A historic square with ornate buildings, a prominent cathedral, and a tram in motion.

$122 Cheap Flights from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)

View $122 flight on Fri, Jun 18, 2027Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sofia Airport (SOF)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Istanbul to Sofia (IST-SOF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $122 for one-way flights and $181 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Lufthansa
Fri, Apr 16 - Tue, Apr 20
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$181 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$181
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Fri, Apr 16 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Tue, Apr 20, priced at $181 found 3 days ago
Lufthansa
Fri, Mar 26 - Tue, Mar 30
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$182 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$182
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Fri, Mar 26 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Tue, Mar 30, priced at $182 found 3 days ago
Lufthansa
Sat, Feb 20 - Mon, Feb 22
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$195 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$195
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Sat, Feb 20 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Mon, Feb 22, priced at $195 found 6 days ago
Lufthansa
Fri, Mar 26 - Tue, Mar 30
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$198 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$198
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Fri, Mar 26 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Tue, Mar 30, priced at $198 found 3 days ago
Lufthansa
Tue, Oct 13 - Fri, Oct 16
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$203 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$203
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Fri, Oct 16, priced at $203 found 5 days ago
Lufthansa
Wed, Sep 23 - Fri, Sep 25
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$205 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$205
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Wed, Sep 23 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Fri, Sep 25, priced at $205 found 1 hour ago
Lufthansa
Wed, Oct 7 - Sun, Oct 11
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$207 Roundtrip, found 15 hours ago
$207
Roundtrip
found 15 hours ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Wed, Oct 7 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Sun, Oct 11, priced at $207 found 15 hours ago
Lufthansa
Fri, Oct 30 - Mon, Nov 2
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$209 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$209
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Fri, Oct 30 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Mon, Nov 2, priced at $209 found 6 days ago
Lufthansa
Tue, Oct 6 - Tue, Oct 13
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$211 Roundtrip, found 13 hours ago
$211
Roundtrip
found 13 hours ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Tue, Oct 6 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Tue, Oct 13, priced at $211 found 13 hours ago
Air Serbia
Fri, Nov 13 - Mon, Nov 16
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$237 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$237
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Air Serbia flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $237 found 6 days ago
LOT-Polish Airlines
Fri, Oct 30 - Tue, Nov 3
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$241 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$241
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select LOT-Polish Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 30 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Tue, Nov 3, priced at $241 found 6 days ago
SKY express
Wed, Nov 4 - Thu, Nov 12
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$250 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$250
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select SKY express flight, departing Wed, Nov 4 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Thu, Nov 12, priced at $250 found 6 days ago
Turkish Airlines
Fri, Mar 26 - Tue, Mar 30
IST
Istanbul
SOF
Sofia
$262 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$262
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Turkish Airlines flight, departing Fri, Mar 26 from Istanbul to Sofia, returning Tue, Mar 30, priced at $262 found 3 days ago

Alternative airports near Sofia

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Sofia Airport SOF. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 11 minutes. Flights from $192
SOF
Sofia Airport
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center11 min
Flights from $192

Find the cheapest month to fly from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $116 - $234 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Istanbul to Sofia

Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) at a glance

Travel from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) with a selection of airlines offering various options on this popular international short-haul route. Evaluate choices from full-service carriers to identify the best itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel preferences while you discover Sofia's renowned landmarks and neighborhoods. Here, you'll find essential information regarding flights from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sofia Airport (SOF).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $90–$300, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sofia Airport (SOF)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying non-stop from Istanbul to Sofia. These options allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class, helping you find the itinerary that best suits your needs.

  • Turkish Airlines: This full-service airline provides non-stop flights, dominating the route with about 99% of departures. One-way tickets generally range from $90 to $595, with the total travel time being 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Travelers flying from Istanbul to Sofia can opt for an upgrade, with Turkish Airlines providing business class service on this route for a more premium experience.

Alternative route from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)

  • Istanbul to Sofia (ISL-SOF): Ataturk International Airport (ISL) lies approximately 20 miles from Istanbul Airport (IST), offering travelers a convenient connection to Sofia.

How to find the best prices for flights from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Istanbul to Sofia is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers book within two weeks. Morning departures (5 a.m. to 12 p.m.) often offer lower prices, while afternoon flights (12 p.m. to 6 p.m.) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Thursday typically results in cheaper prices, even though Monday is the most favored travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Sofia Airport from Istanbul Airport

Sofia welcomes travelers from Istanbul with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Istanbul Airport is roughly a 20-minute drive (covering about 16 miles) from central Istanbul. Here's how to reach Sofia efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sofia, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Sofia Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sofia Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Sofia Airport, several key transport links are conveniently located nearby. Sofia Airport Terminal 2 Station, a metro station, is about 0.7 miles from the airport by car, while Sofia Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 4.6 miles away by car. Additionally, Sofia Central Station, a train station, is situated about 5 miles from the airport by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $122 and cheap return flights from $181 Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $71 and $1692, and return flights often range between $259 and $1687. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
The cheapest month to fly from IST to SOF is April when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
You can fly direct from IST to SOF on Turkish Airlines, with around 22 flights per week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
Sky Express is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) with return tickets starting from around $222. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
To find a cheap flight from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
The best airline to fly with from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Pegasus Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Pegasus Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. Turkish Airlines offers the most daily flights from Istanbul to Sofia, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
On average, there are around 3 nonstop flights per day from Istanbul Airport (IST) to (SOF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
Sort flights by "Departure (earliest)" on Expedia to find the earliest flight from IST to SOF. To compare more early flights, use the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) are from 6am to 9am. About 35% of passengers choose to fly during this time. Major airlines, including Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, operate flights in this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early in Sofia.
How long does it take to fly from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
Direct flights from IST to SOF usually take about 1 hour 20 minutes, traveling roughly 292 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 9 hours 40 minutes to your journey. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
Business class is available on flights from IST to SOF. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Aegean
  • Turkish Airlines
  • Air Serbia
  • LOT Polish Airlines
  • Tarom
  • Lufthansa
  • British Airways

How much is a business class flight from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) typically costs between $934 - $1,333 per adult. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $536 - $598. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) Sofia Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF)?
If you booked your Istanbul (IST) to Sofia (SOF) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Istanbul
Destination airport
Sofia
Airlines serving
Aegean, Air Serbia, LOT-Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, SKY express, Tarom-Romanian Air Transport, Turkish Airlines
Roundtrip price
$181
Distance
291 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 16 mins

Book with confidence

Istanbul to Sofia Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Istanbul to Sofia

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Istanbul to Sofia are during the month of April. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Istanbul to Sofia with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Istanbul to Sofia

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Istanbul to Sofia: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Istanbul to Sofia

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Istanbul to Sofia in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $122 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Istanbul to Sofia flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Istanbul to Sofia airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Istanbul to Sofia Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia