As of 2024, no direct train runs between Bucharest and Sofia. However, up to two daily indirect services operate between the cities. The earliest departure leaves Bucharest North Train Station at 10:47 AM and arrives in Sofia at 8:21 AM. Expect to pay $32-$39 (€30–€45) for an adult fare.
Is Sofia worth visiting?
Sofia is one of Europe's most underrated cities and is definitely worth visiting. There are few international tourists here. So you can get a true insight into Bulgarian culture and ways of life. It's also one of the continent's cheapest cities, so you won't break the bank visiting museums and eating out.
Is there a train from Romania to Bulgaria?
As of 2024, trains operate from Romania to Bulgaria. However, there are limited services. The train only enters from two points in the nation: Ruse in the south and Vidin in the southwest. From here, you'll need to switch carriages to a Bulgarian train provider.
Is there a sleeper train from Bucharest to Sofia?
Unfortunately, there’s no sleeper train from Bucharest to Sofia. The service stopped in the 2010s. You can catch a night train between the two cities. However, you'll need to change carriages. A bus also runs the distance, but there are no beds or fully reclinable seats.
Which is better, Sofia or Bucharest?
Sofia and Bucharest are both fascinating yet contrasting cities, so deciding which is better comes down to your preferences. Sofia is better if you enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere, exploring ancient ruins, and relaxing in thermal baths. Bucharest will suit you more if you prefer a bustling city, vibrant nightlife, and a modern ambiance.
Daytrip은 전 세계 14,700+ 개 도시를 경험할 수 있는 가장 편리한 방법입니다.
모든 여행자는 자신이 방문하는 국가의 문화에 대한 진정한 통찰을 받을 자격이 있습니다. 그리고 지구상의 모든 놀라운 장소는 방문하고 감상할 가치가 있습니다. 우리는 독특한 현지 지식과 진정한 인간적 연결이 다른 문화를 진정으로 이해하는 데 있어 대체할 수 없다고 믿습니다.
Bulgaria is a breathtaking nation with geological wonders as diverse as its culture. Fortunately, you can experience the best of one of Eastern Europe's largest countries on the road from Bucharest to Sofia!
As you dig out of Bucharest's sprawling metropolises, its thick concrete jungle begins to thin out. Tree-lined roads guide you to the rugged terrain of the Romanian frontier with Bulgaria, where soaring hills peak into the heavens. As you exit the dark tunnels cutting through mountains, a new postcard image with dense foliage clinging to cliffs paints itself before you.
The few traditional villages are the only reminder that you live in the 21st century. The fresh air and unspoiled vistas surrounding you are a constant until Sofia's skyline stands proudly beneath the surrounding hills. You'll know you're at the journey's end once the bubble-like structure of the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky dominates the view from your window.
By modern-day standards, Bulgaria is relatively unexplored by travelers. Therefore, many are skeptical about a road trip from Bucharest to Sofia. That's why we created a comprehensive guide with everything you need to know about traveling on this stunning and exciting Eastern European adventure!
About Sofia
The Bulgarian capital is the final stop of your thrilling venture from Bucharest to Sofia. Over 1.3 million locals live in this growing area along the banks of the Iskar River. Though it's the state's political headquarters, it sits in the extreme east, only 34 miles from Serbia's front door. And it's that location that has contributed to its fascinating past and present.
### Early Sofia
Sofia is one of Europe's oldest permanent settlements, founded by the Thracian Tilataei tribes in the 6th century BC. A Celtic tribe called Serdi was next to inhabit the land after Philip II of Macedon burned it down in 339 BC.
During the 1st century BC, the Roman Empire conquered the region and gave it a new name, Serdica. As a result of its financial headquarters, the city quickly became one of the most important in the area. Additionally, it was a meeting place for Christian bishops and boasted mineral-rich thermal baths.
### Developing Sofia
Sofia witnessed several rulers after the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 AD. The Byzantines, Bulgarians, and Ottomans controlled the city, leading to the mismatch of artistic styles you can still see today. Although the previous empires developed the urban space, the region didn't grow significantly until after World War II.
Communist Prime Minister Georgi Dimitrov believed that industrialization was vital to success. As a result, he built many factories that focused on providing anything from textiles to chemicals. The funds generated went to rebuilding damaged parts of the city in a distinguishable communist style.
### Modern Sofia
Today, Sofia is a mix of architecture and ways of life. On the one hand, you have religious temples wedged between historical walkways. On the other hand, you have youthful nightclubs housed in modern settings. Almost every visitor gets blown away by this melting pot of culture.
Even though it's a bustling metropolis with trendy cafes popping up on each street corner, you feel close to nature. Endless green spaces nestle themselves throughout the avenues, and tourists from across Europe come to speed down the ski slopes just a bus ride from downtown!
Language: Bulgarian
Currency: Bulgarian lev (BGN)
Climate: humid continental
Time zone: GMT+2
* Plug types: C and F
From Bucharest to Sofia: travel tips
The driving distance from Bucharest to Sofia is around 221 miles. So, you'll need to learn a few insider tips for a comfortable and stress-free voyage!
### Prioritize comfort
Bulgaria and Romania aren't wealthy countries. Although there's a transportation network between Bucharest and Sofia, many carriages don't have modern conveniences.
Luckily, both are very affordable nations. So consider spending more on a first-class train ticket or extra legroom on buses for this extensive trip.
### Plan sightseeing
Many tourists book a ticket from Bucharest to Sofia without a second thought. However, if you're a keen traveler, you’ll want to experience the extraordinary towns and attractions on route.
Nature lovers will fall in love with Prohodna Cave, stretching 262 meters, and if you are a history buff, add The Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo to your travel schedule. But no matter your passions, you'll appreciate the ancient hilltop town of Veliko Tarnovo!
### Carry cash
Bulgaria is much more card-friendly compared to before the global pandemic. However, small cities and attractions en route still only accept cash. Even when establishments have a card machine, you usually have to spend at least €10.
It's a good idea to have some Bulgarian lev in your wallet. Remember, if you're withdrawing from an ATM, never opt for the currency exchange!
How to get from Bucharest to Sofia
There's no shortage of transportation links when traveling from Bucharest to Sofia. But each one offers its own advantages!
Flight from Bucharest to Sofia
A fight isn't a popular mode of transportation when going from Bucharest to Sofia. But since it's the fastest way to transfer, business travelers primarily opt for this method.
Bulgaria Air and Tarom fly between the cities in around 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, this doesn't include taxis to and from the airport and the 1.5-hour waiting time for security checks, plus however long it takes to get off the plane and get your luggage.
Cheapest/average price: €80-€150
Average flight duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Average weekly direct flights: 5
### Bus from Bucharest to Sofia
The bus is the cheapest way to travel from Bucharest to Sofia. Therefore, it's the most popular way for locals and tourists to travel between the capitals.
InfoBus and Flixbus operate on this route. Both have modern conveniences such as air conditioning, restrooms, and free wifi, but not all services depart from the same destinations. Bucharest has five stations, and Sofia has four, so double-check which is more convenient for you before handing over your cash.
Cheapest/average price: €10-€26
Average duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes
First/last departure: 9:40 PM-11:30 PM
### *Train from Bucharest to Sofia
Trains in Romania and Bulgaria are frequent but often slower than the bus. Companies still use older models, and many regions outside the cities are underfunded with old-fashioned infrastructure. As a result, it's an uncommon mode of transportation between Bucharest and Sofia.
However, backpackers utilizing the Interrail Pass do use this route. So it can be crowded during the peak tourist season in the summer. There’s also no direct route, but CFR Calatori offers several indirect services, allowing you to explore alternative cities such as Craiova and Vidin.
Cheapest/average cost: €30-€45
Fastest/average duration: 9 hours, 34 minutes; 11 hours, 32 minutes
* First/last departure: 10:47 AM-11:23 PM
### Daytrip private car from Bucharest to Sofia*
Daytrip is the fastest, most convenient, and most comfortable way to travel from Bucharest to Sofia. In 5 hours and 40 minutes, your professional driver will help with your luggage, speed through the rugged hills of Bulgaria, and drop you off directly at your new accommodation in the capital.
The chances are you won't know much about the nation, so why speak to your driver? Although they're not official tourist guides, they're passionate locals who can reveal alternative sites, the best places to eat, or historical tales you won't find in a travel blog. You can also stop to visit Pleven, the "Town of Museums", while they stay behind to watch your luggage!
Seats from: €69
English-speaking driver
Sanitized car
Equipped for children and those with limited mobility
24/7 customer support
* Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!
Things to do when you get to Sofia
Did you know Bulgaria's capital houses a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the world's largest Orthodox cathedrals, and 75 thermal springs nearby? After your venture from Bucharest to Sofia, you'll have countless things to see and do!
### Marvel at the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Alexander Pomerantsev built this cathedral over 100 years ago. Yet it's still one of the largest orthodox cathedrals worldwide today!
First, admire its striking Neo-Byzantine architecture, decorated with golden domes and intricate mosaics. Then, you can step inside to marvel at the impressive interior, filled with beautiful frescoes and ornate decorations. Remember to take a moment to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and learn about the cathedral's significance in Bulgarian history.
### Venture out to Boyana Church
Boyana Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site five miles southwest of downtown Sofia. However, its location on the city's outskirts provides a peaceful setting despite its proximity to cafe-lined avenues.
The oldest section of this man-made wonder dates back to the 10th century, and Sebastocrator Kaloyan ordered the construction of its middle section in the 13th century. Inside, the hand-painted murals are some of Eastern Europe's best historical artworks that focus on realism and individuality from scenes of the Bible.
Although this is open to the public, please respect the setting as locals come here to pray.
### Unwind in Sofia City Garden
At some point, you'll want to relax after a day jam-packed with museums and exploring historical walkways. Sofia City Garden is conveniently located in the city center and offers numerous benches or shaded fields to get off your feet for an hour or so. You can even grab a coffee from one of the surrounding cafes and enjoy your beverage with a beautiful view.
Sofia City Garden is the oldest public park in the city. Though it has several historical features, there are modern elements too. The most notable are the water features and temporary art exhibitions.
### Treat yourself to a thermal spa
Sofia is one of Europe's best spa towns. Although the natural thermal springs sit on the city's outskirts, they're easily accessible by public transport during the day and night.
One of the most popular with locals is Sanatorium Zdrave, around 20–25 minutes west of downtown Sofia. You'll discover everything from hot tubs to saunas and swimming pools to mineral baths inside. Tickets cost less than €8 on weekdays and rise slightly during the weekends.
### Explore the Serdika Archaeological ComplexThe Serdika Archaeological Complex may not have the awe-inspiring status of Rome's Colosseum, but these museums give a fascinating insight into the world's most famed empires.
The site showcases the city's oldest settlement, Serdika. And rather bizarrely, it was only discovered when Sofia was developing its metro system. Fortunately, much conservation effort has gone into preserving this historical gem, so you can visit it when you drive from Bucharest to Sofia!
When is the best time to visit Sofia?
There's never an underwhelming time to drive to Bulgaria. However, hot summers and freezing winters might not be enjoyable for every traveler. Spring is arguably the best time to travel from Bucharest to Sofia!
From March to June, the average daily temperature is 73° Fahrenheit, cooler than the sweltering summer sun but just right for spending your day on walking tours, eating at outdoor terraces, and relaxing in gardens. Since spring is also the blooming season, it's the most beautiful time to visit when the green spaces bust into vibrant colors.
There are also fewer tourists compared to the summer. This is ideal, as you'll have enough personal space to enjoy festivals and events, including Easter and Sofia Music Weeks!
가는 길에 이 명소들을 방문하세요
Comana Monastery
Built by Vlad the Impaler, Dracula himself is believed to be buried within the walls of this fortified monastery. Dracula’s Resting Place
Sveta Troitsa Church
Built according to the Turkish standard that churches remain as inconspicuous as possible, visitors descend 4.5 metres before being graced by its museum and artwork. The Underground Cathedral
Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo
At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors can marvel at a medieval church, carved into a cliff, filled with vibrant frescoes. A Complex Secret
Veliko Tarnovo
This scenic hilltop town is filled with history, being one of the oldest settlement in the country, as well as the former capital. The City of Tsars
Pleven
Famous for its 19th century siege, the 'Town of Museums' is filled with ways for visitors to learn about its long history. Besieged by History
Prohodna Cave
Stretching for 262 metres, Bulgaria's longest cave passage is best known for the two eye-like holes in the ceiling of its central chamber. The Eyes of God
“저희 운전기사 이브라힘은 정말 훌륭했습니다. 그는 암만 공항에서 페트라까지 우리를 데려다주었습니다. 저희 비행기가 한 시간 일찍 도착했는데도 공항 출구에 도착했을 때 이미 기다리고 있었습니다. 그는 친절하고 전문적이며 매우 도움이 되었습니다. 다음에도 꼭 이브라힘과 다시 이용하고 싶고 강력히 추천합니다.”
“페루 리마를 여행하는 동안 두 번의 개인 이동 서비스를 예약하기 위해 이 웹사이트를 우연히 발견하게 되어 정말, 정말 기뻤습니다. 두 번 모두 약 3시간 정도의 편도 이동이었습니다. 예약을 이메일로 완료한 직후부터 소통이 매우 좋았고, 이후에는 앱도 다운로드했습니다. 앱 사용 중 몇 가지 문제가 있었지만 고객 서비스가 정말 훌륭하게 도와주며 해결하려고 노력해 주었습니다. 솔직히 고객 서비스가 매우 인상적이었고, 올바른 선택을 했다는 좋은 느낌을 받았습니다. 두 명의 기사님 모두 정확히 제시간에 도착했고 전혀 문제가 없었습니다! 이렇게 먼 곳을 여행할 때 서비스가 얼마나 훌륭하고 모든 과정이 얼마나 편리했는지 아무리 말해도 부족합니다. Daytrip 팀에 큰 박수를 보냅니다! 강력히 추천합니다.”
“우리는 토스카나에서의 2일 여행 동안 같은 기사님과 함께했습니다. 제가 직접 여행 일정을 짤 수 있어서 우리가 가고 싶은 곳과 보고 싶은 것들을 마음껏 즐길 수 있었습니다. 마르코는 정말 훌륭했습니다! 그는 우리를 위해 차 문을 열어 주었고, 제 어머니가 차에 타고 내리기 편하도록 세심하게 도와주었습니다. 차 안에는 우리를 위한 물도 준비되어 있었습니다. 그는 이틀 모두 우리를 데리러 올 때 일찍 도착했고, 가능한 한 마을 가까이까지 데려다주었습니다. 도시로 들어가는 길도 알려 주었고, 우리가 거리를 둘러본 뒤 다시 쉽게 만날 수 있도록 자신의 위치도 보내주었습니다. 토스카나 여행을 위해 운전기사를 예약하기로 한 결정에 정말 만족합니다. 처음 가보는 지역에서 운전해야 한다는 걱정과 어디에 주차해야 할지 모르는 불안이 모두 사라졌습니다. 정말 잘 쓴 돈이었습니다!”
“우리는 Day Trip에서 받은 서비스의 품질에 매우 만족했습니다. 우리는 8월 31일 아테네에서 레프카다로, 9월 7일 레프카다에서 아테네로 돌아오는 두 번의 Day Trip을 이용했습니다. 두 여행 모두 그리스의 아름다운 명소에서의 정차가 포함되어 있었습니다. 두 운전사 모두 훌륭하고 친절했습니다. 그러나 특히 우리를 레프카다에서 아테네로 데려다준 기사 Panos Peppas를 언급하고 싶습니다. Panos는 믿을 수 없을 만큼 친절하고 유쾌했으며, 뛰어난 고객 서비스를 제공했습니다. 그 서비스에는 모든 짐을 처리해 주는 것, 여행 내내 차가운 물을 제공해 주는 것, 단백질 바를 제공해 주는 것, 코린트 운하(경유지 중 하나)에 대한 인쇄물을 제공해 주는 것, 귀국 항공편의 터미널 및 게이트 정보를 찾아 알려주는 것, 그리고 자지키 요리법을 알려주는 것이 포함되었습니다.”
“Did two itineraries: 8 night Best of Romania and 4 night Taste of Bulgaria. Vlad was very accommodating in adjusting itineraries and accommodation to our wishes. Driver/guides (Gelu and Marina) were excellent - flexible and helpful people who brought the history and culture of each country alive for us.”
“Amazing service! We used DayTrip twice during our travels in Europe, and it made traveling SO much better! We easily went from Bucharest, Romania to the countryside and then did a 7-hour trip from Bucharest to Sofia, Bulgaria. Trains are way longer and more stressful. Daytrip is convenient and our drivers were very knowledgeable and helpful. They recommend stops along the way and those stops were some of our highlights of the entire trip! Definitely recommending Daytrip to anyone traveling through Europe.”
“We have just come back from our tours in some of the Balkan Countries. We took Daytrip for all our transfers Brasov - Bucharest, Bucharest - Sofia, Sofia Belgrade, Belgrade - Budapest.
The service clearly exceeded our expectations with prompt and very pleasing drivers with very good knowledge of the region.
I am sure that I will look for Daytrip as my first choice for any future transfers where they are available.”
“My trip from Bucharest to Sofia with Catalin P. was as advertised — he picked me up at my Bucharest hotel on time, took me to a side visit to Veliko Tarnovo, then on to my hotel in Sofia without incident. I found Catalin to be a safe, courteous, and friendly driver, which I appreciated very much. His English is excellent and he was quite willing to engage me in conversation, answering my questions and providing opinions on a variety of topics. Although I found the service to be a bit expensive, I would recommend it without hesitation.”
“A bit nervous about booking a trip between two Eastern European cities, but no need to worry. Tudor turned up in his clean car at our hotel in Brasov a good 15 minutes early, so we were on the road in good time. Tudor speaks excellent English, is a good, safe driver and a great conversationalist. I thought the trip might be a bit tedious, but we chatted all the way and we learned quite a bit about Romanian life. Crossing the border into Bulgaria took a bit longer than expected and there were the inevitable roadworks, but we arrived at the door of our hotel in Sofia about 20 minutes later than expected. Poor Tudor had a trip from Bucharest to Sofia the next morning, so was heading back in that direction..
Brilliant service, reasonable price, excellent driver. Would use again without any hesitation whatsoever.
Very highly recommended”
Tripadvisor 여행자 martyngs 의 리뷰
알아두면 좋은 정보
어린이
어린이와 함께 여행하시는 경우, 예약 시 알려주시면 적절한 어린이 좌석을 준비하겠습니다!
반려동물
애완동물은 허용됩니다(그리고 사랑받습니다)! 미리 알려주시면 됩니다. 예약의 다음 단계에서 애완동물에 대해 알려주실 수 있습니다.
팁
팁은 포함되지 않으며 필수도 아니지만, 여행을 정말 즐기셨다면 선택적으로 팁(10% 정도)을 주셔서 운전기사에게 감사의 마음을 표현할 수 있습니다.
수하물
대형 수하물
29x21x11 인치
74x53x28 cm
소형 수하물
22x14x9 인치
56x36x23 cm
각 승객은 위탁 수하물 1개와 기내 수하물 1개를 소지할 수 있습니다. 더 많은 가방이나 초과 수하물을 가지고 여행하는 경우 예약 시 이를 조정할 수 있습니다.
결제 방법
온라인으로 신용카드로 결제하거나, 운전자에게 직접 현금으로 결제하세요!
Daytrip은 현지 운전 기사분과 연결하여 한 도시에서 다른 도시로 문 앞에서 문 앞까지 이동할 수 있도록 도와주는 플랫폼입니다. 이동 중에 관광명소나 명소를 탐험할 기회도 제공합니다. 우리는 운전하고, 당신은 발견합니다.
모든 Daytrip 예약은 편도입니다. 다른 날짜에 왕복 여행이 필요한 경우, 별도의 편도 여행으로 예약하십시오. 당일치기 여행의 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 하실 수 있습니다. 몇 시간 이상 머무를 계획이라면, 운전 기사 대기 비용을 지불하지 않기 위해 두 개의 편도 여행을 예약하는 것을 권장합니다.
Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불을 받을 수 있습니다. Daytrip Pool 공유 셔틀의 경우, 예약 시 세 가지 옵션을 제공합니다: 환불 불가능한 Non-refundable 옵션, 출발 24시간 전까지 취소 가능한 flexible 옵션, 출발 15분 전까지 취소 가능한 Super-flexible 옵션. Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 예약 취소는 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불되지만, 성수기에는 36시간 이내에 요청된 변경 사항은 운전기사의 일정에 따라 달라질 수 있습니다.
홈페이지에서 출발지와 도착지를 선택하고 출발 날짜와 시간을 입력하세요. 화면에 제공된 예약 지침에 따라 경유지 관광지를 검색하고 추가하세요. 간단하고 쉬우며 재미있게 다음 모험을 예약할 수 있습니다! 원하는 경로가 웹사이트에 없을 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 할 수도 있습니다. 정확한 승차 또는 하차 주소를 모르는 경우에도 예약할 수 있으며, 나중에 주소들를 추가 및 수정할 수 있습니다!
각 승객분은 큰 가방 1개(29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm)와 작은 가방 1개(22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm)를 허용합니다. 고급 세단은 큰 가방 2개만 수용할 수 있습니다. 항상 귀하와 수하물에 가장 적합한 차량을 보내드리므로 예약 시 실제 여행 수하물의 양을 선택하십시오. 특대 수하물이 있거나 수하물이 적합할지 확신이 서지 않는 경우, 연락처로 문의해 주세요.
미국을 제외한 모든 지역에서는 운전자가 적절한 어린이용 카시트를 제공합니다(예약 시 알려주시면 됩니다). 미국의 경우, 일부 주에서는 고객이 직접 어린이용 카시트를 준비해야 합니다.
