Travelling Around
By air
Bulgaria Air (www.air.bg) operates some domestic services, connecting Sofia with the Black Sea coast. The journeys from Sofia to Bourgas and Varna take one hour. Air travel is comparatively cheap, and is only slightly more expensive than first-class rail travel.
By rail
Bulgarian State Railways (tel: (02) 932 4190; www.bdz.bg)
connects Sofia with main towns. Reservations are essential during peak seasons and first-class travel is advised. A first-class sleeper is a wonderful way to travel long distances, especially at night.
By road
Traffic drives on the right. Road quality is variable and driving standards are generally poor. Night driving can be dangerous owing to poor lighting. Tolls are charged on motorways and main roads out of town. Vignettes can be purchased at ports, border points, post offices and DZI bank offices.
There is a good network of buses. The state-run buses in each town and city often run from a different location to private buses and minibuses. Private long-distance buses often have their offices gathered near each other, and offer good services on comfortable vehicles. Main coach operators include ETAP (tel: (02) 945 3939;
www.etapgroup.com/etap) and Biomet (tel: (02) 963 1366; www.biomet-bg.com).
Taxis are available in all towns and also for intercity journeys. Vehicles are usually in good condition. All vehicles are metered, unless they are privately owned. Some drivers may try to drive without putting on the meter; ensure this is done before you leave. A small tip is appreciated.
Car hire is available through hotel reception desks and at Sofia airport, and online in advance. Most of the major international car hire agencies have representative offices.
An International Driving Permit allows visitors to drive a private car when accompanied by a valid national driving licence. It is compulsory for old licences that do not have photo ID. A Green Card is compulsory.
Speed limits are strictly adhered to: 120kph (75mph) on motorways, 90kph (56mph) outside built-up areas and 50kph (31mph) in built-up areas.
Emergency breakdown service: 24-hour road assistance is available (tel: (02) 980 3308).
Featured Properties