Car Hire at Sofia Airport
Hiring a car directly from Sofia Airport is the easiest way to start exploring Bulgaria. With quick access to major roads, including the Trakia and Hemus motorways, you can reach Sofia city centre in minutes and travel onwards to mountain regions, lakes, cultural landmarks and historic cities such as Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo.
A rental car offers comfort, flexibility and independence, especially if you are planning day trips into Bulgaria’s countryside or heading to ski resorts.
Where to Pick Up Your Car at Sofia Airport
Sofia Airport has two terminals:
Terminal 1
Used by several low-cost carriers. Car hire desks are located inside the arrivals hall.
Terminal 2
Serves most international airlines. Car rental counters are positioned in the public arrivals area, with car collection a short walk away.
Shuttles between terminals operate regularly, and signage throughout the airport makes finding your rental provider easy.
Why Hire a Car at Sofia Airport?
Immediate access to the city and major roads
The airport sits just 10–15 minutes from central Sofia and connects directly to key routes heading north, south and east.
Ideal for exploring nature and mountain regions
The city is at the base of Vitosha Mountain, and a hire car lets you access viewpoints, hiking areas and ski zones with ease.
Perfect for day trips
Popular attractions such as the Rila Monastery, Seven Rila Lakes, Plovdiv and Bansko are easiest to reach by car.
Convenient for business and families
A rental car is useful if you’re visiting multiple locations, carrying luggage or travelling with children.
Car Hire with Rhino Car Hire at Sofia Airport
We work with trusted providers operating inside both airport terminals, allowing you to collect your vehicle straight after landing.
What you can expect
A wide range of rental options including compact cars, estates, SUVs and people carriers
Transparent pricing with no unexpected fees
Fast pick-up and drop-off
24/7 customer support for peace of mind
Optional extras such as GPS, additional drivers, child seats and full insurance packages
Booking early is recommended for summer, winter ski season and public holidays when demand is high.
Driving from Sofia Airport
To Sofia city centre
Around 15 minutes via Tsarigradsko Shose Boulevard.
To Plovdiv
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes along the A1 motorway.
To Rila Monastery
About 2 hours via Route 1 and mountain roads.
To Bansko
Roughly 2 hours, popular for skiing and winter activities.
To Veliko Tarnovo
Just over 3 hours via the A2 motorway and scenic routes through northern Bulgaria.
Road conditions
Motorways and major roads are in good condition, though rural routes and mountain roads may be narrow or uneven in places.
Parking
In Sofia, blue and green parking zones operate in the centre. Multi-storey car parks are available across the city.
Driving Tips for Sofia and Bulgaria
Expect busy city traffic during peak hours
Mountain routes may require careful driving, especially after rain or snow
Road signage is mostly in Bulgarian but major destinations also appear in Latin script
Winter tyres are advised from November to March
Fuel stations are common on major highways
Some smaller towns have cobbled or narrow streets
Sofia Airport Car Hire FAQs
Do I need a car at Sofia Airport?
A car is useful if you plan to explore beyond the city, visit mountain areas or travel to towns such as Plovdiv or Bansko.
Is driving from Sofia Airport easy?
Yes. The airport connects directly to major roads and Sofia’s centre is close by. Traffic can be heavy at peak times but routes are well signposted.
Can I pick up my hire car at both terminals?
Yes. Most rental providers operate in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Always check which desk your booking uses.
Are road signs in English?
Primary road signs often include English transliterations, especially on motorways and tourist routes.
Is parking easy in Sofia?
Paid blue and green zones operate in the centre, with additional multi-storey car parks across the city.
Start Your Journey from Sofia Airport
Book your car hire at Sofia Airport today for the freedom to explore Bulgaria’s capital, mountains, lakes and cultural landmarks at your own pace.