How to get from Sofia to Plovdiv?

The journey from Sofia to Plovdiv is one of the most popular routes in Bulgaria, with the distance between the two cities being approximately 145 km.
There are several main ways to get around – by car, bus, train, taxi or private taxi transfer.
Here we will look at all the options, providing useful information on times, costs, and tips for a more comfortable journey.

The most popular ways for transport for Sofia – Plovdiv are:

1. Bus
2. Train
3. Taxi
4. Private Transfer
5. VIP Transfer

In this article you will find both the advantages and disadvantages of each of the listed modes of transport from Sofia to Plovdiv

1. Good Price: bus tickets are usually priced roughly to those of a train and several times cheaper than the price of a taxi, making bus travel one of the most affordable options.
2. Regular timetable: the route from Sofia to Plovdiv is one of the most frequently used as far as bus transport is concerned – see the timetables 
3. Direct routes: there are direct routes without the need to change trains, which saves time compared to some of the trains that need a coupling.

1. Journey Time: Depending on traffic, the journey may take longer than the train or car. The journey is between 2 hours to 2 and a half hours, but there may be delays.
2. Dependence on traffic: if there is congestion on the road, it can significantly slow down the journey and make it longer, which is a prerequisite for missing commitments.
3. Not so many amenities: although many buses offer comfort, in some cases the conditions may not be as comfortable as those of a private transfer.
4. Inconvenience for longer journeys: if you are planning to travel with large luggage or in hours with more traffic, it may be less convenient than other methods of transport.
5. Crowded seats: especially during peak times and holidays, buses may be crowded and there may be no seats available, depriving you of the opportunity to purchase a ticket.

1. Comfort and privacy: a taxi provides convenience and comfort by travelling with only the people you want to be with. You don’t have to share space with other passengers like on buses or trains.
2. Fast travel: Taxi one of the fastest ways to travel alongside individual transfer as it is not dependent on public transport schedules and routes. You will arrive directly from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv without wasting time on transfers.
3. Flexibility: you can choose the exact travel time that suits you. You won’t have to conform to schedules or wait in long lines.
4. Big luggage: unlike buses or trains, which may have luggage restrictions, a taxi offers much more space and comfort for carrying large or heavy luggage.

1. Price: Taxis are significantly more expensive than other transport options. Travelling from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv will cost you much more compared to buses and trains, which may be a limitation for some passengers.
2. Long travel time in traffic: although a taxi is the fastest means of transport under normal conditions, in the case of heavy traffic on the road, the journey can be significantly delayed. This is especially likely at rush hour or during peak tourist seasons. The duration is usually around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Prices dependent on external factors: the cost of a taxi ride can vary depending on traffic, time of day and other factors. This can create a sense of uncertainty about the final price.
4. Reservation: you cannot make a taxi reservation from Sofia to Plovdiv that will fully satisfy your needs – whether it is a longer luggage capacity, more seats or a car type that will accommodate the long journey ahead.

1. Convenience and comfort: travelling with a private taxi transfer provides comfort and convenience as you can relax in the car and avoid the inconvenience of public transport, not well maintained yellow taxis.
2. Flexibility: You can choose the exact time and date of travel without having to conform to schedules or wait for other passengers. This is handy if you need to arrive at a specific time on a specific date.
3. You define the route: you travel directly from point A to point B, without making stops (except at will) or deviating from the route.
4. A personal touch: with Truedrivers, you have a personal driver who can provide extra assistance if you have special needs or want to make a short stop along the way.
5. Real-time flight tracking: in case your flight is delayed, your driver monitors your flight in real time and will be waiting for you when you land without any extra pressure.
6. Fixed price including taxes: all costs – parking, fuel, motorway tolls, passenger insurance included – all included and predictable for the most enjoyable journey.
7. 24-Hour Service: 24-hour call center that would assist you with whatever you need.
8. More seats: you can book a minivan 6+1 seats and a minibus 8+1 seats if you are a larger group or a larger family

1. Higher level of service compared to individual transfer.

2. Personalised service: One of the main pluses is the high level of service, which includes drivers who are professional, discreet and willing to accommodate special needs (for example, if you have specific preferences about the temperature in the car or stops along the way).

3. Additional amenities such as free Wi-Fi, water and device charging.

4. Confidentiality: with VIP transfers, you can enjoy confidentiality, which can be particularly useful for business trips or when travelling for personal reasons.

1.Higher cost of indoor transfer compared to bus, train and train due to higher quality of service.
2.Need to book in advance (at least 24 hours before the date).