Colorful tram passing by Banya Bashi Mosque in Sofia, Bulgaria

Transportation

Getting around Sofia during Eurovision 2027

Ways to Get Around

Sofia has an extensive and affordable public transport network. Here's everything you need to know to navigate the city like a local.

Sofia Metro

Sofia has 2 metro lines connecting the city center with residential areas and the airport. Clean, fast, and reliable. Runs from 5:00 to midnight. A single ride costs €0.80.

  • Buy a refillable card for multiple rides
  • M1 goes to Sofia Airport (Terminal 2)
  • M2 connects the southern neighborhoods to the center
  • Trains run every 2–5 minutes during peak hours

Buses & Trolleybuses

Extensive network covering every corner of the city. Most lines run from 5:00 to 23:00. Night buses operate on major routes after midnight.

  • Use the Sofia Public Transport app for live schedules
  • Same ticket works for metro, bus, and tram
  • Validate your ticket in the machine on board
  • Trolleybuses (numbers 1–9) are electric and quiet

Trams

Sofia's iconic trams are a charming way to explore the city. Some historic trams still run on certain routes. Tram lines connect the city center with outer neighborhoods.

  • Lines 1, 6, and 7 pass through the city center
  • The historic tram 20 is a scenic route
  • Trams can be slower than metro but more scenic
  • Watch the gap between tram and platform

Taxis

Taxis are affordable compared to Western Europe. A typical city center ride costs €2.50–€5. Use licensed taxis with clearly displayed rates.

  • Use apps like TaxiMe or Yellow Taxi for reliable service
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis at the airport — use the official taxi rank
  • Standard rate is ~€0.50/km
  • Always insist on the meter being turned on

Ride-Sharing

Bolt (formerly Taxify) operates in Sofia and is the most popular ride-hailing app. Prices are similar to taxis but with the convenience of app booking and upfront pricing.

  • Bolt is reliable and widely used
  • No Uber in Sofia — Bolt is the main alternative
  • Cash or card payment via app
  • Expect surge pricing during Eurovision week

Airport Transfer

Sofia Airport (SOF) is 10 km from the city center. Metro Line M1 connects directly to Terminal 2. A taxi ride takes 15–20 minutes and costs ~€8–€10.

  • Metro M1 is the cheapest option (€0.80, 20 min)
  • Official airport taxi rank is outside arrivals
  • Bolt from airport costs ~€6–€9
  • Free shuttle between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2

Ticket Fares

Ticket Type Price (EUR)
Single ride (metro/bus/tram)€0.80
Daily pass€2.00
3-day pass€5.10
Weekly pass€10.20
Monthly pass€25.60

Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, via the Sofia Public Transport mobile app, or at kiosks. Always validate paper tickets on board.

Sofia on the Move

Vintage tram and pigeons near Central Market Hall in Sofia, Bulgaria
Cityscape of Sofia featuring the iconic Lion's Bridge
Green tram with passengers visible through windows in Sofia, Bulgaria

Walking & Cycling

On Foot

Sofia's city center is compact and very walkable. Most landmarks, restaurants, and bars are within a 20-minute walk of each other. The area around Vitosha Boulevard is pedestrian-only.

Bike Sharing

Sofia has a growing network of bike lanes. Bike rental is available through several apps. The South Park (Yuzhen Park) and Borisova Gradina are great for cycling.