- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plovdiv to Sofia
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$7
Average price
$8
Fastest journey
2 h 40 m
Average duration
2 h 48 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
132 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plovdiv to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plovdiv to Sofia will cost around $8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $7.
Fast trains
Of the 9 trains that leave Plovdiv for Sofia on Wed, Jun 17, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct trains cover the 132 km distance in an average of 2 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 40 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the slowest trains will take 2 h 55 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.
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7:00 AM2h45Plovdiv9:45 AMSofia$71One-way0 transfers- 8:10 AM2h45Plovdiv10:55 AMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 AM3h29Plovdiv12:49 PMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 11:50 AM2h55Plovdiv2:45 PMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 1:10 PM2h55Plovdiv4:05 PMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 7:28 PM2h40Plovdiv10:08 PMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM2h45Plovdiv9:45 AMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM2h45Plovdiv10:55 AMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 6:27 PM2h53Plovdiv9:20 PMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
- 11:50 AM2h55Plovdiv2:45 PMSofia$71One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Plovdiv to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Plovdiv to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $7, and a bus costs an average of $11.
Distance: 82 miles (132 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$8 Average price Cheapest | $29 Average price | $35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 1m Average total duration 3h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration Fastest 2h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Plovdiv to Sofia is a train with an average price of $8 (€6).
This is compared to other travel options from Plovdiv to Sofia:
A train is $21 (€17) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Plovdiv to Sofia costing on average $29 (€24).
The fastest way to travel from Plovdiv to Sofia is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 19m.
Other travel options to Sofia take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Plovdiv and Sofia including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plovdiv to Sofia among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Bulgarian Railways (BDZh).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Plovdiv to Sofia train times
The table below shows live departures for Plovdiv to Sofia trains for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM Plovdiv | 2h45 | 9:45 AM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 AM Plovdiv | 2h45 | 10:55 AM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:20 AM Plovdiv | 3h29 | 12:49 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:50 AM Plovdiv | 2h55 | 2:45 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:10 PM Plovdiv | 2h55 | 4:05 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:44 PM Plovdiv | 2h58 | 5:42 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:27 PM Plovdiv | 2h53 | 9:20 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:28 PM Plovdiv | 2h40 | 10:08 PM Sofia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:50 PM Plovdiv | 8h02 | 6:52 AM Sofia | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Plovdiv to Sofia by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Plovdiv to Sofia
BulgariaBulgaria
Trains from Plovdiv to Sofia run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€6) if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:00, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 82 miles (132 km) distance in 2h 40m.
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
Distance 82 miles (132 km) |
Average train duration 3h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 (€6) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 2h 40m |
First train 7:00 AM |
Last train 10:50 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Train companies: Bulgarian Railways (BDZh) from Plovdiv to Sofia trainsBulgarian Railways (BDZh) trains will get you between Plovdiv and Sofia from $7 (€6). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€6)
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh) frequency
7 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.
- 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 Sever, Sofia -> Sofia Central Railway Station, Sofia
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Validate paper tickets immediately after boarding; inspectors regularly check tickets on buses, trams, and the metro.
- Card payment is available in the Sofia Metro and on many vehicles via contactless validators, but carry a backup payment method for older buses or trams.
FAQs: Trains from Plovdiv to Sofia
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plovdiv to Sofia by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Sofia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Plovdiv to Sofia can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€6), while the average price is around $8 (€6).
The train from Plovdiv to Sofia takes 2h 40m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Plovdiv to Sofia leaves at 7:00 AM.
The distance by train from Plovdiv to Sofia is 82 miles (132 km).
The last train from Plovdiv to Sofia leaves at 10:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plovdiv to Sofia.
Yes, there is a direct train from Plovdiv to Sofia. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Bulgarian Railways (BDZh).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plovdiv to Sofia.
The cheapest way to get from Plovdiv to Sofia is by train, with a cost of around $7 (€6).
The train journey from Plovdiv to Sofia offers scenic views of the Balkan Mountains, rolling hills, and picturesque Bulgarian countryside, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Plovdiv to Sofia is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 40m. However, there are 10 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 82 miles (132 km).
In Sofia, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or outdoor activities in Borisova Gradina, visit the Sofia Zoo to see a wide variety of animals, and learn about the city's past at the Sofia History Museum. Explore ancient Roman ruins at the Serdika Archaeological Complex or experience world-class performances at the Sofia Opera and Ballet. Don't miss the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, vibrant Vitosha Boulevard, and the National Palace of Culture. Visit the Boyana Church for its medieval frescoes and explore the Sofia Central Mineral Baths, a historic site with beautiful architecture.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Sofia allows visitors to explore its main attractions, such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, and the National Palace of Culture, while also enjoying the local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Plovdiv to Sofia.
Since both Plovdiv 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plovdiv to Sofia among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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.
More options for your journey from Plovdiv to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sofia and Plovdiv
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