Bulgaria

Since 2015, pressures on border controls in Europe have increased due to movement of asylum seekers.

Carry your passport when you cross borders, even within the Schengen area.

Check with local authorities and transport providers for up-to-date information on entry and exit changes and delays.

Driving permit

You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your current Australian driver’s licence to drive in Bulgaria.

If you don’t have an IDP, your travel and vehicle insurance might be void.

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

More information:

Road travel

Major city streets and intercity highways are in good condition.

Driving on rural and secondary roads is hazardous due to:

• poor maintenance and lighting
• narrow roads
• poor driving standards
• wandering livestock and horse-drawn carts

Police strictly enforce traffic laws and conduct frequent checks. These include radar speed checks.

They may collect on-the-spot fines or confiscate your licence, depending on the offence.

If you drive in Bulgaria:

• keep your headlights on, even during the day
• use winter tyres from November to March
• buy and display a valid ‘vignette’ (sticker) to drive on motorways and main roads outside towns

As of 1 January 2019, Bulgaria introduced electronic ‘vignettes’ (e-vignettes). Driving without a vignette incurs fines. You do not need to print the e-vignette, authorities will accept electronic evidence.

If you’re hiring a car or other vehicle, check whether your insurance policy covers this.

More information:

Motorcycles

Ask your travel insurer whether your policy covers you using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use only authorised taxi and limousine services. Try to arrange these through your hotel.

Don’t hail taxis on the street. Use taxis with meters that display clear rates

Taxi drivers may overcharge, particularly at Sofia Airport and the Central Train Station.

You can find companies offering metered taxi services inside Sofia Airport.

Public transport

Keep your belongings close on public transport, as petty crime happens.

The train system is poor by European standards. There have been several fires on trains.

Accessible public transport is available in Sofia and other large cities. However, it’s limited in some parts of Bulgaria.

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Bulgaria’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government