Sofia, Sofia City Province to Plovdiv, Plovdiv Province from $4: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Sofia to Plovdiv: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$4 by trainBest price
132.4 kmDistance
1h 21m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sofia to Plovdiv 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.
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| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 |
Traveling From Sofia to Plovdiv
Journeying from Sofia to Plovdiv reveals a transition from the vibrant pulse of Bulgaria's capital to the charming streets filled with history and culture in one of its oldest cities.
Best Neighbourhoods in Plovdiv
Plovdiv boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinctive atmosphere.
Kapana
• Known as the artsy district of Plovdiv.
• Features vibrant street art and local galleries.
Old Town
• Home to ancient Roman ruins and cobblestone streets.
• Offers stunning views and historic architecture.
Central Plovdiv
• Bustling area filled with cafes and shops.
• Ideal for dining, shopping, and people-watching.
Best Times To Visit Plovdiv's Attractions
Exploring Plovdiv's attractions at the right time enhances your experience.
Roman Theatre
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Old Town
Weekdays are best to stroll its charming streets without crowds.
Kapana District
Late afternoon offers a lively atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Plovdiv Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Plovdiv experiences a temperate continental climate, with hot summers and chilly winters, making it essential to choose the right season for your visit. Late spring and early autumn offer milder temperatures, ideal for exploring the city comfortably.
Dining Recommendation in Plovdiv
In Plovdiv, don’t miss tasting the traditional dish of Shopska salad, often enjoyed at cozy eateries like 'Pavaj', where the local ambiance sets a charming backdrop. The fresh, local ingredients and relaxed atmosphere provide a different culinary experience compared to Sofia's vibrant dining scene.
Sofia - Plovdiv operators
Explore transport companies operating between Sofia and Plovdiv, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+359 2 8120810Website
https://www.karat-s.com/
Bus from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop
Average Duration
2h 20mEstimated price
$7-11Contact phone
+359 32 65 78 11Website
https://hebrosbus.com/en
Bus from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
2h 24mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Sofia Bus Station South to Plovdiv
Average Duration
2h 10mEstimated price
$14-20Contact phone
+359 7001 8282Website
http://en.union-ivkoni.com/
Bus from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv Bus and Coach Station Sever
Average Duration
2hEstimated price
$7-12Contact phone
+35929311111Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en
Train from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
2h 32mEstimated price
$4-7Contact phone
+359 89 345 5533Website
https://atlastaxi.eu/
Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
$90-120Contact phone
+359 2 8 07 00Website
http://1euro.bg
Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+359 2 9 11 19Website
http://yellow333.com
Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+359 877 144 144Website
http://taxistars.net
Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+359 2 973 2121Website
http://oktaxi.net
Taxi from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+359 89 345 5533Website
https://atlastaxi.eu/
Shuttle from Sofia to Plovdiv
Average Duration
2h 23mEstimated price
$130-180Sofia to Plovdiv: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Sofia and Plovdiv 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.
🚗 Experience a scenic road trip from Sofia to Plovdiv covering a distance of 90 miles in just 1 hour and 21 minutes.
💰 Prices for the journey from Sofia to Plovdiv by car range from €20 to €32, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Plan your trip and choose the best deal that suits your travel preferences.
Average price
€20 - €32
🚂 Travel from Sofia to Plovdiv by train offers a convenient and efficient option. The direct train operated by Bulgarian Railways departs every two hours and takes approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes to reach Plovdiv.
🛤️ The journey from Sofia station to Plovdiv station provides a comfortable experience with regular services operating daily. Passengers can relax and enjoy the scenery as they move between these two prominent Bulgarian cities at an affordable cost ranging from €4 to €6.
Departure Point
Sofia station
Arrival Point
Plovdiv station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services are provided by various operators, including Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) and private train companies. Typically, food and beverage services on board are limited, with snacks and drinks available for purchase from a trolley service. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or drinks, especially for longer journeys.
• The train operators offer different seating options: BDZ features First Class (more spacious with fewer seats), Second Class (standard seating), and sometimes Business Class (enhanced comfort). Make sure to check which class you prefer when booking, as First Class tends to have air conditioning and sometimes complimentary refreshments.
• The fastest way to get from Plovdiv Central Station to the city center is via public transportation. Take bus #1 or #16, both of which frequently run and take about 15 minutes to reach the city center. Alternatively, you can also walk, which takes roughly 20-25 minutes through a more scenic route.
🚌 Departing from Sofia Central Bus Station, you can catch a direct bus to Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop. The journey lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, with five daily services available every day.
🌍 The distance between Sofia and Plovdiv is 136 km, and there are multiple bus routes you can take for this trip. One option includes a 2-hour, 15-minute journey via a bus towards Varna operated by Arda Tur.
💸 Prices for the bus between Sofia and Plovdiv range from €11 to €23, making it a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two vibrant Bulgarian cities.
Departure Point
Sofia Central Bus Station
Arrival Point
Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your bus ticket in advance through Karat-S or Arda Tur to secure the best prices, as they range from €11 to €23 and can sell out during peak travel times; visit their websites at karat-s.com and ardatur.bg
• Upon arrival at Plovdiv Central Train Station Bus Stop, be prepared for a short walk to the city center; you can easily navigate by following the signs to the tram or taxi stands located right outside the bus stop, ensuring you can reach your next destination quickly.
• Keep an eye on your belongings during the bus trip, as the buses may get crowded; consider using a money belt or a secure backpack to keep your essentials like your passport and money safe, especially since the route can attract travelers and tourists.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Sofia to Plovdiv.
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The distance between Sofia and Plovdiv in Bulgaria is approximately 82 miles, or 89.6 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes by train, 2 hours and 23 minutes by ferry, 1 hour and 21 minutes by car, and 2 hours and 20 minutes by bus to travel from Sofia to Plovdiv. These options provide travelers with flexibility to choose their preferred method of transportation based on their schedule and preferences.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv is by train, with fares ranging from €3-€6. This mode of transportation takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes. On the other hand, the fastest way to reach Plovdiv from Sofia is by taxi, which takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes but costs between €83-€102. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on the traveler's priorities.
The prices for traveling from Sofia to Plovdiv by train range between €3 and €6. Taking a bus from Plovdiv to Sofia can cost anywhere from €14 to €19. If you prefer a ferry, the prices for traveling between Plovdiv and Sofia vary from €111 to €166. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the season and availability.
To get from Sofia to Plovdiv without using public transportation, you can opt for a private car or a taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is around 90 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes to drive from Sofia to Plovdiv. Pricing for a car rental or taxi fare can range from €20 to €32 depending on the provider, time of day, and any additional services or amenities offered.
The best way to travel from Sofia to Plovdiv without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes and the cost is around €14-€19. Buses are a convenient and affordable option for this route, offering regular departures and comfortable seating. Make sure to check the schedule and book your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Sofia and Plovdiv. You can travel between the two cities by train or bus. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes, with services departing every two hours. The bus journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes, with departures every three hours. Both modes of transportation operate daily, providing convenient options for travelers.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Plovdiv. Currently, there are over 502 hotels to choose from in the area. Prices for hotels in Plovdiv start at €20 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and luxurious choices. Whether you prefer a hotel near the city center or a more secluded location, there are plenty of options to cater to your needs and budget.
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