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How to get from Plovdiv to Sofia
Buses take about 2 h and run frequently; BDZ trains take about 2 h 30–3 h. Driving takes about 1 h 45 via the Trakia motorway.
Best option: Bus. Buses are frequent, cheap and faster than the train.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Intercity buses from Plovdiv to Sofia central bus station | about 2 h | roughly every 30–60 minutes | about €8–10 | Several companies operate; buy at the station. |
| train BDZ trains from Plovdiv to Sofia central station | about 2 h 30–3 h | several a day | about €5–8 | Slower but comfortable. |
| car Trakia motorway (A1) | about 1 h 45 | fuel plus the Bulgarian e-vignette | Sofia traffic can be heavy. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Buy the Bulgarian e-vignette before driving.
- Sofia central bus and train stations are next to each other.
- Weekend buses fill up; arrive early.
- Check BDZ for train times; delays are common.
Common questions
Bus or train?
The bus is faster at about 2 hours and runs more frequently. The train takes about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours and is slightly cheaper. Both arrive next to each other in Sofia. Plovdiv has more than one bus station, so check which one your company uses.
Can I do Sofia as a day trip?
Yes. With about 2 hours each way by bus or car, you can spend a full day in Sofia, visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the old city centre and the Boyana Church. Check the last bus back; evening departures are frequent, so you can stay for dinner.
How much does it cost?
Buses cost about €8–10 one way and trains about €5–8 (Bulgaria uses the euro since 2026). Driving costs fuel plus the e-vignette, which is required on Bulgarian motorways. Prices are low compared to Western Europe. Train tickets are sold at the station counter and online.
Do I need to book ahead?
Usually not. Buses run frequently and you can buy tickets at the station. On Friday afternoons and holidays buses can fill up, so arrive early or buy online. Trains have unreserved seating on most services. Allow extra time at holiday weekends, when roads and buses are busiest.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.