Travelling to Sofia by car

If you’re planning a road trip to Bulgaria, travelling to Sofia by car can be a great option. There are several routes you can take depending on your starting location, but most will involve crossing international borders and passing through multiple countries.

If you’re starting from Western Europe, one common route is to drive through Germany, Austria, and Hungary before crossing into Bulgaria. From there, you can take the A1 motorway all the way to Sofia, which is about a 4-5 hour drive from the Bulgarian border.

Another popular route is to start from Greece, which shares a border with Bulgaria. From there, you can take the E79 highway north to Sofia, which is about a 6-hour drive.

It’s important to note that driving in Bulgaria can be different from what you may be used to in other European countries. The roads can be narrow and winding, and drivers may not always follow traffic rules strictly. It’s important to be cautious and alert while driving, and to make sure you have proper insurance and documents for your car.

Overall, travelling to Sofia by car can be a scenic and flexible way to see the countryside and explore Bulgaria on your own schedule. Just be sure to plan ahead and research the driving regulations and requirements for the countries you’ll be passing through.

Here is a list of approximate distances from some European capitals to Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria:

Athens, Greece: 818 km (508 miles)
Belgrade, Serbia: 393 km (244 miles)
Berlin, Germany: 1,650 km (1,025 miles)
Budapest, Hungary: 774 km (481 miles)
Bucharest, Romania: 395 km (245 miles)
Kiev, Ukraine: 1,436 km (892 miles)
London, United Kingdom: 2,575 km (1,600 miles)
Madrid, Spain: 3,120 km (1,936 miles)
Moscow, Russia: 2,186 km (1,358 miles)
Paris, France: 2,245 km (1,395 miles)
Prague, Czech Republic: 1,127 km (700 miles)
Rome, Italy: 1,362 km (846 miles)
Vienna, Austria: 1,036 km (644 miles)
Warsaw, Poland: 1,332 km (828 miles)
These distances are approximate and can vary based on the exact starting and ending points of your journey. Additionally, travel times can be affected by factors such as traffic, border crossings, and road conditions.

Road assistance local phone numbers in Bulgaria

If you are travelling by car in Bulgaria and need road assistance, here are some phone numbers you can use:

National Automobile Association (A1): 146 – This is the emergency number for roadside assistance provided by the National Automobile Association (A1). It operates 24/7 and can provide help with flat tires, dead batteries, towing, and other issues.

Road Infrastructure Agency: +359 2 939 3939 – The Road Infrastructure Agency is responsible for maintaining Bulgaria’s road network and can provide information about road conditions, construction, and closures.

Police: 166 – In case of an accident or emergency situation on the road, you can contact the police by dialing 166.

General Directorate “Fire Safety and Civil Protection” at the Ministry of Interior: 160 – This is the emergency number for the General Directorate “Fire Safety and Civil Protection” at the Ministry of Interior. They can provide assistance in case of fires or other emergencies.

Tourist Information Center: +359 2 491 8344 – The Tourist Information Center can provide information about travel routes, tourist sites, and other helpful tips for visitors to Bulgaria.

It is recommended to save these phone numbers in your phone or keep them in a safe place while travelling in Bulgaria by car.

What should I pay extra attention to in Bulgarian highways?

If you plan to drive on Bulgarian highways, here are some things to keep in mind:

Speed Limits: In Bulgaria, the speed limit on highways is generally 140 km/h (approximately 87 mph), but this can vary depending on the road conditions and the type of vehicle you are driving. Be sure to check the posted speed limits and obey them to avoid fines and accidents.

v: Some Bulgarian highways may have uneven surfaces, potholes, or other hazards, so it’s important to stay alert and drive carefully. Also, be aware that road construction and repairs are common during the summer months, which can cause delays and traffic congestion.

Toll Roads: Most Bulgarian highways are toll roads, so be prepared to pay tolls at various points along your journey. You can pay tolls with cash or a credit card at toll booths, or you can use a pre-paid toll card.

Traffic Laws: Bulgarian traffic laws are similar to those in other European countries, but there may be some differences. For example, it is mandatory to use seat belts and child safety seats, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.

Road Signs: Bulgarian road signs may be in Cyrillic script, which can be difficult to read if you’re not familiar with the language. However, most signs also include international symbols and pictograms, which can help you navigate.

Emergency Services: In case of an accident or emergency, dial 112 to reach emergency services in Bulgaria. Keep in mind that English is not widely spoken outside of major tourist areas, so it’s a good idea to have a translation app or phrasebook with you.

By following these tips and being aware of the road conditions and traffic laws in Bulgaria, you can have a safe and enjoyable journey on the country’s highways.

Is road rage is frequent occurrence in Bulgaria?

Road rage can occur in any country, and Bulgaria is no exception. However, it is not a frequent occurrence and most drivers in Bulgaria drive safely and follow the traffic rules. Like in any other country, there may be some aggressive or impatient drivers on the road, but this should not discourage anyone from traveling in Bulgaria by car.

It is always recommended to stay calm and avoid any confrontations while driving, and to report any dangerous behavior to the local authorities if necessary. Overall, as long as drivers follow the traffic rules and drive defensively, they should not encounter any major issues with road rage while traveling in Bulgaria.

Is Bulgaria in Schengen?

No, Bulgaria is not currently a member of the Schengen Area. While Bulgaria has been working to fulfill the necessary requirements to join the Schengen Area for many years, it has not yet met all the criteria needed to become a member. As such, travelers entering Bulgaria from other countries in the Schengen Area may be subject to additional immigration controls and may require a visa, depending on their nationality. It is always recommended to check the latest entry requirements and visa regulations before traveling to Bulgaria.