This guide is structured to answer all your concerns about renting and driving in Bulgaria, ensuring your experience is enjoyable and hassle-free. Use the quick reference table at the end for summarized information.
Yes, Greek travelers can rent and drive cars in Bulgaria with the proper passport, driving licence, and an accepted payment card. Age limits and possible young driver fees may apply depending on the rental offer.
Form of ID:
A valid physical passport is required for Greek renters at pickup.
Driving licence:
The main driver and any additional drivers must present a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, typically held for at least 1 year (some offers allow 1–2 years or specify conditions in full rental terms). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License (Greek licences are valid across the EU/EEA).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Visa and MasterCard credit cards are generally accepted. For some offers, Visa and MasterCard debit cards, deposit cards, or cash may also be accepted for payment or deposit; availability depends on the specific rental provider and offer.
Age requirements:
Depending on vehicle category and offer, the allowed driving age ranges from 18–99 years. Common bands include 19–80, 19–85, 21–99, 23–99, 24–80/99, and 26–75. Some offers apply young driver surcharges: for example, ages 19–22 may pay about US$ 13.69 per day; ages 23–24 about US$ 11.73 per day; and ages 21–23 about US$ 8.44 per day. Exact applicable age range and any young driver fee depend on the chosen car and rental supplier and are shown in the specific offer details.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Greek travelers visiting Bulgaria.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

Hertz
Locations:
16Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
SIXT
Locations:
49Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking quality vehicles at competitive prices
Europcar
Locations:
38Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Alamo
Locations:
10Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and budget-conscious renters
Green Motion
Locations:
15Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Environmentally conscious travelers and budget-friendly options
Hertz
Locations:
48Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
Locations:
33Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business professionals
Top Rent A Car
Locations:
153Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for affordable and reliable car rentals
ADDCAR RENTAL
Locations:
46Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Autounion
Locations:
29Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentalsSelecting the appropriate rental car is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. Consider your travel plans, group size, and the driving conditions you expect. With QEEQ, comparing car options and policies is simple, helping you find the perfect fit for your journey.
Assess the number of passengers and luggage space required
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Ideal for short city drives
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Balanced mix of comfort and efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Preferred for longer journeys
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Best for family trips or group travel
Choose between manual and automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
Convenient for urban travel and heavy traffic
Manual transmission
Lower cost and better fuel economy
Consider your experience with left-hand driving systems
Many cars in Bulgaria come with manual transmission
Understand the insurance coverage options
Basic liability
Included in most rentals, covers third-party damage
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Optional, covers damages to the rental vehicle
Theft protection
Often included, safeguards against theft
Personal accident insurance
Check your travel insurance policy for coverage
Review the terms surrounding cancellations and changes
Free cancellation
Available until 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid may save money but limits flexibility
Change fees
May apply for modifications to booking dates or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for unexpected trip changes
Evaluate mileage restrictions for your trip
Unlimited mileage
Ideal for extended road trips
Limited mileage
Lower daily rates but additional charges for excess miles
Match mileage plans to your route distance
Factor in detours or additional travel plans
Understand the fuel policy before booking
Full-to-Full
Return the car with a full tank of gas
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for convenience but may cost more
Same-to-Same
Return with the same fuel level as pickup
Compare pre-purchase fuel rates with local prices
Quick Decision Guide
Economy or compact car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Sofia, Plovdiv, VarnaMid-size or full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country routes in BulgariaConvertible or SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Black Sea coast or Rila Monastery tripCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
Bulgaria, rich in history and natural beauty, offers a variety of destinations for travelers. From the cultural heritage of Sofia to the stunning Black Sea coast, and the picturesque mountain ranges, Bulgaria caters to diverse travel preferences. Rent a car to conveniently explore the country's hidden gems and vibrant cities.
When renting a car in Bulgaria as a traveler from Greece, it's essential to understand the insurance options available. Basic insurance is mandatory to operate a vehicle, but additional coverage can provide significant peace of mind during your travels.
Covers the cost of damage to the rental car caused by collision or theft, reducing your financial liability.
Provides coverage in the event of theft of the rental car, reducing your liability.
Covers injury or damage caused to other people or their property due to an accident involving the rental vehicle.
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Bulgaria. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Smart booking strategies can help Greek travelers save significantly when renting cars in Bulgaria. Understanding local costs and planning ahead ensures a budget-friendly experience.
Key considerations and potential issues to be mindful of when renting a car in Bulgaria, especially for travelers from Greece.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Traffic rules in Greece and Bulgaria share common aspects but differ in specific practices such as road signage, alcohol limits, and parking regulations.
Road Signage Language
Road signs are primarily in Bulgarian, with many also in English.
Road signs are primarily in Greek, with English translations in tourist areas.
Blood Alcohol Limit
0.05% BAC for general drivers, 0.00% for professional and novice drivers.
0.05% BAC for all drivers.
Parking Regulations
Parking is regulated with clear signage; areas marked with specific colors indicate restrictions.
Parking rules vary by municipality; less standardized signage.
Speed Limits
Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural roads: 90 km/h, highways: 140 km/h.
Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural roads: 80 km/h, highways: 120 km/h.
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices required while driving.
Hands-free devices required while driving.
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all passengers.
Mandatory for all passengers.
Traffic Light Compliance
Strict adherence to traffic lights; fines for violations.
Strict adherence to traffic lights; fines for violations.
Common questions for travelers from Greece renting a car in Bulgaria