Today’s Best Car Rental Deals in Bulgaria

Discover Bulgaria with Reliable Rental Cars

Pickup

  • Sofia International Airport
    Sofia
  • Sofia Downtown
    Sofia
  • Delivery in Sofia City
    Sofia

Drop-off

  • Please select pickup location first.

Date &Time

01/08/2026 10:00 AM 01/09/2026 10:00 AM
Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

No Hidden Charges

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

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.

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Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Bulgaria

Flexible Travel Options
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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)  

  • Skip shuttles and delays—rental desks are located inside Terminal 2 at Sofia International Airport (SOF), just steps from baggage claim. Fast check-in, English-speaking staff, and ready-to-go vehicles make your Bulgarian road trip begin the moment you land.

  • Choose from compact city cars (great for Sofia’s narrow streets), family SUVs for coastal road trips, or rugged AWD models for winter travel to Bansko or Borovets. All vehicles include winter tires (Nov–Mar) and 24/7 roadside assistance.

  • Our rates include VAT, airport surcharges, and basic liability insurance. No surprise costs for admin fees or “local taxes.” Compare weekly discounts online—you’ll often save 15–25% versus daily bookings.

  • Drive from Sofia’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the ancient ruins of Nesebar, the rose fields of Kazanlak, or the ski slopes of Bansko. With your own car, Bulgaria’s diverse landscapes are yours to discover—on your schedule.

  • Reserve in under 2 minutes: select Sofia International Airport as your pick-up point, choose dates, and add extras like GPS or extra drivers. Get instant confirmation and free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup.

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.

What Travelers Say About Final Rentals in Bulgaria

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I booked my car online before flying to Sofia. Everything was ready when I arrived. No paperwork hassle, no confusion. Having a car made exploring nearby towns much easier.

Michael – USA (Chicago)
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Rented a small car for a road trip from Sofia to Plovdiv. Booking was fast, pricing was clear, and the car was in good condition. Very convenient for independent travel.

Anna – Poland (Kraków)
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I travel often for work. Picked up my car near Sofia Airport and was on the road quickly. Straightforward process and professional handling from start to finish.

Thomas – Germany (Munich)
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We booked online for our holiday in Bulgaria. The pickup went smoothly, and the car was clean and fuel-efficient. It gave us freedom to visit smaller villages.

Laura & Ben – UK (Leeds)
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Short business visit to Sofia. I booked a sedan in advance and picked it up quickly. Everything matched the booking details, which I appreciated.

Natalia – Romania (Bucharest)
stars

Collected my car near Sofia Airport and drove straight to the mountains. Clear instructions, no hidden steps, and easy return at the end.

Petra – Czech Republic (Brno)

Car Rental in Bulgaria: FAQs

How much does it cost to rent a car in Bulgaria?

Renting a car in Bulgaria is generally affordable compared to Western Europe, with basic economy cars starting around $5–$15 per day, depending on season and location. Larger vehicles, SUVs, or premium cars cost more. Additional extras like insurance, GPS, or child seats add to the total.

What are the age requirements for car rental in Bulgaria?

You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Bulgaria, though some vehicle categories or premium cars require drivers to be 23–25 years old. Drivers under 25 often pay a young driver surcharge.

What documents do I need to rent a car in Bulgaria?

For Bulgaria car hire, you need a valid driving licence held for at least a year, your passport or national ID, and typically a credit card for the deposit. If your licence isn’t in English or Cyrillic, an International Driving Permit or official translation may be required. Always bring your rental confirmation when collecting the car.

Can foreigners rent a car in Bulgaria with their home licence?

Foreign visitors can rent a car in Bulgaria using a valid licence from their country, especially EU/EEA licences. For non-EU documents not in English, an International Driving Permit or official translation is often required.

What fuel policies should I know for renting a car in Bulgaria?

Most rental agreements in Bulgaria operate on a full-to-full fuel policy—pick up with a full tank and return full. If you return with less fuel, you’ll likely pay both the fuel cost and a premium refuelling fee. Fuel stations are common in cities and along highways, so plan refills before drop-off.

Is insurance included with car rental in Bulgaria?

Basic third-party liability insurance is typically included with Bulgaria car hire, but it often comes with an excess (deductible). You can add Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection for broader coverage. Check if your credit card travel insurance includes rental car protection to avoid paying extra at the counter.

Are there young driver fees for car hire in Bulgaria?

Drivers under 25 years old usually pay a young driver surcharge when renting a car in Bulgaria. Fees vary by company and can be daily or per rental. Always check age-related charges before booking so you can compare total Bulgaria car rental prices and choose the most economical plan.

Can I add an additional driver in Bulgaria car hire?

Adding a second driver is usually allowed but may incur a small daily fee. The additional driver must meet age and licence requirements, and present their own licence and ID. Including multiple drivers ensures all are insured and legally authorised to drive your rental car in Bulgaria.

Are one-way car rentals possible in Bulgaria?

One-way rentals—pickup in one city and drop-off in another—are generally possible in Bulgaria. Note that a one-way fee may apply depending on distance and location.

What driving rules should I know for Bulgaria?

In Bulgaria, you drive on the right-hand side and must use dipped headlights even in the daytime. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, and up to 130–140 km/h on motorways. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and alcohol limits are strict; obeying traffic laws is important to avoid fines.

Are tolls required on Bulgarian roads?

Bulgaria uses an electronic vignette system for national roads and motorways rather than traditional toll booths. Many rental cars come with a valid vignette included; if not, you must buy one online or at a fuel station. Driving without a vignette on motorways can result in fines, so confirm this beforehand.

What are the parking rules in Bulgaria?

In cities like Sofia, paid parking zones are marked as Blue or Green and require payment by app, street machine, or SMS. Unpaid parking may result in fines or towing. In smaller towns, parking is often free, but check signs carefully before leaving your rental car to avoid charges.

What car types are best for Bulgarian roads?

Economy cars are excellent for city travel and short trips, offering good fuel economy and ease of parking. For longer routes or mountainous areas (e.g., Rhodope or Rila), SUVs or larger sedans provide better comfort and traction. In winter, consider vehicles equipped with winter tyres or added ground clearance.

How can I avoid extra charges when renting in Bulgaria?

To avoid extra charges, return the car on time, refill the fuel tank, and keep the documentation safe. Understand fuel policy, young driver fees, one-way charges, and insurance deductibles. Inspect the vehicle with photos before departing to avoid damage claims. Clear communication at pickup helps prevent unexpected costs later.

Can I drive a rental car in Bulgaria if I’m from outside the EU?

You can rent a car in Bulgaria with a foreign licence. If your licence is not in English or uses non-Latin script, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official translation alongside your home licence. The company also requires a valid ID or passport and the licence to be valid throughout your rental period.

Are cross-border trips allowed with a rental car in Bulgaria?

In many cases, you can drive your rental car from Bulgaria into neighbouring EU countries if your rental agreement permits it. Cross-border travel often requires additional documentation, insurance approval, and pre-notifying the rental provider. Confirm this when you book online to ensure compliance and avoid fines or coverage issues.

What happens if I return the rental car late?

If you return the rental car after the agreed-upon time, you will be charged an extra fee, often equivalent to another rental day or a partial rate, depending on the extent of the delay. Rental policies typically calculate late returns, and without notice, the cost can add up. Contact the company if you expect delays.

Is it cheaper to rent a car at the airport or off-site?

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