Today’s Best Car Rental Deals in Bulgaria
Discover Bulgaria with Reliable Rental Cars
Free Cancellation
Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.
No Hidden Charges
Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.
Fair Fuel Policy
You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.
Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Bulgaria
Flexible Travel Options
Renting a car in Bulgaria unlocks access to hidden gems: medieval Plovdiv, the Black Sea resorts of Varna and Burgas, and the snow-capped peaks of Pirin National Park. With your own vehicle, you can switch from city sightseeing to mountain escapes in a single day—ideal for travelers who value spontaneity and control.
Required Documents for Tourists
Foreign drivers need a valid national driver’s license, passport, and proof of entry (e.g., stamped visa or digital EU entry record). An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for EU/UK/US visitors, but is recommended if your license uses non-Latin script. Drivers must be at least 21 years old; those under 25 often incur a young driver fee.
Rental Requirements for Residents
Bulgarian citizens must present a valid national driver’s license and a personal ID card. The company can ask for proof of address or vehicle registration history. Always carry original documents—police roadside checks are common on intercity routes.
Credit Card and Deposit Policy
A credit card in the main driver’s name is mandatory to block the security deposit, typically $300–$1,200, depending on vehicle class. Debit cards are rarely accepted for holds. Prepaid cards won’t work—stick with Visa or Mastercard for smooth processing.
Driving Rules in Bulgaria
Bulgaria drives on the right-hand side. Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers, and headlights must be on 24/7, even in daylight. Urban speed limits are 50 km/h, rural roads 90 km/h, and highways 130 km/h. Always carry your license, rental contract, and ID while driving.
Child Safety Seat Laws
Children under 7 years must use an approved child restraint system. Kids aged 7–12 must sit in the back with a booster if under 150 cm tall. Car rental desks at Sofia International Airport offer seats for rent—book in advance to ensure fit and availability.
Road Etiquette
Bulgaria enforces a strict 0.5‰ blood alcohol limit—roughly one small drink for an average adult. Mobile phone use while driving is illegal without hands-free kits. City traffic in Sofia can be aggressive; stay calm, use roundabouts correctly, and avoid sudden lane changes.
Toll Roads and Fuel Prices
Bulgaria uses electronic vignettes for highways (not physical toll booths). A 7-day vignette costs $10–$15 and is required for routes like Sofia–Plovdiv or Sofia–Burgas. Fuel averages $1.45–$1.55/liter for petrol (as of Dec 2025). Cards are accepted at most urban stations; carry cash for rural areas.
Navigation & Urban Parking Tips
Use Google Maps or Waze—road signage is inconsistent outside major cities. In Sofia, blue-zone street parking is paid (paid via app or meter). Malls and hotels offer secure lots; avoid unlit streets at night due to minor theft risks.
Road Conditions & Insurance
National highways (like Trakia and Hemus) are well-maintained, but rural and mountain roads may be narrow or unpaved. Comprehensive insurance (CDW + Theft Protection) is essential. Always inspect the car and photograph scratches before driving off.
Book Your Rental Car at Sofia International Airport (SOF)
Best Time to Rent a Car in Bulgaria
Summer (June-August)
Warm temperatures of 25-30°C make driving comfortable with long daylight for coastal trips to Varna or Burgas. Peak tourist crowds mean higher rental rates up 40%, but smooth highways and minimal snow ensure easy access to beaches. Avoid if seeking quiet roads.
Spring (April-May)
Mild 15-20°C weather clears winter ice, offering blooming landscapes ideal for mountain drives to Rila Monastery. Fewer crowds slash prices by 30%, with lighter traffic on A1 highways. Rain is moderate, but check forecasts for safer rural paths. Perfect for budget explorers.
Winter (December-February)
Cold 0-5°C snaps with mountain snow demand 4x4 rentals for Bansko ski resorts, but icy roads raise accident risks by 20%. Black Sea stays milder at 5-10°C for city hops. Off-peak deals cut costs by 50%, suiting snow enthusiasts despite shorter days.
