Sofia Airport is one of the cheapest major airports in Europe to get into town from. The city center is only 10 km away, and you have several options ranging from under €1 to about €20.
Metro — the cheapest option
A single metro ticket costs 1.60 BGN (~€0.80). That's it. No surcharges, no zones, no confusion. The metro takes you from Terminal 2 directly to Serdika station in the heart of Sofia in about 20 minutes. You can buy tickets from machines at the station (coins and contactless cards accepted). If you're staying more than a day, grab a day pass for 4 BGN (~€2).
Taxi — still very affordable
The official airport taxi company is OK Supertrans. A ride to the city center typically costs 10-15 BGN (€5-8), based on the metered fare. Taxi tariffs in Sofia are revised periodically, so check the tariff card in the car (or ask OK Supertrans directly) for the exact current per-km rate — the night rate (10 PM - 6 AM) is somewhat higher than the daytime rate.
Warning: Only use the official taxi rank outside arrivals. Some drivers inside the terminal will quote you 30-50 BGN for the same trip. That's a scam.
Ride-hailing apps
Bolt and Spark both operate in Sofia. Airport pickup typically costs 8-12 BGN (€4-6) to the center. Prices can surge during peak hours or late at night. The app gives you the price upfront, so no surprises.
Pre-booked private transfer
A sedan transfer from Sofia Airport to the city center runs from EUR 40. This includes meet-and-greet at arrivals, help with luggage, and a fixed price with no surprises. For a minivan (up to 8 passengers), expect from EUR 59.
Price comparison table
| Transport | Price (BGN) | Price (EUR) | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | 1.60 BGN | ~€0.80 | 20 min | Solo travelers, budget |
| Bus (Line 84) | 1.60 BGN | ~€0.80 | 30-40 min | Terminal 1 arrivals |
| Bolt/Spark | 8-12 BGN | €4-6 | 15-20 min | Convenience |
| Official taxi | 10-15 BGN | €5-8 | 15-20 min | Small groups |
| Private transfer (sedan) | — | Fixed, quoted at booking | 15-20 min | Comfort, late arrivals |
| Private transfer (minivan) | — | Fixed, quoted at booking | 15-20 min | Families, groups |
Fixed-price private transfer
SOF Sofia City Center
From€40for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €59 per vehicle, about €15 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Other destinations
Hidden costs to watch for
- Currency exchange at airport: The rates at airport exchange desks are notoriously bad. Use an ATM instead — Euronet ATMs are everywhere, but your own bank's partner ATM will have better rates.
- Unlicensed taxis: Can charge 3-5x the normal fare. Always use the official rank or an app.
- Luggage surcharges: Official taxis don't charge extra for luggage. If someone tries to add a luggage fee, they're not official.
When a private transfer from SOF is the right choice
- Three or more people: a 4-seat car to Sofia City Center is from €59, about €15 per person, usually level with or below separate public-transport tickets once you count the walk, the wait and the last mile with bags.
- Going to a specific address rather than the main station: the car goes to the door, so the public-transport fare is not the whole cost of the trip.
- Arriving tired or late: the driver waits at arrivals with your name, included for 60 minutes after landing.
SOF → Sofia City Center from €40Fixed price, flight tracked, free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup.