- Must visit
Topkapı Palace Museum
Former Ottoman imperial palace with treasury, courtyards, and sacred relics; one of the city’s essential historical museum visits.
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Journey information
Overview: Sofia Airport to Istanbul flight
Bulgaria
Turkey
Flights from Sofia Airport to Istanbul depart on average 14 times per day, taking around 1h 35m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by bus.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 07:30, the last at 19:40. The fastest flight covers the 307 miles (495 km) distance in 1h 15m. January 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 $38 (€31)
Distance 307 miles (495 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $56 (€46) |
Flights per day 14 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 15m |
First flight 7:30 AM |
Last flight 7:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $38 (€31)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Sofia Airport to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$88
Average price
$347
Fastest journey
1 h 15 m
Average duration
1 h 27 m
Flights per day
12
Distance
495 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul will cost around $347 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.
Fast flights
Of the 12 flights that leave Sofia Airport for Istanbul onSun, Jun 21, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct flights cover the 495 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the longest flights will take 1 h 30 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.
PC2726:45 PM1h15Sofia Airport8:00 PMIstanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport$881One-way0 transfers
TK10323:50 PM1h30Sofia Airport5:20 PMIstanbul Airport$1211One-way0 transfers- TK11281:05 PM1h30Sofia Airport2:35 PMIstanbul Airport$1211One-way0 transfers
- TK10309:10 PM1h30Sofia Airport10:40 PMIstanbul Airport$1331One-way0 transfers
- TK10289:35 AM1h30Sofia Airport11:05 AMIstanbul Airport$1461One-way0 transfers
- PC2726:45 PM1h15Sofia Airport8:00 PMIstanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport$881One-way0 transfers
- TK10323:50 PM1h30Sofia Airport5:20 PMIstanbul Airport$1211One-way0 transfers
- TK11281:05 PM1h30Sofia Airport2:35 PMIstanbul Airport$1211One-way0 transfers
- TK10289:35 AM1h30Sofia Airport11:05 AMIstanbul Airport$1461One-way0 transfers
- TK10309:10 PM1h30Sofia Airport10:40 PMIstanbul Airport$1331One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia Airport to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia Airport to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a flight costs an average of $56.
Distance: 307 miles (495 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$102 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $115 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 1h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 36m Average total duration 9h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 1m 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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $41 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia Airport to Istanbul:
A bus is $62 (€50) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sofia Airport to Istanbul costing on average $102 (€84).
The fastest way to travel from Sofia Airport to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 35m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia Airport and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia Airport to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Live departures
Sofia Airport to Istanbul flight times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia Airport to Istanbul flights for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 LH1707 · LH1742 | 6:10 AM Sofia Airport | 19h55 | 2:05 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| TK1028 | 9:35 AM Sofia Airport | 1h30 | 11:05 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| LH1703 · LH1742 | 12:55 PM Sofia Airport | 13h10 | 2:05 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| TK1128 | 1:05 PM Sofia Airport | 1h30 | 2:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TK1032 | 3:50 PM Sofia Airport | 1h30 | 5:20 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A33162+ A31151 | 4:10 PM Sofia Airport | 13h15 | 5:25 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| PC272 | 6:45 PM Sofia Airport | 1h15 | 8:00 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
LH1742+ LH4159 | 7:25 PM Sofia Airport | 6h40 | 2:05 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
 BA893 · BA716 | 9:05 PM Sofia Airport | 17h25 | 2:30 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| TK1030 | 9:10 PM Sofia Airport | 1h30 | 10:40 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
 A3983+A33162 | 9:20 PM Sofia Airport | 8h05 | 5:25 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| A3983 · A3990 | 9:20 PM Sofia Airport | 12h25 | 9:45 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia Airport to Istanbul 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
Jun 21
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Sofia Airport to Istanbul flights with Omio?
pegasus as well as Turkish Airlines offer flights services from Sofia Airport to Istanbul.
Omio is the only official third party seller for pegasus tickets.
Why book with Omio vs pegasus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for pegasus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Turkish Airlines to find the best option for your trip from Sofia Airport to Istanbul.
- 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 pegasus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia Airport to Istanbul.
Airlines: pegasus, Turkish Airlines from Sofia Airport to IstanbulFind the best flights between Sofia Airport to Istanbul with Omio's travel partners pegasus, Turkish Airlines from $38 (€31). 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 30m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€70)
Turkish Airlines frequency
6 a day
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
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 15m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
pegasus frequency
1 a day
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
Complete guide to Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Discover the best of Istanbul — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istanbul trip today.
- Recommended
İstanbul Archaeological Museums
Major complex of archaeology museums with artifacts from Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the ancient Near East.
- Recommended
İstanbul Modern
Turkey’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, known for strong exhibitions and a Bosphorus-facing setting.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic heart of old Istanbul, linking Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and major Byzantine and Ottoman sites.
- Must visit
İstiklal Avenue
Bustling pedestrian avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, galleries, and the nostalgic tram.
- Recommended
Galataport
Redeveloped waterfront promenade with Bosphorus views, public art, and strong social-media popularity.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
Ring-shaped bread coated with sesame seeds, sold by street vendors and bakeries across Istanbul. It is a classic breakfast and snack food closely associated with daily life in the city.
Balık Ekmek
A famous Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread, especially associated with the Eminönü waterfront. It is valued for its simple, fresh Bosphorus flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kuru Fasulye
Slow-cooked white bean stew, often served with rice and pickles. It is a comforting staple in traditional Istanbul lokantas and can be made simply or with meat.
Karaköy Lokantası
Respected modern lokanta serving polished Turkish home-style cooking, meze, and seasonal dishes. Stylish but grounded in tradition.
Hamdi Restaurant
Well-known restaurant in Eminönü famous for kebabs, lahmacun, and views over the Golden Horn. Established, lively, and popular with both locals and visitors.
Kanaat Lokantası
Long-running Üsküdar lokanta known for hearty everyday Turkish dishes, soups, stews, and classic desserts. Casual, authentic, and very local in feel.
Turkish Lira
Moderate for most tourists. Street food and transit are good value, while hotels and upscale dining in central areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 150-300 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- TRY 500-1,000 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- TRY 1,500+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- TRY 80-180 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Around 5-10% in casual restaurants and 10% in nicer places if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and delivery.
Istanbul Senin
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 17.70 TRY
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Istanbul Airport, Istanbul -> Taksim Square, Istanbul
- Distance
- 40 km
- Travel time
- 45 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for metros, trams, ferries, and buses; single-use fares are higher than card-based fares.
- Card payment is generally not available onboard city buses and trams, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
FAQs: Sofia Airport to Istanbul Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia Airport to Istanbul 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 Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Sofia Airport to Istanbul can start from as little as $56 (€46) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Sofia Airport to Istanbul is $102 (€84) ; 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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul is 1h 15m to travel the 307 miles (495 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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul leaves at 7:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Sofia Airport to Istanbul leaves at 7:40 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct flights a day from Sofia Airport to Istanbul with pegasus, Turkish Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Sofia Airport to Istanbul, you can count on pegasus, Turkish Airlines for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Sofia Airport and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
The cheapest month for a flight from Sofia Airport to Istanbul is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia Airport and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Sofia Airport will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their 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 Sofia Airport and Istanbul in winter.
The best events to attend in Istanbul include:
- Istanbul Film Festival, an annual event showcasing international and Turkish films
- Istanbul Music Festival, a celebration of classical music featuring renowned artists
- Istanbul Biennial, a contemporary art exhibition held every two years with global participation
- Istanbul Tulip Festival, a month-long festival celebrating the city's tulip heritage with colorful displays throughout parks.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best holidays to experience in Istanbul include:
- Republic Day, national pride and celebrations on October 29
- Eid al-Fitr, festive atmosphere marking the end of Ramadan with family gatherings in April or May
- Eid al-Adha, significant religious holiday with communal prayers and feasts in June or July
- New Year's Eve, lively celebrations welcoming the new year with fireworks and parties on December 31.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The best season to visit Istanbul is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Istanbul is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia Airport to Istanbul 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.
Türkiye uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its currency. Travelers often find cards widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases, local markets, and rural regions where card acceptance may be limited.
In Istanbul, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without a meter, unofficial tour guides offering expensive or fake services, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, agree on prices beforehand, and stay vigilant in busy areas to avoid these issues.
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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul
Sofia
Istanbul
The major airport for departures in Sofia is Sofia Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia Airport for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
6 km
Car 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
The major airport for arrivals in Istanbul is Istanbul Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul Airport for your journey to Istanbul from Sofia.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
32 kmCar 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
Most popular flights from Sofia Airport
More options for your journey from Sofia Airport to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Istanbul and Sofia Airport
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