Car rental in Sozopol

If your driving licence is issued in the EU/EEA, it is accepted throughout Bulgaria without an international permit. For licences in non-Latin scripts (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your original licence. It's always a good idea to carry an IDP as a backup.

For the best rates, we recommend booking your rental car in Sozopol at least 3–6 weeks ahead. During peak season (June–September) or major events, booking 2–3 months in advance is advisable. Early booking not only guarantees availability but also unlocks lower prices and a wider choice of vehicles.

Yes, one-way rentals are available with most major companies in Bulgaria. Returning within the same country usually costs €30–100 extra. Cross-border returns to other EU countries are also possible but carry a higher fee — typically €100–300 depending on the distance. Always confirm the one-way policy when booking.

The security deposit is typically released within 7–14 business days after you return the car, provided there is no damage. Some banks may take up to 30 days to process the refund. The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card — the actual amount blocked depends on the vehicle class and insurance coverage chosen.

Key rules when driving in Bulgaria:

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers
• Mobile phones may only be used hands-free
• Headlights must be on at all times in some areas
• Blood alcohol limit is typically 0.05% (stricter for new drivers)

Familiarise yourself with local signage and speed limits before setting off.

Many rentals in Sozopol come with unlimited mileage, especially for weekly bookings. However, some economy deals may include a daily cap (e.g. 200–300 km/day) with extra charges per kilometre beyond the limit. Always check the mileage policy in your booking confirmation — unlimited mileage offers the best value for longer trips.

This depends on the fuel policy you selected:

• Full-to-full — the most common and economical option. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full.
• Full-to-empty — you pay for a full tank upfront and can return it empty, but this is usually more expensive.

Always check your rental agreement. Returning a “full-to-full“ car without refuelling results in a costly per-litre surcharge.

Most rental companies in Sozopol require a credit card for the security deposit. Some smaller or local companies may accept debit cards, but this often comes with additional requirements such as proof of a return flight. We recommend checking the payment policy when booking to avoid issues at the counter.