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Budapest to Sofia from $46: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Budapest, Hungary
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Budapest 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.

$46 by busBest price
634.5 kmDistance
1h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Budapest 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
1h  54m
Estimated price
$110-308
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  10m
Estimated price
$46-96
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 634.5 km
Duration: 1h 54m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
16h 
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
20h  45m
Estimated price
$73-98
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
22h  52m
Estimated price
$73-87
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  29m
Estimated price
$130-200

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $28 $14 $52 $59 $22 $55 $21
Fly $115 $117 $91 $91 $92 $116 $92
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Budapest to Sofia

The journey from Budapest to Sofia offers a fascinating contrast between Hungary's vibrant café culture and Bulgaria's rich history and natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia's neighborhoods blend history with modern charm, offering diverse experiences.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Lively street lined with shops and cafes.
• Great spot for people-watching and entertainment.
Lozenets
• Residential area with a relaxed vibe.
• Home to beautiful parks and cozy restaurants.
Centrum
• Historic sites and cultural attractions are abundant.
• Bustling atmosphere with nightlife options.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Sofia experience.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Visit early mornings for fewer tourists and stunning light.
Vitosha Boulevard
Late afternoons on weekdays offer a relaxed atmosphere and fewer crowds.
National Palace of Culture
Evenings during weekdays provide a quieter experience and local events.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and autumn the most pleasant times to visit. Be mindful of the weather as it can influence outdoor activities and local events throughout the year.

Dining Recommendation in Sofia

Try the traditional Bulgarian dish, Shopska salad, made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and tangy feta cheese, setting a refreshing tone distinct from Budapest's robust stews. The cozy atmosphere of local taverns, often accompanied by live music, creates a dining experience that showcases Bulgaria's vibrant culture and flavors.

Budapest - Sofia operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$45-360
Website
austrian.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Sofia (SOF) via Vienna

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$150-500
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Budapest Népliget bus station to Sofia

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
$65-95
Contact phone
+359 2 8120810
Website
karat-s.com

Bus from Budapest Népliget to Sofia Serdica Bus Station

Average Duration
11h 40m
Estimated price
$45-65
Contact phone
011 3287 412
Website
terratravel.rs

Bus from Budapest Népliget to Subotica

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0219521
Website
cfrcalatori.ro

Train from Budapest-Keleti to Băile Herculane

Average Duration
9h 48m
Estimated price
$42-47

Train from Budapest-Keleti to Craiova

Average Duration
12h 55m
Estimated price
$55-65
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Vidin to Sofia

Average Duration
4h 49m
Estimated price
$6-12

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

Traveling between Budapest 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 scenic road trip from Budapest to Sofia, spanning a distance of 769.3 km. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes as you traverse from Hungary to Bulgaria in approximately 7 hours and 29 minutes. 💸 Experience the flexibility of road travel with prices ranging from €119 to €184 for the trip from Budapest to Sofia by car.
Average price
€120 - €185
🚂 There is no direct train from Budapest to Sofia, but you can take a route with transfers in Craiova and Vidin. The journey will take approximately 22 hours and 52 minutes. 🌄 Departing from Budapest-Keleti station with Romanian Railways, you'll make your way to Sofia via Craiova and Vidin. Upon arrival at Sofia station, operated by Bulgarian Railways, you would have completed the scenic 22-hour journey. 💰 Ticket prices for the train from Budapest to Sofia range from €67 to €80, offering a budget-friendly way to travel between these two beautiful Eastern European cities.
Departure Point
Budapest-Keleti station
Arrival Point
Sofia station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services vary by train operator, but you can expect some form of food and beverage service on the journey from Budapest to Sofia. For example, the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) offers a bistro car with snacks and drinks, while the Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) may provide dining options or a trolley service with light refreshments throughout the trip. It's advisable to check ahead and bring your own food if you prefer more options.
• The available seating options on trains between Budapest and Sofia typically include Economy, First Class, and sometimes Business Class. Economy seats are more affordable and comfortable for long trips, while First Class offers more space and amenities. Business Class may provide added benefits, such as complimentary refreshments and access to quieter cars, depending on the operator. Hungarian State Railways typically offers First Class seating, while BDZ focuses more on standard Economy and First Class services.
• This route may operate with multiple train operators including Hungarian State Railways (MÁV), Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ), and sometimes international connections through other European rail services. You can find schedules and book tickets via their respective websites: MÁV - mavcsoport.hu BDZ - bdz.bg For local transport in Sofia, you can use the Sofia Urban Mobility Center's website at sofiatraffic.bg
🛫 Flying from Budapest to Sofia is quick and convenient with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes. You can choose between airlines like Ryanair and Austrian Airlines for this route. 🌍 The flight from Budapest to Sofia typically takes around 1 hour and 54 minutes, offering travelers a swift journey between these two vibrant European cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Budapest and Sofia can vary, ranging from €101 to €283, offering some flexibility in budget for travelers.
Departure Point
Budapest Airport
Arrival Point
Sofia Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check the airlines' baggage policies, especially with Ryanair, as they can be strict and may charge extra fees for larger bags or additional carry-on items; make sure to pack accordingly to avoid surprises.
• Upon arriving at Sofia Airport, follow the signs to the arrivals hall where you will encounter the currency exchange desks; it’s advisable to change a small amount of currency for immediate expenses like transportation.
• Expect to pay around 15 to 20 Bulgarian Lev (approximately €7.50 to €10) for a taxi ride from Sofia Airport to the city center; use only official taxis from the designated taxi stand to ensure a fair rate and avoid scams.
🚌 Traveling by bus from Budapest to Sofia offers a scenic journey through Eastern Europe that takes approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Sofia and Budapest typically range from €42 to €88, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Budapest to Sofia.

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The distance between Budapest and Sofia is approximately 634.1 km by air. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 22 hours and 13 minutes to travel from Budapest to Sofia. Taking a combination of train to Vienna and then flying, the journey usually takes about 6 hours and 32 minutes. By plane, the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes. If driving, it takes about 7 hours and 29 minutes to reach Budapest from Sofia, and by bus, the travel time is around 12 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Budapest to Sofia is by taking a night bus, which typically takes around 12 hours and 50 minutes and costs between €37 and €60. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to fly. A flight from Budapest to Sofia takes approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes and costs between €82 and €275.
The prices for traveling from Budapest to Sofia vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a train can cost between €65 and €79, while a bus ticket can range from €38 to €83.
To travel from Budapest to Sofia without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 769.3 km and it takes around 7 hours and 29 minutes by car. The prices for car rental vary, but can range from €119 to €183, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company.
If you're looking to travel from Budapest to Sofia without a car, there are a few options available. The best way by duration and cost is to take a bus, which takes around 12 hours and 55 minutes and costs between €37 and €87. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 4 minutes and can cost between €82 and €275. Alternatively, you can also take a train, which takes around 22 hours and 13 minutes and costs between €64 and €82.
There is no direct link between Budapest and Sofia by train. However, there are train services with transfers that take approximately 22h 13m. The buses between Budapest and Sofia also require transfers and have a travel time of approximately 12h 55m.
The flight from Budapest to Sofia typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, with prices ranging from €83 to €267.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Sofia. With over 1030 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at €13 per night, offering affordable options for budget-conscious travelers.