- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Bulgaria’s main archaeological museum, housed in a former Ottoman mosque, with major Thracian, Roman, and medieval collections.
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Journey information
Overview: Riga to Sofia flight
Latvia
Bulgaria
Flights from Riga to Sofia depart on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $138 (€113) but you can travel from only $99 (€82) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:20, the last at 21:40. The fastest flight covers the 984 miles (1585 km) distance in 4h 0m. October 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 $99 (€82)
Distance 984 miles (1585 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $138 (€113) |
Flights per day 17 |
Fastest flight 4h 0m |
First flight 5:20 AM |
Last flight 9:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 91 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
Bus from $99 (€82)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Riga to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Jun 29
Cheapest price
$142
Average price
$271
Fastest journey
8 h 5 m
Average duration
16 h 34 m
Flights per day
6
Distance
1585 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Riga to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Riga to Sofia will cost around $271 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.
Fast flights
Of the 6 flights that leave Riga for Sofia onMon, Jun 29, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 29 the direct flights cover the 1585 km distance in an average of 16 h 34 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 8 h 5 m .
On Mon, Jun 29 the longest flights will take 1 d 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.
12:35 PM8h10Riga8:45 PMSofia$1421One-way0 transfers
2:50 AM8h05Riga10:55 AMSofia$1671One-way0 transfers- 11:50 AM24h00Riga11:50 AMSofia$2441One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 PM23h15Riga3:50 PMSofia$2441One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM19h20Riga10:50 AMSofia$3701One-way0 transfers
- 2:50 AM8h05Riga10:55 AMSofia$1671One-way0 transfers
- 12:35 PM8h10Riga8:45 PMSofia$1421One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM19h20Riga10:50 AMSofia$3701One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 PM23h15Riga3:50 PMSofia$2441One-way0 transfers
- 11:50 AM24h00Riga11:50 AMSofia$2441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Riga to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Riga to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $99. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $99, and a flight costs an average of $138.
Distance: 984 miles (1585 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$268 Average price | $138 Average price Cheapest | $492 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 16m Average total duration Fastest 4h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 36h 16m Average total duration 35h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 23h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Riga to Sofia is a bus with an average price of $138 (€114).
This is compared to other travel options from Riga to Sofia:
A bus is $130 (€107) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Riga to Sofia costing on average $268 (€221).
The fastest way to travel from Riga to Sofia is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 16m.
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Bus takes on average 35h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Riga and Sofia including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Riga to Sofia among Omio's users.
Live departures
Riga to Sofia flight times
The table below shows live departures for Riga to Sofia flights for today, Sunday, June 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:50 AM Riga | 4h00 | 3:50 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:40 PM Riga | 19h10 | 11:50 AM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, June 29 | |||||
| 2:50 AM Riga | 8h05 | 10:55 AM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Riga 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.
Mon
Jun 29
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Why should you book Riga to Sofia flights with Omio?
Lufthansa as well as Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic, Bulgaria Air and more offer flights services from Riga to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Riga to Sofia.
Why book with Omio vs Lufthansa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Lufthansa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic or Bulgaria Air to find the best option for your trip from Riga 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 Lufthansa with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Riga to Sofia.
Why book with Omio over Skyscanner, Trip or Kayak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic or Bulgaria Air to find the best option for your trip from Riga to Sofia.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Riga to Sofia.
Airlines: Lufthansa, Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic, Bulgaria Air from Riga to SofiaFind the best flights between Riga to Sofia with Omio's travel partners Lufthansa, Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic, Bulgaria Air from $99 (€82). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Lufthansa
About
Lufthansa is Germany’s largest airline and one of the leading carriers in Europe, connecting travelers to destinations worldwide from its main hubs in Frankfurt and Munich. Its modern fleet offers a wide choice of travel experiences, from Economy Class with affordable fares and onboard entertainment to Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class with extra comfort, fine dining, and exclusive lounge access.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 25m
Cheapest Price
$138 (€113)
Lufthansa frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (8 kg) and 1 personal item included in Economy Class
Additional luggage
Additional bags can be purchased, prices vary by route and fare type
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on fare type; most flexible fares offer full refund, basic fares are non-refundable
Pregnant on board
Lufthansa allows travel up to end of 36th week for single pregnancies, 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-11 (mandatory) and 12-17 (optional). Service fee applies
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Lufthansa provides wheelchair service and special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin or cargo hold, fees apply. Service animals travel free of charge
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
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$163 (€134)
Lot Polish Airlines frequency
4 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
Air Baltic
About
AirBaltic is the flag carrier of Latvia and a leading hybrid airline in the Baltics, combining aspects of traditional network and low-cost carriers. Founded in 1995, it operates a modern fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft, connecting the Baltics from hubs in Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, and Tampere to over 70 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus. The company is majority-owned by the Latvian state. AirBaltic is recognized for its commitment to passenger experience, having received awards for cabin service and being among the world's safest airlines. In a pioneering move, AirBaltic became the first European airline to offer free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet on its flights in February 2025.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$198 (€163)
Air Baltic frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x40x23 cm) max 8kg
Additional luggage
Checked baggage up to 23kg can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets available with Premium fare, Basic tickets non-refundable but changeable for fee
Pregnant on board
Until week 36, medical certificate required after week 28
Unaccompagned minor
Available for children aged 5-17, must be booked at least 48h in advance, service fee applies
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 in cabin, max 8kg including carrier, must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Bulgaria Air
About
Bulgaria Air is the national flag carrier airline of Bulgaria, headquartered at Sofia Airport. Established in 2002, it operates short and medium-haul flights to over 25 destinations in Europe and the Middle East, including domestic routes to Burgas and Varna. The airline aims to provide high-quality air transportation with traditional Bulgarian hospitality. Bulgaria Air's fleet includes Airbus A220, A319, A320, and Embraer 190/195 aircraft. They offer both Economy and Business Class, with Business Class providing amenities like priority check-in, extra baggage, lounge access, and wider seating. The airline also provides services for unaccompanied minors and has interline and codeshare agreements with various international carriers, expanding its global reach.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$298 (€246)
Bulgaria Air frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand baggage up to 10 kg (55x40x23 cm) and 1 personal item (40x30x20 cm)
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, fees vary by route
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available depending on fare type, cancellation fees apply. Economy Light tickets are non-refundable.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 36th week of pregnancy. After 28th week, medical certificate required.
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with mandatory assistance service. Service must be booked at least 48 hours before departure.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Bulgaria Air provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchair assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Entertaiment on board
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.
- Recommended
National Gallery Square 500
The country’s largest art museum, displaying Bulgarian and international art in a grand modern complex near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Recommended
Sofia History Museum
A well-curated city museum inside the former Central Mineral Baths, covering Sofia’s urban, political, and cultural history.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
Sofia’s main pedestrian boulevard, lined with shops and lively city views, with Vitosha Mountain often visible at the southern end.
- Recommended
Ancient Serdica Archaeological Complex
A central open-air archaeological zone integrated into the modern city, popular for walking, photos, and easy access to Roman ruins.
- Recommended
Borisova Gradina
Sofia’s best-known large park, offering tree-lined walks, monuments, sports areas, and a local daily-life atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska Salata
A classic Bulgarian salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It is one of the country’s most iconic dishes and a staple in Sofia restaurants.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
A traditional baked pastry made with thin layers of dough, eggs, and white cheese. It is a beloved breakfast and snack across Sofia and Bulgaria.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
A cold yogurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic, and walnuts, especially popular in warm weather. It is refreshing and distinctly Bulgarian.
Moma Bulgarian Food and Wine
An established central Sofia restaurant focused on refined Bulgarian cuisine, local wines, and stylish interiors inspired by national traditions.
Shtastlivetsa Vitoshka
A popular and established restaurant on Vitosha Boulevard offering a broad menu, dependable service, and a lively atmosphere suited to a casual meal in central Sofia.
Hadjidraganov's Houses
A well-known traditional Bulgarian restaurant with folklore decor, regional specialties, and a rustic atmosphere popular with visitors seeking classic local dishes.
Bulgarian Lev
Affordable by European capital standards. Public transport, casual dining, and coffee are low cost; hotels vary by season and location.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- BGN 10-18 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- BGN 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- BGN 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- BGN 3-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
About 10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips for hotel staff are appreciated but not required. No tip is expected for counter service.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.60 BGN
- Day pass
- 4.00 BGN
To the city center
Sofia Airport Terminal 2, Sofia -> Sofia Central Railway Station, Sofia
- Distance
- 10 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
- Validate your ticket immediately after boarding. Contactless card payment is available on metro gates and on many buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
- Use a day pass if you plan multiple rides in one day. The metro is usually the fastest option from Sofia Airport to central Sofia.
FAQs: Riga to Sofia Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riga 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 Riga to Sofia can start from as little as $138 (€113) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Riga to Sofia is $268 (€221) ; 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 plane from Riga to Sofia is 4h 0m to travel the 984 miles (1585 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Riga to Sofia leaves at 5:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Riga to Sofia leaves at 9:40 PM.
There are 17 flights a day from Riga to Sofia which require at least one change with Lufthansa, Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic, Bulgaria Air. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
When taking a flight from Riga to Sofia, you can count on Lufthansa, Lot Polish Airlines, Air Baltic, Bulgaria Air for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Riga and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Riga to Sofia generally leave from Riga International Airport and arrive in Sofia Airport.Riga International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from Riga city centre and Sofia Airport is 3 miles (6 km) from Sofia city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Riga to Sofia is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Riga and Sofia including taking a bus and flight.
Since both Riga 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.
There is no time difference between Riga and Sofia.
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.
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 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 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.
The best season to visit Sofia is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Sofia is during May-June or September-October.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Riga to Sofia among Omio's users.
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.
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.
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 airports
Popular airports from Riga to Sofia
Riga
Sofia
The major airport for departures in Riga is Riga International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Riga International Airport for your trip from Riga to Sofia.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
A10, exit P133Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport
Shopping
- Shops in the terminal, including duty-free and local brands
Parking
- Parking available near the terminal, approximately 2.5€ per hour
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- VIP Lounge available, access with a fee or membership
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the arrivals area
Public transit options for Riga International Airport
- Bus: 22
- Minibus: 322
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 Riga.
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
Most popular flights from Riga
More options for your journey from Riga to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Sofia and Riga
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