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Thessaloniki to Sofia from $16: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Thessaloniki, Greece
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Thessaloniki 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.

$16 by busBest price
233.8 kmDistance
3h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Thessaloniki 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
Bus
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$16-19
Recommended
route map
Distance: 233.8 km
Duration: 3h 9m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$22-33
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  9m
Estimated price
$60-90
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  26m
Estimated price
$112-287

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $9 $8 $10 $10 $9 $8 $9
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Thessaloniki to Sofia

Journeying from Thessaloniki to Sofia offers you a remarkable shift from Greece's vibrant coastal culture to Bulgaria's rich historical landscapes and dynamic urban life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Lively shopping street with cafes and boutiques.
• Popular spot for people-watching and nightlife.
Bozhurishte
• Famous for traditional Bulgarian architecture.
• Close proximity to cultural landmarks and museums.
Lozenets
• Residential area with beautiful parks.
• Offers a range of dining options and local flair.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Timing your visit to Sofia's major attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning lighting and fewer tourists.
The National Palace of Culture
Weekdays attract smaller crowds, making it ideal for relaxed exploration.
Vitosha Boulevard
Evenings on weekdays offer a vibrant atmosphere without the weekend rush.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to explore the city. Your travel experience can greatly vary depending on the season, from enjoying outdoor cafes in milder weather to engaging in winter sports nearby.

Dining Recommendation in Sofia

For a true taste of Sofia, try 'Shopska Salad,' featuring fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and Bulgarian white cheese, or visit a local eatery like 'Sasa Asian Pub' for a vibrant fusion of flavors. This dining experience stands out with its emphasis on bold spices and local ingredients, offering a refreshing contrast to Thessaloniki's Mediterranean influences.

Thessaloniki - Sofia operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+30 2310241545
Website
https://www.crazyholidays.gr/root.en.aspx

Bus from Thessaloniki to Sofia

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$40-60
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
+3590885700870
Website
http://citylines.eu

Bus from Thessaloniki Macedonia KTEL Bus Station to Sofia Serdika Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$16-19
Train
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Dupnitsa to Sofia

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$2-5
Plane Show flights
Website
https://en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Thessaloniki (SKG) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
4h 53m
Estimated price
$110-260
Website
http://tarom.ro

Plane from Thessaloniki (SKG) to Sofia (SOF) via Bucharest Otopeni

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$120-430
Website
https://air.bg

Plane from Thessaloniki (SKG) to Sofia (SOF) via Bucharest Otopeni

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$70-410
Website
https://www.turkishairlines.com

Plane from Thessaloniki (SKG) to Sofia (SOF) via Istanbul

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$180-750
Website
https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from Thessaloniki (SKG) to Sofia (SOF) via Chania

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$70-410

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

Traveling between Thessaloniki 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.

🚗 The road trip from Thessaloniki to Sofia is a scenic journey covering a distance of 296.1 km, taking around 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete. 💰 Travelers can expect to spend between €55 to €83 on the trip by car, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll costs along the route. 🌄 Along the way, drivers can enjoy picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and the excitement of crossing the border between Greece and Bulgaria, making for a memorable road adventure between these two vibrant European cities.
Average price
€55 - €83
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: The train from Thessaloniki to Sofia generally offers a restaurant car where you can purchase meals and snacks. Basic catering services include sandwiches, pastries, and beverages like coffee and tea. Be sure to check the menu upon boarding as offerings may vary by operator.
Seating Options: The train typically provides three classes of seating: Economy, First Class, and occasionally Business Class. Economy seats are the most budget-friendly but can be less spacious. First Class offers greater comfort with more legroom and quieter compartments. If you prefer a more premium experience, consider upgrading to First Class for around €10-€20 extra.
Multiple Operators: The main operators for this route are Hellenic Train and Bulgarian Railways (BDZ). You can find more information and book tickets on their official websites: Hellenic Train (hellenictrain.gr) and Bulgarian Railways (bdz.bg). These sites also provide schedules and other travel information.
🛫 Travelers flying from Thessaloniki to Sofia can expect a journey with one stopover, taking approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight between Sofia and Thessaloniki typically ranges from €103 to €264, making it a relatively affordable and convenient way to travel between the two cities.
Departure Point
Thessaloniki Airport
Arrival Point
Sofia Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 35m and has one stopover
🚌 Traveling from Thessaloniki to Sofia by bus is a convenient and affordable option. There are four daily services operated by Crazy Holidays that run every day, with the journey taking approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Thessaloniki and Sofia range from €15 to €17, making it a cost-effective travel choice for those looking to experience the cultural delights of both Greece and Bulgaria.
Departure Point
Thessaloniki station
Arrival Point
Sofia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Thessaloniki to Sofia.

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The distance between Thessaloniki and Sofia is approximately 231.7 km, or about 295.6 km by car. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By taking a combination of bus and train, it takes about 7 hours and 2 minutes to reach Sofia from Thessaloniki. Alternatively, flying between the two cities takes approximately 6 hours and 21 minutes. To return from Sofia to Thessaloniki by car, it takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes. Lastly, taking a bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki has an average travel time of 5 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Thessaloniki to Sofia would be to take a bus and train, which costs between €13 and €22. This option takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, driving would be the quickest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes.
The prices for a bus ticket between Thessaloniki and Sofia can range from €24 to €64.
To travel from Thessaloniki to Sofia without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 296.1 km, and it takes about 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost for this mode of transportation ranges from €55 to €83.
The best way to travel from Thessaloníki to Sofia without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes and the cost ranges from €24 to €64.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Thessaloniki and Sofia. The bus services, operated by Crazy Holidays, run twice daily and take approximately 5h 30m.
The flight duration between Thessaloniki and Sofia is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from €103 to €272.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Sofia with over 1030 hotels to choose from. Prices start at just €13 per night, making it possible to find a place that suits your budget.