Sofia SOF to Istanbul IST flight with Turkish Airlines

Fri, 07 Nov
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Turkish Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Aegean Airlines
Air Serbia
easyJet
1,000+ travel companies
Turkish Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Aegean Airlines
Air Serbia
easyJet
1,000+ travel companies
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Journey information

Overview: Sofia to Istanbul flight

BulgariaBulgaria
TurkeyTurkey
Icon of flight

Flights from Sofia to Istanbul depart on average 17 times per day, taking around 2h 7m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at £42 but you can travel from only £27 by coach.

There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 502 km distance in 1h 15m. November is the cheapest month to fly.

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
Coach from £27
Distance
502 km
Average flight duration
2h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
£42
Flights per day
17
Direct flights
4
Fastest flight
1h 15m
Cheapest month to travel
November
First flight
00:05
Last flight
23:55
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
Coach from £27

The cheapest and fastest flights from Sofia to Istanbul

Showing times and prices for 07 Nov

Cheapest price

£71

Average price

£513

Fastest journey

1 h 15 m

Average duration

2 h 59 m

Flights per day

13

Distance

502 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Sofia 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 to Istanbul will cost around £513 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap flight tickets today for only £71.

Fast flights

Of the 13 flights that leave Sofia for Istanbul every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct flights cover the 502 km distance in an average of 2 h 59 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .

The slowest flights will take 9 h 5 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.

Pegasus AirlinesPC272
14:251h15
Sofia Airport
16:40Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport
£711One-way
0 changes
Turkish AirlinesTK1032
16:001h30
Sofia Airport
18:30Istanbul Airport
£1061One-way
0 changes
TAROMRO298 · RO9163
20:5526h30
Sofia Airport
00:25Istanbul Airport
£3021One-way
1 change
TAROMRO298 · RO9165
20:5520h10
Sofia Airport
18:05Istanbul Airport
£3381One-way
1 change
TAROMRO298 · RO265
20:5524h50
Sofia Airport
22:45Istanbul Airport
£3381One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare coach and flight for Sofia to Istanbul

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £27. 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 coach is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £27, and a flight costs an average of £42.

Distance: 502 km

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Coach

£146

Average Price

£30

Average Price

Cheapest

5h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 7m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

9h 1m

Average total duration

8h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1.5 - 3.0kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
Turkish Airlines

Most popular airline

City Lines

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Sofia to Istanbul flight times

The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Istanbul flights for today, Thursday 6 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 08:05
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
qatar_airwaysQR228 · QR23710:30 Sofia Airport
17h30
04:00 Istanbul Airport1 change
qatar_airwaysQR228 · QR23910:30 Sofia Airport
22h50
09:20 Istanbul Airport1 change
qatar_airwaysQR228 · QR24110:30 Sofia Airport
22h40
09:10 Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport1 change
qatar_airwaysQR228 · QR24510:30 Sofia Airport
29h10
15:40 Istanbul Airport1 change
pegasusPC27211:05 Sofia Airport
1h15
12:20 Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport0 changesdirect
lot_polish_airlinesLO632 · LO13712:35 Sofia Airport
9h05
21:40 Istanbul Airport1 change
bulgaria_airA31151+aegean_airlinesA399813:50 Sofia Airport
10h20
00:10 Istanbul Airport1 change
turkish_airlinesTK103214:00 Sofia Airport
1h30
15:30 Istanbul Airport0 changesdirect
lot_polish_airlinesLO634 · LO13316:35 Sofia Airport
18h25
11:00 Istanbul Airport1 change
lot_polish_airlinesLO634 · LO13516:35 Sofia Airport
22h00
14:35 Istanbul Airport1 change
taromRO298 · RO916117:45 Sofia Airport
16h00
09:45 Istanbul Airport1 change
taromRO298 · RO26117:45 Sofia Airport
14h05
07:50 Istanbul Airport1 change
taromRO298 · RO916517:45 Sofia Airport
21h20
15:05 Istanbul Airport1 change
taromRO298 · RO916317:45 Sofia Airport
3h35
21:20 Istanbul Airport1 change
taromRO298 · RO26317:45 Sofia Airport
21h55
15:40 Istanbul Airport1 change
aegean_airlinesA3983 · A399018:20 Sofia Airport
13h15
07:35 Istanbul Airport1 change
aegean_airlinesA3983 · A399818:20 Sofia Airport
5h50
00:10 Istanbul Airport1 change
turkish_airlinesTK103019:40 Sofia Airport
1h35
21:15 Istanbul Airport0 changesdirect
Friday 7 November
turkish_airlinesTK102807:35 Sofia Airport
1h30
09:05 Istanbul Airport0 changesdirect

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Sofia to Istanbul?

The best time to book your flight from Sofia to Istanbul is 49 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Sofia to Istanbul route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Sofia to Istanbul per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Sofia to Istanbul.

Compare prices and tickets Sofia 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.

Thu
06 Nov
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26 Nov

Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia from Sofia to IstanbulFind the best flights between Sofia to Istanbul with Omio's travel partners Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia from £27. We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

Turkish Airlines

About
Turkish Airlines is the national flag carrier of Turkey and one of the world’s leading airlines, flying to more international destinations than any other airline. Based in Istanbul, it connects travelers to Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and beyond. Passengers can choose from Economy Class with comfortable seating, WiFi, and in-flight entertainment, or upgrade to Business Class for spacious seating, gourmet dining, and lounge access. With its award-winning service and global reach, Turkish Airlines is a top choice for both business and leisure travel.
Learn more about Turkish Airlines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
£117
Turkish Airlines frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag (8kg, 55x40x23cm) + personal item (4kg, 40x30x15cm)
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Fees vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. After that, cancellation fees apply based on fare type and timing.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly until 28th week without medical clearance. Between 28-36 weeks, medical certificate required. Not allowed after 36 weeks.
Unaccompagned minor
UNACCOMPANIED minor service available for children aged 7-12. Children 12+ can travel alone. Service must be booked at least 48 hours before departure.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Turkish Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Advance notice required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin (max 8kg including carrier) and cargo hold. Must be booked in advance.
Entertaiment on board

Pegasus Airlines

About
Pegasus Airlines is a Turkish low-cost airline headquartered in Istanbul. Founded in 1990 as a charter airline, it was acquired by Esas Holding in 2005 and relaunched as a scheduled low-cost carrier. Pegasus aims to provide affordable point-to-point transportation on short and medium-range flights, establishing a wide network with high frequency. As of July 2024, Pegasus operates flights to 148 destinations in 53 countries across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The airline is known for its young fleet and focus on punctual departures.
Learn more about Pegasus Airlines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 15m
Cheapest Price
£42
Pegasus Airlines frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 personal item (35x20x20 cm) included
Additional luggage
Additional cabin bag and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available within 24 hours of booking for flights more than 7 days away
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 28th week without medical clearance, between 28-35 weeks require medical certificate, not allowed after 36th week
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 7-12 can travel as unaccompanied minors with service fee. Must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Pegasus provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchair service is available.
Pets
Small pets in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance.
Entertaiment on board

Aegean Airlines

About
Aegean Airlines is the flag carrier of Greece and a leading airline in Southeastern Europe, connecting travelers to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Operating from its main hubs in Athens and Thessaloniki, Aegean offers a modern fleet and high-quality service. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks on most flights, and additional perks in Business Class such as lounge access, premium dining, and extra comfort. With affordable fares and strong regional connectivity, Aegean Airlines is a trusted choice for exploring Greece and beyond.
Learn more about Aegean Airlines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 35m
Cheapest Price
£164
Aegean Airlines frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (max 8kg, 56x45x25cm) and 1 personal item (max 40x20x25cm)
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage, additional fees apply for extra weight
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets available with flex fare option, non-refundable tickets can be changed for a fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to the 36th week without medical certificate, after that requires doctor's approval
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with mandatory assistance service. Ages 12-17 optional assistance
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested at least 48h before departure
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board

Air Serbia

About
Air Serbia is the national flag carrier of Serbia, with its main hub at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. The airline's origins trace back to Aeroput, established in 1927, making it one of the oldest airlines in Europe. Rebranded as Air Serbia in 2013 after a partnership with Etihad Airways, the airline has since modernized its fleet and expanded its network. Air Serbia operates scheduled, seasonal, and charter flights to over 90 destinations across Europe, the Mediterranean, North America, Asia, and Africa. They offer both passenger and cargo services, and in cooperation with partner airlines, extend their reach to international destinations in Asia, Australia, North America, and Africa. The airline is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
22h 50m
Cheapest Price
£262
Air Serbia frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (8kg, 55x40x23cm) and 1 personal item (40x30x20cm) included in standard ticket.
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, with varying fees based on route and timing of purchase.
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets can be cancelled for a fee, non-refundable tickets cannot be cancelled but taxes may be refunded.
Pregnant on board
Pregnancy up to 28th week: no restrictions. From 28th to end of 36th week: medical certificate required. After 36th week: not allowed to fly.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-16. Must be booked at least 24 hours before departure. Service fee applies.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Air Serbia provides special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and support throughout the journey.
Pets
Small pets in cabin (up to 8kg including carrier) or cargo hold for larger animals.
Entertaiment on board

FAQs: Sofia to Istanbul flights

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Istanbul by flight. 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 flight, 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 plane tickets from Sofia to Istanbul can start from as little as £37 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Sofia to Istanbul is £176; 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 plane from Sofia to Istanbul is 1 h 15 min   to travel the 311 mile long journey, with around there are 14 flights per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Sofia to Istanbul leaves at 07: 30. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from Sofia to Istanbul leaves at 20: 45.
Yes, there are 3 direct flights a day from Sofia to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
For the best Sofia to Istanbul flight to purchase, you can travel safely and comfortably with Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Aegean Airlines or Air Serbia. However, it's always good to check all possible airlines with services between Sofia and Istanbul to compare what amenities they may offer.

Flights from Sofia to Istanbul generally leave from Sofia Airport and arrive in Istanbul Airport.

Sofia Airport is 12.2 km away from Sofia city centre and Istanbul Airport is 44.4 km from Istanbul city centre.

The cheapest month for a flight from Sofia to Istanbul is August.
You have options as you can travel between Sofia and Istanbul 2 different ways: coach or flight.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Sofia will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Sofia and Istanbul in winter.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e. G. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs).
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.

popular airports

Important Stations and Airports in Sofia and Istanbul

Sofia
Istanbul
The major airport for departures in Sofia is Sofia Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia Airport for your trip from Sofia to Istanbul.
Sofia Airport (SOF)WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Office
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
information
address
Address
Sofia Airport, 1 Hristofor Columb Blvd, 1540 Sofia, Bulgaria
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
carConnection
Car connection
Brussels Blvd, Exit 4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops available in both terminals, including duty-free and local brands.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available at Terminal 1 and 2, approximately 1€ per hour.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, toilets.
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Shower
Shower
  • Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including Aspire Lounge in Terminal 2.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in Terminal 2, open during airport hours.
Public transport options for Sofia Airport
  • Bus: 84, 184, 384
  • Metro: M4

More options for your journey from Sofia to Istanbul

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

Return flights from Istanbul to Sofia
Sofia to Istanbul coach
Compare all journeys between Sofia and Istanbul
More information on flights to Sofia
More information on flights to Istanbul

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