Sofia boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation system including metro, trams, buses, and trolleybuses. The metro is modern, clean, and expanding. Transportation is remarkably inexpensive, making city navigation budget-friendly for visitors.
A modern four-line metro system connecting major areas including the airport. Clean, efficient, and affordable with single rides costing approximately 1.60 BGN. Metro stations showcase contemporary design and archaeological finds - Serdika station famously incorporates Roman ruins into its structure. Trains run approximately every 5-10 minutes during peak hours. Announcements in Bulgarian and English. The metro provides the fastest way to navigate Sofia, avoiding surface traffic.
Sofia Airport (SOF) connects to the city center via Metro Line 1, taking approximately 20 minutes. Airport metro station is integrated into Terminal 2. Alternatively, public buses 84 and 384, taxis, and ride-sharing apps provide transportation options. Airport is only 10km from the center, making transfers quick and easy. Metro is the most economical option at 1.60 BGN; official taxis cost around 15-20 BGN to center.
An extensive surface transportation network covering areas not reached by metro. Trams are iconic yellow vehicles clattering through streets, while buses serve suburban and mountain areas. Single tickets cost 1.60 BGN, day passes 4 BGN. Tickets must be purchased before boarding from kiosks or machines. Validate tickets immediately upon boarding. Night buses operate on major routes. Bus 66 and 93 to Vitosha Mountain are particularly useful for tourists.
Tips for Transportation
- Payment: Buy tickets from kiosks, machines, or contactless cards; validate immediately upon boarding
- Day passes: Purchase 1-day (4 BGN) or 3-day passes for unlimited travel if using frequently
- Apps: Download Sofia Traffic app for real-time schedules and route planning
- Taxi safety: Use official OK Supertrans or Yellow Taxi; avoid unmarked vehicles near tourist areas
- Walking city: Central Sofia is very walkable; use transport mainly for airport, Vitosha, or outlying attractions