Sofia offers a well-regulated taxi system with multiple reliable companies serving both locals and visitors. This guide covers everything you need to know about taxi services in Bulgaria’s capital – from identification requirements and fare structures to booking methods and recommended operators.
Taxi Regulations and Identification
All licensed taxis in Sofia must adhere to specific visual identification standards. Standard taxis are yellow clour, while eco-friendly hybrid or electric vehicles may be green colour. Each taxi must display clearly visible stickers showing the company name and fare tariffs. These include daytime and nighttime urban rates per kilometer, the initial pickup fee, and the waiting time rate.
On the exterior of the taxi, there must be a holographic security sticker showing the municipal license number. Taximeters are mandatory, and all vehicles must use certified meters that differentiate between day (6:00–22:00) and night (22:00–6:00) rates.
Inside the taxi, look for the driver identification card. It is a photo ID showing the driver’s name and license number. This can help you get in touch with the driver if you forget something in the car or if you need to file a complaint.
Avoiding Common Scams
Always ensure the meter is running and that the displayed fare matches the rate information on the window sticker. If a driver claims the meter is broken, contact the taxi company immediately. In case of any issue, note the license number and report the problem, providing details such as the time and route of your journey.
Avoid getting into unmarked vehicles offering taxi services. We know it is a common sense and you won’t do it.
For intercity travel, always request a quote in advance or negotiate a flat rate. All major taxi companies will arrange airport transfers or intercity travel if you pre-book. They can also provide larger vehicles for group transport.
Booking Options
Travelers can book taxis in Sofia by phone, via mobile apps, or by hailing one on the street. Apps offer the best service because you can see the cars on the map, the estimated cost or more details about the taxi car. All you need for the apps is internet.
Most hotels have partnerships with reliable companies and can arrange airport transfers for you.
When hailing, be cautious of imposters with similar branding (e.g., “Yellom” vs. “Yellow”).
.Yellow Taxi
Yellow Taxi is one of the leading companies in Sofia, operating over 1 000 vehicles, which guarantees availability even during peak hours. It is the official taxi provider at Sofia Airport for both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 so you have definitely seen the Yellow cars if you have landed in Sofia.
You can book a ride via phone, their website, or the mobile app, which is the most convenient option. Some hotels, hospitals, and public buildings also have physical “Taxi Button” devices that let you call a cab to your exact location.
Yellow Taxi uses standard rates and is reliable for both daily transportation and airport transfers. All their vehicles are equipped for card payment. If a driver says otherwise, you can contact support through the app for assistance.
Volt (Premium Service)
Volt positions itself as a premium taxi service. Their fleet includes electric luxury BMW 5 Series and Mercedes V-Class vehicles. Though primarily aimed at business travelers and corporate clients, they also cater to families. Upon request, child seats can be installed in advance.
Drivers undergo special customer service training, and all of them speak English. Volt enforces a strict no-smoking policy, a welcome detail in Bulgaria where smoking remains common. Vehicles come equipped with complimentary bottled water, phone chargers, and free Wi-Fi. While Volt is more expensive, the high-end experience is often worth the price.
If you travel with a child, Volt will take care for the safety like a breeze, just when you book, inform the company that you need a car seat for your little one and it will be arranged quickly.
TaxiMe
TaxiMe is one of the highest-rated taxi apps in Bulgaria, popular for its transparency and efficiency. It offers real-time fare estimates and driver profiles with ratings. TaxiMe provides an experience similar to Uber, but with licensed drivers who are subject to regular checks as required by the Bulgarian laws.
The app offers multiple payment methods and it is one of the easiest and most convenient services in Sofia. TaxiMe takes the customer service seriously and does its best to make your experience smooth and easy.
GreenTaxi
GreenTaxi is an environmentally friendly option, operating a fleet of hybrid and electric Toyota models like the Prius and Auris. They offer competitive pricing on par with standard taxis.
The limited number of vehicles and lack of a mobile app are significant drawbacks. Rides must be booked by phone or flagged down on the street.
TaxiStars
TaxiStars is an innovative platform that serves Sofia and ten other major Bulgarian cities, as well as satellite towns around the capital. Instead of operating its own fleet, TaxiStars partners with trusted local operators.
The app shows driver ratings and allows you to block drivers or create a favorites list. You can register a payment card in the app and authorize transactions using a PIN. Tips can also be pre-set as a percentage at the end of the ride.
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Sofia’s taxi system blends traditional reliability with modern convenience. While the city lacks services like Uber or Bolt, it offers strong local alternatives such as Yellow Taxi for everyday needs, Volt for premium experiences, and TaxiMe for app-based travel. With strict regulations, visible identification, and 24/7 customer support, taxis in Sofia remain a safe, reliable, and accessible transportation option when using licensed providers.