Car Rental in Byala, Varna

Where to drive

• Drive to Nessebar and Sunny Beach: Head south along the coast for approximately 60 km (about a 1-hour drive) to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nessebar with its ancient architecture, followed by the lively resort of Sunny Beach.
• Explore Varna City: Travel north for about 55 km (around a 50-minute drive) to Varna, Bulgaria's maritime capital, offering museums, the Sea Garden, and a vibrant city atmosphere.
• Visit the Shkorpilovtsi Beach and Forest: Just 20 km north (about a 25-minute drive) lies Shkorpilovtsi, known for its long, unspoiled beach and the adjacent ancient forest, perfect for a peaceful escape.
• Discover the White Rocks (Beli Skali): Located right in Byala, these unique white cliffs are a geological wonder, easily accessible by car, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into millions of years of Earth's history.
• Day trip to Balchik Palace and Botanical Garden: Drive north for approximately 90 km (about 1 hour 20 minutes) to Balchik, home to the stunning former summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania and its impressive botanical gardens.
• Journey to Cape Kaliakra: For a longer trip, head north for about 120 km (around 1 hour 45 minutes) to Cape Kaliakra, a dramatic peninsula with historical ruins and breathtaking cliffside views over the Black Sea.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Bulgaria, you will generally need a valid passport or national ID card, a valid driving license held for at least 1-2 years (depending on the rental company), and for non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required alongside your home license. The minimum age for renting is typically 21 years, though some companies may have a higher minimum age (e.g., 23) or impose a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Byala vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars can start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the off-peak season, while during the peak summer months (July-August), the same car might cost 40-50 EUR or more. SUVs and premium vehicles naturally command higher rates, often starting from 60-80 EUR daily, even reaching 100+ EUR in high season. Booking well in advance, especially for summer 2026, is recommended to secure better prices and availability.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Bulgaria, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 140 km/h on motorways (where applicable). The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, at 0.05%. Headlights must be on at all times, day and night, throughout the year. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 135 cm tall or under 12 years old, appropriate for their size and weight.

Parking

In Byala, parking is generally easier than in larger cities. You can often find free street parking, especially outside the peak summer season. Some accommodations also offer private parking. In busier areas or during summer, paid parking zones may appear, usually marked with blue or green lines. Payment is often via SMS or parking machines, but check local signs for specific instructions as rules can vary.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available along major roads and in most towns, including Byala and nearby settlements. Both petrol (gasoline) and diesel are widely available. LPG (Autogas) is also common. Fuel prices are comparable to other EU countries, fluctuating but generally around 1.30-1.50 EUR per liter for petrol and diesel. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For Byala and the surrounding region, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient for most travelers, offering good fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability on smaller roads and in towns. If you plan to explore more remote, unpaved coastal roads or carry more luggage, a small SUV or a car with higher ground clearance could be beneficial. Manual transmission is more common in Bulgaria, but automatics are available, though they might cost more.

Frequently asked questions