Vasil Levski Sofia Airport (SOF) is the main international gateway to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. WelcomeTaxi provides pre-booked airport transfers and private transfers from both terminals to city-centre hotels, apartments, business districts and destinations throughout the Sofia region.
Book a chauffeur service with an English-speaking driver for business travel, sightseeing or regional journeys. Long-distance transfers are available to Plovdiv, Bansko, Borovets, Rila Monastery and other destinations across Bulgaria. Plovdiv Airport (PDV) is the principal neighboring passenger airport associated with the wider region.
How It Works
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Choose the route and a vehicle |
| Select service type you need, choose the route (or hourly hire duration), indicate number of passengers and luggage, as well as other necessary details if needed. See the price for different vehicle classes, choose one suitable for you and press Next. |
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Choose the payment method |
| Complete the booking form, choose the payment method, press Make Booking button, make online prepayment (if needed) and get email confirmation. When a driver will be assigned to your job, his phone number will be emailed to you. |
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The driver meets you with a name tag |
| Your driver will meet you on-site with a name tag at the right time. He will walk you to the car and safely drive you to your destination. At the end of your ride, if needed, you will pay in cash or by card-to-card transfer to your driver. |
Our Benefits
English-speaking drivers
Always available — friendly, professional, and communicative.
Fixed prices — no surprises
Know your fare in advance, with no hidden fees.
Meet & greet included
Your driver will wait at arrivals with a name tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a ride?
We recommend booking your transfer or hourly hire service at least 72 hours in advance. If you don’t have that much time, you can request an urgent transfer — we’ll let you know as soon as possible whether we can confirm it.
What pick-up time should I specify for the transfer?
If your transfer starts from an airport or railway station, please specify your flight or train arrival time as the start of your transfer. This helps the driver organize the meeting more accurately.
If your transfer starts from a hotel to an airport, please indicate the time you wish to be picked up at reception. You’ll need to calculate it yourself, allowing extra time for check-in. We recommend adding about 3 hours before your flight’s departure. For example, if your flight leaves at 14:00 and the trip takes 1 hour, your pick-up time should be 10:00.
How do I know if my order has been accepted?
After submitting your booking, you’ll receive an email with all trip details and your order status as “Waiting”. Once we receive and confirm your payment, the status will change to “Accepted”, and you’ll receive another email confirmation.
If you don’t receive the confirmation email, please contact our support team at office@welcome.taxi.
How do I change my booking?
To make changes to your booking, please contact our support team at office@welcome.taxi.
Important note: Requests for changes made less than 72 hours before your trip may be declined.
How can I cancel my booking?
You can cancel your booking in two ways:
- Via the booking page on our website — use the cancellation number provided in your booking voucher, at least 72 hours before the trip.
- By contacting our support team if it’s less than 72 hours before your ride.
Important note: In case of urgent cancellation, we may not be able to refund your deposit. The free cancellation period is stated in your confirmation email.
What should I do if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed by less than 30 minutes, the driver will adjust their arrival time automatically.
If the delay is longer, please inform the driver directly (their phone number is in your confirmation voucher) or contact WelcomeTaxi Customer Support at office@welcome.taxi. Please include your order number and the new arrival time.
Important note: The driver may charge an additional fee for extended waiting time.
How will I find my driver?
For airport transfers, if you’ve added the meet-and-greet option to your order, the driver will meet you in the arrivals area — right after passport control and baggage claim. You’ll see a name sign with your first and last names (or custom text, if specified in your booking).
Important note: We strongly recommend adding the meet-and-greet option to your airport transfer booking.
For hotel pickups, the driver will wait for you in the hotel lobby. Detailed meeting instructions and your driver’s contact number are provided in your booking confirmation voucher.
How can I be sure that my driver will pick me up?
WelcomeTaxi guarantees that your driver will do their best to meet you on time.
Both you and the driver will have each other’s phone or WhatsApp number. Please keep your mobile phone switched on at the time of pickup. If you can’t reach the driver, contact our support team immediately.
I can’t find my driver. What should I do?
If you can’t find your driver, please double-check the name signs again — the driver may have missed you in the crowd.
Try calling or messaging the driver via WhatsApp. If there’s no response within the meeting time, contact our support team.
If necessary, go to the airport’s Information Desk to arrange a local taxi to your destination.
Important note: If the driver fails to meet you, we will refund your payment.
What Our Customers Say
United Kingdom
Highly recommended taxi service
Private Airport Transfers from Sofia Airport to the City
Vasil Levski Sofia Airport (SOF), widely known as Sofia Airport, is the main international airport serving Sofia and western Bulgaria. Located east of the capital, it provides convenient access to Sofia’s city centre, hotels, business districts and surrounding municipalities.
The airport has two passenger terminals. Travellers should check their flight information carefully and provide the correct terminal when booking transportation. A free inter-terminal shuttle connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, but meeting a driver at the correct terminal is considerably more convenient, especially when travelling with luggage.
WelcomeTaxi provides pre-booked private airport transfers from SOF to hotels, apartments, offices, railway stations and private addresses throughout Sofia. Chauffeur service and long-distance transfers can also be arranged to ski resorts, historic towns and other destinations across Bulgaria.
Getting from Sofia Airport to the City Centre
Passengers arriving at Sofia Airport can choose between a private transfer, metro, public bus, regular taxi, ride-hailing service or rental car. The most suitable option depends on the terminal, arrival time, group size, luggage and final destination.
Pre-Booked Private Airport Transfer
A private airport transfer provides direct transportation from the terminal to the passenger’s hotel or another specified address. The vehicle is reserved exclusively for the booked party, without scheduled stops or the need to share the journey with other travellers.
This is particularly convenient for families, business passengers, first-time visitors and groups carrying several suitcases. Booking in advance also allows the required vehicle category to be selected according to the number of passengers and luggage.
The route and destination are recorded before arrival, reducing the risk of confusion at the airport. Passengers do not need to search for transportation, compare vehicles or explain an unfamiliar address after landing.
Sofia Metro
Sofia Airport is connected to the city by Metro Line M4. The airport metro station is located at Terminal 2 and provides access to central stations including Sofia University and Serdika. Passengers can change lines at Serdika for other parts of the city and connections towards Sofia Central Railway Station and Central Bus Station.
The metro is an economical and efficient option for individual travellers with light luggage. Passengers arriving at Terminal 1 must first use the inter-terminal shuttle to reach the metro station at Terminal 2.
A metro journey may be less convenient when accommodation is far from a station, when several changes are required or when passengers are travelling with children, bulky baggage or mobility limitations.
Public Buses
Public buses connect Sofia Airport with different parts of the city. Bus services can be useful for passengers arriving at either terminal and travelling to an address near the relevant route.
Although buses are inexpensive, they are generally slower than a direct private transfer and can become crowded. Visitors unfamiliar with Sofia may also need to change to another bus, tram or metro service before reaching their accommodation.
Airport Taxis
Official taxi services are available at Sofia Airport. Passengers should use designated taxi arrangements and avoid accepting unsolicited offers from drivers inside or outside the terminal.
A regular taxi may be sufficient for a simple journey to central Sofia. However, passengers requiring a larger vehicle, child seats, an English-speaking driver or direct transportation to another city may prefer to reserve a transfer in advance.
Ride-Hailing Services
App-based transport services operate in Sofia, subject to current local availability and airport pickup procedures. They can be practical for travellers with mobile internet access and a working payment method.
Vehicle availability, pickup points and prices may vary according to demand. Standard app categories may also provide insufficient luggage space for families or groups.
Car Rental
Rental cars are available for travellers planning an independent itinerary across Bulgaria. A car can be useful for visiting remote towns, rural attractions and mountain regions.
For a short stay focused on central Sofia, renting a car may be unnecessary. The city has extensive public transport, while parking and traffic can be challenging in busy central districts.
Why Pre-Book a Transfer from SOF?
Advance booking provides a planned pickup, a confirmed vehicle category and a destination recorded before arrival. This makes the journey more predictable and avoids the need to arrange transportation after a flight.
A private transfer is especially useful when:
- your flight arrives late at night or early in the morning;
- you are travelling with children or elderly passengers;
- your group requires a minivan, van or minibus;
- you have several suitcases or oversized luggage;
- you need direct travel to a ski resort or another city;
- you prefer an English-speaking driver;
- you are travelling for an important meeting or event.
Unlike public transport, a private transfer takes passengers directly to the booked address. Unlike a taxi selected after arrival, the vehicle can be matched in advance to the passenger and luggage requirements.
Transfers to Sofia Hotels and Districts
Private transfers are available to hotels, apartments and residences throughout Sofia. Common destinations include the historic city centre, Serdika, Oborishte, Lozenets, Mladost, Studentski Grad and the area around Vitosha Boulevard.
Transfers can also be arranged to Sofia Central Railway Station, Central Bus Station, Inter Expo Center and business parks in the eastern and southern parts of the city.
Some central streets have parking, traffic or access restrictions. The driver will normally use the closest safe and permitted stopping point when direct access to the accommodation entrance is not possible.
Passengers staying in a private apartment should provide the complete address, building number and any useful access instructions. A telephone number that works after arrival can help the driver coordinate the meeting.
Chauffeur Service in Sofia
WelcomeTaxi’s chauffeur service can be arranged for business meetings, conferences, official visits, sightseeing and private events. A vehicle with a driver may be booked for a single journey or for an agreed number of hours.
Hourly chauffeur hire is useful when passengers need to visit several locations without ordering a separate taxi for each trip. The driver remains available during the reserved period, subject to the agreed itinerary, mileage and parking conditions.
Typical destinations include government offices, embassies, corporate headquarters, event venues, restaurants and hotels. A chauffeur can also provide transportation between Sofia and nearby attractions or municipalities.
An English-speaking driver can be requested, subject to local availability. The chauffeur service provides professional transportation rather than a guided tour, so travellers who require detailed historical commentary should arrange a licensed guide separately.
Sofia Airport Transfers to Bansko
Bansko is one of Bulgaria’s most popular mountain and ski destinations. A private transfer from Sofia Airport provides direct transportation to a hotel, apartment or chalet without travelling into central Sofia to find an onward bus.
This option is particularly convenient for families and groups carrying skis, snowboards or several suitcases. All sports equipment should be declared before booking so that a vehicle with sufficient luggage capacity can be arranged.
Journey times vary according to traffic, weather and winter road conditions. Transfers can take longer during weekends, public holidays and peak ski periods, so passengers should allow additional time when returning to the airport.
Transfers to Borovets and Other Mountain Resorts
Borovets is another frequently requested destination from SOF and is generally closer to Sofia than Bansko. Direct transfers are available to hotels, apartments and ski accommodation in the resort.
Transportation can also be arranged to Pamporovo, Vitosha Mountain and smaller mountain destinations. Longer routes should be requested with complete accommodation details because some properties may be located outside the main resort centres.
Winter tyres and suitable seasonal equipment are important for mountain travel. Severe snow or ice may affect road conditions and journey times even when the distance is relatively short.
Regional and Long-Distance Transfers from Sofia Airport
Sofia Airport is a practical starting point for private road travel throughout Bulgaria. A direct transfer can be more convenient than travelling first to a bus or railway station, particularly with luggage or when the destination is outside a city centre.
Plovdiv
Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest city and one of its main cultural destinations. Private transfers can be arranged from Sofia Airport to central hotels, private addresses, business locations and event venues in Plovdiv.
Plovdiv Airport (PDV) serves South-Central Bulgaria and is the principal neighboring passenger airport relevant to the wider Sofia region. Airport-to-airport transfers can be arranged when required.
Rila Monastery
Rila Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s best-known historic and religious landmarks. Transportation can be arranged as a one-way journey, return transfer or chauffeur booking with waiting time.
The site is in a mountainous area, and public transport options may be limited or require changes. Visitors should confirm opening arrangements independently and allow sufficient time for the journey and visit.
Veliko Tarnovo
Long-distance transfers are available from Sofia Airport to Veliko Tarnovo, a historic city in central Bulgaria. Door-to-door transportation is useful for passengers travelling to hotels or accommodation outside the main public transport routes.
Thessaloniki, Skopje and Belgrade
Cross-border transfers may be requested from Sofia to destinations including Thessaloniki in Greece, Skopje in North Macedonia and Belgrade in Serbia. Availability depends on the route, vehicle and permission for international transportation.
Passengers must carry the required passports, visas and travel documents. Border controls can cause unpredictable delays, so tight onward connections should be avoided.
Vehicles for Individuals, Families and Groups
A private car is normally suitable for one to three passengers with standard luggage. Families and small groups may require a minivan or van, while larger parties can request minibuses, coaches or several coordinated vehicles.
Passenger capacity and luggage capacity are not the same. A vehicle may have enough seats for a group but insufficient space when every passenger carries a large suitcase.
Skis, snowboards, bicycles, wheelchairs, child seats and other special items must be declared in advance. This allows the transport provider to select an appropriate vehicle and reduces the risk of delays at pickup.
Useful Travel Information for Sofia
Bulgarian is the official language. English is widely spoken in international hotels, major restaurants and tourism businesses, although proficiency varies among local drivers. Passengers who consider English essential should request an English-speaking driver when booking.
The city has a well-developed metro, tram and bus network. Public transport is useful for local journeys, while a private vehicle is often more practical for airport travel, business schedules and destinations outside Sofia.
Traffic can become heavy during weekday morning and evening periods. Winter snow, roadworks and major events may also increase travel times.
Sofia lies close to Vitosha Mountain and has a colder winter climate than many other European capitals. Travellers continuing to ski resorts should carry suitable clothing and allow flexibility for changing weather conditions.
Book a Private Transfer from Sofia Airport
WelcomeTaxi provides private airport transfers, chauffeur service and long-distance transportation from Vasil Levski Sofia Airport. Book direct travel to a Sofia hotel, arrange a chauffeur for meetings and sightseeing or continue by private vehicle to Bansko, Borovets, Plovdiv or another destination.
For an accurate quotation, provide the flight details, correct terminal, pickup date and time, complete destination address, passenger count and luggage information. Child seats, sports equipment, additional stops and special vehicle requirements should be included in the request.