1map logoGo to main page

Sofia to Plovdiv from $4: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sofia, Bulgaria
to
Plovdiv, Bulgaria

How to Get from Sofia to Plovdiv: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$4 by trainBest price
132.4 kmDistance
1h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sofia to Plovdiv with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Karat-S
Bus
Average Duration
2h  20m
Estimated price
$12-25
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
2h  32m
Estimated price
$4-7
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 132.4 km
Duration: 1h 21m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  21m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
1h  21m
Estimated price
$90-120
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  23m
Estimated price
$130-180

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $9 $9 $9 $9 $9 $9 $9
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sofia to Plovdiv

The journey from Sofia to Plovdiv offers a shift from the bustling urban vibe of Bulgaria's capital to the rich history and relaxed atmosphere of the country’s second-largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Plovdiv

Plovdiv's neighborhoods blend history, culture, and vibrant local life.

Kapana
• Known for its artistic atmosphere and street art.
• Offers numerous cafes, shops, and galleries.
Old Town
• Features well-preserved architectural landmarks.
• Home to museums and quaint cobblestone streets.
Trakia
• A modern neighborhood with local amenities.
• Central location facilitates easy exploration of Plovdiv.

Best Times To Visit Plovdiv's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can enhance your experience in Plovdiv.

Roman Theatre
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Old Town
Explore in the late afternoon for beautiful lighting and a more relaxed vibe.
Kapana District
Enjoy evenings with local events and a vibrant atmosphere without large crowds.

Plovdiv Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Plovdiv features a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and early fall ideal for comfortable exploration. Your travel experience can greatly vary with the seasons, so plan accordingly to enjoy outdoor attractions and local events.

Dining in Plovdiv: A Culinary Delight

Try the traditional 'Kapama', a hearty dish made with slow-cooked meats and spices, at ‘Rendezvous’ in Plovdiv, which captures the essence of local flavors distinct from Sofia's more modern culinary scene. The relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients create a dining experience that truly reflects the region's heritage.

Sofia - Plovdiv operators

Explore transport companies operating between Sofia and Plovdiv, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+359 2 8120810
Website
https://www.karat-s.com/

Bus from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$7-11
Contact phone
+359 32 65 78 11
Website
https://hebrosbus.com/en

Bus from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Sofia Bus Station South to Plovdiv

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$14-20
Contact phone
+359 7001 8282
Website
http://en.union-ivkoni.com/

Bus from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv Bus and Coach Station Sever

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$7-12
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$4-7
Taxi
Contact phone
+359 89 345 5533
Website
https://atlastaxi.eu/

Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$90-120
Contact phone
+359 2 8 07 00
Website
http://1euro.bg

Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+359 2 9 11 19
Website
http://yellow333.com

Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+359 877 144 144
Website
http://taxistars.net

Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+359 2 973 2121
Website
http://oktaxi.net

Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
0-0
Shuttle
Contact phone
+359 89 345 5533
Website
https://atlastaxi.eu/

Shuttle from Sofia to Plovdiv

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$130-180

Sofia to Plovdiv: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Sofia and Plovdiv offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 The scenic drive from Sofia to Plovdiv covers a distance of 144.8 km and takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes, making it a convenient road trip option for travelers. 🌿 💰 Prices for the journey between the two cities by car typically range from €20 to €32, offering a budget-friendly travel option with the freedom to explore both urban and countryside landscapes along the route. 🛣️
Average price
€20 - €32
🚆 Traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv by train is a convenient option with direct services departing every two hours daily. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes. 💸 Prices for the train tickets between Sofia and Plovdiv range from €4 to €6, making it an affordable transportation option for travelers looking to explore Bulgaria's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Departure Point
Sofia station
Arrival Point
Plovdiv station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Sofia to Plovdiv route typically include a catering cart offering snacks and beverages. Look out for Bulgarian specialties, as well as coffees and light refreshments, which are usually available for purchase during the journey.
• The train offers multiple seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides spacious seating with more privacy, while Business Class offers comfort and additional services. Economy Class is more budget-friendly, with standard seating arrangements. Be sure to book in advance, especially for First and Business Class, as they can fill up quickly.
• The main operators for the Sofia to Plovdiv route are Bulgaria's state railway company, BDZ (bdz.bg), and private operators like Express Rail (expressrailtours.com). Check both websites for timetables and ticket options to find the best fits for your schedule. Additionally, you can use the_app for real-time updates.
🚌 Traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv by bus is a convenient option, with services departing five times a day and taking approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. 🛣️ The direct bus route covers a distance of 136 km from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop. Prices for the trip range from €11 to €23. 🕰️ Various travel options are available for the Sofia to Plovdiv journey, with routes varying in duration from 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. Arda Tur is a reliable agency offering bus services for this route.
Departure Point
Sofia Central Bus Station
Arrival Point
Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as Karat-S operates five times a day from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv Central Train Station, and it’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure your seat. You can find the schedule on their website: karat-s.com
• Grab some local snacks from the food stalls at Sofia Central Bus Station before you depart; trying a 'banitsa' (a flaky pastry filled with cheese) is a must for your journey and will keep you energized for the 2h 20m trip.
• Upon arrival at Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop, take note that the bus stop is adjacent to the train station, providing easy access to local transportation; be sure to utilize the easily accessible tram network or local taxis which can be found just outside the station for further exploration of the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sofia to Plovdiv.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Sofia and Plovdiv is approximately 132.0 km by road. Traveling by train from Sofia to Plovdiv takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes. Alternatively, a ferry journey between the two cities takes around 2 hours and 23 minutes. By car, the travel time from Sofia to Plovdiv is around 1 hour and 21 minutes, and by bus, it takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv is by train, with tickets costing between €3-€6. It takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes to reach Plovdiv by train. However, if time is of the essence, the fastest option is to take a taxi, which can get you to Plovdiv in 1 hour and 21 minutes, but it comes at a higher cost of €82-€100.
When traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv, the prices for a train ticket range from €3 to €6. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket between Plovdiv and Sofia vary from €14 to €19.
To get from Sofia to Plovdiv without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 144.8 km and it takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes to reach Plovdiv from Sofia by car. Depending on the car rental company and other factors, prices for renting a car can range from €20 to €32.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Sofia to Plovdiv is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes and costs around €14-€19.
Yes, there is a direct link between Sofia and Plovdiv. Bulgarian Railways operates a train service that departs every two hours from Sofia station and arrives at Plovdiv station, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service provided by Karat-S, which departs every three hours from Sofia Central Bus Station and arrives at Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
There are over 502 hotels available in Plovdiv offering a range of options for travelers. Prices start at €20 per night, providing affordable accommodation choices.