Getting Around Sofia: Your Guide to the Metro, Trams, and Buses

Sofia’s public transport is a reliable, affordable way to explore Bulgaria’s capital. The network includes a modern metro, an extensive bus system, and a charming mix of trams and trolleybuses that crisscross the city. Whether you’re arriving at the airport or staying in the centre, here’s what you need to know to travel like a local.

The metro

The metro is the fastest way to cross the city. It currently has three lines, colour-coded red, blue, and green, connecting key areas such as the city centre, the central railway and bus stations, and Sofia Airport. Trains run frequently from early morning until around midnight, with intervals of just a few minutes during peak hours. Stations are clean, well-lit, and signposted in both Bulgarian and English, making navigation straightforward for visitors.

If you’re flying in, the red line’s airport station is directly linked to Terminal 2. A short, free shuttle bus connects Terminal 1 to the station, so you can easily reach the city centre without a taxi. The journey to Serdika station, in the heart of Sofia, takes about 20 minutes.

Buses, trams, and trolleybuses

Sofia’s surface network fills the gaps left by the metro. Buses reach nearly every neighbourhood, while trams and trolleybuses serve many central routes. Trams are particularly handy for moving between the city’s main boulevards and residential areas. All vehicles display their route number and destination on the front and side, and many newer buses have electronic displays inside showing the next stop.

At night, a limited number of night bus routes operate after the metro closes. These are less frequent but cover the main corridors. If you’re out late, it’s worth checking the schedule in advance or using a taxi app as a backup.

Tickets and payment

Tickets are valid across all forms of public transport. You can buy single tickets, day passes, or multi-day passes from ticket machines at metro stations, from kiosks near major stops, or directly from some bus and tram drivers (though drivers may only accept exact change). Single tickets allow transfers within a limited time—usually around 30 minutes—so you can switch from a bus to the metro without paying twice, as long as you validate each time.

Validation is essential. On buses and trams, insert your ticket into the small yellow machines near the doors to stamp the time. On the metro, you’ll need to scan your ticket at the barriers or on the platform validators before boarding. Ticket inspectors do operate, and fines for travelling without a valid ticket are steep.

Many newer vehicles and all metro stations accept contactless bank cards or mobile payment directly at the validator, which is a convenient option if you don’t want to buy a paper ticket. Just tap your card or phone and the system deducts the fare automatically.

Practical tips for visitors

• Keep your ticket until the end of your journey, as inspectors may ask to see it.
• On escalators, stand on the right and walk on the left, as in most European cities.
• Give up priority seats to elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
• If you’re unsure which stop to get off at, follow the route on a map app or ask a fellow passenger—many locals speak some English and are happy to help.
• Download the official Sofia Urban Mobility Centre app for live schedules and route planning.

With a little preparation, Sofia’s public transport will get you anywhere you need to go. It’s a great way to see the city from a local perspective and avoid the hassle of parking or navigating traffic.