Taxi in Bulgaria: prices, safety and practical information
- Damian Brzeski
- 2 days ago
- 11 min read
Are you wondering how much a taxi really costs in Bulgaria and how not to get scammed? Or maybe you want to know which type of vehicle is best for your trip?
From fake airport taxis to fixed-price luxury SUVs, this guide tells you everything you need to know before getting into a Bulgarian taxi.
Find out how to choose a safe option, what the rates are and which companies are really worth knowing.
What are taxis like in Bulgaria?
Taxis in Bulgaria are primarily yellow cars – they are easy to spot, but not every yellow taxi is a good taxi. The legal ones must have a clear taxi service price list on the side window and inside the vehicle. This is your first filter – if you don't see it, a red light immediately comes on.
Every registered taxi in Bulgaria also has a license number, company name and a taximeter , which should always be turned on.
It is also worth paying attention to the company's phone number - it should be visible on the door. If the driver pesters you as you leave the terminal and his car does not have clear markings - pass.
In larger cities such as Sofia , Varna or Burgas , there are both large corporations and smaller local companies.
You can often find online offers, such as Kiwitaxi , where you set a price in advance and know what to expect. This is convenient, especially if you want an individual taxi transfer without any surprises along the way.
At first glance, taxis may seem similar – but the differences in comfort, price and safety are big. That’s why it’s worth knowing what to expect before you order a ride.
Types of vehicles available in Bulgarian taxis
In Bulgaria you are not limited to one type of car – the choice is large and tailored to various needs.
Here's what you'll find:
Taxi economy, comfort and business: differences in standards
If you want a low taxi fare , choose the economy option. These are the simplest cars, like Dacia Logan – no bells and whistles, but they do the job.
Comfort is a step up: newer models, air conditioning, more comfortable seats. Ideal for longer taxi rides Bulgaria , e.g. from the airport to the hotel.
And if you are looking for a bit of luxury – the business option will be just right. Mercedes E-class, clean, spacious and classy. It works especially well for business trips or when you just want to feel special.
Premium Taxi and Luxury SUV: Options for the Demanding
For those who don’t want to compromise, there are premium cars available, such as the Mercedes S-Class or BMW X5. Kiwitaxi offers such cars, so if you want to travel in style, you can book your transfer before departure.
Minibus taxi and taxi van: for larger groups
Traveling with family or a larger group of friends? Opt for a Minibus or Taxi Van . They can accommodate 7-19 people, so they are perfect for a group vacation. These types of taxi transfer services are available both at airports and by booking online.
Taxi micro and SUV: choose according to your needs and luggage
For short journeys around the city, a micro taxi is enough, e.g. a small Fiat Panda. Economical, fast and sufficient for a short taxi ride .
But if you have a lot of suitcases or are traveling with children, an SUV will be a better option – spacious, comfortable and will easily accommodate luggage.
So many possibilities – now just choose what suits your travel style
Price list for taxi services in Bulgaria
It's time to get down to specifics, i.e. how much it all costs. The price list for taxi services in Bulgaria is regulated, but it varies depending on the city and time of day. Let's look at the details:
Day and night tariff: current rates per kilometer
Between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., i.e. in the daytime tariff , you will pay:
in Sofia: 0.79–1.00 BGN/km (approx. 1.70–2.15 PLN)
in Varna and Burgas: 0.80–1.20 BGN/km
in smaller towns: approx. 0.60–0.80 BGN/km
At night (10pm–6am), i.e. in the night tariff , the rates go up:
in Sofia: 0.90–1.20 BGN/km
in other cities: 1.00–1.40 BGN/km
Parking fee and telephone order fee
The price per kilometre also includes:
Initial fee : 0.70–1.00 BGN
Parking fee : BGN 0.20–0.30 per minute of parking
Telephone order : 0.50–1.00 BGN, unless you use companies that offer this in the price (such as OK Supertrans)
Taxi price list on the window and its meaning
Remember that every legal taxi must have a taxi price list on the window – if there is none, do not get in! This is your guarantee of honesty. The taxi price should also be visible inside the vehicle – the initial fee, the rate per kilometre and the cost of parking.
If any of these elements are illegible or missing – it's a sign that something may be wrong. Only taxis with a clear and legal price list give you full control over your costs.
Security and avoiding fraud
Although taxi services in Bulgaria are generally safe, it is worth knowing a few tricks that less honest drivers use. Be especially careful with taxis at airports , such as Sofia Airport , Varna Airport or Burgas Airport - this is where scams are most common.
Fake Taxis and How to Spot Them
Illegal "yellow fake taxis" are unfortunately commonplace. Most often:
they don't have a visible price list,
they use names similar to well-known companies (e.g. "Supertrans" instead of "OK Supertrans"),
they don't have a company contact number,
drivers themselves accost you on the sidewalk or in front of the terminal.
Avoid such cars like the plague – only get into marked vehicles from official stops!
Taxi Scams: Common Practices and How to Protect Yourself
What to watch out for?
Inflated prices : the driver says "how much it was" without showing the meter.
Weird Routes : Driving around town to get more mileage.
Special tariff for tourists : supposedly exceptional, but in reality 2-3 times more expensive.
How to protect yourself? Set a price before the ride, take a picture of the license plate and use recommended companies. If you book online, e.g. through Kiwitaxi , you are guaranteed a transparent fee.
Fixed-price taxi as a safe alternative
The best way to avoid surprises? A taxi transfer with a pre-agreed price . Services like Kiwitaxi or UniTaxi allow you to pay for a taxi ride in advance – without the risk of something “suddenly” going up in price.
This is especially convenient for airport transfers or when you don't speak the language. Just get in and go - stress-free and with a guarantee.
Which taxi companies in Bulgaria are trustworthy?
If you want to avoid surprises and rely on proven taxi services , it is worth knowing the names of companies that are trusted by tourists and locals. Here are a few to remember:
OK Supertrans: Recommended Company in Sofia
This is one of the largest and most well-known companies in the capital. OK Supertrans is the official operator at Sofia Airport , so if you are landing in the city – don’t be shy, just follow the signs to their stand. Yellow cars, clear price list, taximeter and no hidden fees. Phone number to order: 02/973 2121.
Taxi 1$ and Taxi 1 Euro: Cheap Options in Sofia
If you are planning a short journey within the city, these companies can be profitable – the first kilometer for the equivalent of 1 dollar or euro. But be careful – subsequent kilometers are already counted at normal rates, so this is an option rather for short trips, e.g. from the hotel to the center or to the train station.
Burgas Airport Taxis: Transfers from the airport to the seaside
If you are arriving in Bulgaria via Burgas Airport and heading to the seaside – e.g. to Sunny Beach , Sozopol , Nessebar or Pomorie – choose Burgas Airport Taxis .
This is a local service that specializes in transfers between resorts and the airport. Price? Depends on distance, but always agreed in advance – no surprises.
They cooperate with the company Eko Taxi and offer, among others, Minibuses and Taxi Vans if you are traveling with a larger group.
Airport Transfers in Bulgaria
Are you landing in Bulgaria and wondering how to conveniently get from the airport to your hotel? Here is the most important information about taxi transfers from the main airports in the country.
Taxi from Sofia Airport: Availability and Prices
At Sofia Airport, taxis can be found just outside Terminals 1 and 2. The official operator is OK Supertrans , which means clear pricing, marked vehicles and no hassle.
The cost of a ride to the center of Sofia is around 10–15 BGN (or 22–32 PLN). However, beware of fake cars pretending to be “official” – use only the designated stand.
Taxi from Varna Airport: to Golden Sands and Surrounding Area
If you’re going to Golden Sands (about 20 km), a ride from Varna Airport will cost around 30–40 BGN (65–85 PLN). You’ll find a taxi rank right outside the terminal. It can get busy in high season, so it’s worth booking your transfer online through Kiwitaxi in advance.
Taxi from Burgas Airport: to Sunny Beach and Sozopol
At Burgas Airport the situation is similar – taxis are waiting right in front of the arrivals hall.
Taxi prices are:
Burgas – Sunny Beach (approx. 35 km): 50–60 BGN (110–130 PLN)
Burgas – Sozopol (approx. 45 km): BGN 70–80 (PLN 150–170)
If you are going to places like Nessebar , Pomorie , Obzor or Ravda , the cost will be similar - depending on the distance. For larger groups it is worth considering Taxi Van or Minibus .
Airport transfer with online booking
More and more tourists choose to book a transfer before departure. Why? It's convenient, safe and helps avoid scams.
Platforms such as Kiwitaxi , UniTaxi or Burgas Airport Taxis offer a door-to-door option – the driver is waiting with a sign, knows the route and will not surprise you with a "new tariff".
What additional services are available in Bulgarian taxis?
Taxi in Bulgaria is not just a basic ride from point A to B. Many companies offer something more today – additional services that can significantly improve the comfort of travel. Here are some examples:
Child seats in taxis: availability and rules
Travelling with a toddler? Be sure to ask about a child seat when booking. You probably won’t find them in regular taxis, but companies like Kiwitaxi offer them for an additional fee of 5–10 BGN. It’s worth considering this in advance – for safety and peace of mind.
Individual Taxi Transfer: Privacy and Comfort
If you don't feel like sharing a car with strangers, opt for an individual taxi transfer . Such a service guarantees privacy, flexibility and a quick ride without stops.
An ideal solution not only for families, but also for business travelers who value time and comfort.
24/7 taxi: available day and night
In large cities and resorts, especially near airports , a 24-hour taxi is standard. Whether you're landing at 2:00 a.m. or have an early morning return, you'll always find an available ride.
However, it is worth making sure in advance that the company in question actually operates 24/7 – especially off-season, when some services may be limited.
What are the most popular tourist routes and destinations?
Bulgaria is a paradise for lovers of sun, sea and charming towns. And since it's a holiday, taxi rides are fast, comfortable and often cheaper than you expect. See where it's worth going and how much it costs:
Taxi to Golden Sands, Sunny Beach and Sozopol
The three most popular resorts? Without a doubt: Golden Sands , Sunny Beach and Sozopol .
Varna - Golden Sands : approx. 30-40 BGN
Burgas - Sunny Beach : approx. 50-60 BGN
Burgas – Sozopol : approx. 70–80 BGN
These are classic routes, so taxis run here regularly. In high season, it is a good idea to book a transfer in advance so as not to wait at a taxi stand.
Taxi rides to Nessebar, Albena, Primorsko and other resorts
Fancy something a little less obvious? Bulgaria is full of gems:
Burgas–Nessebar : 60–70 BGN
Varna–Albena : 40–50 BGN
Burgas – Primorsko : 80–100 BGN
It is also worth considering places such as Pomorie , Ravda , Obzor , Lozenets , Tsarevo , Sinemorets , and even slightly more distant ones: Ahtopol , Arkutino , Chernomorets or Duni – everyone will find something for themselves.
If you are traveling with a larger group, it is worth choosing a Taxi Bus or Taxi Van - the costs are shared and the comfort remains.
Prices for travel from Varna, Burgas and Sofia to seaside resorts
Ready to move on? Check out these indicative rates:
Sofia – Sunny Beach : 200–250 BGN (approx. 430–540 PLN)
Varna–Nessebar : 100–120 BGN
Burgas – Primorsko : 80–100 BGN
Practical tips for travelers
Finally, a few tips that can save you nerves, time and money. Here's what you need to know before you book a taxi ride in Bulgaria:
How to book a taxi in Bulgaria: apps and phone
Want to book a taxi in advance? You can do so:
By telephone : e.g. OK Supertrans (02/973 2121) or Yellow Taxi (02/911 19).
By app : Bolt operates in Sofia and Varna , and a local alternative is TaxiMe.
Online : services like Kiwitaxi allow you to book a ride in advance and pay online – convenient and safe.
Where to find legal taxis: airports, train stations, city centers
The safest places? Official stops at airports , train stations and in city centres. If a driver approaches you and offers to skip the queue – you'd better say no.
Yellow taxis with a visible license number and price list on the window are your sign that everything is OK.
When is it better to choose a taxi instead of public transport?
Although public transport in Bulgaria works well, there are situations where a taxi is a better choice:
when you have a lot of luggage,
you travel at night or early in the morning,
you are going to places that are hard to reach by bus (e.g. Kiten , Kavarna , Elenite , Kranevo ),
you value comfort, speed and peace.
How to get from Burgas airport to Ravda and how much does it cost?
Transfers from the airport to Ravda cost around 30 euros for a standard taxi that can accommodate up to 4 people. If you are travelling in a larger group, a minivan for 5 people costs around 40 euros, and a minibus for 8 people costs around 55 euros.
How much will a taxi cost from Burgas airport to Nessebar?
The price of the trip to Nessebar is around 32 euros for 4 people. The minivan version (5 people) costs around 42 euros, and the minibus for 8 people costs around 58 euros. Return prices are usually the same.
Is it possible to get from Burgas airport to Balchik?
Of course – the cost of a transfer to Balchik is around 90 euros for 4 people. It is a longer route, so it is worth booking in advance and considering the option of a minivan (around 100 euros) or a minibus (around 120 euros).
How much is the transfer from the airport to Ahtopol?
You can get to Ahtopol for around 55 euros for 4 passengers. A minivan for 5 people costs around 65 euros, and a minibus for 8 people costs around 85 euros.
Are there taxis available from the airport to Elenite?
Yes - a ride from Burgas Airport to Elenite costs around 35 euros in a standard taxi. For larger groups, prices are around 45 euros (minivan) and 60 euros (minibus).
What is the transfer like from Burgas to Sinemorets?
A taxi from the airport to Sinemorets will cost around 55 euros. If you are planning a group trip, a minivan will cost around 65 euros and a minibus around 85 euros.
Can I book a taxi to Duna and how much does it cost?
Yes, a ride to Duna costs around 30 euros for 4 people. For a larger group you will pay around 40-55 euros, depending on the type of vehicle.
What is the price of a transfer to Kavarna?
This is one of the further destinations – around 100 euros for 4 people. A minivan costs around 115 euros, and a minibus for a larger group – up to 140 euros.
How to get to Kranevo from Burgas airport?
Transfer to Kranevo costs around 80 euros. For groups: minivan – around 95 euros, minibus – around 120 euros.
Is taxi to Chernomorets available from the airport?
Yes, and it's a popular route - the ride costs around 28 euros in the standard option. Minivan - 35 euros, minibus - 48 euros.
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