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Zagreb, Zagreb City (Area) to Sofia, Sofia City Province from $46: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Zagreb, Croatia
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Zagreb 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
784 kmDistance
3h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Zagreb 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
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
7h  59m
Estimated price
$210-710
Recommended
Company
Citylines, Yubim
Bus
Average Duration
13h 
Estimated price
$46-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 784 km
Duration: 3h 59m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  50m
Estimated price
$90-257
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  54m
Estimated price
$145-1975
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  26m
Estimated price
$167-610
Company
Ryanair
Plane
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$1971-1972
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  15m
Estimated price
$1973-1974
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
7h  37m
Estimated price
$1973-1975

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $21 $21 $21 $21 $21 $21 $21
Fly $116 $171 $99 $99 $99 $114 $114

Traveling From Zagreb to Sofia

Journeying from Zagreb to Sofia offers a fascinating contrast between Croatia's charming cafe culture and Bulgaria's rich historical tapestry.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences that cater to every traveler.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Lively pedestrian street filled with shops and cafes.
• Great place to enjoy local cuisine and people-watch.
Lozenets
• Trendy area with a vibrant nightlife scene.
• Known for its parks and relaxing atmosphere.
Studentski Grad
• Bustling neighborhood filled with university students.
• Offers affordable dining and entertainment options.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Discover optimal times to explore Sofia's top sights without the hassle of crowds.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Visit early in the morning for serene photo opportunities and fewer tourists.
Vitosha Boulevard
Evenings are ideal for vibrant street life and enjoying outdoor dining.
National Palace of Culture
Weekdays during lunch hours offer a quieter experience for exploring exhibitions.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and early fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather conditions can significantly enhance your travel experience, with clear skies in spring perfect for outdoor exploration.

Dining Recommendation in Sofia

In Sofia, don’t miss trying ‘Shopska Salad,’ a vibrant mix of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and white cheese, which highlights the region's local produce. The lively atmosphere at traditional Bulgarian taverns captures a distinct culinary identity, offering bold flavors and a communal dining experience that contrasts with Zagreb's more understated cafes.

Zagreb - Sofia operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Zagreb to Sofia

Average Duration
12h 15m
Estimated price
1973-1974
Contact phone
02 981 1040
Website
yubim.eu

Bus from Zagreb - Motel Plitvice to Sofia

Average Duration
13h 45m
Estimated price
1973-1974
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Belgrade to Sofia Serdica Bus Stop

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
603-431
Contact phone
+359 2 8120810
Website
https://www.karat-s.com/

Bus from Belgrade to Sofia Serdica Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
603-431
Shuttle
Contact phone
+386 1 320 4530
Website
goopti.com

Shuttle from Zagreb to Graz Airport

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
436-1979

Shuttle from Zagreb to Ljubljana Airport

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
436-437

Shuttle from Zagreb to Maribor

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
438-439
Plane Show flights
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Zagreb to Sofia

Average Duration
3h 59m
Estimated price
1978-1979

Plane from Zagreb to Skopje

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
6395-63900
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Graz to Sofia

Average Duration
4h 28m
Estimated price
6392-19780
Website
austrian.com

Plane from Graz to Sofia

Average Duration
3h 33m
Estimated price
6393-6394
Website
air.bg

Plane from Ljubljana to Sofia

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
6397-6398

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

Traveling between Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Sofia spanning 488 miles, offering breathtaking views of the Balkan landscapes along the way. 💰 Prices for this road journey range from €111 to €175, providing a budget-friendly yet convenient travel option to experience the beauty of both Croatia and Bulgaria. ⏱️ With an estimated drive time of 7 hours and 37 minutes, the route from Zagreb to Sofia promises a memorable adventure filled with unique cultural encounters and memorable pit stops.
Average price
€111 - €175
🛫 If you're traveling from Zagreb to Sofia by plane, the quickest option with a single stopover will take around 3 hours. Air Dolomiti, Austrian Airlines, and Lufthansa are the carriers that offer flights from Graz Airport to Sofia Airport. 🌍 The total flight duration from Zagreb to Sofia is approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes. While there is no direct flight from Graz Airport to Sofia Airport, the route allows you to reach your destination efficiently and comfortably. 💸 Prices for flights between Sofia and Zagreb can range from €70 to €274, making it a relatively affordable and convenient way to travel between the two cities. Be sure to check for any additional fees or baggage restrictions when booking your flight.
Departure Point
Graz Airport
Arrival Point
Sofia Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• To make the most of your layover, if you have one when flying from Zagreb to Sofia, check the airliner’s schedule as some flights with Austrian Airlines or Lufthansa may have longer stopover times in Vienna or Munich, giving you an opportunity to explore the city briefly.
• Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, note that the process can be confusing due to its dual terminal setup; ensure you follow the signs to the right terminal for international arrivals, and consider using the Sofia Airport app for real-time updates on your flight and baggage.
• Taxi fares from Sofia Airport to the city center typically range from €10 to €15; it's advisable to use the official taxi service located outside the arrivals hall to avoid any scams, and be sure to agree on the fare beforehand if you’re using a service other than the meter.
🚌 Traveling from Zagreb to Sofia by bus is a convenient option with a direct service operated by FlixBus. The journey typically takes around 12 hours and 15 minutes, offering a comfortable and scenic way to reach your destination. 💰 The prices for the bus tickets between Sofia and Zagreb can range from €44 to €62, making it an affordable choice for those looking to explore both Croatia and Bulgaria via a comfortable and efficient bus service. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey from Zagreb to Sofia with FlixBus.
Departure Point
Zagreb station
Arrival Point
Sofia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Zagreb to Sofia.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Zagreb and Sofia is approximately 425 miles or 488.3 miles by road. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, with a typical travel time of about 5 hours and 27 minutes. If one were to travel by car, it would take approximately 7 hours and 37 minutes, while traveling by bus would typically take around 13 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Zagreb to Sofia is taking a bus via Belgrade, which can cost around €41-€59 and takes approximately 13 hours. This option may be more time-consuming but is budget-friendly. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to reach Sofia is by flying, which takes around 5 hours and 27 minutes and can cost between €100-€335. Flying would be the most time-efficient option, but it can be more expensive than taking a bus.
When traveling from Zagreb to Sofia the prices for a bus ticket range from €42 to €59. The exact price may vary depending on the bus operator, time of travel, and available discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or travel agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To reach Sofia from Zagreb without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance is approximately 488 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 37 minutes to complete the journey. Prices for renting a car for this trip range from €109 to €172, depending on various factors such as the type of car and rental duration.
The best way to travel from Zagreb to Sofia without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes and the cost ranges between €109 and €136. Buses provide a convenient and cost-effective option for this route, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Zagreb and Sofia. FlixBus operates a bus service that departs from Zagreb and arrives in Sofia. The bus journey takes approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes and operates once daily. This provides a convenient option for travelers looking to make the journey between the two cities.
The flight duration from Zagreb to Sofia varies depending on the number of stopovers, but the quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 5 hours. However, there are no direct flights between the two cities. The cost of a flight between Sofia and Zagreb ranges from €107 to €335, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are a wide range of hotels available near Sofia. With over 1030 hotels to choose from, you will have plenty of options to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at €13 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodation. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.