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Budapest, Budapest to Sofia, Sofia City Province from $46: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Budapest, Hungary
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Budapest 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
634.5 kmDistance
1h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Budapest 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
Plane
Average Duration
1h  54m
Estimated price
$110-308
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  10m
Estimated price
$46-96
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 634.5 km
Duration: 1h 54m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
16h 
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
20h  45m
Estimated price
$73-98
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
22h  52m
Estimated price
$73-87
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  29m
Estimated price
$130-200

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $28 $14 $52 $59 $22 $55 $21
Fly $115 $117 $91 $91 $92 $116 $92
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Budapest to Sofia

Journeying from Budapest to Sofia reveals a tapestry of contrasting cultures, where Budapest's grandeur meets Sofia's eclectic charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia's neighborhoods blend history, culture, and vibrant local life.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Shopping and dining hub with lively atmosphere.
• Beautiful views of Vitosha Mountain.
Lozenets
• Trendy cafes and bars attract a youthful crowd.
• Quiet streets near the city center.
Samovodska Charshiya
• Charming street filled with artisanal shops.
• Rich history reflected in its architecture.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience of Sofia's attractions.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Early morning visits offer tranquility and stunning light for photos.
Vitosha Boulevard
Late afternoon to evening allows you to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
National Palace of Culture
Weekdays are ideal for quieter exploration of exhibitions and surroundings.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons, making it essential for travelers to consider the time of year for their visit. Spring and fall provide mild weather ideal for exploration, while summer's warmth and winter's chill each offer unique experiences.

Dining Recommendation

Try the traditional Bulgarian dish, Shopska Salad, at a local eatery like Sasa Asian Pub, where fresh vegetables, sirene cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil create a vibrant contrast to Budapest's richer cuisine. The lively atmosphere and use of local ingredients offer an authentic taste of Bulgarian hospitality that sets it apart from the culinary scene in Hungary.

Budapest - Sofia operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Sofia (SOF)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$45-360
Website
austrian.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Sofia (SOF) via Vienna

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$150-500
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Budapest Népliget bus station to Sofia

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
$65-95
Contact phone
+359 2 8120810
Website
karat-s.com

Bus from Budapest Népliget to Sofia Serdica Bus Station

Average Duration
11h 40m
Estimated price
$45-65
Contact phone
011 3287 412
Website
terratravel.rs

Bus from Budapest Népliget to Subotica

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0219521
Website
cfrcalatori.ro

Train from Budapest-Keleti to Băile Herculane

Average Duration
9h 48m
Estimated price
$42-47

Train from Budapest-Keleti to Craiova

Average Duration
12h 55m
Estimated price
$55-65
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Vidin to Sofia

Average Duration
4h 49m
Estimated price
$6-12

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

Traveling between Budapest 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 an adventurous road trip from Budapest to Sofia, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the 478-mile journey. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing from a range of prices, starting from €119 up to €184, as you make your way towards the vibrant capital of Bulgaria by car.
Average price
€120 - €185
🚆 Traveling from Budapest to Sofia by train requires making transfers at Craiova and Vidin. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 52 minutes in total. 💰 Prices for a train ticket between Budapest and Sofia typically range from €67 to €80. It's a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between these two beautiful European cities.
Departure Point
Budapest-Keleti station
Arrival Point
Sofia station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Make sure to check out the dining car on your train, where you will find a range of catering services offering both hot meals and snacks. On the route from Budapest to Sofia, you can expect to find local Hungarian and Bulgarian dishes, as well as international favorites. Remember that some trains may have a trolley service that comes to your seat offering refreshments, so keep an eye out for that!
• The train operators for the Budapest to Sofia route include Hungarian Railways (MÁV) and Bulgarian State Railways (BDZh). You can choose from different seating options including: First Class, which offers spacious seating and better amenities; Business Class, which has more comfortable seats often with access to lounges; and Economy Class, which is a budget-friendly option but can get crowded. Check MÁV's website at mavcsoport.hu and BДZh's website at bdz.bg for booking details.
• Upon arrival at Sofia Central Station, it's good to know that you can leave your luggage at the station’s luggage storage area if you wish to explore the city right away. The storage area is located near the main entrance, and you can use restrooms inside the station, but showers are not available. When you're ready to head into the city center, the fastest way is to take Metro Line 1 (the red line) from the station. It only takes about 30 minutes, and the nearest metro station is just a short walk from the platforms.
🛫 Flying from Budapest to Sofia is a breeze with the quickest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 20 minutes. Both Ryanair and Austrian Airlines provide convenient options for this route from Budapest Airport to Sofia Airport. ✈️ The total duration of the journey from Budapest to Sofia by plane is approximately 1 hour and 54 minutes. This efficient connection allows travelers to easily move between these two vibrant European cities. 💸 Prices for a flight between Sofia and Budapest can vary, typically ranging from €101 to €283.
Departure Point
Budapest Airport
Arrival Point
Sofia Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from Budapest to Sofia, consider Ryanair for budget options or Austrian Airlines for better services, as both airlines frequently operate this route; check their official sites for the latest deals: Ryanair - ryanair.com and Austrian Airlines - austrian.com
• Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, be prepared for a straightforward but slightly cramped baggage claim area; if you have checked luggage, stay alert as it may take a little longer than expected, and keep an eye on the screens for your flight number to grab your bags promptly.
• Expect to pay around 15-20 BGN (approximately €8-€10) for a taxi ride from Sofia Airport to the city center; remember to use only licensed taxis to ensure fair pricing and consider downloading the TaxiMe app for easier and more reliable cab booking upon your arrival.
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Budapest to Sofia, lasting approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the diverse landscapes along the way. 💸 Prices for a bus ticket between Sofia and Budapest range from €42 to €88, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Plan ahead to secure the best deals and ensure a hassle-free trip.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Budapest to Sofia.

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The distance between Budapest and Sofia is approximately 394 miles by air. By train, it takes around 22 hours and 13 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you opt for a combination of train and flying, the total travel time is approximately 6 hours and 32 minutes. Driving by car from Sofia to Budapest takes approximately 7 hours and 29 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 12 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Budapest to Sofia is to take a night bus, which costs between €36-€58. This option takes 12 hours and 50 minutes, providing a budget-friendly alternative for those willing to endure a longer journey. However, for those looking for a faster option, flying is the most time-efficient choice, taking only 4 hours and 4 minutes. The cost of a flight can range from €81-€270, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The prices to travel from Budapest to Sofia vary depending on the mode of transportation. The train ticket prices range from €64 to €77. On the other hand, the bus ticket prices range from €37 to €82. It's important to consider these price ranges when planning your trip and choose the option that best fits your budget and preferences.
To get from Budapest to Sofia without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 478 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 29 minutes to drive from Budapest to Sofia. Prices for car rentals vary, ranging from €117 to €180, depending on the rental company and type of car.
To travel from Budapest to Sofia without a car, you have a few options. The fastest and most convenient way is to fly, which takes about 4 hours and costs between €81-€270. Another option is to take a bus, which takes longer at around 12 hours and 55 minutes, but is more affordable with prices ranging from €36-€85. Lastly, you can also take a train, which takes the longest at 22 hours and 13 minutes, but offers a scenic journey and costs between €63-€81.
There is no direct train or bus link between Budapest and Sofia. The train journey takes approximately 22 hours and 13 minutes with transfers in Craiova and Vidin, while the bus journey takes approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes with transfers in Budapest Nepliget. However, both options require multiple transfers and can be time-consuming. Alternatively, a quicker option is to fly from Budapest to Sofia, which takes approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes.
The flight from Budapest to Sofia typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from €82 to €262. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best price for the desired travel dates.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Sofia. With over 1030 hotels to choose from, you will have a variety of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at €13, making it affordable for different travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly hostels, Sofia offers a wide range of options to cater to your needs.