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Sofia to Istanbul from $14: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sofia, Bulgaria
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Sofia to Istanbul: 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.

$14 by trainBest price
505.7 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul 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
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$176-383
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
12h  27m
Estimated price
$14-29
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 505.7 km
Duration: 4h 8m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Citylines, FlixBus, Huntur
Bus
Average Duration
9h 
Estimated price
$35-70
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$85-130
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$138-355
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$166-531

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $30 $30 $30 $30 $30 $30 $30
Fly $57 $105 $48 $106 $78 $104 $168
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sofia to Istanbul

Embarking on a journey from Sofia to Istanbul offers you a dynamic shift from Bulgaria's serene landscapes and rich history to Turkey's vibrant streets alive with culture and flavor.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods each offer distinct atmospheres and experiences for visitors.

Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia.
• Rich history visible in every corner.
Beyoğlu
• Bustling Istiklal Avenue full of shops and cafes.
• Vibrant nightlife and arts scene.
Kadıköy
• Trendy vibe with local markets and eateries.
• Stunning waterfront views of the Bosphorus.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits to Istanbul's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Topkapi Palace
Midweek mornings offer a quieter experience and shorter lines.
Grand Bazaar
Arrive just after opening or close to closing for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to explore the city. Weather can significantly shape your travel plans, so packing accordingly ensures you enjoy both outdoor attractions and cozy indoor spots.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

Indulge in a plate of Meze at a local restaurant, where the vibrant array of small dishes showcases fresh ingredients and bold spices, setting it apart from Sofia's heartier fare. The lively atmosphere and the communal dining experience allow you to connect with the local culture in a way that feels distinctively inviting and flavorful.

Sofia - Istanbul operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Sofia (SOF) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$140-390
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Sofia (SOF) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$140-600

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$180-750
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$100-430
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Sofia to Halkali

Average Duration
11h 49m
Estimated price
$12-26
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$30-34
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Sofia to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$45-70
Contact phone
+90 212 658 00 61
Website
huntur.com.tr

Bus from Sofia Serdica Bus Station to Istanbul Büyük Otogari

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$35-45

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

Traveling between Sofia and Istanbul 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.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Sofia to Istanbul covering a distance of 550.4 km. 💰 Experience the flexibility and freedom of traveling by car with prices ranging from €78 to €120 for the journey from Sofia to Istanbul. 🕌 Arrive in Istanbul after approximately 5 hours and 12 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and bustling atmosphere of this dynamic city that straddles the continents of Europe and Asia.
Average price
€78 - €120
🚂 Starting from Sofia you can take a train to Istanbul although there is no direct route. The journey involves transfers and takes approximately 12 hours and 27 minutes. 💰 The prices for the train between Sofia and Istanbul typically range from €13 to €27, providing an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two vibrant cities. With a distance of 505 km, the journey is a mix of comfort and adventure, perfect for those looking to explore the region by rail.
Departure Point
Sofia station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the train from Sofia to Istanbul include catering options where you can purchase snacks and beverages. Typically, you can find a dining car serving light meals and drinks. However, it’s a good idea to bring additional snacks and water, as the availability can vary.
• The train offers various seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class provides more spacious seating and better amenities, while Business Class offers comfortable seating with additional services. Economy Class is more budget-friendly but may feel crowded during peak travel times. Ensure you book in advance if you prefer First or Business Class, as they often sell out quickly.
• There are multiple operators on this route including Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) and Turkish State Railways (TCDD). For schedules and tickets, you can visit their websites: BDZ and TCDD.
🛫 Flying from Sofia to Istanbul is a convenient option with a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 30 minutes. Both Aegean Airlines and Turkish Airlines provide services on this route. 🌍 The journey covers a distance of approximately 375 kilometers, taking around 4 hours and 8 minutes to travel by plane. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Istanbul and Sofia typically range from €162 to €353, providing travelers with options to suit their budget while experiencing the rich culture and history of these two beautiful destinations.
Departure Point
Sofia Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check in online and download your boarding pass beforehand, as both Aegean Airlines and Turkish Airlines often offer discounts for on-time check-ins and seamless boarding at Sofia Airport.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), expect to spend some time at customs; use the e-passport gates if eligible for a quicker exit, and follow the signs for baggage claim to navigate smoothly.
• Taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to the city center average around 200-300 Turkish Lira (approximately €10-€15); use the official taxi stands to avoid any scams or price hikes.
🚌 Starting from Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza, a direct bus to Istanbul Esenler Otogari operates four times a day, taking approximately 9 hours to reach the destination. Citylines is the operator for this route. 🛣️ The journey from Sofia to Istanbul covers a distance of 502 km, with one transfer along the way. Passengers can expect a comfortable ride on buses operated by Arda Tur, making stops in Bursa and Haskovo before reaching Istanbul. 🌍 Travelers can also choose alternative routes with varying durations and distances between Sofia and Istanbul, provided by different bus operators like Union Ivkoni and FlixBus.
Departure Point
Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your bus ticket in advance, especially during peak travel times, as seats can fill up quickly on the direct routes from Sofia to Istanbul. You can check schedules and book tickets with Citylines at Citylines Sofia and Arda Tur at Arda Tur.
• Bring along some snacks and a refillable water bottle for the 9-hour journey, as amenities on the bus may be limited; however, you can find dining options and shops at Sofia Serdica before departure, including popular venues like Tasty and Top Pita.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Esenler Otogari, ensure you keep your belongings close as this is a busy transport hub; familiarize yourself with the layout by reviewing the station map available here, and prepare for various onward transport options such as metro, taxi, or shuttle services to the city center.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sofia to Istanbul.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Sofia and Istanbul is 505.3 km by air and 544.3 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: 4 hours and 8 minutes by plane, 5 hours and 9 minutes by car, 9 hours and 30 minutes by bus, and 12 hours and 32 minutes by train.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Sofia to Istanbul is by train, with fares ranging from €12-€25. Although it takes longer, approximately 12 hours and 32 minutes, it offers a more affordable option for budget travelers. On the other hand, if time is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 4 hours and 8 minutes. However, it is worth considering the higher cost of approximately €148-€324 for the flight.
The price range for train tickets from Sofia to Istanbul typically varies between €12 and €24. On the other hand, bus tickets for the route from Istanbul to Sofia usually range from €28 to €31.
To get from Sofia to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 544.0 km, and it takes around 5 hours and 9 minutes to complete the journey by car. You can expect to spend between €79 and €120 on fuel and tolls for this trip, depending on the route and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Sofia to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes around 9 hours and 30 minutes and costs approximately €28-€31. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes and costs approximately €148-€324. Alternatively, there is also a train option that takes around 12 hours and 32 minutes, and costs approximately €12-€25.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Sofia and Istanbul. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes and the buses operate daily, departing every four hours. However, there is no direct train between Sofia and Istanbul. The train journey requires a transfer at Halkali station and takes approximately 12 hours and 32 minutes.
The flight between Sofia and Istanbul typically takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. The prices for this flight can range from €154 to €320 depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are numerous hotels available in Istanbul, with over 1596 options to choose from. Prices for accommodation start at €22, offering a range of affordable options for travelers.