All cities and routes in Bulgaria

Rental companies

The car rental market in Bulgaria is a mix of well-known international chains like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, operating mainly at major airports and cities, alongside numerous local Bulgarian agencies. Local companies often provide more competitive pricing and a broader range of older, budget-friendly vehicles, especially for longer rentals. Aggregators like RentoRika allow you to compare offers from both international and local suppliers, simplifying the booking process and often securing better deals.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Bulgaria, you will generally need a valid national driving license held for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if your license is not in Latin script, though often not strictly required for EU citizens. You must also present your passport or national ID card and a valid credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, with some companies imposing a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

Payment and deposit

Most car rental companies in Bulgaria require a valid credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) in the main driver's name for the security deposit. While some local agencies might accept debit cards or even cash for the rental fee itself, a credit card is almost universally needed for the deposit. Prepayment for the rental often secures better rates, with the deposit typically blocked on your card upon pickup. Deposit-free options are rare and usually come with higher rental costs or stricter insurance requirements.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Bulgaria fluctuate significantly throughout the year. During the off-season (November to March), you can find compact cars for as low as ≈15-20 EUR per day. Prices steadily rise towards spring and peak during the summer months (June to August), where a similar car might cost ≈35-50 EUR per day or more. Booking well in advance, especially for popular periods like August, is highly recommended to secure better rates and vehicle availability.

Traffic rules and fines

In Bulgaria, you drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. The speed limit is generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 140 km/h on motorways, though some sections may be lower (120 km/h). Alcohol limits are very strict, effectively zero tolerance. A reflective vest, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and warning triangle are compulsory to carry in the vehicle.

Parking

Parking in Bulgarian cities can be challenging, especially in older town centers. Look for designated 'blue' or 'green' zones for paid street parking, usually managed by SMS payment or ticket machines. Parking garages are available in larger cities. Fines for illegal parking are common and can be substantial. In smaller towns and rural areas, parking is generally easier to find and often free.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Bulgaria, offering both unleaded petrol (A95H, A98H) and diesel. LPG is also common. Prices are comparable to other EU countries, typically around ≈1.30-1.50 EUR per liter for petrol and diesel (as of 2026). Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For city driving and exploring popular coastal or historical routes, a compact or economy car is usually sufficient and easier to park. If you plan to venture into mountainous regions like the Rhodopes or Rila, especially in winter, an SUV or a car with higher ground clearance is advisable. For families or groups, a sedan or a small minivan offers more comfort and luggage space.

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Frequently asked questions