Zurich to Sofia bus with FlixBus

Sun, Aug 30
+ Add return
FlixBus
Union Ivkoni International
Union Ivkoni
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Union Ivkoni International
Union Ivkoni
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Zurich to Sofia

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30

Cheapest price on Aug 30

$131

Average ticket price on Aug 30

$139

Fastest journey on Aug 30

1 d 3 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Aug 30

1 d 10 h 23 m

Buses on Aug 30

3

Distance

1269 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zurich to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Zurich to Sofia will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $131.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Zurich to Sofia without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    8:25 PM37h45
    Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
    11:10 AMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    $1311One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    3:50 PM27h10
    Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
    8:00 PMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    $1331One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    6:20 PM38h15
    Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
    9:35 AMСофия, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
    $1521One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Zurich to Sofia

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $117 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 50m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $117, while a flight costs an average of $134.

Distance: 788 miles (1269 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Driving

$117

Average price

Cheapest

$134

Average price

$250

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

27h 43m

Average total duration

27h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 50m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

16h 55m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Wizz Air

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Sofia is a bus with an average price of $117 (€95).

This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Sofia:

A bus is $16 (€13) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Sofia costing on average $134 (€108).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Sofia is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 50m.

Other travel options to Sofia take longer:

Bus takes on average 27h 13m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Sofia including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Sofia 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 $117 (€95) compared to roughly $250 (€203) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $133 (€108). The journey takes 27h 13m versus 16h 55m 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, Union Ivkoni.

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.

Zurich to Sofia Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Departure Time
11:15AM
Arrival Time
01:00PM
Duration
24h45
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$154
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
27h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$87
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:20PM
Arrival Time
09:35AM
Duration
38h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$97
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:25PM
Arrival Time
11:10AM
Duration
37h45
Departure days
Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$108

Live departures

Zurich to Sofia bus times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Sofia buses for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:50 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
27h10
8:00 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus6:20 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
38h15
9:35 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus8:25 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
37h45
11:10 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Sofia by bus or flight

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.

Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19

Why should you book Zurich to Sofia buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Union Ivkoni International or Union Ivkoni offer buses services from Zurich to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Sofia.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Sofia.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International or Union Ivkoni to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Sofia.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Sofia.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Zurich to Sofia

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
BulgariaBulgaria
Icon of bus

Buses from Zurich to Sofia run on average 2 times per day, taking around 27h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $83 (€67) but you can travel from only $41 (€34) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 01:45, the last at 22:50. The fastest bus covers the 788 miles (1269 km) distance in 26h 50m.

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
Flight from $41 (€34)
Distance
788 miles (1269 km)
Average bus duration
27h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$83 (€67)
Buses per day
2
Fastest bus
26h 50m
First bus
1:45 AM
Last bus
10:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
7 days
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
Flight from $41 (€34)

Bus providers: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni from Zurich to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Zurich to Sofia with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni for as low as $41 (€34). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
26h 50m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$83 (€67)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

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 Union Ivkoni International Duration
23h 30m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
$146 (€118)
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.

Union Ivkoni

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Union Ivkoni Duration
24h 30m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni Price
$86 (€70)
Union Ivkoni frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Sofia

Things to do in Sofia

Discover the best of Sofia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sofia trip today.

  • Must visit

National Archaeological Museum

Bulgaria’s leading archaeological museum, housed in a former mosque and displaying Thracian, Roman, and medieval treasures.

  • Must visit

National Gallery Kvadrat 500

A major branch of the National Gallery featuring Bulgarian and international art in a large modern exhibition space.

  • Must visit

Regional History Museum Sofia

This museum traces Sofia’s past from antiquity to modern times, with standout displays in the restored Central Mineral Baths.

Bulgarian lev (лв.)

Budget-friendly for Europe. Hotels, meals, and public transport usually cost less than in major EU capitals, making Sofia good value for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
15-25 лв. for fast food or casual meals.
Mid-range
30-50 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
80+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
4-7 лв. for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 5-10% if service is good. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.

FAQs: Bus from Zurich to Sofia

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Zurich to Sofia can start from as little as $83 (€67) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zurich to Sofia is $117 (€95) ; 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 Zurich to Sofia is 26h 50m to travel the 788 miles (1269 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 Zurich to Sofia leaves at 1:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zurich to Sofia leaves at 10:50 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Zurich to Sofia which require at least one change with FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Zurich to Sofia, you can count on FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International, Union Ivkoni for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Zurich and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Sofia from Zurich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 26h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Zurich to Sofia is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Sofia including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Zurich to Sofia for bus company FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Zurich to Sofia:
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • Union Ivkoni International
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Service animals allowed.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Zurich to Sofia depends on the bus companies:
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
  • 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.
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 Zurich to Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Zurich to Sofia:
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
  • 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 Zurich to Sofia:
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
  • Union Ivkoni International
    • 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Zurich to Sofia. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Zurich to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Zurich to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Zurich to Sofia with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Since both Zurich 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 Zurich to Sofia

Most Zurich to Sofia buses use the Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) 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 Zurich and Sofia bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Zurich
Arrival bus stations in Sofia

Which Zurich station do buses to Sofia leave from?

Buses from Zurich to Sofia leave from Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof). The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Zürich Flughafen, 8302 Kloten, Switzerland.
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)Zürich Flughafen, 8302 Kloten, SwitzerlandWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) from Zurich city centre

Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

Train75 · 10m · $5 · every ~2 min
S2, S24, Ic5, Ir36, Ir75, Ir13, Ic81, Ic1, Ic8, S, Ir, N1, Ext · 12m · $5 · every ~22 min
S7, S16 · 18m · $6 · every ~5 min
BusN10 · 27m · $7
Tram10 · 30m · $4 · every ~14 min

Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) bus station facilities and services

Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Several fast-food and cafe options available.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof). ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof): Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai)Sihlquai, 8005 Zurich, SwitzerlandWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) from Zurich city centre

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus31, 33, 46 Train: S2, S5, S6, S7, S8, S14, S16 Tram: 4, 13, 17

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) bus station facilities and services

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the terminal.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Elevators, ramps.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone