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The cheapest and fastest buses from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora
Showing times and prices for May 29
Cheapest price
$29
Average price
$35
Fastest journey
8 h 45 m
Average duration
9 h 13 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
300 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora will cost around $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Thessaloniki for Stara Zagora on Fri, May 29, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 29 the direct buses cover the 300 km distance in an average of 9 h 13 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 45 m .
On Fri, May 29 the slowest buses will take 9 h 40 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.
9:01 PM9h59Thessaloniki7:00 AMStara Zagora$291One-way0 transfers- 9:20 PM9h40Thessaloniki7:00 AMStara Zagora$291One-way0 transfers
- 10:20 PM9h40Thessaloniki8:00 AMStara Zagora$331One-way0 transfers
10:10 PM8h50Thessaloniki7:00 AMStara Zagora$401One-way0 transfers
10:05 PM9h10Thessaloniki7:15 AMStara Zagora$401One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 PM8h45Thessaloniki7:15 AMStara Zagora$401One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 PM8h50Thessaloniki7:00 AMStara Zagora$401One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM9h10Thessaloniki7:15 AMStara Zagora$401One-way0 transfers
- 10:20 PM9h40Thessaloniki8:00 AMStara Zagora$331One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 PM9h40Thessaloniki7:00 AMStara Zagora$291One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 9h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a bus costs an average of $22.
Distance: 186 miles (300 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$35 Average price Cheapest | $125 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 44m Average total duration Fastest 9h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).
The fastest way to travel from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora is by bus with an average journey time of 9h 14m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Thessaloniki and Stara Zagora.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora 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 $35 (€29) compared to roughly $125 (€101) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $89 (€72). The journey takes 9h 14m versus 5h 49m 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, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, 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.
Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 12:05AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 06:46PM | Duration 9h46 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 06:46PM | Duration 9h31 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 11:46PM | Duration 9h46 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 09:01PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 9h59 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 10:20PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Ilias Travel | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $29 |
Compare prices and tickets Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora by bus
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.
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May 28
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May 29
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Why should you book Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora buses with Omio?
ArdaTur as well as City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Union Ivkoni and more offer buses services from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ArdaTur tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ArdaTur?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ArdaTur, but also compare tickets for the likes of City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora
Greece
Bulgaria
Buses from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 186 miles (300 km) distance in 8h 45m.
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
Distance 186 miles (300 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 8h 45m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Bus providers: ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Union Ivkoni, Citylines from Thessaloniki to Stara ZagoraYou can travel by bus between Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora with ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Union Ivkoni, Citylines for as low as $22 (€18). 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
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
City Lines frequency
2 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.
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
8h 50m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
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.
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
10h 30m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
Union Ivkoni International frequency
2 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 Duration
8h 45m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
ArdaTur frequency
3 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.
Union Ivkoni
Luggage & cancellation policy
Union Ivkoni frequency
2 a day
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 30m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora can start from as little as $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora is $35 (€29) ; 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 Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora is 8h 45m to travel the 186 miles (300 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 Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora with ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Union Ivkoni, Citylines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora, you can count on ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus, Union Ivkoni, Citylines for the best way to get you to Stara Zagora. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Thessaloniki and Stara Zagora and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Stara Zagora from Thessaloniki is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora is May.
Yes, you can take a bus between Thessaloniki and Stara Zagora.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora for bus company ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Stara Zagora are:
- Regional History Museum, a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits from Stara Zagora's rich history and cultural heritage
- Roman Forum, the remains of an ancient Roman city center with well-preserved ruins and historical significance
- Ayazmoto Park, a large urban park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a zoo
- Antique Forum Augusta Traiana, an archaeological site featuring remnants of a Roman forum and amphitheater
- Stara Zagora Art Gallery, a gallery displaying a diverse collection of Bulgarian art from various periods.
The best things to do in Stara Zagora include:
- Geo Milev House Museum, dedicated to the life and work of the famous Bulgarian poet and publicist
- Explore the vibrant local markets, offering a taste of Bulgarian culture and cuisine
- Visit the Stara Zagora Opera House for a captivating performance
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour at a nearby vineyard, experiencing the flavors of the region
- Participate in a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and historical insights of the city.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora 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.
- 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.
- 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 ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International.
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 Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
- 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 Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora with the following bus company: ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora with the following bus company: City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora with the following bus company: ArdaTur, City Lines, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Since both Thessaloniki and Stara Zagora 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 Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Scams involving inflated prices at some local markets or restaurants can occur, so it’s advisable to agree on prices beforehand. Overall, the city is considered relatively safe, but staying alert in busy spots helps ensure a smooth 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 Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora
Thessaloniki
Stara Zagora
The major bus station for departures in Thessaloniki is Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) for your trip from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora.
Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη)
information
Thessaloniki, Station Monastiriou (Θεσσαλονίκηб, Στάση Μοναστηρίου)
information
Thessaloniki, Macedonia Intercity Bus Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Stara Zagora is Stara Zaragora. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Stara Zaragora for your trip to Stara Zagora from Thessaloniki.
Stara Zaragora
information
Stara Zagora, Avtogara (Стара Загора, Aвтогара)
information
Stara Zagora, bul. Slavyanski - Khotel "Zheleznik" (Стара Загора, бул. Славянски - Хотел "Железник")
information
Most popular bus connections from Thessaloniki
More options for your journey from Thessaloniki to Stara Zagora
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Stara Zagora and Thessaloniki
Most popular bus connections to Stara Zagora
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