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Athens to Sofia from $36: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Athens, Greece
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Athens to Sofia: 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.

$36 - Train, BusBest price
489 milesDistance
4h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Athens to Sofia 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  6m
Estimated price
$105-255
Recommended
Company
Hellenic Train, FlixBus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
10h  53m
Estimated price
$36-70
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 489 miles
Duration: 4h 6m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Citylines SZPS
Bus
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$40-75
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
8h  2m
Estimated price
$160-240

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $29 $29 $29 $29 $31 $31 $29
Fly $117 $92 $79 $86 $82 $132 $109
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Athens to Sofia

The journey from Athens, steeped in ancient history and vibrant culture, to Sofia, where Eastern and Western influences blend seamlessly, offers travelers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Lined with trendy cafes and shops.
• Great for people-watching and nightlife.
Lozenets
• Features leafy parks and serene streets.
• Close to key cultural landmarks.
Sredets
• Home to historic architecture and museums.
• Bustling with art galleries and restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Sofia by timing your visits to major attractions.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Visit early morning to enjoy serene beauty and fewer tourists.
Vitosha Mountain
Late afternoon hikes offer stunning sunset views without crowds.
National Palace of Culture
Weekdays are ideal for exploring exhibitions and enjoying peaceful surroundings.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and early autumn the most pleasant times to visit. Your travel experience may vary significantly with the season, as snow transforms the city in winter while lush greenery welcomes you in warmer months.

Dining in Sofia: A Culinary Contrast

Try 'Sasa Asian Pub' for a fusion of flavors that diverges from traditional Greek cuisine, combining Asian influences with local ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere and inventive dishes provide a refreshing dining experience, showcasing Sofia's modern culinary scene in a way that's distinct from Athens.

Athens - Sofia operators

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

Plane
Website
air.bg

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$75-270
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$75-270
Website
skyexpress.gr

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$55-200
Train
Contact phone
14511
Website
https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en

Train from Athens to Thessaloniki

Average Duration
4h 53m
Estimated price
$9-30
Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Thessaloniki to Sofia

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$26-40
Contact phone
02 981 13 33
Website
https://en.tourist-service.com/

Bus from Athens to Sofia

Average Duration
11h 30m
Estimated price
$73-73
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Athens Karolou to Sofia Serdica Bus Station

Average Duration
11h 45m
Estimated price
$41-46

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

Traveling between Athens and Sofia 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 a picturesque journey from Athens to Sofia by car, covering a distance of 796.6 km through scenic landscapes and charming towns. The 8-hour drive offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Balkans. 💸 Discover the budget-friendly option of traveling from Athens to Sofia by car, with prices ranging from €147 to €221.
Average price
€148 - €221
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the train from Athens to Sofia typically include a dining car offering light meals, snacks, and beverages. The catering service can vary by operator, with some trains providing table service in First Class. Check with your specific train operator for a menu or any pre-order options to enhance your travel experience.
• The train offers three classes of seating: First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class includes spacious seating with more legroom and often includes complimentary refreshments. Business Class is a step below, providing comfortable seating but with fewer amenities. Economy is the most budget-friendly option and may include more crowded conditions. For the best experience, consider booking a ticket in First or Business Class for extra comfort.
• Two main operators run trains between Athens and Sofia: Hellenic Train (hellenictrain.gr) and Bulgarian State Railways (bdz.bg). Both operators provide schedules, ticket booking facilities, and additional details about onboard services. Make sure to check their websites for the latest travel information and any updates on your journey.
🛫 Enjoy a quick and convenient journey from Athens to Sofia with a direct flight that takes only 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines such as Bulgaria Air, Sky Express, and Aegean Airlines operate flights between Athens Airport and Sofia Airport. ✈️ The total travel time from Athens to Sofia by plane is approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes, offering a comfortable and efficient way to reach your destination. 💸 Prices for flights between Sofia and Athens can vary from €97 to €234, providing flexibility for travelers seeking different fare options.
Departure Point
Athens Airport
Arrival Point
Sofia Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Athens to Sofia with a direct service operating daily. Sit back and relax as you travel through picturesque landscapes for approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. 💸 Grab affordable bus tickets ranging from €37 to €69 for the Athens to Sofia route.
Departure Point
Athens station
Arrival Point
Sofia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Athens to Sofia.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Athens and Sofia is approximately 527.9 km by air and 792.6 km by road. The typical travel time by plane is 4 hours and 6 minutes, while by train and bus it takes around 13 hours and 2 minutes. From Sofia to Athens, the travel time by car is approximately 7 hours and 59 minutes, while by bus it takes around 11 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Athens to Sofia is by bus, which costs €37-€69 and takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. This is a good option for travelers on a budget. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes and costs €92-€248.
The prices for traveling from Athens to Sofia by bus range from €37 to €69.
To travel from Athens to Sofia without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 793.4 km and the driving time is around 7 hours and 59 minutes. The cost of renting a car for this journey can vary between €147 to €220.
The most convenient way to travel from Athens to Sofia without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes and the ticket prices range between €37 and €69.
Yes, there is a direct link between Athens and Sofia. There is a daily bus service operated by Tourist Service Holding AD that connects the two cities. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes.
The flight between Athens and Sofia typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between €96 and €243.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Sofia with over 1030 hotels to choose from. Prices start at €13 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly choices.

Trips from Athens