Car Rental Shumen, Bulgaria — from €47/day

Car Rental in Shumen

As the ancient walls of the Shumen Fortress beckon from the hilltop, imagine the ease of navigating the city’s charming streets and venturing into the lush Bulgarian countryside with your own set of wheels. From the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria to the tranquil Madara Rider, a rental car unlocks the rich tapestry of history and natural beauty surrounding this vibrant region.

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Car Rental in Shumen

Shumen, Bulgaria

Where to drive

Visit the Shumen Fortress, a medieval stronghold just a short drive from the city center, offering panoramic views. The drive is about 15 minutes.
Explore the Madara Rider, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into a cliff, located approximately 18 km east of Shumen (around a 20-minute drive).
Journey to the Pliska National Historical and Architectural Reserve, the first capital of Bulgaria, about 30 km northeast of Shumen (a 30-minute drive).
Discover the Great Preslav National Historical and Architectural Reserve, the second Bulgarian capital, situated roughly 20 km southwest of Shumen (around a 25-minute drive).
Take a scenic drive to the Srebarna Nature Reserve, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve known for its birdlife, approximately 120 km northeast of Shumen (about a 1.5-hour drive).
Head to Varna, a major Black Sea city, for a day trip or longer stay. It's about 90 km east of Shumen, taking approximately an hour by car.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Bulgaria, you will generally need a valid driving license (held for at least 1-2 years, depending on the rental company), an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not include a photo, your passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, with a young driver surcharge often applied for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Shumen vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles could range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Prices typically increase by 30-50% during the peak summer months due to higher demand.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

24€

Feb

28€

Mar

35€

Apr

40€

May

48€

Jun

55€

Jul

58€

Aug

45€

Sep

35€

Oct

28€

Nov

26€

Dec

Demand by month

30%

Jan

28%

Feb

40%

Mar

60%

Apr

75%

May

90%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

80%

Sep

60%

Oct

40%

Nov

35%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Bulgaria, speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 140 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise indicated. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05%. Headlights must be on at all times, day or night, year-round. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 12 years old or under 150 cm tall, appropriate for their age and weight.

Parking

In Shumen, parking in the city center is generally paid, often managed by a 'blue zone' system where you can pay by SMS or purchasing a scratch card from kiosks. Outside the immediate center, free parking spots can be found, especially near residential areas. Always check for signs indicating parking restrictions or payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is widely available at numerous petrol stations throughout Shumen and along major routes. LPG is also common. Prices are comparable to other EU countries, fluctuating but typically around 2.50-3.00 BGN per liter for petrol and diesel (approx. 1.25-1.50 EUR). Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to have some local currency (BGN) for smaller purchases or emergencies.

Which car to choose

For exploring Shumen and nearby historical sites, a compact or economy car is perfectly suitable, offering ease of parking and fuel efficiency. If you plan to venture into more rural or mountainous areas, or travel with more luggage, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would provide more comfort and better handling on varied road conditions. Manual transmission cars are very common in Bulgaria, but automatics are increasingly available.

Pros

Unrestricted access to historical sites like the Madara Rider and ancient capitals.
Flexibility to explore the beautiful Bulgarian countryside and natural parks at your leisure.
Opportunity for spontaneous day trips to the Black Sea coast or other cities like Veliko Tarnovo.
Convenience for carrying luggage and souvenirs without relying on public transport schedules.
Shumen serves as an excellent base for exploring Northeastern Bulgaria.

Cons

Some smaller roads in rural areas can be less well-maintained.
Parking in the busiest parts of Shumen can sometimes be challenging or require payment.
Navigating unfamiliar roads and traffic can be stressful for some drivers.
Bulgarian drivers can sometimes be assertive, requiring attention and caution.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Shumen?

The typical minimum age is 21, but some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, especially for certain car categories. A young driver surcharge usually applies for those under 25.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bulgaria?

If your domestic driving license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not feature a photograph, an IDP is legally required. It's always recommended to carry one as a supplement to your national license.

What payment methods are accepted for car rental in Shumen?

Most rental companies require a major credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. Prepayment for the rental itself can often be made via credit card or sometimes debit card, depending on the provider.

Can I pick up my rental car at Shumen train station?

Many rental companies offer pickup services at key locations like the Shumen train station or bus station. It's best to confirm this directly with your chosen rental provider when booking.

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking terms. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Always check the specific terms of your booking.

Are there any toll roads in Bulgaria?

Yes, Bulgaria has a vignette system for using its national road network, including motorways and first-class roads. Rental cars typically come with a valid electronic vignette already included, but it's advisable to confirm this with your rental company.

Available cars — Shumen