๐ง๐ฌ Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia Airport has two main terminals, with Terminal 2 handling most full-service international traffic and the Metro connection into the city. Terminal 1 remains relevant for low-cost and charter operations, so travelers should check terminal details before setting off.
The airport is straightforward by European capital standards, and its main practical advantage is the direct Metro link from Terminal 2 into Sofia. Travelers changing terminals need to allow time for the free shuttle bus.
Inside the terminals, distances are manageable and wayfinding is usually clear. The airport works well as a compact capital-city gateway rather than a sprawling intercontinental hub.
For most arriving passengers, the primary decision is choosing between the direct Metro link from Terminal 2, the public bus services (Lines 84 or 184), or the official OK Supertrans taxi stand. The airport's compact design ensures that all these ground transportation options are within a short walking distance, facilitating a smooth transition into the Bulgarian capital.
Sofia Airport operates two terminals with distinct transportation arrangements that significantly impact your onward travel plans. Terminal 2 connects directly to Sofia Metro Line 1 via a clearly marked underground passage, offering the fastest route to central Sofia in approximately 30 minutes for just 1. 60 BGN. The metro operates from 05:30 to 24:00 daily, with trains every 2-4 minutes during peak hours.
If you arrive at Terminal 1 (primarily serving Wizz Air and charter flights), you must take the complimentary shuttle bus to Terminal 2 to access the metro - shuttles run every 15 minutes from 05:00 to 23:00. For connecting flights within Sofia Airport, the free shuttle transfer between terminals takes about 5-10 minutes total travel time, but you should allow at least 30 minutes buffer for the connection, especially during busy periods. Both terminals offer standard amenities, though Terminal 2 has superior dining and shopping options.
Ground transportation alternatives include Bus 84 to city center (same 1. 60 BGN fare), official Yellow taxis (approximately 15-25 BGN to downtown), and various ride-sharing services. The airport's compact layout means walking distances within each terminal are manageable, but always verify your departure terminal in advance as airlines occasionally switch between terminals.
โข Take the Metro from Terminal 2 for the fastest and most reliable trip into central Sofia.
โข If you land at Terminal 1, use the free shuttle bus to reach the Metro at Terminal 2.
โข Buy Metro tickets in arrivals or just tap a contactless card at the gates.
โข Terminal 2 has the better range of food and shops if you have time before departure.
โข Sofia's metro link makes SOF one of the easier Balkan capitals for fast airport-to-center travel.
Minimum domestic connection:
35 minutes
International connections:
65 minutes
Interline transfers:
105 minutes
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Last updated: April 2026 | Data Source: IATA and other airline sites and resources