
6843009 | 3:10 PM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h20 | 10:30 PM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
6843009 | 3:30 PM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h00 | 10:30 PM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, June 2 | |||||
0 | 12:05 AM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h25 | 7:30 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
0 | 12:30 AM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h00 | 7:30 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
0 | 2:00 AM Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) | 7h00 | 9:00 AM Plovdiv (Пловдив) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare 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.
Buses from Thessaloniki to Plovdiv run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 140 miles (226 km) distance in 7h 0m.
Distance 140 miles (226 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 7h 0m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 3 days |
Discover the best of Plovdiv — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plovdiv trip today.
Major museum with rich Thracian, Greek, Roman, and medieval finds, including the Panagyurishte Treasure exhibit when hosted.
Housed in the elegant Kuyumdzhioglu House, this museum presents traditional crafts, costumes, and everyday life from the Rhodope and Thrace regions.
Leading municipal gallery spread across several venues, showing Bulgarian fine art from the National Revival period to contemporary works.
The city’s most atmospheric quarter, filled with Revival-era houses, cobbled lanes, museums, and major ancient landmarks.
Trendy central creative district known for colorful streets, independent shops, festivals, and a lively urban atmosphere popular on social media.
Main pedestrian street lined with historic facades, shops, and access to several major sights, ideal for a first walk through central Plovdiv.
A slow-cooked Rhodope-style casserole layered with sauerkraut, rice, and several meats. It is a festive winter dish strongly associated with southern Bulgaria and often found around Plovdiv.
A classic Rhodope potato dish made with grated potatoes, onion, and spearmint, baked or fried until crisp. It is one of the best-known regional specialties near Plovdiv.
A traditional clay-pot stew of pork or chicken with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It is a staple in Bulgarian taverns and a popular hearty meal in Plovdiv.
A popular Kapana restaurant known for modern Bulgarian and Mediterranean plates, creative small dishes, and a lively urban atmosphere.
An established central Plovdiv restaurant with a refined setting, strong wine list, and Bulgarian-European menu suitable for a longer dinner.
A well-known restaurant in the Old Town area, appreciated for elegant presentation, Bulgarian specialties, and a romantic terrace atmosphere.
Generally affordable for tourists. Meals, coffee, and local transport cost less than in most Western European cities.
Service is often not included. Tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up in taxis, and leave small change in cafes if service was good.
Official public transport app
Plovdiv North Bus Station, Plovdiv -> Plovdiv Central Railway Station, Plovdiv
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thessaloniki 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.

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