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Sofia, Sofia City Province to Athens, Attica from $25: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sofia, Bulgaria
to
Athens, Greece

How to Get from Sofia to Athens: 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.

$25 - Bus, TrainBest price
528.2 kmDistance
4h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sofia to Athens 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  19m
Estimated price
$106-253
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
10h  53m
Estimated price
$25-66
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 528.2 km
Duration: 4h 19m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Citylines SZPS
Bus
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$40-75
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$126-381
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  3m
Estimated price
$160-240

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $28 $28 $28 $28 $28 $28 $30
Fly $66 $70 $60 $73 $74 $104 $65
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sofia to Athens

The journey from Sofia to Athens offers a striking contrast between Bulgaria's mountainous landscapes and Athens' rich historical tapestry, providing a blend of cultural experiences that can enrich any traveler's adventure.

Best Neighbourhoods in Athens

Athens boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences to visitors.

Plaka
• Charming narrow streets filled with vibrant shops.
• Close to major historical sites like the Acropolis.
Monastiraki
• Famous for its lively flea market and street food.
• Central location with easy access to public transport.
Psiri
• Known for its lively nightlife and artistic vibe.
• Home to trendy bars, restaurants, and galleries.

Best Times To Visit Athens's Attractions

Planning your visit to Athens' attractions can enhance your experience and minimize crowds.

Acropolis
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Ancient Agora
Weekdays are ideal, especially in spring or fall, for a quieter exploration.
National Archaeological Museum
Thursday afternoons tend to attract fewer visitors, providing a more relaxed ambiance.

Athens Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Athens enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, allowing you to explore the city comfortably, while summer's heat can influence outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Athens

When in Athens, don't miss trying moussaka at a traditional taverna like Ouzeri of Kynigos, where savory layers of eggplant and meat create a comforting dish that's distinct from Sofia's hearty stews. The lively atmosphere paired with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients offers a vibrant culinary experience that captures the essence of Greek hospitality.

Sofia - Athens operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
air.bg

Plane from Sofia Airport (SOF) to Athens Airport (ATH)

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

Plane from Sofia Airport (SOF) to Athens Airport (ATH)

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

Plane from Sofia Airport (SOF) to Athens Airport (ATH)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$55-200
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
02 981 13 33
Website
tourist-service.com

Bus from Sofia to Athens

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

Bus from Sofia Serdica Bus Station to Athens Karolou

Average Duration
11h 20m
Estimated price
$41-46
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Sofia to Thessaloniki

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$26-40

Bus from Thessaloniki to Athens

Average Duration
4h 53m
Estimated price
$9-30
Train
Contact phone
14511
Website
hellenictrain.gr

Train from Thessaloniki to Athens

Average Duration
4h 53m
Estimated price
$9-30

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

Traveling between Sofia and Athens 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 an unforgettable road trip from Sofia to Athens, covering a scenic driving distance of 495 miles. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you journey through captivating landscapes and charming towns. 💰 Experience the flexibility of budget-friendly travel, with car prices ranging from €147 to €221 for the Sofia to Athens route. Explore at your own pace and stop at hidden gems along the way, making memories to last a lifetime. 🏛️ Arrive in Athens after approximately 8 hours and 3 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic destination. From ancient ruins to modern delights, your road trip from Sofia to Athens promises to be an adventure filled with discovery and excitement.
Average price
€148 - €221
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Sofia to Athens train include a catering service that offers a selection of snacks and beverages in the cafeteria car. You may find options such as local Bulgarian pastries and Greek coffee, ideal for a convenient meal during your journey.
• The train service between Sofia and Athens typically offers various seating options including First Class (more spacious with complimentary refreshments), Business Class (comfortable seating with power outlets), and Economy Class (basic seating with limited amenities). Check the specific operator for detailed features and to determine which class suits your needs best.
• The primary operators for the Sofia to Athens train route are BULGARIAN RAILWAYS (BDZ) and TRAINOSE. You can find more information on their official websites: BDZ and TRAINOSE. Review their travel schedules to plan your trip efficiently.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Sofia to Athens with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines like Bulgaria Air, Sky Express, and Aegean Airlines provide this efficient route between Sofia Airport and Athens Airport. 🌍 A flight from Sofia to Athens covers a distance of 4 hours and 19 minutes, allowing you to reach the historical city of Athens in good time. Enjoy the aerial views as you travel from Bulgaria to Greece for an exciting adventure. 💸 The prices for flights between Athens and Sofia range from €97 to €233, offering budget-friendly and flexible options for your travels between these two vibrant European destinations. Plan your trip wisely and choose the best flight that suits your budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Sofia Airport
Arrival Point
Athens Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be aware that Sofia Airport has two terminals; ensure your flight is departing from Terminal 2, which primarily serves international flights, including those to Athens.
• Upon arrival at Athens Airport, follow the signs for the 'Metro' or 'Buses' to easily access public transportation; the airport is well-connected to the city center through both options, and expect your journey to take around 40 minutes.
• Plan for a taxi fare from Athens Airport to the city center to be approximately €38-€50 during the day; consider downloading the 'Beat' or 'Uber' app for reliable rides at competitive rates.
🛣️ The route from Sofia to Athens by bus, operated by Tourist Service Holding AD, takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. Relax and enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Athens and Sofia range from €37 to €69, making it an affordable and efficient travel option for those looking to explore both cities.
Departure Point
Sofia station
Arrival Point
Athens station