Cheap Flights from Istanbul to Sofia Starting at $40

More than 7 airlines operate flights from Istanbul to Sofia, including Pegasus Airlines, Turkish Airlines, FlyOne, Sky Express, HiSky, Air Serbia, and Aegean Airlines. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $40, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.

Sofia Airport (SOF) is Bulgaria’s main international gateway and typically acts as the country’s primary hub for both full-service carriers and a mix of low-cost airlines. Flights here can be competitively priced compared with smaller regional airports, though fares vary by season and carrier. The airport sits about 10–15 km east of Sofia’s city center; taxis usually take 15–30 minutes depending on traffic, while the metro line connects the terminal to central stations in roughly 20–25 minutes for a modest fare. Regular bus services and private shuttles are also common. Pros: relatively quick transfer to downtown and a range of carrier options. Cons: peak-hour congestion and occasional queues at security or passport control.

Istanbul is served by two main airports with distinct roles. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s large international hub, typically handling most long-haul and premium carriers as well as many full-service airlines; fares there can be mid-to-high compared with smaller airports. It sits about 40–50 km from the historic center; travel options include the Havaist shuttle buses (roughly 60–90 minutes, paid fares), taxis (about 40–60 minutes, variable fares), and newly extended metro links that usually take around an hour. Pros: modern facilities, lots of lounges and international connections. Cons: longer transfers and potentially higher ground-transport costs. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) functions mainly as a secondary, budget- and low-cost-carrier base on the Asian side. It typically hosts many low-cost and regional flights and can be perceived as cheaper on average for point-to-point fares. The airport lies roughly 35–45 km from central European-side attractions but closer to the Asian-side neighborhoods; shuttle buses and private transfers generally take 45–75 minutes, with taxis slightly quicker depending on traffic. Pros: often lower fares and less congestion inside. Cons: fewer long-haul options and longer cross-city transfers if you’re staying on the opposite side.

The cost of a one-way flight from Istanbul to Sofia ranges from $42 (October 2025) to $48 (November 2025). On average, the ticket price is about $47–$47.