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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$44
Fastest journey
6 h 59 m
Average duration
7 h 48 m
Buses per day
7
Distance
502 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Istanbul will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Fast buses
Of the 7 buses that leave Sofia for Istanbul on Fri, Nov 07, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct buses cover the 502 km distance in an average of 7 h 48 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 59 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest buses will take 8 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
599598611:59PM8h46
София, (Sofia)09:45AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
622394101:30PM7h30
София, (Sofia)10:00PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
622751307:00PM8h05
София, (Sofia)04:05AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
622796010:00PM6h59
София, (Sofia)05:59AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
622036412:20AM8h25
Sofiya Airport - Terminal T109:45AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$441One-way
0 transfers
622796010:00PM6h59
София, (Sofia)05:59AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
622394101:30PM7h30
София, (Sofia)10:00PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus11:00PM8h00
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)08:00AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$481One-way
0 transfers
622751307:00PM8h05
София, (Sofia)04:05AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$421One-way
0 transfers
622036412:20AM8h25
Sofiya Airport - Terminal T109:45AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)
$441One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €29, and a flight costs an average of €45.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
€32 Average price Cheapest | €158 Average price |
9h 1m Average total duration 8h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Sofia to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Ardatur | Departure Time 12:20AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Ardatur | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Ardatur | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 05:59AM | Duration 6h59 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Ardatur | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 8h46 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $41 |
Live departures
Sofia to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Istanbul buses for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 10:58 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 9:00 AM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 8h30 | 5:30 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6223941 | 11:30 AM София, (Sofia) | 7h30 | 7:00 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6227513 | 5:00 PM София, (Sofia) | 8h05 | 1:05 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6227960 | 8:00 PM София, (Sofia) | 6h59 | 2:59 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 9:00 PM София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 8h00 | 5:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5995986 | 9:59 PM София, (Sofia) | 8h46 | 6:45 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Istanbul by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€29) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 6h 59m |
First bus 00:20 |
Last bus 23:30 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Sofia to Istanbul start from as low as $35 (€29) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $40 (€32) depending on the train type and class.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: City Lines, ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus, Citylines, Alpar Turizm, Kamil Koc from Sofia to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Istanbul with City Lines, ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus, Citylines, Alpar Turizm, Kamil Koc for as low as $35 (€29). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
City Lines
About
"City Lines" can refer to several different bus companies. One prominent example is Citylines, a leading Bulgarian bus company headquartered in Sofia. It operates an extensive network of 44 routes, connecting 22 cities across Bulgaria and serving 9 European nations with an average of 19 trips daily. Citylines coaches offer amenities such as air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Another is Rochester City Lines, a family-owned and operated charter bus company in Minnesota, United States, providing services for college, corporate, event, religious, school, and workforce transportation. They offer a fleet including motorcoaches, minibuses, and executive vans. Historically, National City Lines, Inc. (NCL) was a significant public transportation holding company in the United States, founded in 1920. NCL acquired numerous local transit systems, often converting streetcar lines to bus operations, a practice sometimes referred to as "bustitution." Additionally, "City Line" is also the name of a bus rapid transit (BRT) line in Spokane, Washington, operated by the Spokane Transit Authority. This 6-mile route, which opened in 2023, utilizes modern, zero-emission battery-electric buses and connects key areas including downtown Spokane and the University District.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 30m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
City Lines frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; must be booked in advance.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 59m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
Infobus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
ArdaTur
About
ArdaTur is a bus company based in Haskovo, Bulgaria, established in 1991. It offers extensive bus services across seven countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Germany. ArdaTur operates over 233 daily departures, primarily from major cities like Istanbul, Sofia, and Thessaloniki, providing both intercity and regional routes. The company emphasizes passenger comfort with amenities such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, individual monitors, and complimentary food and drinks on international lines. ArdaTur maintains a modern fleet of over 80 luxury buses and has its own garage and service facility to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
ArdaTur frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Refund
If the trip is delayed through the fault of the carrier, 100% of the ticket value and compensation for direct costs to the place of departure will be refunded with supporting documents.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are possible when buying a ticket or at Arda Tur offices up to 24 hours before departure during weak periods and 72 hours during busy periods.
Toilets
Accessibility
Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Bikes
Only foldable bikes are allowed.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
Alpar Turizm
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
Alpar Turizm frequency
1 a day
Kamil Koc
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Kamil Koc frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Istanbul by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Istanbul can start from as little as $36 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Istanbul is $36 (€29); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Sofia to Istanbul is 6 h 59 min to travel the 311 mile (502 km) long trip, with around there are 6 buses per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Sofia to Istanbul leaves at 9: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Sofia to Istanbul leaves at 9: 00PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Sofia to Istanbul without having to change trains with Arda Tur, City Lines, Infobus, FlixBus, Alpar Turizm, Citylines or Kamil Koc. There are 6 direct buses from Sofia to Istanbul each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Istanbul, you can count on Arda Tur, City Lines, Infobus, FlixBus, Alpar Turizm, Citylines or Kamil Koc for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service from Sofia to Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Sofia, you have various bus station options to start your route from including Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) and София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2). When arriving in Istanbul, you can end your journey in bus stations like Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) and Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria).
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), which is located around 1.3 miles (2.1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), located 4.8 miles (7.8 km) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Istanbul is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Istanbul including taking a bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul for bus providers City Lines, Infobus and FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers City Lines, Infobus and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul depends on the bus providers:
- City Lines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus providers: City Lines, Infobus and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus companies: City Lines, Infobus and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Istanbul with the following bus companies: City Lines, Infobus and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Sofia to Istanbul
Sofia
Istanbul
The major bus station for departures in Sofia is Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)
- Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M2 Train: Sofia Central Station
Sofia, Sofia International Airport (T1) (София, Летище София (T1))
information
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Serdika (in the station)
- Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km)
- Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)
- Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M1, M2 Train: Sofia Central Station
София, (Sofia)
information
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Istanbul is Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) for your trip to Istanbul from Sofia.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
5 kmCar connection
O-3 OtoyoluWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Terminal (in the station)
- Kebab Express (0.2 km)
- Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
- Metro: M1A Bus: 83O, 91E, 97G
Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria)
information
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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