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Journey information
Overview: Istanbul to Sofia flight
Turkey
Bulgaria
Flights from Istanbul to Sofia depart on average 18 times per day, taking around 2h 36m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 1h 15m. April is the cheapest month to fly.
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
Bus from $25 (€20)
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Flights per day 18 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 15m |
Cheapest month to travel April |
First flight 00:05 |
Last flight 23:55 |
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
Bus from $25 (€20)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Istanbul to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Jan 12
Cheapest price
$156
Average price
$682
Fastest journey
1 h 20 m
Average duration
8 h 29 m
Flights per day
6
Distance
502 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Istanbul to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Istanbul to Sofia will cost around $682 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $156.
Fast flights
Of the 6 flights that leave Istanbul for Sofia onMon, Jan 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jan 12 the direct flights cover the 502 km distance in an average of 8 h 29 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 20 m .
On Mon, Jan 12 the longest flights will take 20 h 45 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.
PC27108:15AM1h20
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport08:35AMSofia Airport
$1561One-way
0 transfers
RO264 · RO29108:05PM14h30
Istanbul Airport09:35AMSofia Airport
$6001One-way
1 transfer
TK102908:30PM1h20
Istanbul Airport08:50PMSofia Airport
$6481One-way
0 transfers
RO9162 · RO29101:50PM20h45
Istanbul Airport09:35AMSofia Airport
$8761One-way
1 transfer
RO9164 · RO29108:30AM26h05
Istanbul Airport09:35AMSofia Airport
$9071One-way
1 transfer
PC27108:15AM1h20
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport08:35AMSofia Airport
$1561One-way
0 transfers
TK102908:30PM1h20
Istanbul Airport08:50PMSofia Airport
$6481One-way
0 transfers
RO9164 · RO29108:30AM4h30
Istanbul Airport12:00PMSofia Airport
$9071One-way
1 transfer
RO264 · RO29108:05PM14h30
Istanbul Airport09:35AMSofia Airport
$6001One-way
1 transfer
RO9162 · RO29101:50PM20h45
Istanbul Airport09:35AMSofia Airport
$8761One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Istanbul to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Istanbul to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €20, and a flight costs an average of €37.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€192 Average price | €32 Average price Cheapest |
5h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 52m Average total duration 9h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Istanbul to Sofia flight times
The table below shows live departures for Istanbul to Sofia flights for today, Sunday, January 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at 8:22 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RO266 · RO291 | 8:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 13h25 | 10:00 AM Sofia Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, January 12 | |||||
| PC271 | 5:15 AM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 1h20 | 6:35 AM Sofia Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| RO9164 · RO291 | 5:30 AM Istanbul Airport | 26h05 | 7:35 AM Sofia Airport | 1 transfer | |
| RO9164 · RO291 | 5:30 AM Istanbul Airport | 4h30 | 10:00 AM Sofia Airport | 1 transfer | |
| RO9162 · RO291 | 10:50 AM Istanbul Airport | 20h45 | 7:35 AM Sofia Airport | 1 transfer | |
| RO264 · RO291 | 5:05 PM Istanbul Airport | 14h30 | 7:35 AM Sofia Airport | 1 transfer | |
| TK1029 | 5:30 PM Istanbul Airport | 1h20 | 6:50 PM Sofia Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Istanbul to Sofia?
The best time to book your flight from Istanbul to Sofia is 70 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Istanbul to Sofia route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Istanbul to Sofia per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Istanbul to Sofia.
Flights
from $224Buses
from $41Compare prices and tickets Istanbul 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.
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Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia, TAROM, LOT Polish Airlines from Istanbul to SofiaFind the best flights between Istanbul to Sofia with Omio's travel partners Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia, TAROM, LOT Polish Airlines from $25 (€20). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Turkish Airlines
About
Turkish Airlines is the national flag carrier of Turkey and one of the world’s leading airlines, flying to more international destinations than any other airline. Based in Istanbul, it connects travelers to Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and beyond. Passengers can choose from Economy Class with comfortable seating, WiFi, and in-flight entertainment, or upgrade to Business Class for spacious seating, gourmet dining, and lounge access. With its award-winning service and global reach, Turkish Airlines is a top choice for both business and leisure travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 15m
Cheapest Price
$163 (€131)
Luggage included
Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag (8kg, 55x40x23cm) + personal item (4kg, 40x30x15cm)
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Fees vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. After that, cancellation fees apply based on fare type and timing.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly until 28th week without medical clearance. Between 28-36 weeks, medical certificate required. Not allowed after 36 weeks.
Unaccompagned minor
UNACCOMPANIED minor service available for children aged 7-12. Children 12+ can travel alone. Service must be booked at least 48 hours before departure.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Turkish Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Advance notice required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin (max 8kg including carrier) and cargo hold. Must be booked in advance.
Entertaiment on board
Pegasus Airlines
About
Pegasus Airlines is a Turkish low-cost airline headquartered in Istanbul. Founded in 1990 as a charter airline, it was acquired by Esas Holding in 2005 and relaunched as a scheduled low-cost carrier. Pegasus aims to provide affordable point-to-point transportation on short and medium-range flights, establishing a wide network with high frequency. As of July 2024, Pegasus operates flights to 148 destinations in 53 countries across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The airline is known for its young fleet and focus on punctual departures.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Luggage included
1 personal item (35x20x20 cm) included
Additional luggage
Additional cabin bag and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available within 24 hours of booking for flights more than 7 days away
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 28th week without medical clearance, between 28-35 weeks require medical certificate, not allowed after 36th week
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 7-12 can travel as unaccompanied minors with service fee. Must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Pegasus provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchair service is available.
Pets
Small pets in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance.
Entertaiment on board
Aegean Airlines
About
Aegean Airlines is the flag carrier of Greece and a leading airline in Southeastern Europe, connecting travelers to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Operating from its main hubs in Athens and Thessaloniki, Aegean offers a modern fleet and high-quality service. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks on most flights, and additional perks in Business Class such as lounge access, premium dining, and extra comfort. With affordable fares and strong regional connectivity, Aegean Airlines is a trusted choice for exploring Greece and beyond.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
16h 40m
Cheapest Price
$531 (€429)
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (max 8kg, 56x45x25cm) and 1 personal item (max 40x20x25cm)
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage, additional fees apply for extra weight
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets available with flex fare option, non-refundable tickets can be changed for a fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to the 36th week without medical certificate, after that requires doctor's approval
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with mandatory assistance service. Ages 12-17 optional assistance
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested at least 48h before departure
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Air Serbia
About
Air Serbia is the national flag carrier of Serbia, with its main hub at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. The airline's origins trace back to Aeroput, established in 1927, making it one of the oldest airlines in Europe. Rebranded as Air Serbia in 2013 after a partnership with Etihad Airways, the airline has since modernized its fleet and expanded its network. Air Serbia operates scheduled, seasonal, and charter flights to over 90 destinations across Europe, the Mediterranean, North America, Asia, and Africa. They offer both passenger and cargo services, and in cooperation with partner airlines, extend their reach to international destinations in Asia, Australia, North America, and Africa. The airline is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
34h 15m
Cheapest Price
$197 (€159)
Air Serbia frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (8kg, 55x40x23cm) and 1 personal item (40x30x20cm) included in standard ticket.
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, with varying fees based on route and timing of purchase.
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets can be cancelled for a fee, non-refundable tickets cannot be cancelled but taxes may be refunded.
Pregnant on board
Pregnancy up to 28th week: no restrictions. From 28th to end of 36th week: medical certificate required. After 36th week: not allowed to fly.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-16. Must be booked at least 24 hours before departure. Service fee applies.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Air Serbia provides special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and support throughout the journey.
Pets
Small pets in cabin (up to 8kg including carrier) or cargo hold for larger animals.
Entertaiment on board
LOT Polish Airlines
About
LOT Polish Airlines, legally Polskie Linie Lotnicze LOT S.A., is the flag carrier of Poland and one of the world's oldest airlines, founded in 1928. It is a founding member of IATA and joined the Star Alliance in 2003. With its main hub at Warsaw Chopin Airport, LOT serves over 97 destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America with a fleet of 87 aircraft as of June 2025. The airline is recognized for operating one of Europe's youngest fleets and was the first European operator of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
16h 15m
Cheapest Price
$268 (€217)
LOT Polish Airlines frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (8kg, 55x40x23cm) and 1 personal item (40x35x12cm)
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, with fees varying by route and timing of purchase
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on ticket type - flex tickets offer full refund, economy tickets are non-refundable but taxes can be reclaimed
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 32nd week without medical certificate, up to 36th week with medical certificate issued max 7 days before flight
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel as UM with mandatory assistance. Service must be booked at least 48h before departure
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
LOT provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements
Pets
Small pets under 8kg allowed in cabin, larger animals in cargo hold. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
TAROM
About
TAROM (Transporturile Aeriene Române) is Romania's national flag carrier and its oldest operating airline, established in 1954. Headquartered in Otopeni, near Bucharest, its main hub is Henri Coandă International Airport. TAROM is the largest airline in Romania based on international destinations and flights, and the second-largest by fleet size and passengers carried. The Romanian government, through the Ministry of Transportation, owns over 97% of TAROM. Since June 25, 2010, TAROM has been a member of the SkyTeam alliance, expanding its global network and offering passengers access to numerous destinations worldwide. The airline operates to more than 50 destinations, including those served by its codeshare partners, across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 20m
Cheapest Price
$245 (€198)
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x40x20 cm) max 10kg
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage included in most fares, additional can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available for cancellations within 24 hours of booking, after that fees apply based on fare type
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 36 weeks, medical certificate required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-17 can travel unaccompanied with advance arrangement and additional fee
Amenities on board the airplane
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance for disabled passengers must be requested at least 48 hours before departure
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin, max 6kg including carrier
Entertaiment on board
FAQs: Istanbul to Sofia Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Istanbul to Sofia by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Sofia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Istanbul to Sofia can start from as little as $53 (€43) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Istanbul to Sofia is $232 (€187); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Istanbul to Sofia flight time is 1 h 20 min covering the 311 mile (502 km) long trip, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Istanbul to Sofia leaves at 2: 20AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Istanbul to Sofia leaves at 8: 35PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Istanbul to Sofia without having to change trains with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines. There are 3 direct flights from Istanbul to Sofia each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
Take the Istanbul to Sofia flight with Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia, TAROM or LOT Polish Airlines. However, it's always good to check out all possible airlines for the route between Istanbul and Sofia as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
Flights from Istanbul to Sofia generally leave from Istanbul Airport and arrive in Sofia Airport.
Istanbul Airport is 44.4 km away from Istanbul city centre and Sofia Airport is 12.2 km from Sofia city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Istanbul to Sofia is September.
You have options as you can travel from Istanbul to Sofia 2 different ways: bus or flight.
Sofia is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Istanbul and Sofia in winter.
The best events to attend in Sofia include:
- Sofia International Film Festival, a prominent film festival showcasing international and Bulgarian cinema
- Sofia Music Weeks, an annual classical music festival featuring renowned orchestras and soloists
- Sofia Pride, a celebration of LGBTQ+ rights with a colorful parade and various events
- Christmas Market in Sofia, a festive market offering traditional crafts, food, and holiday entertainment.
The best holidays to experience in Sofia include:
- Easter, beautiful spring weather and traditional celebrations
- Labor Day, a public holiday with various outdoor activities and gatherings
- National Revival Day, cultural events celebrating Bulgarian heritage
- Unification Day, commemorating the unification of Bulgaria with festivities and parades.
The best seasons to visit Sofia are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Sofia is during May-June or September-October.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e. G. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs).
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
popular airports
Popular airports from Istanbul to Sofia
Istanbul
Sofia
The major airport for departures in Istanbul is Istanbul Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul Airport for your trip from Istanbul to Sofia.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
32 km
Car connection
D020, Exit ArnavutköyWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport for two hours.
Shopping
- Shops are located in both terminals, including duty-free shops and brands like Hugo Boss and Victoria's Secret.
Parking
- Parking available with options for short-term and long-term parking, approximately 0.73€ (21 TRY) per hour.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- Available throughout the airport, including accessible facilities.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including the Turkish Airlines Lounge, offering food, drinks, and relaxation areas.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the arrivals area.
Public transit options for Istanbul Airport
- H-2
- IST-1
- IST-2
- IST-3
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmCar connection
O-4 Highway, Kurtköy-Pendik exitWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops located in duty-free area, including D&R and Turkish Delight.
Parking
- Parking available, located near terminal, approximately 0.18€ (5 TRY) per hour.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including ISG Lounge with food and shower facilities.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the arrivals area.
Public transit options for Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport
- Buses: E10, E11, SG-2
- Metro: M4
The major airport for arrivals in Sofia is Sofia Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia Airport for your journey to Sofia from Istanbul.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
6 kmCar connection
Brussels Blvd, Exit 4Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops available in both terminals, including duty-free and local brands.
Parking
- Parking available at Terminal 1 and 2, approximately 1€ per hour.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, toilets.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including Aspire Lounge in Terminal 2.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in Terminal 2, open during airport hours.
Public transit options for Sofia Airport
- Bus: 84, 184, 384
- Metro: M4
More options for your journey from Istanbul to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Sofia and Istanbul
Most popular flights to Sofia
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