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Sofia Airport

If you're looking for car rental in Sofia Airport, look no further. We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology, with a choice of hire vehicles right across the range, from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give our customers the opportunity to reduce their CO2 emissions.

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a vibrant city where history meets modernity. Nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, Sofia is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively nightlife. 

Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and Soviet-era monuments all in one place. Highlights include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the historic Boyana Church. The city also offers excellent shopping, dining, and green spaces like Borisova Gradina Park.

Tips for renting a car in Sofia

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

Why choose Green Motion for car rental?

Our pricing is transparent

With Green Motion, you always easily see the total final price. Car rental insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand - by booking with us, you always get the right insurance easily.

Get your car with ease

Our car rental points are located within easy distances from central locations - near airports and train stations, as well as in the heart of cities.

We are eco-friendly

We strive to minimize our environmental impact. We invest in, among other things, biodegradable chemicals and less water-consuming methods to clean our cars, such as steam cleaning.

We are always happy to help

You can get answers to frequently asked questions, and get in touch with us from the Contact-page: https://greenmotion.com/contact/ or contact us at [email protected].

Green Motion Car Rental Bulgaria Sofia Airport Terminal 2 767x767

Good to know about car rental in Sofia Airport

 

Once you have landed at Sofia Airport and picked up your rental car from the designated office, we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.

For those navigating Bulgaria’s roads for the first time, take a moment to get acquainted with the vehicle, understand Bulgaria’s traffic regulations, and plan your routes using GPS or navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze.

In Bulgaria, driving is on the right-hand side. A valid driving license from your home country is required, and depending on your country of origin, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 

We ensure your rental car is equipped with mandatory safety items, such as a reflective vest, warning triangle, and fire extinguisher, which are required by law.

Bulgaria’s road network is improving, with well-maintained highways and scenic countryside routes. However, some rural roads may have potholes, so caution is advised. Traffic in Sofia can be busy during peak hours (7:30-10 AM and 4-7 PM), so plan accordingly.

The speed limits in Bulgaria are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 140 km/h on highways. Speed cameras are widely used, and fines for violations can be strict.

When parking in Sofia, look for designated Blue Zone or Green Zone areas, which require payment via SMS or at a parking kiosk. Avoid parking in unauthorized areas to prevent fines or towing.

Fuel stations are readily available in cities and along major highways, but if you're venturing into remote areas, it’s advisable to monitor your fuel level and plan stops in advance. Most stations accept credit cards, and many are self-service.

If you plan to visit popular attractions like the Rila Monastery, Vitosha Mountain, or Plovdiv, consider traffic patterns and road conditions. Many tourist destinations offer ample parking, but it's best to check in advance.

If you need help while in Bulgaria, don't hesitate to contact our office. In an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Enjoy your journey and explore Bulgaria’s stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and lively cities!

Useful Information

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Bulgarian lev

Average temperatures

-1°C (30°F) - 21°C (70°F)

Nearest Gas Station

OMV Gas Station (Located just 2 km from the airport on Christopher Columbus Blvd.)

Nearest Train Station

Sofia Central Railway Station (Approximately 12 km from the airport, reachable by metro, rental car or taxi)

Nearest Bus Station

Sofia Central Bus Station (Located near the railway station, serving domestic and international routes)

Car hire in Sofia Airport – Frequently Asked Questions

Is renting a car in Sofia a good idea?

Yes, renting a car in Sofia is a great option if you plan to explore areas outside the city, such as the Rila Monastery, Plovdiv, or Bansko. Within the city, public transport is available, but having a car allows for more flexibility.

Are there toll roads in Bulgaria?

Yes, Bulgaria has a vignette system for highways. Our rental cars typically come with a vignette sticker, but we'll always confirm this with you.

Is parking easy in Sofia?

Parking in Sofia can be challenging, especially in the city center. There are Blue Zones (paid parking), and some areas require a parking permit. Many hotels offer parking, and parking garages are available.

Is driving in Sofia safe?

Yes, but it requires extra caution. Sofia has busy traffic, especially during rush hours (7:30-10 AM and 4-7 PM). Local drivers may make sudden lane changes, and parking in the city center can be challenging. That said, major roads are well-lit and maintained, and following traffic laws will keep you safe.

Can I drive from Sofia to Greece or other neighboring countries?

Yes, but cross-border travel may require extra insurance or fees, so always check your plans with us in advance.

Are road signs in Bulgaria in English?

Yes, most major road signs are in both Cyrillic and Latin script, especially on highways and in large cities like Sofia. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, signs may only be in Bulgarian Cyrillic, so it’s good to have a GPS or a navigation app handy.