Border Crossings
These are the main border-crossing points into and out of Bulgaria by road.
Kulata – Greece 177km to Sofia E79
Kalotina – Serbia 57km to Sofia E80
Guyeshevo – North Macedonia 106km to Sofia E871
Kapitan Andreevo – Turkey 319 km to Sofia E80
Vidin (203km) Rousse, or Silistra (461 km) - Romania
Don’t expect the border police and customs officers to speak any foreign language on either side of the border. Getting through should not be a painful experience though it may sometimes be slow if you arrive during coffee or lunch breaks. Allow a minimum of one hour to clear both checkpoints. Don’t forget you will need a vignette (road tax) for Bulgaria.
Also bear in mind that there are many speed traps on the main roads into Bulgaria, be careful to stick to speed limits and should you get caught refrain from attempting to bribe the officer. This used to be a sure way of getting away with traffic offences in the 'good old days', but it is gradually being faded out and could backfire.
Depending on your previous driving experience, driving in Bulgaria may seem a little harrowing at first. There is, however, no need to feel daunted as long as one drives defensively and sticks to the rules. Many local drivers can be arrogant and aggressive, best try to avoid confrontation.
Speed limits for cars are:
50km/h (30 mph) within the city,
90km/h (55mph) outside cities, and 130 km/h (80mph) on motorways, unless indicated otherwise.
Driving Licence
Visitors to Bulgaria may drive using their national license, as long as it complies with international standards. It is advisable, however, to carry an international license. Legislation is now in place to make fining and the withdrawal of licenses of all EU citizens possible. If you are settling long term with residency status in Bulgaria, you may have to exchange your license for a local one or in some cases even sit the test.