Transfers Countries Romania BucharestBucharest to Sofia

Private car transfer from Bucharest to Sofia

Door-to-door
in 5 h 40 min

From €69
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Bucharest.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 5 h 40 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Sofia.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

358 km5 h 40 min

A car trip from Bucharest to Sofia

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 Complex

The 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!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Bucharest to Sofia

Is there a direct train from Bucharest to Sofia?

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.

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.

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.

Visit these sights on the way

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

Why travelers love this route

5,100+ reviews

5 reviews for this route
1,267 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Sep 27, 2023

Good value, professional, reliable company

“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.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler rodneyq110

Jan 4, 2023

AMAZING! Would Recommend to Anyone!

“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.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler hannahkQ5021NG

Jun 18, 2019

Private transfer from Bucharest to Sofia and more

“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.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler babuvin007

May 28, 2019

Take the worry out of your drive from Bucharest to Sofia

“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.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler DMS S

Sep 19, 2018

Excellent in every way

“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”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler martyngs

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.