1map logoGo to main page

Sofia, Sofia City Province to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $14: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sofia, Bulgaria
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Sofia to Istanbul: 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
505.7 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul 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  8m
Estimated price
$176-383
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
12h  27m
Estimated price
$14-29
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 505.7 km
Duration: 4h 8m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Citylines, FlixBus, Huntur
Bus
Average Duration
9h 
Estimated price
$35-70
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$85-130
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$138-355
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$166-531

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $30 $30 $30 $30 $30 $30 $30
Fly $57 $105 $48 $106 $78 $104 $168
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sofia to Istanbul

The route from Sofia to Istanbul showcases a fascinating blend of Bulgaria's rich history and scenic beauty contrasted with Istanbul's vibrant culture and bustling energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct atmosphere and experience.

Beyoğlu
• Famous for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
• Hosts the iconic Galata Tower with stunning views.
Sultanahmet
• Home to historical landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
• Perfect for exploring Istanbul's rich history on foot.
Kadıköy
• Known for its charming cafes and street art.
• Offers a lively local market and fresh seafood.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Planning your visits thoughtfully can enhance your experience of Istanbul's gems.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Topkapi Palace
Afternoons during weekdays offer a quieter exploration of its stunning rooms.
Grand Bazaar
Aim for late afternoons on weekdays for a less hectic shopping experience.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, influencing the best times for your visit, which typically fall in spring and autumn. Understanding the weather can enhance your travel experience by helping you pack appropriately and plan outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

For an unforgettable taste of Istanbul, try the fresh seafood at 'Balıkçı Sabahattin,' where the vibrant ambiance and coastal flavors are a refreshing contrast to Sofia’s hearty meat dishes. The local ingredients, particularly the catch of the day, elevate the experience with a touch of the Bosphorus, making each bite a celebration of the city’s rich maritime heritage.

Sofia - Istanbul operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Sofia (SOF) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$140-390
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Sofia (SOF) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$140-600

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$180-750
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$100-430
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Sofia to Halkali

Average Duration
11h 49m
Estimated price
$12-26
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$30-34
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Sofia to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$45-70
Contact phone
+90 212 658 00 61
Website
huntur.com.tr

Bus from Sofia Serdica Bus Station to Istanbul Büyük Otogari

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$35-45

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

Traveling between Sofia and Istanbul 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 exciting journey from Sofia to Istanbul by car, covering a scenic driving distance of 342 miles. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of prices ranging from €78 to €120 for this road trip, giving you the freedom to plan your budget accordingly. 🕌 Experience the blend of cultures and stunning landscapes as you arrive in Istanbul after approximately 5 hours and 12 minutes of driving.
Average price
€78 - €120
🚂 Traveling from Sofia to Istanbul by train involves making a transfer at Halkali station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 12 hours and 27 minutes. 🚂 While there is no direct train from Sofia to Istanbul, the experience of traveling by train through the picturesque landscapes of both countries can make the 12-hour-plus journey an enjoyable and memorable way to reach your destination.
Departure Point
Sofia station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train from Sofia to Istanbul typically offers a catering service where you can purchase meals and snacks directly on board. Make sure to check the menu upon boarding or ask the train staff for available options. It's advisable to bring some cash in Bulgarian Lev or Turkish Lira, as card payments may not always be accepted.
• For this route, you can choose between several seating options, including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First and Business Class seats offer more space and private compartments, while Economy Class is functional and economical. Note that First Class may come with complimentary refreshments, while Economy might charge for food and drink.
• Several operators service the Sofia to Istanbul route, including Train Bulgaria (trainbg.com) and Turkish State Railways (TCDD) (tcdd.gov.tr). You can check their websites for specific schedules, ticket prices, and any real-time updates regarding your journey.
🛫 Traveling from Sofia to Istanbul by plane is quick and convenient, with the fastest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 30 minutes. Both Aegean Airlines and Turkish Airlines provide routes from Sofia Airport to Istanbul Airport. 🌉 The journey covers a distance of approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes before arriving in the vibrant city of Istanbul. Enjoy the aerial views as you make your way from Bulgaria to Turkey. 💸 Prices for flights between Sofia and Istanbul can range from €162 to €353, giving you flexibility in choosing a flight that suits your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Sofia Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check the latest travel and entry requirements specific to Turkey, especially regarding visa policies that may affect your flight route from Sofia to Istanbul.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, utilize the well-signposted information desks for assistance on navigating to the city center, and consider downloading the airport's official app for real-time updates on transportation options.
• Expect taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to the city center to range between €15 to €30, depending on traffic and time of day; for more budget-friendly options, consider taking the Havaist airport shuttle, which costs around €8.
🚌 Traveling from Sofia to Istanbul by bus is a convenient option with services departing four times a day and operating every day. The journey takes approximately 9 hours, offering a comfortable and time-efficient way to reach your destination. 🌍 The distance of the route is 502 km, with various options for transfers and durations ranging from about 9 to 14 hours, depending on the route chosen. Passengers can expect a transfer in locations such as Bursa or Burgas, adding a unique experience to the journey and allowing for different sightseeing opportunities along the way. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Sofia to Istanbul bus route vary from €32 to €65, providing affordable travel options. With different routes available, travelers can select the one that best suits their preferences in terms of duration, stops, and transfers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip from Sofia to Istanbul by bus.
Departure Point
Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance through the Citylines website (citylines.bg) to secure your seat, especially during peak travel seasons, as buses can fill up quickly.
• Prepare for customs and border control by having your passport and any necessary visas ready, as the Sofia to Istanbul route will require you to cross the Bulgarian and Turkish borders.
• Upon arriving at Istanbul Esenler Otogari, use the local metro or bus services connected to the station to navigate your way to the city center; for detailed transport options, check the Istanbul public transport website at iett.istanbul