Bulgaria – Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

How do taxis work in Bulgaria, and are they safe and reliable for expats?

Bulgarian law requires all taxis to operate with a functioning taximeter, and fares are determined by the combination of distance covered and time elapsed during the journey. Each taxi must display its tariff rates on the side of the vehicle, and passengers are advised to review these before stepping inside. This metered approach is broadly comparable to taxi systems found in countries like Germany or France, though unlike the tightly regulated black cab model in London, Bulgarian taxi firms each set their own rates within a government-permitted range.

The daytime tariff applies from 06:00 to 22:00, while the night tariff covers the hours between 22:00 and 06:00. These tariffs must be displayed on a sticker attached to the vehicle’s windscreen. In addition, every taxi should carry clearly visible company contact details and the driver’s identification card inside the cab.

Metered taxis are in operation around the clock. Passengers can access them by flagging down a cab on the street, heading to a taxi rank, calling a phone dispatch line, using a mobile app, or arranging a pre-booked transfer — for example, for airport journeys.

Taxi ranks are located throughout Sofia, where cabs wait to take on passengers. You may also hail a passing cab directly on the street. A vacant taxi can be identified by a green light on its front windscreen; a red light indicates the vehicle is already carrying a fare.

Bulgaria’s taxi industry is subject to government oversight, which provides passengers with a baseline level of safety and reliability. However, standards do differ between operators, and expats are generally advised to book through an app or a telephone dispatch service rather than flagging down an unfamiliar cab — particularly in areas that attract large numbers of tourists.

Which ride-hailing apps work in Bulgaria, and how do I use them?

Neither Uber nor Bolt nor any comparable international ride-hailing platform currently offers services in Sofia or elsewhere in Bulgaria. Uber was prohibited in the country in 2015 following pressure from taxi unions and an investigation by the government. In its absence, a number of well-established local taxi services have developed modern apps that replicate much of the convenience riders are accustomed to from global platforms.

In Sofia, app-based taxi options include Yellow (widely available and competitively priced), Volt (aimed at passengers seeking a premium experience), and TaxiMe (widely considered the top-rated app-based service), all of which accept card payments. These apps function in a manner very similar to international ride-hailing services — you enter your destination, receive an estimated fare, and follow your driver’s progress on a live map.

TaxiMe is one of Bulgaria’s foremost mobile transport platforms, offering a polished app experience, integrated electronic payment, and AI-powered dispatch and quality management systems. It is widely recognised as a dependable option for regular use.

Taxistars bills itself as the first open taxi network in Southeast Europe. It was the pioneer in introducing in-app card payments to the Bulgarian market and provides users with a single platform through which to book cabs, monitor service standards, and access multiple taxi operators.

All of the leading local apps — TaxiMe, Yellow, Taxistars, and OK Supertrans — are available to download free of charge from both the App Store and Google Play. Creating an account typically requires only an email address or phone number; while a Bulgarian SIM card is useful, most apps also accept foreign numbers. A non-Bulgarian debit or credit card can generally be linked to the app for payment purposes. It is always worth confirming current app availability and coverage in your specific city through each provider’s official website, as service areas are subject to change.

Where can I find taxis and book rides in the capital city and major expat areas of Bulgaria?

Sofia is both Bulgaria’s capital and its principal hub for the expat community. The city is served by numerous taxi companies, and bookings can be made by phone, through the websites of individual operators, or via their dedicated mobile apps. Guests staying in hotels can simply ask reception to arrange a taxi on their behalf.

The taxi company Yellow! holds the official contract for taxi services at Sofia Airport. Their desks are located in the Arrivals Hall of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, where passengers can walk up and request a ride in person. Upon doing so, you will be issued a slip containing your name, destination, taxi identification number, and the driver’s licence number for your reference.

Key taxi companies and contact details for Sofia include:

• Yellow! Taxi — Sofia’s official airport partner and one of the city’s largest fleets. Website: yellow.bg
• OK Supertrans — one of the most established companies in Sofia. Phone: +359 2 973 2121. Website: oktaxi.net
• TaxiMe — app-based booking available across Sofia. Website: taxime.bg

In other popular expat destinations such as Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv, taxis are accessible on the street, at designated stands, or through telephone and app booking. Established contacts include: Varna: Taxi Varna (+359 52 919 191) or Varna Taxi (+359 52 665 522); Burgas: Burgas Taxi (+359 56 910 000) or Taxi 97 Burgas (+359 56 97 00 97); Plovdiv: Taxi Plovdiv (+359 32 63 67 67) or Taxi Puls (+359 32 63 63 63).

Standard taxis in cities such as Varna accommodate up to four passengers, and fare structures must be clearly displayed on the vehicle windows. All Varna taxis calculate fares by meter, so a visible taximeter should be present when you board.

In smaller towns, mountain resort areas such as Bansko, and Black Sea coastal resorts during the off-season, the number of available taxis can be considerably lower. In these locations, arranging a private transfer in advance is strongly recommended rather than attempting to hail a cab on the street. For up-to-date dispatch contact details, consult the Visit Sofia official transport guide or the relevant local municipal website, as operator information can change over time.

How much does a taxi or ride-hailing trip cost in Bulgaria?

Taxi fares in Sofia are calculated by meter, factoring in both time and distance. The total cost of any given journey will vary depending on your destination and the volume of traffic along the route. By European standards, Bulgaria ranks among the most affordable countries for taxi travel, with fares considerably lower than those found in Western European cities.

According to the official Visit Sofia transport guide, the minimum daytime rate per kilometre in Sofia is 0.73 EUR/km (BGN 1.43/km) and the maximum daytime rate is 1.24 EUR/km (BGN 2.43/km). The night tariff (22:00–06:00) ranges from a minimum of 0.84 EUR/km (BGN 1.65/km) to a maximum of 1.52 EUR/km (BGN 2.98/km). (As of 2025; always check the official source for updates.)

During daytime hours, the base fare is €1.26 (BGN 2.47) and the per-kilometre charge is €0.62 (BGN 1.22). After 22:00 and before 06:00, the base fare rises to €1.42 (BGN 2.79) and the per-kilometre rate increases to €0.72 (BGN 1.41). A call-out charge of €0.40 (BGN 0.90) also applies, along with a waiting rate of €0.20 (BGN 0.39) per minute. (As of 2025.)

A taxi ride from Sofia Airport to the city centre typically costs around €9 (BGN 18) in the daytime and €10–11 (BGN 20–22) at night. (As of 2025.) For longer intercity transfers, the journey from Sofia Airport to Bansko — a distance of roughly 161 km — comes to approximately €105 (BGN 205) during the day and €120 (BGN 235) at night.

Night fares generally apply between 22:00 and 06:00 and can amount to around 20% more than daytime rates. In tourist-heavy destinations such as ski resorts and beach destinations like Sunny Beach or Bansko, taxi rates may be anywhere from 50% to 100% above standard Sofia prices, so it is essential to check the fare sticker on the window before getting in. For current rates, refer to the official Visit Sofia taxi page or the tariff sticker on the individual vehicle, since rates vary between companies within the permitted band.

Tipping taxi drivers is customary in Bulgaria. Adding roughly 10% to the fare is considered generous; for shorter trips, simply rounding up to the nearest lev is an equally acceptable gesture.

Are there any common scams or safety issues with taxis in Bulgaria that expats should know about?

Sofia has a well-documented problem with imitation taxis designed to closely resemble reputable services. These fraudulent vehicles have been known to charge fares up to 20 times the legitimate rate. This is among the most frequently reported issues in the Bulgarian taxi sector and the main reason seasoned expats prefer booking through apps or official dispatch lines rather than hailing cabs on the street.

Common scam tactics include copycat operators using names that closely mimic trusted firms — such as “OK SuperChance” or “OK Superplus” in place of OK Supertrans — drivers deliberately neglecting to activate the meter and instead demanding an inflated flat rate, and misleading tariff stickers that display rates such as “5.20 BGN/km” in a format designed to look like “0.52 BGN/km”.

Unlicensed taxis present risks that include excessive overcharging, the absence of any insurance cover, and potentially dangerous vehicles. These operators typically present themselves as official taxis and actively seek out customers at airports and transport terminals. Any driver or vehicle loitering near the arrivals exit rather than at the official taxi rank is almost invariably unauthorised.

How to identify a legitimate licensed taxi in Bulgaria:

• Official taxis are yellow, have clearly posted fare rates, a registered company vehicle number, and an operational meter.
• Tariff information must appear on a sticker on the windscreen. Each car should also display company contact details and the driver’s identification inside the vehicle.
• Only use licensed, metered taxis, and always check the tariff sticker on the window before entering, as overcharging by drivers has been documented.
• Before your journey begins, confirm that the taximeter has been switched on and set to the correct tariff and starting fare.
• If you believe you have been scammed or overcharged, take note of the driver’s name, ID number, and vehicle number so you can submit a formal complaint to the taxi company.

Be alert to the possibility of drivers applying the night tariff during daytime hours — this is a common tactic used by dishonest operators. Using an app-based booking service is the most effective single measure against all of these issues, since the fare is agreed upfront and the driver’s details are on record.

How do I pay for taxis and ride-hailing services in Bulgaria — cash, card, or app?

Historically, most taxis in Bulgaria operated on a cash-only basis, but this is gradually shifting. An increasing number of cabs — particularly those belonging to the larger, more reputable companies — are now equipped with card terminals capable of processing credit and debit card payments.

Taxi drivers at Sofia Airport generally accept card payments, though it is sensible to confirm this before your journey gets underway. Keeping a sufficient amount of cash in local currency (BGN) on hand remains a prudent habit for any taxi ride in Bulgaria.

It is worth noting that Bulgaria’s currency is the lev, not the euro. However, since August 2024, the country has been moving towards adopting the euro, and some drivers may begin accepting euro payments as a result. Credit card payments are broadly accepted by taxis in cities such as Varna, but it is wise to confirm this at the start of each journey.

Many legitimate taxis will accept cards — particularly when the booking has been made through an app. That said, always establish the payment method before setting off. Drivers who claim their card machine is malfunctioning will often find it working perfectly if the passenger insists on paying by card. App-based bookings sidestep this issue entirely by guaranteeing card payment from the outset.

Within taxi apps such as TaxiMe and Taxistars, payment is processed digitally through the platform itself. While app bookings support card payment seamlessly, if you are hailing a cab on the street and paying the driver directly, many vehicles will not accept card payment. Connecting a foreign Visa or Mastercard to a local taxi app is generally straightforward and functions much like any other international payment application.

Are there alternatives to taxis and ride-hailing for getting around Bulgaria as an expat?

Sofia’s public transport network is comprehensive, encompassing buses, trams, and a metro system. Tickets are available from kiosks or can be purchased directly from the driver or conductor on board. For regular travel within the city, the metro and tram lines offer a reliable and economical option — broadly comparable in structure to urban rail networks found elsewhere in Europe.

The metro provides a direct link between Sofia Airport and the city centre for just 1.60 leva (approximately €0.80). The journey takes around 40 minutes. It is important to note that the Sofia metro does not run between midnight and 05:00, so passengers arriving on late-night flights will need to take a taxi or wait at the airport until services resume in the early morning.

An intercity coach network connects Sofia with other major Bulgarian towns and cities, and travelling by bus is the most budget-friendly way to move around the country. Long-distance buses are frequent, reasonably comfortable, and generally fast, making them the preferred option for cost-conscious expats travelling between cities.

Pre-booked private transfers are another popular option, with reputable operators offering well-maintained vehicles and professional drivers for groups of various sizes. These can be arranged in advance for short journeys such as airport-to-accommodation transfers or for longer trips between cities.

Car hire is widely available throughout Bulgaria, with daily rates starting from around €30, though insurance and additional fees can cause costs to climb quickly, making it one of the pricier travel options overall. That said, for expats based outside urban centres or in rural areas, owning or renting a vehicle is often the most practical long-term transport arrangement. It is worth being aware that driving conditions in Bulgaria can be demanding, with aggressive driving behaviour, high speeds, and road surfaces of varying quality outside the major cities.

What do expats say about using taxis and ride-hailing services day-to-day in Bulgaria?

The general view among expats is that taxis in Bulgaria offer good value and work well for urban travel, but that the quality of the experience is strongly influenced by how you go about booking. Drivers in Sofia are generally described as friendly and personable; however, given the large number of operators active across the city, some companies do have a reputation for charging more than they should.

A recurring theme in expat accounts is that switching to app-based booking makes a significant difference. Many newcomers describe the experience of flagging down a cab on the street, only to be quoted an inflated price — then discovering, when they book the same journey through an app, that the fare comes in at less than half that amount. This pattern is frequently cited across expat discussion boards and community groups.

Some drivers have limited proficiency in languages other than Bulgarian. Writing your destination address on a piece of paper to hand to the driver — or using Google Maps to display the location visually — is a practical workaround that many expats swear by. A significant proportion of overcharging incidents occur when there is a communication barrier, so having the destination written in Bulgarian script can make a real difference.

For airport arrivals in particular, experienced expats strongly advise heading directly to the official desk in the arrivals hall rather than accepting approaches from drivers soliciting custom outside the terminal building. When services are booked through a reputable app or by phone, taxis are generally regarded as safe for travel even at night. Hailing cabs at random off the street late at night, however, is widely discouraged.

Cities such as Varna are considered broadly safe for taxi travel, though as with most places, unscrupulous drivers and fare-related scams do exist. Expats who settle on a trusted company or app early on consistently describe a more reliable and predictable experience than those who continue to rely on ad hoc street hailing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Uber available in Bulgaria?

No, Uber does not operate in Bulgaria. The service was banned nationwide in 2015 after opposition from taxi unions and a government inquiry. Lyft and similar international platforms are also unavailable. Use local apps such as TaxiMe, Yellow, or Taxistars as practical alternatives.

Is Bolt available in Bulgaria?

Neither Uber nor Bolt operate ride-hailing services in Bulgaria due to past regulatory challenges, leaving traditional taxis as the main on-demand option. Some older online articles incorrectly state that Bolt operates there — always verify via the Bolt website or app store listing before travelling.

How do I get from Sofia Airport to the city by taxi?

At Sofia Airport, head to the official taxi desk in the arrivals terminal to secure a fair rate. Desks are located in the Arrivals Hall of both terminals. Approach the official counter and request a ride — you will be issued a slip showing your name, destination, taxi number, and the driver’s licence number for your records. The standard fare from Sofia Airport to the city centre is approximately €9 during daytime hours and €10–11 at night (as of 2025).

Is it safe to take a taxi alone at night in Bulgaria?

When using legitimate companies booked through apps or by phone, taxis are generally considered safe for solo passengers travelling at night. Avoid hailing taxis off the street late at night and always ensure the meter is running and the driver’s ID is visible inside the vehicle.

What should I do if a driver refuses to use the meter?

Confirm that the meter is switched on as soon as you get in — it is a legal requirement for drivers to operate with the meter running. If the meter appears to be climbing unusually fast or the driver declines to use it at all, ask to be let out at the nearest safe location. Note the driver’s ID and vehicle registration number and submit a formal complaint to the taxi company afterwards.

How do I avoid being overcharged by a taxi in Bulgaria?

Always check the tariff sticker on the vehicle window before getting in, and verify that the meter is running once you are under way. Booking through a reputable app is the most dependable method of avoiding overcharging, as the fare estimate is shown before you confirm the ride. Steer clear of drivers who approach you at airports or transport terminals — always use the official taxi rank or company desk instead.

Do taxis in Bulgaria accept card payments?

Traditionally, taxis in Bulgaria have not accepted credit cards, but this is slowly changing, with many taxis in larger and more reliable fleets now using POS terminals. When booking through an app, card payment is typically guaranteed. It is always wise to carry enough cash in local currency (BGN) just in case.

What is the currency used to pay for taxis, and is Bulgaria switching to the euro?

The Bulgarian lev (BGN) is Bulgaria’s currency. However, since August 2024, Bulgaria has begun transitioning to the euro, and some taxi drivers may start to accept euros. Until the official changeover is complete, carrying Bulgarian lev is advisable. Check the latest guidance from the Bulgarian National Bank for the most current information on the euro transition timeline.

Are there taxi apps that work across all of Bulgaria, not just Sofia?

Bolt’s predecessor Taxify was once active across multiple cities, but local apps now dominate. TaxiMe and Taxistars have coverage in Sofia and are expanding. For Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv, city-specific local taxi company apps and phone dispatch services remain the most reliable options. Always download the relevant local app before arriving in a new city, as national coverage from a single app is not yet consistent across Bulgaria.