Sofia to Istanbul Bus

10/13/2024
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Sofia to Istanbul by bus

The journey from Sofia to Istanbul by bus is 312.27 mi and takes 8 hr 43 min. There are 28 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:20 AM and the last at 11:59 PM. It is possible to travel from Sofia to Istanbul by bus for as little as $13.46 or as much as $36.43. The best price for this journey is $13.46.

Lowest Price$13.46
Journey Duration8 hr 43 min
Connection per Day28
Lowest Price$13.46
Highest Price$36.43
First Departure12:20 AM
Last Departure11:59 PM
Distance312.27 mi
DepartureSofia
ArrivalIstanbul
CarriersAlpar Turizm, Metro TurizmMore

Sofia to Istanbul Bus Times

Departure date
Sunday, Oct 13, 2024

Quick and easy travel from Sofia to Istanbul with Virail

Do you know the best way to get from Sofia to Istanbul? No? Don't worry, Virail knows. Our search tool uses data from thousands of travel providers to show you all the available routes for your chosen travel dates. Whether you want to travel by train, bus, plane, or carpool, we can help. Filter your results to suit your personal needs: decide whether you want a one-way or round trip ticket, look for a direct journey or one with connections, and choose the time of day that you prefer to travel. Take a look at all the information and find the transport option that's right for you. When you've selected your ideal journey, Virail will transfer you to the website of your chosen travel provider, where you can complete your booking. Your adventure is waiting - let Virail help you today.

How much does it cost to get from Sofia to Istanbul by bus?

The prices for bus tickets from Sofia to Istanbul vary depending on a range of factors including how far in advance you're booking, your travel dates, and the type of transport you want to use. On certain routes, there may be different classes available, which will also affect the price. Booked in advance, the cheapest bus tickets from Sofia to Istanbul will cost $13.46. The average bus ticket price is approximately $28.78. For the lowest prices, it is usually best to book as far in advance as possible and look out for low-cost options, such as non-refundable tickets or traveling outside of peak hours. Be aware that some providers do not offer refunds or changes on their lower priced tickets, so it is advised to check before completing your transaction.
Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results.
On average, you can expect to spend around $28.78 for your bus ticket. Virail will help you find a journey that fits your budget. You can expect prices to vary between different travel providers and methods of transport; often, faster journeys will cost more than slower routes. If your travel dates are flexible, you might be able to find cheaper bus tickets, as prices may fluctuate a little from day to day. You may also find lower prices by booking at certain times of day, avoiding rush hour traffic. Another tip for travelers on a tight budget is to look for connecting journeys. Sometimes it can be cheaper to make a change or two along the way, rather than traveling on a direct route from Sofia to Istanbul.

How long does it take to get from Sofia to Istanbul by bus?

The journey between Sofia and Istanbul by bus is approximately 312.27 mi. It will take you more or less 8 hr 43 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The journey between Sofia and Istanbul runs for about 312.27 mi and usually takes approximately 8 hr 43 min. However, this figure is an average and will vary according to a number of factors. Depending on the method of transport that you choose, you might be able to arrive in less time. The shortest time in which you can complete this journey is 5 hr 5 min. If you are trying to get from Sofia to Istanbul as quickly as possible, look for express routes or non-stopping services. Direct routes are not always the fastest way to travel. At times, you may even find a quicker route that involves a connection in another city.

How many times a day do departures from Sofia leave for Istanbul?

You will be able to travel from Sofia to Istanbul using companies such as . Combined, these providers offer an average of 28 journeys each day. This average figure may not necessarily reflect your chosen travel dates. On certain days of the week, there may be more or less journeys available. At the busiest times, there will be up to departures available in a single day. You can choose to travel from Sofia to Istanbul using both direct and indirect routes. These options will help you find a journey that suits your budget, your time frame, and the circumstances of your trip. There are, on average, 28 direct connections from Sofia to Istanbul each day. Indirect connections add more possibilities, giving you extra flexibility when traveling. In an average day, you will find 0 journeys with at least one change. These figures may vary at certain times of year, and some routes might not run every day of the week. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

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Compare prices and tickets from Sofia to Istanbul

Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Istanbul
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Sofia to Istanbul.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul, 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 Sofia to Istanbul.

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.

Best time to book Sofia to Istanbul travel

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 $22.91 to $30.02 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 24% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Istanbul

The cheapest Sofia - Istanbul bus tickets can be found for as low as $18.79 if you’re lucky, or $29.09 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $41.91.

Find the best day to travel to Istanbul by bus

When travelling to Istanbul 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.

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.

Metro Turizm is a Turkish bus company that provides intercity transportation services across Turkey. The company was founded in 1992 and has since grown to become one of the largest bus operators in the country. Metro Turizm operates a fleet of modern buses equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. The company offers a range of ticket options, including standard, luxury, and sleeper seats. Metro Turizm also provides online booking services, making it easy for passengers to plan their travel and purchase tickets in advance. The company is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation services to its customers.

Services on board Alpar Turizm, Metro Turizm and FlixBus from Sofia to Istanbul
Compare services on board when travelling from Sofia to Istanbul by bus.
Facilities Alpar Turizm Metro Turizm FlixBus City Lines Huntur Arda Tur
wifi WiFi check check check cross cross check
power_sockets Power sockets cross check check check check check
food_and_drink Food and drink cross check check cross cross check
luggage Luggage cross check check cross cross cross
bicycle Bicycle cross check check cross cross check
air_con Air conditioning cross cross check check check check
accessibility Accessibility cross cross check cross cross cross

Sofia to Istanbul CO2 Emissions by Bus

Ecology
Train
35.18kg
Bus
37.69kg
Flight
100.51kg
Car
80.41kg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul?
A bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul is $28.78. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $13.46.
What's the cheapest bus ticket from Sofia to Istanbul?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Sofia to Istanbul is $13.46. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Sofia and Istanbul by bus?
Sofia to Istanbul is 312.27 mi.
How long does the bus between Sofia and Istanbul take?
Sofia to Istanbul is on average 8 hr 43 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 5 hr 5 min.
Which companies operate from Sofia to Istanbul?
The bus journey from Sofia to Istanbul is covered by 10 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: Alpar Turizm, Metro Turizm, Kâmil Koç, Metro Bulgaria, Panorama Trans, FlixBus, City Lines, Lüks Yonca Turizm, Huntur, VIP Arda Tur and Arda Tur.
How many bus connections per day go from Sofia to Istanbul?
Sofia to Istanbul has 28 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first bus from Sofia to Istanbul leave?
The earliest bus from Sofia to Istanbul departs at 12:20 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last bus from Sofia to Istanbul depart?
The latest bus from Sofia to Istanbul departs at 11:59 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Sofia to Istanbul in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest bus ticket we have found is $13.46 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
How many direct connections depart from Sofia to Istanbul?
There are on average 28 direct connection(s) from Sofia to go to Istanbul.
What's the fastest journey time between Sofia to Istanbul by bus?
The fastest journey time by bus between Sofia and Istanbul is 5 hr 5 min.
Is there a direct bus from Sofia to Istanbul?
Yes, there is a direct bus between Sofia and Istanbul.
What are the CO2 emissions for Sofia to Istanbul by bus?
The bus journey from Sofia to Istanbul creates 37.69kg of CO2 emissions.

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