Sofia Airport (SOF) is Bulgaria's busiest international airport and the most common starting point for a road trip across the country. Picking up a rental car here is quick and easy — especially when you know what to expect. Here's everything you need to know for a smooth pickup at Sofia Airport.

Sofia Airport Overview

Sofia Airport has two terminals — Terminal 1 (older, mainly budget airlines) and Terminal 2 (newer, full-service airlines). Both terminals are located about 10 km from the city centre and are connected by a free shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes.

Carhirebg.com offers meet-and-greet pickup at both terminals. When you land, simply call or message us and our representative will meet you at the arrivals exit with your vehicle — no need to take a shuttle to an off-site office.

What to Bring for Pickup

• Valid driving licence (held for at least 1 year)
• Passport or national ID card
• Your booking confirmation (printed or on your phone)
• Credit or debit card for payment

If you booked additional extras such as a child seat or GPS, mention these at pickup so our team can confirm everything is loaded in the vehicle.

Step-by-Step Pickup Process

1. 1 After landing and collecting your luggage, proceed to the arrivals hall exit.
2. 2 Call or message our representative using the number provided in your booking confirmation.
3. 3 Our team member will meet you at the terminal exit with your rental car.
4. 4 Present your documents and sign the rental agreement. The process takes about 10–15 minutes.
5. 5 Inspect the vehicle together — note any pre-existing damage on the agreement.
6. 6 You're ready to drive! Our team will explain the quickest route to your destination.

Driving from Sofia Airport — Key Routes

Sofia Airport is well-connected to Bulgaria's road network. Here are the most common routes:

• • To Sofia city centre: Take boulevard Brussels or the Sofia Northern Speed Tangent (SNT). About 15–20 minutes depending on traffic.
• • To Plovdiv (150 km): Take the Trakia Highway (A1) east. Approximately 1.5 hours.
• • To Varna (440 km): Take the Hemus Highway (A2) east. Approximately 4.5–5 hours.
• • To Bansko (170 km): Take the A1 east to Pazardzhik, then south via the A3. Approximately 2.5 hours.
• • To Rila Monastery (120 km): Take the A1 east, then south at Dupnitsa. Approximately 2 hours.

Tips for a Stress-Free Pickup

• • Provide your flight number when booking so we can track delays and adjust your pickup time automatically.
• • Save our contact number in your phone before you fly: +359 878 355 345.
• • If you arrive late at night, let us know — we offer pickup outside regular hours by arrangement.
• • Have your driving licence and ID ready before meeting our representative to speed up the process.
• • Ask about the fuel policy and the nearest petrol station to the airport for your return trip.