Traffic Rules and Driving Features in Varna
Varna is a city of contrasts. In winter, it's quiet and nearly deserted: the population drops below 400,000. In summer, with the influx of tourists, the streets come alive, and the population grows to one million. In the off-season, you’ll easily find parking and drive on empty roads, but from May to September, expect traffic jams and a lack of parking near beaches.
Important to know when driving in Varna:
- Speed bumps are wide, low, and smooth — but frequent, especially in the city center.
- Traffic lights hang over each lane and can be confusing. Don’t rush to move until you confirm the green light is for your lane.
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in the city, 90 km/h outside the city, 140 km/h on highways unless otherwise indicated.
- Headlights must be on at all times, year-round.
No toll roads in Bulgaria, but you need a vignette (sticker or electronic) to leave the city. Rental cars usually include this — confirm upon pick-up. For trips outside the city, we recommend main roads — they’re in good condition. Shortcut routes through villages may have potholes and gravel, especially after rain.
Parking in Varna
In central Varna, parking is paid from 9:00 to 20:00 on weekdays. Paid areas are marked as the Blue Zone. Various districts also have municipal parking with lower rates than private lots.
The Blue Zone covers central and so-called extended central Varna — several adjacent blocks. Further out, parking is free. Pay attention to signs to avoid parking in prohibited areas.
How to pay for parking in Varna:
- Via the Mpark app. Choose time from 30 minutes to 3 hours, or book a full day — only available in the app.
- Via SMS — for Bulgarian mobile users. The number and message format are listed on parking signs.
- In stores or kiosks marked with “Parking Service”.
Tips for tourists:
- In tourist season, parking near beaches and in the center fills up by 10 AM — arrive early or choose parking 5–7 minutes' walk from attractions.
- After 20:00 and on weekends, parking is free in the Blue Zone, but municipal parking is paid 24/7.
- Don’t ignore paid parking: even small violations may result in a wheel lock.
Parking rules are strictly enforced in Varna. Improperly parked cars can cause serious traffic, especially in peak season, and may be towed. Always check signs and ensure your car isn’t obstructing traffic.
Fuel Stations in Varna
Fuel stations are easy to find — they’re located along main roads, in residential areas, and even near beaches. Many offer not just fuel but also mini-markets with coffee, snacks, and water.
Cards and cash are accepted at almost all stations. If you’re planning a trip to the mountains or remote sights like Ovech Fortress, refuel before leaving Varna. Outside the city, stations are fewer and slightly more expensive.
How to Book a Car: Step-by-Step Instructions
To make a car rental in Varna:
- Select the dates and apply filters.
- Open the card of the model you like: check the information and add the necessary options to your booking.
- Enter the booking details: pickup/drop-off location and time, driver’s information, and contact details.
- Pay an online deposit of 15–20% — the remaining balance will be paid when you receive the car.
- After payment, a voucher will be sent to your email — save it.
At the scheduled time, inspect the car with a staff member: scratches, dents, interior condition — everything should be recorded in the inspection report. Check the documents: rental agreement, insurance, and the presence of a vignette for trips outside the city. Pay the remaining balance and collect the keys.
If you arrive in Bulgaria by aeroplane, you can have your rental car delivered to Varna Airport. Of course, you can hire a car at one of the rental counters at the airport, but it's cheaper to make your order online.
The demand for car rental services in Varna
The occupancy rate of the car rental fleets by month. For example, most cars are being rented in August, which means that this month has the smallest amount of available vehicles. The higher the percentage of the car fleet workload, the earlier it is worth booking a car to choosing the best option at the best price.
I'm 18 years old, can I rent a car?
Hello! The minimum driver’s age is 22 years. The minimum driving experience is 2 years.
Hello. Is a child safety seat required for a 7-year-old?
Hello! Yes, a child safety seat or a booster seat is required. You can include the necessary equipment in your booking on the car page in the “Optional services” section.
Good morning. Can I pick up my car in one city and drop it off in another?
Hello! Yes, sure.