- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Bulgaria’s leading archaeological museum, housed in a former mosque and displaying Thracian, Roman, and medieval treasures.
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$45
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$50
Fastest journey on Sep 05
12 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
12 h 27 m
Buses on Sep 05
5
Distance
680 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zagreb to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zagreb to Sofia will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 5 buses from Zagreb to Sofia, including 5 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 680 km distance in an average of 12 h 27 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 12 h 15 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 13 h 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.

0
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus

0Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Zagreb to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $56 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 36m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.7 - 1.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, while a flight costs an average of $534.
Distance: 422 miles (680 km)
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price Cheapest | $534 Average price | $202 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 57m Average total duration 12h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.0 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Zagreb to Sofia:
A bus is $478 (€386) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zagreb to Sofia costing on average $534 (€432).
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 27m.
Tickets start at around $56 (€45) compared to roughly $202 (€163) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $146 (€118). The journey takes 12h 27m versus 8h 5m 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, FlixBus, Infobus.
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 | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 12h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 12h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 12h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $45 |
The table below shows live departures for Zagreb to Sofia buses for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 8:20 PM Zagreb, Bus Station | 12h15 | 9:35 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 5 | |||||
![]() | 1:00 AM Zagreb, Strojarska cesta (Autobusni Kolodvor) | 12h30 | 2:30 PM Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 6:45 AM Zagreb, Bus Station | 12h15 | 8:00 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and flight 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 Zagreb to Sofia run on average 2 times per day, taking around 12h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€27) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 422 miles (680 km) distance in 12h 0m.
Distance 422 miles (680 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€27) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 12h 0m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Sofia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sofia trip today.
Bulgaria’s leading archaeological museum, housed in a former mosque and displaying Thracian, Roman, and medieval treasures.
A major branch of the National Gallery featuring Bulgarian and international art in a large modern exhibition space.
This museum traces Sofia’s past from antiquity to modern times, with standout displays in the restored Central Mineral Baths.
Sofia’s iconic pedestrian boulevard lined with historic buildings, churches, shops, and constant city life.
A long Roman-era pedestrian zone with ruins, fountains, and metro access, ideal for understanding ancient Serdica.
A vast landscaped park with lakes, sports facilities, and quiet paths, favored by locals for walks and relaxation.
Shopska salad mixes tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onion, and sirene cheese. It is a Bulgarian staple and a classic start to meals across Sofia.
Tarator is a cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts. It is especially traditional in summer and widely loved in Bulgarian homes.
Banitsa is a flaky pastry filled most often with eggs and sirene cheese. It is a beloved breakfast and a symbol of Bulgarian home cooking and holidays.
Upscale venue focused on modern Balkan and Bulgarian tasting menus, polished service, and a contemporary fine dining setting.
Refined Bulgarian restaurant in a historic house, known for seasonal local cuisine, regional wines, and an elegant but warm atmosphere.
Traditional Bulgarian tavern with folk style decor, grilled meats, salads, and classic dishes in a lively, old Sofia setting.
Budget-friendly for Europe. Hotels, meals, and public transport usually cost less than in major EU capitals, making Sofia good value for tourists.
Restaurants: 5-10% if service is good. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
Official public transport app
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara -> Serdika, Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zagreb 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.

Most Zagreb to Sofia buses use the Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) station pair, with some services arriving at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика). Use this guide to compare Zagreb and Sofia bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor is 1 km from Zagreb city centre. Public transport options include:
Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Zagreb (in the station), Bakery Delight (in the station), Fast Food Corner (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor.
Available at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor: Elevators, ramps.
Zagreb, Strojarska cesta (Autobusni Kolodvor) is 1 km from Zagreb city centre. Public transport options include:
Zagreb, Strojarska cesta (Autobusni Kolodvor) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several fast food and sit-down restaurants available.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the station. ATMs are aTMs available next to the ticket office.
Ticket office support is available at Zagreb, Strojarska cesta (Autobusni Kolodvor).
Available at Zagreb, Strojarska cesta (Autobusni Kolodvor): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zagreb, Strojarska cesta (Autobusni Kolodvor): Station is wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Serdika (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km), Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика).
Available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Elevators, ramps.
Sofia (София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Small cafes available nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at Sofia (София). ATMs are aTM machines available onsite.
Ticket office support is available at Sofia (София).
Available at Sofia (София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia (София): Facilities are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need