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Istanbul to Sofia from $14: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Istanbul, Turkey
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Istanbul 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.

$14 by trainBest price
506.5 kmDistance
1h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul 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
Turkish Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
1h  53m
Estimated price
$175-380
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
11h  56m
Estimated price
$14-28
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 506.5 km
Duration: 1h 53m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
11h  58m
Estimated price
$14-29
Company
Citylines
Bus
Average Duration
9h 
Estimated price
$15-45
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$85-130

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $32 $32 $32 $32 $32 $32 $32
Fly $65 $109 $67 $137 $98 $158 $145
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Istanbul to Sofia

Embarking on the journey from Istanbul to Sofia offers a fascinating contrast between Istanbul's vibrant, bustling markets and Sofia's serene parks and historical landmarks.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique charm and experiences.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Lined with shops and cafes for leisurely strolls.
• A hub for nightlife with lively bars and restaurants.
Plovdiv District
• Known for its stunning historical architecture.
• Offers a vibrant arts scene with galleries and studios.
Boyana
• Home to the beautiful Boyana Church, a UNESCO site.
• Surrounded by nature, ideal for outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Sofia by choosing the right times to visit key attractions.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful surroundings and stunning light.
Vitosha Boulevard
Evenings during weekdays are quieter, allowing for a relaxing stroll and dining.
National Palace of Culture
Weekdays offer fewer crowds; enjoy the exhibitions and events at your leisure.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate, with chilly winters and warm summers, making spring and early autumn ideal times to visit for pleasant temperatures. Weather conditions can significantly influence your travel experience, from outdoor activities in mild seasons to winter sports in the nearby mountains.

Sofia Dining Recommendation

Try the traditional Bulgarian dish 'Banitsa' at a local eatery like 'Sasa Asian Pub,' where flaky pastry filled with cheese showcases a lighter, simpler flavor compared to the robust spices of Istanbul's cuisine. The cozy ambiance and the use of fresh, local ingredients offer a distinctly different dining experience that captures the essence of Bulgarian culinary traditions.

Istanbul - Sofia operators

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

Plane
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$140-390
Bus
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Istanbul Büyük Otogari to Sofia Central Bus Station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$30-34
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
metroturizm.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul Otogari to Sofia

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$16-35
Contact phone
+90 224 294 55 62
Website
flixbus.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul Esenler bus station to Sofia

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$15-21
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Istanbul Esenler bus station to Sofia

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$45-70
Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51
Website
alparturizm.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul to Sofia

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$25-40
Contact phone
+90 212 658 00 61
Website
huntur.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul Büyük Otogari to Sofia Serdica Bus Station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$35-45
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Halkali to Svilengrad

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$6-12

Train from Svilengrad to Poduyane

Average Duration
4h 44m
Estimated price
$6-13

Train from Halkali to Dimitrovgrad

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$7-15

Train from Dimitrovgrad to Sofia

Average Duration
3h 41m
Estimated price
$5-11

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

Traveling between Istanbul 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 Istanbul to Sofia, covering a distance of 550.4 km. 💰 Experience the freedom of traveling by car with prices ranging from €78 to €119 for the route from Istanbul to Sofia. 🏛️ Arrive in Sofia after approximately 5 hours and 11 minutes of driving, ready to explore the rich history, culture, and beauty that this charming Bulgarian capital has to offer.
Average price
€78 - €120
🚃 The total travel time from Istanbul to Sofia by train is approximately 11 hours and 56 minutes, including the necessary transfers. 🎟️ Tickets for the train between Istanbul and Sofia range from €13 to €26, making it a cost-effective and convenient option for travelers looking to experience the trip through different terrains and cultures.
Departure Point
Halkali station
Arrival Point
Poduyane station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train route from Istanbul to Sofia include dining cars with a selection of Turkish and Bulgarian cuisines. Passengers can order meals or snacks, with options like baklava, stuffed grape leaves, and sandwiches available. Make sure to check out the local specialties for a taste of the region.
• The train provides multiple seating options, including 1st Class, Business Class, and Economy. 1st Class offers spacious seats with more legroom and complimentary meals, while Business Class typically includes more comfortable seating and amenities like power outlets. Economy Class is more affordable but has less space and fewer services. Choose based on your budget and comfort preference.
• The primary operators for the Istanbul to Sofia route are Turkish State Railways (TCDD) and Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ). You can visit their websites for schedules and ticket booking: TCDD - tcdd.gov.tr, BDZ - bdz.bg For local transport schedules and station maps in Sofia, consider checking Sofia Public Transport's website at sofiatraffic.bg
🛫 Flying from Istanbul Airport to Sofia Airport is a convenient option for travelers looking to reach Bulgaria quickly. The direct flight by Turkish Airlines takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes. ✈️ With a total travel time of 1 hour and 53 minutes, passengers can expect a smooth journey between these two vibrant cities. 💸 Prices for flights from Istanbul to Sofia typically range from €161 to €349, offering travelers flexibility in selecting a fare that suits their budget.
Departure Point
Istanbul Airport
Arrival Point
Sofia Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book with Turkish Airlines, as they offer direct flights from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sofia Airport (SOF), making your travel quick and more convenient, taking approximately 1h 15m.
• Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, be prepared for a straightforward customs procedure; make sure to have your passport ready and check for any additional requirements specific to travelers from Turkey, such as health declarations.
• Taxi fares from Sofia Airport to the city center vary between €10-€15, so ensure to use a licensed taxi service or pre-arrange a transfer for a smooth journey; also, check the Sofia Airport site for transportation options: sofia-airport.bg
🚌 The journey from Istanbul to Sofia by bus takes approximately 9 hours, with services departing every four hours and operating daily. 🛣️ Route options vary in duration and potential transfers, with distances ranging from 501 km to 561 km. Travelers can choose between different bus agencies such as Citylines, ArdaTur, and FlixBus, each offering their own schedules and ticket prices for the trip.
Departure Point
Istanbul Büyük Otogari station
Arrival Point
Sofia Central Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To ensure a smooth experience, book your bus ticket online in advance through agencies like Citylines (citylines.com.tr) or Arda Tur (ardatur.bg) to avoid long queues at Istanbul Büyük Otogari.
• During your 9-hour trip, be prepared for border crossing; keep your passport handy, and ensure you familiarize yourself with customs regulations to avoid delays.
• Upon arrival at Sofia Central Bus Station, take advantage of the nearby public transport options, including the metro and tram services; the station is conveniently located with easy access to Sofia’s public transport map available at sofia-js.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Istanbul to Sofia.

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The distance between Istanbul and Sofia is approximately 505.3 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 13 hours 57 minutes to travel from Istanbul to Sofia by train, 1 hour 53 minutes by plane, 5 hours 8 minutes by car, and 9 hours 30 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Istanbul to Sofia is by train, with prices ranging from €8 to €19. Although it takes longer, at approximately 13 hours and 57 minutes, it is a budget-friendly choice. However, if time efficiency is the priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes only 1 hour and 53 minutes, but costs between €148 and €325.
When traveling from Istanbul to Sofia the prices of a train ticket can range from €8 to €19. On the other hand, a bus ticket between Sofia and Istanbul can cost anywhere from €11 to €42.
To travel from Istanbul to Sofia without using public transportation, you can drive your own car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 545.6 km, and it takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes to drive. Keep in mind that the prices for renting a car and fuel costs may vary, with an estimated range of €79 to €121.
The best way to travel from Istanbul to Sofia without a car is by bus. It takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes and costs between €11 and €42. Another option is to fly, which takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes and costs between €148 and €325. There is also a train option available, which takes longer at 13 hours and 57 minutes, but costs between €8 and €19.
Yes, there are direct transportation options between Istanbul and Sofia. You can take a direct flight, which typically takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which departs every four hours and the journey takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes. However, there is no direct train route between the two cities, but you can take a train with transfers that takes around 13 hours and 57 minutes.
The flight between Istanbul and Sofia typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from €154 to €323.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in Sofia. With over 1030 hotels to choose from, travelers can find accommodations to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start as low as €13 per night, offering affordable options for those on a budget.