Whether you're driving a regular car or an electric vehicle, Bulgaria is a great travel destination with excellent infrastructure. However, it's recommended to gather information about fueling in Bulgaria and charging your car in Bulgaria in advance. That's why we have compiled the most important information and tips for you – so you're well-prepared when heading to Bulgaria by car.
Fueling in Bulgaria is supported by a well-developed network of gas stations. This applies to both urban and rural regions. There are also around 500 charging stations in the country. Thanks to this, charging your car in Bulgaria is quite possible, especially in large cities, along major highways, and in tourist areas.
Bulgaria offers a variety of gas stations where you can refuel as usual. Some of the most well-known and largest providers include OMV, Avanti, Shell, Lukoil, Eko, and Petrol. These stations offer all common fuels and often additional services such as car washes, snack bars, and small shops.
The names of the fuels in Bulgaria are as follows:
The gas station network in Bulgaria is well-established. In cities and along highways, you'll find a particularly high density of stations. In rural regions, the density may be lower. However, you’ll still find enough stations to keep your fuel supply steady on your Bulgaria road trip.
Gasoline prices in Bulgaria are generally cheaper compared to many other European countries. However, the prices may vary depending on the region and provider. You can often fuel cheaply in Bulgaria at discount stations or in rural areas. Prices tend to be higher in tourist regions and along highways. It’s worth comparing prices online and being mindful of the time of day: typically, refueling is cheaper early in the morning or late in the evening.
At most gas stations in Bulgaria, you can pay both by cash and credit card. The official currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). In tourist areas, some stations also accept the Euro, but often at an unfavorable exchange rate. Therefore, it's recommended to pay in Lev or use a credit card. Other possible payment methods include Google Wallet or Apple Pay.
Planning to travel to Bulgaria with an electric car? That’s now very possible: There are currently around 500 charging stations in the country, and the network is steadily expanding. Here’s the essential information about it!
Charging stations in Bulgaria are mostly found in large cities. Additionally, you’ll find numerous charging points along the A1 and A2 highways. The network is still sparse in rural areas, so careful planning is crucial.
The majority of charging stations in Bulgaria are in:
The largest providers of charging stations in Bulgaria include EVN, Eldrive, and Fines Charging. These operators cover most of the public charging points in Bulgaria and offer reliable infrastructure. Additionally, some supermarkets, hotels, and shopping centers also have charging stations. Access is often provided via specific charging cards or apps. In Bulgaria, the apps EVN Bulgaria and Eldrive are most commonly used. We recommend downloading them before your Bulgaria road trip.
The costs for charging your car in Bulgaria vary depending on the provider and charging speed. Generally, fast-charging stations are more expensive than regular ones. Payments are usually made via credit card, app, or charging card.
Apps like PlugShare, Electromaps, or Chargemap allow you to easily find charging stations and plan your route in advance if needed. These apps also show the availability and cost of the charging stations. Another tip: It’s always a good idea to bring your own charging cable, as not all stations may be equipped with one.
Both fueling in Bulgaria and charging your car in Bulgaria are generally hassle-free. However, there are a few specific factors to keep in mind.
In remote regions like the Rhodope Mountains or the Balkan Range, the density of gas stations and charging points is lower. Therefore, plan your fueling and charging stops carefully when traveling through these areas.
In large cities and tourist areas – such as the Black Sea coast or national parks – there are relatively many gas stations and charging stations. However, these can get crowded during the high season. Prices are also typically higher in these areas.
Apps like Electromaps or PlugShare help you quickly locate the next charging station. For regular gas stations, it’s best to use Google Maps. With price comparison apps like ADAC Fuel Prices, you can check and compare fuel prices at different stations.
In Bulgaria, there is a toll fee for highways and expressways. This fee is paid by purchasing a digital vignette. It’s required for all vehicles, including electric cars. Also, be sure to check the corresponding regulations in transit and neighboring countries if you’re driving to Bulgaria by car.
Bulgaria has a well-developed network of gas stations, making a Bulgaria road trip simple and hassle-free. Additionally, there are more and more options for charging your car in Bulgaria. With a little planning and a rough route in mind, you can travel through Bulgaria by car without worries.
Some gas stations accept Euro, but usually at an unfavorable exchange rate. We recommend paying in Bulgarian Lev (BGN) or using a credit card.
Yes, fueling in Bulgaria is generally cheaper than in many other European countries. To find the cheapest option, you can use price comparison apps.
There are around 500 charging stations in Bulgaria, with about 750 connections, mainly in large cities and along highways.
