- Must visit
Acropolis Museum
World-class museum for Acropolis finds, with superb archaic sculptures and Parthenon marbles displayed in a striking modern building.
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Travel Information
Compare bus for Veliko Tarnovo to Athens
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $70. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 16h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, and a bus costs an average of $70.
Distance: 365 miles (589 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$96 Average price Cheapest | $289 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 15m Average total duration Fastest 16h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens is a bus with an average price of $96 (€78).
The fastest way to travel from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens is by bus with an average journey time of 16h 45m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Veliko Tarnovo and Athens.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Veliko Tarnovo to Athens Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Union Ivkoni | Departure Time 01:15AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 16h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $81 |
Live departures
Veliko Tarnovo to Athens bus times
The table below shows live departures for Veliko Tarnovo to Athens buses for today, Sunday, August 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FlixBus | 8:20 PM Veliko Tarnovo, Avtogara Ûg (Велико Търново, Автогара Юг) | 16h00 | 12:20 PM Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Veliko Tarnovo to Athens 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens
Bulgaria
Greece
Buses from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens run on average 1 times per day, taking around 16h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 (€57) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:00, the last at 20:20. The fastest bus covers the 365 miles (589 km) distance in 16h 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 365 miles (589 km) |
Average bus duration 16h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€57) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 16h 45m |
First bus 7:00 AM |
Last bus 8:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Complete guide to Athens
Things to do in Athens
Discover the best of Athens — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Athens trip today.
- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Greece’s premier archaeology museum, spanning prehistory to late antiquity. Essential for masterpieces from across the country.
- Recommended
Museum of Cycladic Art
Outstanding museum of Cycladic art and ancient Greek culture. Known for elegant figurines and thoughtful contemporary presentation.
- Must visit
Plaka
Athens’ oldest neighborhood charms with neoclassical houses, lanes, and easy access to major ancient sites and traditional atmosphere.
- Must visit
Monastiraki Square
Busy square and market district known for street life, shopping, and strong transport links. Ideal for feeling the city’s energy.
- Must visit
Syntagma Square
Central ceremonial square before Parliament. A practical hub for visitors and a prime place to watch the guard-changing ritual.
Moussaka
Moussaka is a baked casserole of eggplant, minced meat, potato, and béchamel, iconic in Greek home cooking and tavern menus.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki is grilled skewered pork or chicken, a classic Athens street food, usually served with pita, onions, and tzatziki.
- Vegetarian
Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a flaky pie filled with spinach, herbs, and feta, a beloved everyday snack found in bakeries across Athens.
Spondi
Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined modern Greek cuisine and Acropolis views in an elegant setting.
Klimataria
Long-standing Psiri taverna serving classic Greek dishes, live music, and a warm traditional atmosphere.
Varvakios
Historic central market taverna known for grilled meats and traditional meze in a lively, old Athens setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Europe; hotels in peak season rise, but dining and transit stay fairly reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round taxi fares up, and leave small change at cafes.
OASA Telematics
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- €4.10
To the city center
Athens, Leoforou Kifisou - KTEL -> Syntagma Square, Athens
- Distance
- 6 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
- Use ATH.ENA Ticket or ATH.ENA Card for buses, trolleybuses, trams, metro, and urban rail within Athens. Validate before travel and keep it until exit checks.
- Contactless bank card payment is not generally available directly on Athens buses, trams, or metro gates. Buy and load an ATH.ENA ticket or card instead.
FAQs: Bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens 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 Athens, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens can start from as little as $70 (€57) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Veliko Tarnovo to Athens is $96 (€78) ; 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 Veliko Tarnovo to Athens is 16h 45m to travel the 365 miles (589 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 Veliko Tarnovo to Athens leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens leaves at 8:20 PM.
A trip to Athens from Veliko Tarnovo is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 16h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens is June.
Yes, you can take a bus between Veliko Tarnovo and Athens.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
No, the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens has no accessibility options.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Athens are:
- Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel featuring iconic structures like the Parthenon and offering panoramic views of the city
- Acropolis Museum, a modern museum housing artifacts from the Acropolis and providing insights into ancient Greek civilization
- Ancient Agora of Athens, a historic site that was once the heart of public life in Athens, featuring ruins and a reconstructed Stoa
- National Archaeological Museum, Greece's largest museum, showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts from various archaeological locations across the country
- Plaka, a charming historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant local shops and cafes.
The best things to do in Athens include:
- Mount Lycabettus, enjoy panoramic views of Athens from the city's highest point
- Explore the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, where you can find antiques, souvenirs, and local crafts
- Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and host of the first modern Olympic Games
- Take a stroll through the National Garden of Athens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
- Experience a traditional Greek performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient stone theatre.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
No, luggage for the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens.
Since both Veliko Tarnovo and Athens 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.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Athens, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist sites, and markets. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, keep valuables secure, and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
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 Veliko Tarnovo to Athens
Most Veliko Tarnovo to Athens buses use the Veliko Tarnovo, Avtogara Ûg (Велико Търново, Автогара Юг) to Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) station pair, with some services arriving at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού). Use this guide to compare Veliko Tarnovo and Athens bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Veliko Tarnovo
Arrival bus stations in Athens
Veliko Tarnovo, Avtogara Ûg (Велико Търново, Автогара Юг)
Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη)Athens, Pl. Karaiskaki 2, 10437
City-centre transport
Getting to Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) from Athens city centre
Bus051 · 4m · $2 · every ~10 min
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού)Ilia Iliou & Lagoumitzi, Athina 117 44, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) from Athens city centre
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) is 3 km from Athens city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) bus station facilities and services
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού). ATMs are available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού): Ramps available for wheelchair access.
Athens ChiouAthens Chiou,Chiou 14,10438
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens Chiou from Athens city centre
Train1 · 4m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus790, 057 · 4m · $2 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Veliko Tarnovo
More options for your journey from Veliko Tarnovo to Athens
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Athens and Veliko Tarnovo
Most popular bus connections to Athens
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