The public transport in Bucharest covers all the areas, and it's impossible not to find the right one for you. Here is all you need to know about getting around the city in the most comfortable way.
Whether the expats want to go from A point to the B one, or just explore certain parts of the city, they should have a picture on the means of transport here. This article will cover all the details about getting around Bucharest, with the advantages and drawbacks of each means of transport.
Buses and trams in Bucharest
One of the handiest means of transport in Bucharest is given by the hundreds of buses and trolleybuses, along with the many transport options. Belonging to the STBSA, these buses and trams are serving all the areas of Bucharest, and some are dedicated to the suburban villages and outposts.
However, during the rush hours, these buses are very crowded. Also, take care of your wallet and keep the wits with you, as there are pickpockets in Bucharest.
Busses and trams run at infrequent intervals, from around 5 a.m. in the morning to 11 p.m. At the weekends the schedule might differ, so make sure you are checking it on the STBSA website.
There are also night routes, which are leaving from Unirii Square. If you come to Bucharest by plane, there are express routes that serve the airport.
Busses and trams are the cheapest ways to travel around the city. On top of that, the ticket sale points are all around Bucharest, chiefly or at nearby stations.
Subway in Bucharest
The metro in Bucharest has four lines, while the fifth one is still under construction. Relatively modern, meaning the first section opened in 1979, the metro of Bucharest is constantly under modernization, although there are still some network stations that are in need of refurbishment. The good part is that the trains and the system are cheap, very quick and reliable. Just pay attention to the M2 line, which gets very crowded during the evening and the morning rush hours.
The schedule of the Bucharest subway is from 5 a.m to 11 p.m. During the summertime, the closing hour is at midnight.
The subway is the fastest mean of transport in Bucharest. Not as cheap as the bus and trams, meaning two trips are 1,20 euros, the subway is cleaner and safer.
Taxis and ride-sharing in Bucharest
Ride-sharing apps in Bucharest are developing day by day, meaning there are hundreds of cars that are waiting to pick you up and drive you safely. So these modern means of transport are a good alternative to the city's often less civilized taxis.
Taxis are cheap in Bucharest, comparing with other capitals of Europe. The price per kilometre is around 1,39 lei, and it applies to the yellow taxis. If you have a smartphone, it's better to download at least one app on your phone, such as Clever Taxi, so you won't need to run after cabs on a rainy day.
Also, you can use ride-sharing platforms such as Uber or Bolt.
Good to know:
Always pay attention to the prices, which should be displayed on the driver's door and also in the car, on the board. There should be just one single tariff displayed. Never pay more than 1,39 lei per kilometre, and any higher price should start alarm bells ringing.
Useful links
Bucharest Bus Route Map
Bucharest Trolleybus Route Map
Bucharest Tram Route Map
Bucharest Night Bus Route Map
Clever Taxi
STBSA website
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