Sofia Airport to Istanbul bus with ArdaTur

Tue 03 Feb
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ArdaTur
Infobus
FlixBus
National Express
Alsa
1,000+ travel companies
ArdaTur
Infobus
FlixBus
National Express
Alsa
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Sofia Airport to Istanbul

Showing times and prices for 05 Feb

Cheapest price

£31

Average price

£31

Fastest journey

8 h 25 m

Average duration

8 h 25 m

Buses per day

1

Distance

495 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul will cost around £31 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £31.

Fast coaches

Of the 1 buses that leave Sofia Airport for Istanbul every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct buses cover the 495 km distance in an average of 8 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 25 m .

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.

ArdaTur
22:208h25
Sofia Airport
06:45Istanbul
£311One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and flight for Sofia Airport to Istanbul

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Sofia Airport to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, and a flight costs an average of £26.

Distance: 495 km

Compare bus with

Most popular
Coach
Flight

£30

Average Price

Cheapest

£68

Average Price

9h 25m

Average total duration

8h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Infobus

Most popular bus company

Pegasus Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Sofia Airport to Istanbul bus times

The table below shows live departures for Sofia Airport to Istanbul coaches for today, Tuesday 3 February. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at 10:12
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
ams_arda_tur22:20 Sofia Airport
8h25
06:45 Istanbul0 changesdirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Sofia Airport to Istanbul 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
04 Feb
Thu
05 Feb
Fri
06 Feb
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07 Feb
Sun
08 Feb
Mon
09 Feb
Tue
10 Feb
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14 Feb
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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Sofia Airport to Istanbul

BulgariaBulgaria
TurkeyTurkey
Icon of bus

Buses from Sofia Airport to Istanbul run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £28 but you can travel from only £26 by flight.

There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 22:20, the last at 22:20. The fastest coach covers the 495 km distance in 8h 25m.

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 £26
Distance
495 km
Average bus duration
8h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
£28
Buses per day
1
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
8h 25m
First bus
22:20
Last bus
22:20
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 £26

Bus providers: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus from Sofia Airport to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Sofia Airport to Istanbul with ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus for as low as £26. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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
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.
Learn more about Infobus

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
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.
Learn more about FlixBus

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
8h 30m
Cheapest Price
£29
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.

FAQs: Sofia Airport to Istanbul coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia Airport to Istanbul 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 Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Sofia Airport to Istanbul can start from as little as £28 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Sofia Airport to Istanbul is £30; 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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul is 8h 25m to travel the 495 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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul leaves at 22:20. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul leaves at 22:20.
Yes, there are 1 direct coaches a day from Sofia Airport to Istanbul with ArdaTur. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul, you can count on ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Sofia Airport and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Istanbul from Sofia Airport is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia Airport and Istanbul including taking a coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul:
  • Infobus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul for coach company ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul depends on the coach companies:
  • Infobus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
  • 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.
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 Sofia Airport to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul:
  • Infobus
    • One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
  • 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Sofia Airport to Istanbul:
  • Infobus
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • 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.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
  • 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 coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul with the following coach company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul with the following coach company: Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Sofia Airport to Istanbul with the following coach company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Sofia Airport and Istanbul

Sofia
Istanbul
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
address
Address
Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-23:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
carConnection
Car connection
O-3 Otoyolu
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Cafeteria Terminal (in the station)
  • Kebab Express (0.2 km)
  • Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transport options for Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
  • Metro: M1A Bus: 83O, 91E, 97G
Istanbul, Esenler Otogarı (Metro Bulgaria)
information

Most popular bus connections from Sofia Airport

Sofia Airport to Bansko coach

More options for your journey from Sofia Airport to Istanbul

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Tickets and more information for coaches to Sofia Airport
Tickets and more information for coaches to Istanbul
HomeCoachesCoach tickets to Istanbul Sofia Airport to Istanbul bus

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