![The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria.]()
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Discover the diverse history of Bulgaria when you hire an airport rental car in Sofia. The unique capital city is bursting with stunning ancient architecture, impressive churches, fascinating museums, and newly discovered Roman ruins. Give yourself plenty of time to explore Sofia and get lost in the moment. The stunning backdrop of the Vitosha Mountain, incredible parks, gardens, and cobblestone streets, all add to the city’s charm.
Experience more of Bulgaria with a day trip to the nearby city of Plovdiv.
Booking a cheap Sofia rental car with Airport Rentals
Securing a cheap car hire for your trip to Sofia is quick and easy with AirportRentals.com. Simply type in your travel details to compare the range of vehicles available for pick up at Sofia Airport. Choose from well-known hire companies such as Avis, National, Budget, Sixt and more. Use the preference filters to narrow down your search and find the ideal car for your Bulgarian getaway.
You will receive instant booking confirmation after completing your reservation, with no hidden fees or charges. Manage your booking online or feel free to contact our helpful customer service department 24/7, should you need any assistance.
Sofia Airport (SOF)
The Sofia Airport is located 10 kilometres from the city centre and is the major gateway to Bulgaria. The busy Terminal 1 services popular international destinations including Barcelona and Amsterdam, as well as domestic flights servicing cities like Burgas and Varna.
There are two separate terminals at Sofia Airport, connected by a free shuttle bus that runs every half an hour between 7am and 7pm. The airport offers a range of traveller services in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, including free WiFi, ATMs, banking services, currency exchange, and an information desk. Food and beverage options include a sandwich bar, restaurant and cafes. Also available to passengers are a number of duty-free stores and a variety of smaller outlets selling traditional Bulgarian products and souvenirs. The car rental companies are located in the arrivals hall in both terminals.
Guide to driving a rental car in Sofia
Use our tips toward a safe and pleasant driving experience in Bulgaria.
Driving from the Sofia Airport to Sofia city centre
Driving from the Sofia Airport to the city centre will take about 15 minutes. Two route options are available: the Christopher Columbus Boulevard or the Bruksel Boulevard. From the Sofia Airport, take either road and then turn onto Boulevard Tsarigradsko Shose. Continue straight until you reach the city centre.
Driving tips for your Sofia rental car
Driving in the city centre can take some patience with heavy traffic. Keep a look out for pedestrians, trams and buses.
Bulgaria car hire driving tips
● Drive on the right side of the road.
● The use of a car horn in urban areas is prohibited between 10pm and 6am and between midday and 4pm, unless in an emergency.
● It is compulsory to use headlights, even during the day.
● Take extra care if driving in winter.
● Avoid rush hour driving if you can.
Parking options at the Airport and downtown Sofia
Terminal 1 offers 400 parking spaces in the outdoor car park and Terminal 2 has a parking garage with 800 spaces. Both are located opposite the terminals.
On-street parking in Sofia is colour coded. The central area of the city falls into the blue zone, which is restricted to two hours. Pay for parking at the ticket machine and display the ticket on the windscreen.
