Can I tap with a foreign bank card?

Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.

Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.

SOFBulgariaTPL: fare-hacker-playbook

Sofia Airport

Sofia, Bulgaria

Drop-off

Serdika (Sofia city center)

Pin before customs

Fastest

Metro Line M4 (Sofia Airport – Serdika)

metro · 6-15m

Data

Nov 28

Audit

Quick verdict

Fastest into town

Service: Metro Line M4 (Sofia Airport – Serdika)
Headway: 6-15
Backup: Bus 84 · 12m

Note

M4 metro line runs from Sofia Airport station at Terminal 2 to central stations including Sofia University and Serdika in about 25–30 minutes, with easy transfers to other metro lines. Trains operate roughly 05:30–24:00 daily; follow blue floor markings in Terminal 2 to the station and use shuttle or bus from Terminal 1 if needed.

Budget focus

Sofia: Fare Hacker Playbook

Ways to shave costs without blowing your schedule. Targets queries likesofia airport busandsof to city centerfor eSIM funnels.

Cheapest viable route

Brief

Usually slower but dramatically cheaper than the flagship airport express.

Service: Bus 84
Mode: bus
Freq: 12m
Note: Urban bus line 84 links both Sofia Airport terminals with the city center at General Gurko Street near Knyazheska Garden, a short walk or quick connection from the main downtown area. It now operates as a merged airport route with an all-day timetable and an advertised interval of about 12 minutes.

Passes and bundles

Brief

Look for day passes that include the airport zone plus metro, tram, or ferry transfers. Load value online to avoid kiosk surcharges.

When to splurge

Brief

Worth the premium when you have back-to-back meetings or tight onward connections downtown.

Service: Metro Line M4 (Sofia Airport – Serdika)
Mode: metro
Freq: 6-15m
Note: M4 metro line runs from Sofia Airport station at Terminal 2 to central stations including Sofia University and Serdika in about 25–30 minutes, with easy transfers to other metro lines. Trains operate roughly 05:30–24:00 daily; follow blue floor markings in Terminal 2 to the station and use shuttle or bus from Terminal 1 if needed.

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FAQs

01Can I tap with a foreign bank card?: Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.
02Any luggage fees?: Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.