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Arriving at Sofia Airport (SOF) and planning to explore Bulgaria by car? This guide explains how rental pickup works at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, what to expect on deposits and documents, Bulgaria’s e‑vignette rules, parking in Sofia, winter requirements, and the best first routes from the airport.
Where to meet your car at Sofia Airport
Sofia Airport has two terminals (T1 and T2). Many rental providers meet customers in the arrivals hall or at a designated desk, then walk you to the car park shuttle or on‑site parking. Your voucher will show the exact meeting point. If your flight changes, notify your supplier so they can track your arrival.
- Terminal 2: most international flights; metro station “Sofia Airport” connects T2 to the city.
- Terminal 1: mainly low‑cost carriers; free shuttle links T1 and T2 if your pickup desk is in the other terminal.
- After‑hours service is usually available on request—confirm in advance to avoid waiting fees.
Documents and deposit
- Valid driving licence held for the minimum period required by your supplier (often 1–2 years). An International Driving Permit may be needed if your licence is non‑EU or not in Latin script.
- Passport or ID used for the booking, plus a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
- Voucher/confirmation with pickup instructions (paper or digital).
Deposit amounts and insurance options (CDW, theft protection, excess waivers) vary by car and provider. Review the rental terms before you book to avoid surprises at the counter.
Fuel, mileage and fair use
- Fuel: most rentals are full‑to‑full—return with a full tank to avoid refuelling charges. Petrol (A95/A98), diesel and LPG are widely available near the airport and on key routes.
- Mileage: check if your plan is unlimited or has a daily kilometre cap.
- Cleaning/smoking: extra fees may apply if the car returns excessively dirty or smoked in.
Bulgaria’s e‑vignette and road rules
To use motorways and most national roads, Bulgaria requires an electronic vignette. Many rental cars already include one for the rental period, but do not assume—confirm at pickup and keep the receipt or confirmation email.
- Headlights: low beams must be on at all times, day and night.
- Winter equipment: during the cold season, cars must be equipped with appropriate winter tyres and safety gear as required by Bulgarian law. If you plan mountain trips, request winter tyres and chains in advance.
- Speed limits (unless signed otherwise): 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on open roads, 140 km/h on motorways.
Snow is common in Sofia and the mountains. Allow extra time, watch for black ice on shaded sections of the ring road and mountain passes, and keep more distance.
More local driving advice and airport specifics are covered in our Sofia car rental guide.
Parking in Sofia: Blue and Green Zones
Central Sofia uses paid street parking zones. You’ll see signs showing Blue or Green Zone, time limits and hours. Payment is via SMS, parking meters or app. Clamping and towing are enforced, so always check the sign for your street. For multi‑hour stays, use guarded car parks or shopping centre garages to keep costs predictable.
Popular drives from Sofia Airport
- City centre (15–30 min off‑peak): exit T2 via the boulevard Tsarigradsko Shose and follow signs for the centre.
- Plovdiv (A1 “Trakia”, ~1 h 30 min): a straight motorway run once you join the A1 east of Sofia.
- Rila Monastery (~2 h): A3/E79 south toward Blagoevgrad, then follow signs to Rila.
- Bansko (~2 h 30 min): A3/E79 to Simitli, then up to the Pirin mountains. In winter, check conditions.
- Veliko Tarnovo (~3 h): take A2 “Hemus” toward Yablanitsa, then E772 east.
Planning a longer Bulgaria road trip or a one‑way drop in another city? See options and conditions for one‑way car rental in Bulgaria.
Cross‑border travel from Sofia
Driving to Greece, North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania or Turkey may be possible with prior written permission, added insurance and fees. Approval depends on the vehicle class and supplier. Request this when booking and allow time for paperwork. Some borders charge bridge or crossing fees that are separate from the Bulgarian vignette.
Returning your car
- Follow “Car Rental Return” signs back to your provider’s area at T1 or T2.
- Refuel near the airport if your policy is full‑to‑full; keep the receipt.
- Have the car inspected and the fuel/condition noted on the checkout form before you head to departures.
Helpful resources
- Practical airport and city driving pointers: Sofia Airport car hire tips
- Compare pick‑up in the city as well: cheap car hire in Sofia
- Domestic drop‑offs explained: one‑way rentals across Bulgaria
- What’s included, insurance and deposits: car rental terms and conditions
- Common customer questions: FAQ
Flying onward to the coast? See airport pages for Varna (VAR) car hire and Burgas (BOJ) car hire.