- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Sofia’s main archaeology museum displays Thracian, Roman and medieval finds in a former mosque. It is ideal for understanding Bulgaria’s long history.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest coaches from Lyon to Sofia
Showing times and prices for 12 Aug
Cheapest price
£118
Average price
£126
Fastest journey
1 d 8 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 11 h 25 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
1507 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Lyon to Sofia is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Sofia will cost around £126 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £118.
Fast coaches
To travel from Lyon to Sofia you need to make at least one change.
FlixBus · FlixBus8:0538h40Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)23:45София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)£1181One-way1 change- FlixBus · FlixBus21:3035h05Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)9:35София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)£1201One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus0:0532h30Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)9:35София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)£1401One-way2 changes
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus0:0532h30Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)9:35София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)£1401One-way2 changes
- FlixBus · FlixBus21:3035h05Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)9:35София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)£1201One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:0538h40Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)23:45София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)£1181One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach and flight for Lyon to Sofia
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Sofia among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £68. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the coach is your best bet as it emits only 1.5 - 3.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £68, and a flight costs an average of £24.
Distance: 1507 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
£124 Average Price Cheapest | £224 Average Price |
32h 6m Average total duration 31h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 28m Average total duration Fastest 3h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.5 - 3.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.5 - 9.0kg 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.
Live departures
Lyon to Sofia bus times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Sofia coaches for today, Tuesday 11 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 23:00 Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 33h35 | 9:35 София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 2 changes | |
| Wednesday 12 August | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 0:05 Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 32h30 | 9:35 София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) | 2 changes | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lyon to Sofia by coach or flight
Compare coach 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.
Wed
12 Aug
12 Aug
Thu
13 Aug
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
15 Aug
Sun
16 Aug
16 Aug
Mon
17 Aug
17 Aug
Tue
18 Aug
18 Aug
Why should you book Lyon to Sofia coaches with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Lyon to Sofia.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lyon to Sofia.
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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Lyon to Sofia.
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lyon to Sofia.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Lyon to Sofia.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lyon to Sofia.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Lyon to Sofia
France
Bulgaria
Buses from Lyon to Sofia run on average 2 times per day, taking around 31h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £68 but you can travel from only £24 by flight.
The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:00. The fastest coach covers the 1507 km distance in 31h 30m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £24
Distance 1507 km |
Average bus duration 31h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £68 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 31h 30m |
First bus 0:05 |
Last bus 23:00 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £24
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus from Lyon to SofiaYou can travel by bus between Lyon to Sofia with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus for as low as £24. 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 Duration
32h 30m
Cheapest Price
£68
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.
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 Duration
28h 30m
Cheapest Price
£91
Union Ivkoni International frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to Sofia
Things to do in Sofia
Discover the best of Sofia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sofia trip today.
- Recommended
Sofia History Museum
Set in the former mineral baths, this museum presents Sofia’s urban development, daily life and civic history in a striking historic building.
- Recommended
National Gallery at the Palace
A major national gallery in a former royal palace, showing Bulgarian art from past centuries to modern works in grand historic interiors.
- Must visit
Vitosha Boulevard
A broad pedestrian boulevard lined with landmarks, shops and public buildings. It is Sofia’s main walking route for sightseeing and people-watching.
- Recommended
Independence Square
A central square between key institutions and churches, with Roman remains nearby. It is a useful starting point for exploring historic Sofia on foot.
- Recommended
Borisova Gradina
A city garden at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, popular for walks, concerts and open views. It offers a relaxed local atmosphere beyond the busiest centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shopska salata
Shopska salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and sirene cheese. A national staple closely linked with Bulgarian home cooking and rakia.
- Vegetarian
Banitsa
Banitsa is a flaky pastry pie with eggs and white cheese, baked for breakfast and festive occasions. It is one of Bulgaria’s most familiar comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Tarator
Tarator is a cold yoghurt soup with cucumber, dill, garlic and walnuts. It is a classic summer dish in Bulgaria, especially refreshing in Sofia’s heat.
Cosmos
Stylish restaurant focused on Bulgarian ingredients and contemporary presentation, with a refined dining room suited to a special meal.
Pod Lipite
Traditional Bulgarian restaurant in a historic setting, known for regional dishes, folk-style interiors and a polished but welcoming atmosphere.
Hadjidraganovite kashti
Long-established Bulgarian venue serving grills, salads and classic national dishes in a lively, rustic tavern atmosphere near the city centre.
Bulgarian lev (лв.)
Budget-friendly for Europe: hotels, meals and public transport are cheaper than in many EU capitals, though central areas and upscale venues cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 12-20 лв. for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- 25-45 лв. per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- 80+ лв. per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 4-6 лв. for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Round up in cafés and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is usual for good service if not already included.
Sofia2Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €0.80
- Day pass
- €2.00
To the city centre
Sofia, Centralna Avtogara -> Serdika, Sofia
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Tap a bank card or device directly on buses, trams, trolleybuses and metro gates; the system caps contactless fares at the day-pass price.
- For the city centre from Centralna Avtogara, use Metro M2 from Central Railway Station/Bus Station to Serdika; it is usually the quickest public transport option.
FAQs: Lyon to Sofia coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon to Sofia 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 Sofia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Lyon to Sofia can start from as little as £68 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Lyon to Sofia is £124; 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 Lyon to Sofia is 31h 30m to travel the 1507 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 Lyon to Sofia leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Lyon to Sofia leaves at 23:00.
There are 2 coaches a day from Lyon to Sofia which require at least one change with Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Lyon to Sofia, you can count on Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Sofia. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Lyon and Sofia and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Sofia from Lyon is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 31h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Lyon to Sofia is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lyon and Sofia including taking a coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Lyon to Sofia:
- 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 Lyon to Sofia for coach company Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Lyon to Sofia depends on the coach companies:
- 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, 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 Lyon to Sofia.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Lyon to Sofia:
- 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 Lyon to Sofia:
- 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 Lyon to Sofia. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Lyon to Sofia with the following coach company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Lyon to Sofia with the following coach company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Lyon to Sofia with the following coach company: Union Ivkoni International, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Lyon and Sofia
Most Lyon to Sofia buses use the Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) station pair, with some services arriving at Sofia (София). Use this guide to compare Lyon and Sofia bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Lyon
Arrival bus stations in Sofia
Which Lyon station do buses to Sofia leave from?
Buses from Lyon to Sofia leave from Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland). The station is 3 km from Lyon city centre at 52 Av. Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France.
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland)52 Av. Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) from Lyon city centre
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) is 2 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN734 · 15m · £0.90
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) bus station facilities and services
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) 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 Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland). ATMs are available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland): Station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache13 Cours de Verdun, 69002 Lyon, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache from Lyon city centre
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 5m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache bus station facilities and services
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café de la Gare (in the station), Le Bistrot de Lyon (0.5 km), Brasserie Georges (0.6 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache: Elevators, ramps.
Lyon, St Exupéry AéroportLyon St Exupéry Aéroport, 69125 Colombier-Saugnieu, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport from Lyon city centre
Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport is 2 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRx · 29m · £14 · every ~8 min
BusS766, 776, 787, N760, N1759, 1776, 1624, N746, 1779, S1736, 1606, 1787, 1676 · 38m · £2 · every ~1 min
Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport bus station facilities and services
Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport 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 Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport. ATMs are available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport: Access ramps and services available.
София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2)
City-centre transport
Getting to София, Централна Aвтогара 2 (Sofia, Centralna Avtogara 2) from Sofia city centre
Bus78 · 13m · every ~5 min
Subway2 · 3m · £0.90 · every ~20 min
M2 · 4m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика)Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd 102, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) from Sofia city centre
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) is 1 km from Sofia city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus78 · 12m · every ~5 min
Tram12, 27 · 9m · £0.90 · every ~19 min
Subway2 · 4m · £0.90 · every ~20 min
M2 · 5m · every ~16 min
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) bus station facilities and services
Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Serdika (in the station), Bistro Bulgaria (0.2 km), Sofia Grill House (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofiya, Avtogara Serdika (София, Автогара Сердика): Elevators, ramps.
Sofia (София)Central Bus Station - Sofia, Tsentralna, bul. "Knyaginya Maria Luiza" 100, 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria
City-centre transport
Getting to Sofia (София) from Sofia city centre
Bus36h 31m · £356
38h 30m
39h 1m · £272
57h 18m · £223
Sofia (София) bus station facilities and services
Sofia (София) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Small cafes available nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sofia (София). ATMs are aTM machines available onsite.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sofia (София).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sofia (София): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sofia (София): Facilities are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Most popular bus connections from Lyon
More options for your journey from Lyon to Sofia
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sofia and Lyon
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
