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About SOF
Sofia Airport is the main international airport serving Bulgaria's capital city. With two terminals and over 7 million annual passengers, it is the country's busiest airport and a hub for Bulgaria Air. Terminal 2, opened in 2006, is the primary terminal for international flights and features modern facilities. The airport is conveniently connected to the city center via the Sofia Metro, making it one of the most accessible airports in Southeastern Europe.
Hub For
Terminals
Terminal 1
The original terminal primarily serving low-cost carriers and some charter flights. Recently renovated with improved amenities but smaller than Terminal 2.
Terminal 2
The main international terminal opened in 2006 with modern architecture, extensive shopping and dining, and direct Metro connection. Handles the majority of scheduled flights.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at SOF
Bulgaria Air
Terminal 2 Hub
Ryanair
Terminal 2
Wizz Air
Terminal 1
Aegean Airlines
Air Serbia
airBaltic
Arkia
Austrian Airlines
Showing 8 of 26 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Metro Line 1, bus 84/184, taxi, ride-hailing
Taxi
$8-12
20-35 min to city center
Public Transport
$0.85
20 min to city center
Parking at SOF
Parking available at both terminals with short-term and long-term options....
Terminal 2 Short-Term
Terminal 2 Long-Term
Terminal 1 Parking
Airport Lounges
Bulgaria Air Lounge
Terminal 2
Bulgaria Air's own lounge offering a selection of hot and cold Bulgarian and international dishes, drinks, and a quiet work area. Located in Terminal 2 after passport control.
Eventim Lounge
Terminal 2
Modern lounge space with comfortable seating, buffet dining, premium beverages, and panoramic views of the runway. Accepts Priority Pass and walk-in guests.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
ibis Sofia Airport
Adjacent to Terminal 2, short walk
Budget-friendly hotel within walking distance of Terminal 2. Clean rooms, 24-hour snack bar, and easy access to the Metro for quick city trips.
Sofia Airport Center Hotel
5-minute drive from Terminal 2, free shuttle available
Modern hotel near the airport with restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary airport shuttle. Day rooms available for travelers needing rest during layovers.
Food & Dining
Terminal 1 Cafe
International/Snacks
Terminal 1 (Airside)
Simple cafe offering sandwiches, pastries, hot and cold drinks. Limited but functional dining option for Terminal 1 passengers.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Costa Coffee
Cafe/Coffee
Terminal 2 (Landside)
Reliable coffee chain with espresso drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals. Multiple locations in Terminal 2.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Happy Bar & Grill
Bulgarian/International
Terminal 2 (Airside)
Popular Bulgarian restaurant chain serving a wide menu of salads, grilled meats, pasta, and Bulgarian specialties. Generous portions and reasonable airport prices.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Europcar
Terminal 2, arrivals hall
Book online for best rates. Bulgarian highways require an e-vignette purchasable online.
Sixt
Terminal 2, arrivals hall
Good vehicle selection. Consider full insurance as Bulgarian roads can be challenging.
Top Rent A Car
Terminal 2, arrivals hall
Local Bulgarian company offering very competitive rates and free GPS. Excellent reviews for customer service.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Relax at the Airport Lounge
Purchase a day pass to one of Terminal 2's lounges for complimentary food, drinks, and comfortable seating while waiting for your connection.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Explore Sofia City Center
Take the Metro to Serdika station and explore central Sofia. Visit Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the ancient Serdica ruins under the city, Saint Sofia Church, and stroll through Vitosha Boulevard for shopping and cafes.
Visit the National History Museum
Bulgaria's largest museum with exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era. Located in the Boyana neighborhood, it can be combined with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church nearby.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type C, Type F (Europlug)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: From $4/day
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
- Exchange: Exchange offices in arrivals halls of both terminals
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tipping: Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary. Round up taxi fares.
Use ATMs for better exchange rates. Avoid exchange offices with no commission signs as they often have poor rates.
Smoking Areas
Outdoor smoking areas only, outside terminal entrances.
Insider Tips
Terminal 2 handles most international flights. The Metro is the fastest and cheapest way to reach the city center. Check your terminal before arriving.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, luggage storage, ATMs, pharmacy, prayer room
Official Website
Phone
+359 2 937 2211
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
See how SOF compares to other major airports in the region.
Sofia Airport
Sofia, Bulgaria
Skopje International Airport
Skopje, North Macedonia
Thessaloniki International Airport
Thessaloniki, Greece
Henri Coanda International Airport
Bucharest, Romania
Tirana International Airport
Tirana, Albania
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport
Belgrade, Serbia