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Istanbul to Sofia Bus
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Istanbul to Sofia by bus
The journey from Istanbul to Sofia by bus is 312.27 mi and takes 9 hr 19 min. There are 23 connections per day, with the first departure at 9:00 AM and the last at 11:59 PM. It is possible to travel from Istanbul to Sofia by bus for as little as $10.46 or as much as $39.49. The best price for this journey is $10.46.
| Lowest Price | $10.46 |
| Journey Duration | 9 hr 19 min |
| Connection per Day | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm 23 |
| Lowest Price | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm $10.46 |
| Highest Price | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm $39.49 |
| First Departure | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm 9:00 AM |
| Last Departure | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm 11:59 PM |
| Distance | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm 312.27 mi |
| Departure | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm Istanbul |
| Arrival | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm Sofia |
| Carriers | Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm Panorama Trans, Lüks Yonca Turizm, City Lines, Metro Bulgaria, Huntur, FlixBus, Arda Tur, VIP Arda Tur, Alpar Turizm |
Istanbul to Sofia Bus Times
Get from Istanbul to Sofia with Virail
Planning to travel from Istanbul to Sofia? Sometimes it can be hard to know where to start - but that's where Virail comes in. Our powerful search engine will explore all the options available for your trip, combing through more than 2000 transport companies all over the globe. All you have to do is enter your travel dates. In an instant, we'll show you a thorough list of possible routes, with all the information you need to make your decision. Choose from buses, trains, and more, connecting or direct, one-way or round trip - whatever you prefer. When you see your results, select your chosen option and Virail will redirect you to the provider's website, where you can complete your booking. Let us do the legwork for you, and you can just sit back and enjoy your trip.
How can I get the cheapest bus tickets to travel from Istanbul to Sofia?
On average, a bus ticket from Istanbul to Sofia will cost you $29.17. However, there may be cheaper alternatives available. Virail will show you the lowest prices available for your chosen travel dates, which could be as little as $10.46. If you are trying to stick to a budget, there are several ways you can seek out lower ticket prices. For example, if your travel dates are flexible, you might find that some days of the week are cheaper than others. Traveling during peak season will usually cost more, so avoid that if you want to save money. Even the time of day can affect the price of tickets sometimes. You can also look for an indirect route, which may be cheaper than a direct connection. Often, the cheapest bus tickets can be found by booking well in advance. However, be mindful that many companies do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest tickets.
Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Istanbul to Sofia. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results.
When you're traveling from Istanbul to Sofia, you can expect to pay an average of approximately $29.17. Some forms of transport are cheaper than others, and prices will vary according to time of day, day of the week, season, and other factors. For the cheapest bus tickets, make your reservation well in advance. If you can, travel at an off-peak time, as bus ticket prices will often be reduced. You might also be able to save money by booking a connecting journey, rather than a direct route. Be sure to check the conditions of the ticket before booking, as sometimes cheaper bus tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Use Virail to check your options before booking, to ensure that you find the lowest price for your journey.
How long does the journey from Istanbul to Sofia take by bus?
Traveling from Istanbul to Sofia by bus will usually take 9 hr 19 min. This journey covers a distance of 312.27 mi . When planning your trip, bear in mind that 9 hr 19 min is an average, and route times may vary from day to day. Weather conditions, issues with transport, unexpected diversions, and local events could all cause delays to your journey. Please keep the possibility of these exceptional events in mind when making travel plans. The journey from Istanbul to Sofia covers a distance of 312.27 mi. On average, you can expect your journey to last roughly 9 hr 19 min. However, booking the fastest option will see you reach your destination in approximately 7 hr 30 min. For faster journeys, look for express routes. Please remember that these may only depart at certain times of day, or on particular days of the week. You may also find that you can go from Istanbul to Sofia faster by making connections, rather than taking a direct route.
What time are the first and last departures from Istanbul to Sofia?
If you prefer to travel early, you will usually find the first departure from Istanbul to Sofia leaving at 9:00 AM. Although things may change depending on the day, in general the last daily departure leaves at 11:59 PM.If you have some flexibility over the day on which you travel, you might find more options available to you. For example, some providers may only run early morning routes on weekdays, when people are traveling to work. You will often find fewer options available on weekends or public holidays. If you prefer to travel at night, you will usually find the first departure from Istanbul to Sofia leaving at 9:00 AM. Although things may change depending on the day, in general the last departure of the night leaves at 11:59 PM.If you have some flexibility over the day on which you travel, you might find more options available to you. For example, some providers may only run early morning routes on weekdays, when people are traveling to work. You will often find fewer options available on weekends or public holidays.
How many times a day do departures from Istanbul leave for Sofia?
The route from Istanbul to Sofia is served by providers including . From this list of transport providers, there are up to departures each day. However, this exact number will vary. On average, journeys depart from Istanbul 23 times per day. This number includes all the transport providers that serve the route. When traveling from Istanbul to Sofia, you may choose to use an indirect route, involving connections. If you prefer not to do this, you will find an average of 23 direct journeys each day. However, indirect routes open up more possibilities for flexible travelers. On average, there are 0 journeys with one change or more each day. These numbers are all averages. They can slightly vary depending on the day of the week, the season of the year, local festivals, and other factors. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Istanbul to Sofia. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.
Compare prices and tickets from Istanbul to Sofia
Book in advance and save
If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Istanbul to Sofia, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.
Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys
Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Istanbul to Sofia.
Always check special offers
Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.
Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains
If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.
Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average
Price as departure date approaches
Bus companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $17.31 to $26.12 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 34% on your trip!
Best time to book cheap bus tickets from Istanbul to Sofia
The cheapest Istanbul - Sofia bus tickets can be found for as low as $19.64 if you’re lucky, or $26.84 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $40.60.
Find the best day to travel to Sofia by bus
When travelling to Sofia by bus, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!
Carriers on this route
Find out more about the carriers on this route.
Arda Tur is a Turkish bus company that operates intercity and international bus services. The company was founded in 1998 and has since grown to become one of the leading bus operators in Turkey. Arda Tur operates a modern fleet of buses that are equipped with air conditioning, comfortable seats, and onboard entertainment systems. The company's routes cover major cities in Turkey, as well as international destinations in Europe and the Middle East. Arda Tur is known for its reliable service, affordable fares, and commitment to passenger safety. The company also offers online booking and ticketing services, making it easy for passengers to plan their journeys.
<p>FlixBus, a long-distance bus company, operates in both Europe and the United States. Founded in 2013, it has grown to become one of the largest bus operators in Europe, connecting over 2,500 destinations in 30 countries. Originating in Germany, FlixBus has expanded quickly to neighboring countries including France, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Croatia, while also offering regular services to Norway, Spain, and England. With affordable fares and comfortable amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets, FlixBus provides a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.</p> <p>You have the option to choose your preferred seat on Flixbus, with various categories designed to suit your specific needs.</p> <ul> <li>Classic: Choose your seat with no additional perks.</li> <li>Panorama: Sit in the first row and enjoy the most scenic views.</li> <li>Front: Travel quietly in the front section of the bus, starting from the 2nd row.</li> <li>Table: Enjoy more space and comfort with a convenient table in front of you.</li> <li>Comfort: Get extra legroom for a more relaxing journey.</li> <li>Extra: Reserve your seat and the one next to you for more personal space.</li> <li>Single: Enjoy the comfort of having no one seated next to you.</li> <li>Semi-bed: Relax with a seat that reclines almost flat, perfect for resting.</li> <li>Bed: Experience maximum comfort with a fully flat reclining seat, ideal for longer trips.</li> </ul>
Facility Description
Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.
Power sockets Power outlets are available near seats on FlixBus buses to keep your devices charged throughout your journey.
Power sockets 
Power outlets are available near seats on FlixBus buses to keep your devices charged throughout your journey.
Luggage Each passenger can bring one carry-on bag (up to 25lbs/11kg) and one stored bag (up to 50lbs/23kg) for free on FlixBus. Excess baggage up to 50lbs (23kg) is accepted for a fee, with limited space available, so booking in advance is recommended.
Luggage Each passenger can bring one carry-on bag (up to 25lbs/11kg) and one stored bag (up to 50lbs/23kg) for free on FlixBus. Excess baggage up to 50lbs (23kg) is accepted for a fee, with limited space available, so booking in advance is recommended.
Accessibility FlixBus offers boarding assistance with a hydraulic lift for travelers with reduced mobility. Contact the bus company in advance to confirm availability and assistance.
Accessibility FlixBus offers boarding assistance with a hydraulic lift for travelers with reduced mobility. Contact the bus company in advance to confirm availability and assistance.
Food and drink Snacks and drinks are available for purchase from the bus drivers during your trip.
Food and drink Snacks and drinks are available for purchase from the bus drivers during your trip.
Bicycle Bikes are allowed with restrictions on FlixBus: 3 per bus with a cover, 5 with a carrier, but no electric bikes.
Bicycle Bikes are allowed with restrictions on FlixBus: 3 per bus with a cover, 5 with a carrier, but no electric bikes.
WiFi FlixBus offers free Wi-Fi on all its buses. Additionally, enjoy movies, e-books, audiobooks, music, and games through FlixBus's online entertainment portal.
WiFi FlixBus offers free Wi-Fi on all its buses. Additionally, enjoy movies, e-books, audiobooks, music, and games through FlixBus's online entertainment portal.
| Facilities | City Lines | Huntur | FlixBus | Arda Tur | Alpar Turizm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Power sockets |  | | | |  |
Air conditioning | | | | | |
|
Luggage | | | | | |
|
Food and drink | | | | | |
|
WiFi | | | | | |
|
Accessibility | | | | | |
|
Bicycle | | | | | |
Istanbul to Sofia CO2 Emissions by Bus
Anything we can improve?