Car Hire Sofia with Rhino Car Hire
Looking for car hire in Sofia? Rhino Car Hire helps you compare prices from trusted rental providers across Sofia city and nearby Sofia Airport.
Whether you are visiting Bulgaria’s capital for business, culture or a road trip into the mountains, hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Search your dates, compare live prices and book in minutes.
Car Hire Sofia Airport
Most travellers arriving in Bulgaria collect their rental car directly at the airport.
Sofia Airport is located around 10 km from the city centre, providing easy access to major roads leading across Bulgaria.
For airport pickup see:
Car Hire Sofia Airport → /car-hire-sofia-airport/
Airport rentals often offer:
• the widest vehicle selection
• longer opening hours
• quick access to the motorway network
Why hire a car in Sofia?
While Sofia has public transport, many of Bulgaria’s best destinations are outside the city.
Hiring a car in Sofia allows you to:
• Visit Rila Monastery
• Explore Vitosha Mountain
• Travel to Plovdiv or the Black Sea coast
• Discover small towns and historic villages
• Enjoy scenic mountain drives
A rental car is the easiest way to experience Bulgaria beyond the capital.
Key highlights when visiting Sofia
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – One of the most famous landmarks in Bulgaria and a highlight of Sofia’s historic centre.
• Vitosha Boulevard – A lively street filled with shops, restaurants and cafes.
• Vitosha Mountain – Located just outside the city and perfect for hiking in summer or skiing in winter.
• Boyana Church – A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval frescoes.
• National Palace of Culture – One of the largest cultural centres in Southeast Europe.
Popular day trips from Sofia by car
• Rila Monastery – Around 2 hours away and one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural and religious sites.
• Plovdiv – One of Europe’s oldest cities with Roman ruins and a charming old town.
• Seven Rila Lakes – A spectacular hiking area in the Rila Mountains.
• Borovets Ski Resort – A popular winter destination just 1 hour from Sofia.
• Belogradchik Rocks – Unique rock formations and a historic fortress in northwest Bulgaria.
Driving in Sofia – what to know
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Speed limits:
• 50 km/h in cities
• 90 km/h on rural roads
• 140 km/h on motorways
Other useful tips:
• Traffic can be busy during rush hour
• Parking in central Sofia may require payment
• Motorway vignettes are required for highways
Choosing the right rental car in Sofia
Economy cars
Ideal for city driving and short trips.
SUVs
Popular for mountain travel and winter conditions.
Family vehicles
Good for longer road trips across Bulgaria.
Luxury cars
Suitable for business travel or special occasions.
What you need to hire a car in Sofia
• Valid driving licence
• Credit card for security deposit
• Minimum driver age usually 21+
• Drivers under 25 may pay a surcharge
International visitors may need an International Driving Permit depending on licence type.
Book your Sofia car hire today
Rhino Car Hire makes comparing car rental in Sofia simple. With competitive pricing, trusted suppliers and convenient pickup locations across the city and at Sofia Airport, you can explore Bulgaria with confidence.
Search, compare and reserve your Sofia car hire today.