Renting a car in Haskovo is a practical way to explore southern Bulgaria, and driving here is easy and EU-regulated, with two Bulgarian specifics worth knowing before you set off: the electronic vignette for motorways, and mandatory winter tyres. Haskovo sits in the south of the country, well placed for the region and for onward routes.
The e-vignette
Bulgaria charges for motorway and first-class road use through an electronic vignette rather than a sticker. The e-vignette is linked to the vehicle's registration plate and bought online through the national system, and you must have a valid one to drive a car up to 3.5 tonnes on those roads. The good news for visitors is that rental cars from the major suppliers usually come with a valid e-vignette for the rental period, so confirm this when you book. Driving without one carries a fine, though a first-time offender may be allowed to buy a valid vignette on the spot for a smaller sum. Comparison sites such as DiscoverCars help you check availability and prices in advance.
Winter tyres and licences
Winter tyres are mandatory in Bulgaria from the middle of November to the start of March, with a minimum tread depth and a fine for non-compliance, so make sure your rental is properly equipped if you travel then. On licences, EU and EEA licences are valid, and UK licences are accepted for short visits without an International Driving Permit, while visitors from many other non-EU countries should carry an IDP alongside their national licence. Carry your passport as well.
Roads and booking tips
Bulgaria drives on the right. Speed cameras are common and enforcement is fairly strict, allowing only a small margin over the limit, so keep to the posted speeds. Main roads and motorways are generally in good condition, while some rural roads are rougher. Read the rental terms for the deposit, fuel policy, insurance, excess, and whether the e-vignette is included, and book ahead in busy periods to get the best choice of vehicle for a Bulgarian road trip.