- Must visit
Archaeological Museum Sandanski
Main local museum presenting archaeology from ancient Medius, including mosaics, artefacts and context for the region’s Roman heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Athens to Sandanski
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct
Cheapest price on 08 Oct
£52
Average ticket price on 08 Oct
£52
Fastest journey on 08 Oct
9 h
Average journey duration on 08 Oct
9 h
Buses on 08 Oct
1
Distance
400 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Athens to Sandanski is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Sandanski will cost around £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £52.
Fast coaches
On Thu 08 Oct, we found 1 buses from Athens to Sandanski, including 1 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 400 km distance in an average of 9 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h .
The slowest buses will take 9 h 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.
14:309h00Athens23:30Sandanski£521One-way0 changes
- 14:309h00Athens23:30Sandanski£521One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Athens to Sandanski
Greece
Bulgaria
Buses from Athens to Sandanski run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £30 if you book in advance.
There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 02:35, the last at 23:30. The fastest coach covers the 400 km distance in 8h 45m.
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 400 km |
Average bus duration 9h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 8h 45m |
First bus 2:35 |
Last bus 23:30 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Live departures
Athens to Sandanski bus times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Sandanski coaches for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:15 Athens | 10h30 | 15:45 Sandanski | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:30 Athens | 9h00 | 23:30 Sandanski | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Athens to Sandanski coaches with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as ArdaTur or FlixBus offer coaches services from Athens to Sandanski.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Athens to Sandanski.
Why book with Omio vs Union Ivkoni International?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Union Ivkoni International, but also compare tickets for the likes of ArdaTur or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Sandanski.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of ArdaTur or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Sandanski.
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus, ArdaTur from Athens to SandanskiYou can travel by bus between Athens to Sandanski with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus, ArdaTur for as low as £30. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 FlixBus Duration
9h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£30
FlixBus frequency
1 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.
Union Ivkoni International
About
Union Ivkoni International is a prominent bus company based in Sofia, Bulgaria, established in 1992. It is recognized as the largest bus carrier in Bulgaria and a leader in bus transport across Europe. The company offers extensive services, including regular bus lines, bus rentals, and bus tours, with over 715 daily departures to more than 100 towns in Bulgaria and over 150 towns in Central and Western Europe, Greece, and Turkey. Union Ivkoni also operates its own tourist brand, Uni Holidays, providing various excursions, vacations, and plane tickets.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Union Ivkoni International Duration
8h 45m
Cheapest Union Ivkoni International Price
£45
Union Ivkoni International frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Additional luggage
10 USD per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Service animals allowed.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
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 ArdaTur Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
£42
ArdaTur frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to Sandanski
Things to do in Sandanski
Discover the best of Sandanski — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sandanski trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of the Episcopal Basilica
Museum collection at the basilica site displaying early Christian finds and helping visitors understand the excavated complex in context.
- Recommended
Historical Museum Melnik
Regional museum venue associated with nearby Melnik and Rozhen collections, useful for visitors exploring the wider Sandanski area’s history.
- Must visit
Park Sveti Vrach
Large town park with shady walks, sculptures and open space, popular for a relaxed stroll and one of Sandanski’s signature public areas.
- Recommended
Macedonia Street
Pedestrian-friendly main street lined with shops and public spaces, ideal for walking and getting a feel for the town centre.
Bulgaria Square
Central square used for events and everyday town life, with convenient access to nearby churches, shops and archaeological remains.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Sirene po shopski
Baked red peppers, tomatoes, onion and white sirene cheese, often with egg. A classic Bulgarian dish popular in south-west Bulgaria.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
Layered filo pastry pie filled with white cheese and eggs. A staple Bulgarian breakfast and festive bake eaten across the Pirin region.
- Gluten-free
Kebapche
Grilled minced pork and beef rolls seasoned with cumin and pepper. A beloved Balkan barbecue dish commonly eaten in Sandanski taverns.
Mekhana Sveti Vrach
Traditional Bulgarian tavern serving grilled meats, salads and regional dishes in a relaxed, local atmosphere near the centre.
Park Hotel Sandanski Restaurant
Established restaurant known for Bulgarian and European dishes, with a polished setting suited to a longer lunch or dinner.
Restorant Oasis
Casual central spot popular for pizza, grilled dishes and drinks, convenient for an easy meal after sightseeing.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Sandanski is cheaper than many European spa towns, with low dining and local travel costs and generally good-value accommodation outside peak holiday periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 8-15 лв. for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- 20-35 лв. per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 50+ лв. per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 3-5 лв. for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is customary but modest. Leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up in cafés, and round up or add a little for taxis.
Best day trips from Sandanski by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Sandanski are Sofia, Blagoevgrad, Petrich and Serres. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Sandanski on Omio.
Day trip from Sandanski to Sofia by bus
Why visit Sofia for the day?
Sofia is Bulgaria’s capital, lying at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. Known for Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Roman remains and mineral springs, it mixes grand history with a relaxed daily rhythm.
How to get from Sandanski to Sofia by bus?
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 06:40, the last at 17:00. The fastest coach covers the 126 km distance in 2h 45m.
Day trip from Sandanski to Blagoevgrad by bus
Why visit Blagoevgrad for the day?
Blagoevgrad is a lively university city in south-west Bulgaria with a youthful feel and a compact centre. It is known for the historic Varosha quarter, café culture and its setting near the Rila and Pirin mountains.
How to get from Sandanski to Blagoevgrad by bus?
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 07:00, the last at 17:15. The fastest coach covers the 52 km distance in 1h 10m.
Day trip from Sandanski to Petrich by bus
Why visit Petrich for the day?
Petrich is a southern Bulgarian town known for its warm climate, Baba Vanga and the nearby ruins of Heraclea Sintica. Set below the Belasitsa mountains, it feels relaxed and distinctly shaped by borderland culture.
How to get from Sandanski to Petrich by bus?
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 11:30, the last at 16:30. The fastest coach covers the 19 km distance in 20m.
Day trip from Sandanski to Serres by bus
How to get from Sandanski to Serres by bus?
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 09:00, the last at 18:30. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 50m.
FAQs: Athens to Sandanski coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Sandanski by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Sandanski, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Athens to Sandanski can start from as little as £30 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Athens to Sandanski is £42; 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 coach from Athens to Sandanski is 8h 45m to travel the 400 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Athens to Sandanski leaves at 2:35. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Athens to Sandanski leaves at 23:30.
Yes, there are 2 direct coaches a day from Athens to Sandanski with Union Ivkoni International, ArdaTur, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Athens to Sandanski, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, ArdaTur, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Sandanski. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Athens and Sandanski and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, you can take a coach between Athens and Sandanski.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Athens to Sandanski:
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Athens to Sandanski for coach company Union Ivkoni International, ArdaTur, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Athens to Sandanski depends on the coach companies:
- ArdaTur
- 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.
- 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.
- Union Ivkoni International
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company Union Ivkoni International, ArdaTur, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Athens to Sandanski.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Athens to Sandanski:
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Union Ivkoni International
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Athens to Sandanski:
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Athens to Sandanski. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Athens to Sandanski with the following coach company: Union Ivkoni International, ArdaTur, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Athens to Sandanski with the following coach company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Athens to Sandanski with the following coach company: Union Ivkoni International, ArdaTur, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Athens and Sandanski
Most Athens to Sandanski buses use the Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) to Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара) station pair, with some services arriving at Sandanski, Happy Bar & Grill (Сандански, Happy Bar & Grill). Use this guide to compare Athens and Sandanski bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Athens
Arrival bus stations in Sandanski
Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη)Athens, Pl. Karaiskaki 2, 10437
City-centre transport
Getting to Athina, Platia Karaizkaki (Αθήνα, Πλατεία Καραϊσκάκη) from Athens city centre
Bus051 · 4m · £2 · every ~10 min
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού)Ilia Iliou & Lagoumitzi, Athina 117 44, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) from Athens city centre
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) is 3 km from Athens city centre. Public transport options include:
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Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) bus station facilities and services
Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού). ATMs are available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Athens, Lagoumitzi / Ilia Iliou (Αθήνα, Λαγουμιτζή / Ηλία Ηλιού): Ramps available for wheelchair access.
Sandanski, Bus Station (Сандански, Автогара)
Sandanski, Happy Bar & Grill (Сандански, Happy Bar & Grill)Sandanski Happy Bar and Grill,Blvd."Europe",2800
Most popular bus connections from Athens
More options for your journey from Athens to Sandanski
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sandanski and Athens
Most popular bus connections
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