Passengers have shared positive experiences, highlighting the convenience of city access without airport hassles and a smooth ride with good seating. Despite some delays due to traffic or minor departure issues, users found the driving service satisfactory overall. However, there were mentions of limited food options at certain stops.
Union Ivkoni Thessaloniki Sofia recent customer reviews
Horrific experience. The trip online said it would last 4:30 hours and actually ended up being 7. Bus showed up 30 minutes late and we ended up leaving 40 after the original departure time. Then we made at least two stops in towns and villages to drop off passengers while this should have been the express bus. The state of the bus inside was also horrific, broker arm rests, no ac on at times, no power plug and very dirty. Lastly, the driver ended up fighting with two passengers because we got stuck in traffic and all of them lost their next transports. Would literally rather walk than take this company again
1.0 out of 5 stars
Ioanna P.
Small departure delay. Everest cafe not the best place for stop, limited options for food there. Relaxing ride.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Theos T.
The bus was 1h 15 min late, but due to heavy traffic. The bus and driver were perfect
Users have reported that the buses are comfortable and generally start and reach their destinations on time. The staff is noted to be helpful, although there were instances where communication issues arose with drivers at border crossings. Some passengers felt more politeness from the drivers would enhance their travel experience further.
Arda Tur Thessaloniki Sofia recent customer reviews
The bus was comfortable, with enough space to move around while seated. The driver drove smoothly, and the trip was enjoyable. For a short time, the heating was turned on, which was unnecessary because it was already warm.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Georgi D.
Drivers should be more helpful with the baggages and more polite. They also must understand both languages.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Melina P.
12:30 is midday.
00:30 is easier to understand that it is midnight.That means that I didn't travel at all.I have to buy a new ticket.Disappointment.
Users have shared positive experiences, highlighting the ease of booking and check-in processes. The journey was relaxed, arriving on schedule as expected. Additionally, travelers appreciated a 40-minute break for food or coffee during the trip. Overall satisfaction is evident from these reviews with high recommendations noted by users.
FlixBus Thessaloniki Sofia recent customer reviews
Very easy booking, check in and a relaxed travel. Arrived on schedule, would highly recommend.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Julia R.
All was perfect !Especially that we had 40 min. “Break” for food or coffee .
Based on 22 reviews, the company was rated 2.4 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the Wi-Fi and the staff but often complained about the value for money. Openline ticket prices on this trip start at R 1 052
According to 13 reviews, Tourist Service Holding received a 4.4-star rating for this journey. Travellers were especially satisfied with the temperature and the cleanliness, but some complained about the power outlets. Tourist Service Holding ticket prices on this trip start at R 789
Tourist Service Thessaloniki Sofia recent customer reviews
The staff were very professional and helpful. The bus developed a mechanical problem enroute but the staff worked diligently to resolve it so overall it was a positive experience
5.0 out of 5 stars
Shrijayanti P.
Excellent bus, good timing, could use one more stop and some English assistance but other wise great
Based on 34 reviews, the company was rated 3.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the cleanliness but often complained about the Wi-Fi. LIKEBUS ticket prices on this trip start at R 1 052
Based on 361 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the timeliness and the temperature but often complained about the Wi-Fi. Karat-S ticket prices on this trip start at R 563
Citylines Thessaloniki Sofia recent customer reviews
The bus did not turn up. I had to buy a ticket from another company. It was an extremely stressful experience. If I could not source alternative arrangements I would have been stranded
1.0 out of 5 stars
Neil F.
Very helpful driver and posh coach. Felt safe. The toilet was locked and out of use.
Based on 2 reviews, the company was rated 2.5 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the timeliness and the departure location but often complained about the value for money. Ilias Travel ticket prices on this trip start at R 298
Based on 499 reviews, the company was rated 3.9 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the cleanliness but often complained about the power outlets. Infobus ticket prices on this trip start at R 601
Based on 3 reviews, the company was rated 3.3 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the staff and the seats but often complained about the timeliness. Maks Trans LTD ticket prices on this trip start at R 673
Frequently asked questions about travelling from Thessaloniki to Sofia by bus
Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or differ at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
The cheapest bus tickets from Thessaloniki to Sofia start at R 256. The average price for this route is around R 571. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for the best chance of getting the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus journey from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
The average bus journey time from Thessaloniki to Sofia is 5h, covering a distance of 232 km. The fastest bus gets you there in 2h 45m and is operated by Infobus.
Which bus companies service the Thessaloniki to Sofia route?
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
The earliest bus departs from Thessaloniki to Sofia at 00:05. And the latest bus departs at 17:30.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
A bus trip from Thessaloniki to Sofia produces an estimated 5.794925 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and Busbud’s recommended way to travel.
What is the best bus company from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Tourist Service Holding, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on 51 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Openline has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 5.0.
Which bus company offers the most punctual service from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most punctual bus company on this route is Ilias Travel, with a punctuality rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Thessaloniki to Sofia?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Maks Trans LTD, with a cleanliness rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
03/10
R 365
04/10
R 828
Today
R 314
06/10
R 393
07/10
R 295
08/10
R 295
09/10
R 275
10/10
R 236
The cheapest trip from Thessaloniki to Sofia was searched and found on 10 Oct 2026 with a price of R 236
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Thessaloniki to Sofia as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from R 236 to R 972 for a bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Sofia based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 236, which is on 2026-10-10.
Usually Arda Tur will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.