Public Transport in Bucharest
Bucharest has Romania's most extensive public transport network and is among Europe's most significant public transport networks, serving more than 2 million inhabitants. Although there were plans to build a canal to the Danube during the communist regime, they did not materialize, so the city does not benefit from water transport, except for recreational races on the lakes in the parks.
Buses & Trams
Bucharest has hundreds of bus and trolleybus routes, and tens of trams, serving every part of the city as well as several suburban villages and outposts.
Buses and trams run at infrequent intervals from very early in the morning (around 04:30) to around 22:50 (earlier at weekends), after which the night buses take over (24 lines). These serve all areas of the capital throughout the night, with all routes departing from Piata Unirii. Most night bus lines run at hourly intervals.
In Bucharest, surface transport includes an extensive bus system, trolleybuses, trams, and an easy subway line. The transport network is among the densest in Europe, ensuring the transport of millions of travellers by making them available more than 120 bus lines, 13 trolleybus lines and 22 tram lines, including the light rail.
Map the routes of surface public transport, which can be viewed on Info TB.
Ticket Prices
The ticketing is different for the street transport (buses, trams, and trolleybuses) and the subway system.
To use buses, trams, or trolleybuses, you must first purchase an 'Activ' or 'Multiple' magnetic card (EUR 0.80) from any STB street kiosk, which you then load with credit that is discharged as you enter the transport vehicles. Trips cost EUR 0.60 each, and you can travel for 90 minutes between the lines. The minimum amount of credit you can buy is EUR 1. Children under seven ride free. One has to validate the card each time one enters the tram or bus. Travelling without a validated card risks a EUR 17 on-the-spot fine. Cards can be topped up as needed at any STB kiosk.
You can plan a route using the Info TB app or with the help of Google Maps or Moovit apps.
More information on ticket prices can be found below.
Subway
The subway network also provides passenger transport in Bucharest, which is among the most used public transport systems.
The network consists of five lines: M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5. The system has a 77 km length and 63 stations, with an average distance of 1.5 km between stations.
The route map can be found on metrorex.ro, subway website, but also explanatory maps are conveniently shown in the subway stations and even in the trains themselves. The use of the subway system in Bucharest is based on a magnetic card, which can be purchased from the subway stations, which entitles either a fixed number of trips over a more extended period or to an unlimited number of trips per one fixed period.
Magnetic cards for subway access cannot be used for journeys by public transport to the surface.
The passengers' access to the subway stations is between 5.00 and 23.30, and trains with a frequency of 5 to 15 minutes depending on the hours.
Taxis & Ridesharing
Ride-sharing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Black Cab are well-established in Bucharest and represent a good alternative to taxis. Prices (around EUR 0.50 per kilometre) are about the same as for standard yellow cabs, while standards are far higher.
If you do not have either app on your phone, we recommend you download at least one in order to spare yourself running after a normal taxi.
Taxis & Ridesharing
Ride-sharing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Black Cab are well-established in Bucharest and represent a good alternative to taxis. Prices (around EUR 0.50 per kilometre) are about the same as for standard yellow cabs, while standards are far higher.
If you do not have either app on your phone, we recommend you download at least one in order to spare yourself running after a normal taxi.
Train
If you have to take a train in Romania, always try to get an InterCity (IC - although note these are few and far between) or InterRegio (IR) as they are the fastest and usually have the most modern rolling stock. Regio (R-) trains (which until recently were known as Personal), are slow and often use much older carriages. You will also see trains designated as ICN: these are InterCity trains that stop at more stations than usual and are more like InterRegios. Prices on all types of trains are relatively cheap. For example, An InterRegio adult single from Bucharest to Brasov currently costs EUR 12.
To buy train tickets, visit either the station or a CFR agency or purchase the tickets online at bilete.cfrcalatori.ro. Fairly substantial reductions are available for buying online return tickets well in advance.
Train
If you have to take a train in Romania, always try to get an InterCity (IC - although note these are few and far between) or InterRegio (IR) as they are the fastest and usually have the most modern rolling stock. Regio (R-) trains (which until recently were known as Personal), are slow and often use much older carriages. You will also see trains designated as ICN: these are InterCity trains that stop at more stations than usual and are more like InterRegios. Prices on all types of trains are relatively cheap. For example, An InterRegio adult single from Bucharest to Brasov currently costs EUR 12.
To buy train tickets, visit either the station or a CFR agency or purchase the tickets online at bilete.cfrcalatori.ro. Fairly substantial reductions are available for buying online return tickets well in advance.
Bucharest City Tour
Starting in 2011, the Bucharest City Tour project had an integrated functioning and promotion concept. Given the special character of this line, in addition to the transport service, it offers tourists the opportunity to be informed about the possibilities of spending their free time in Bucharest through the available informative materials.
The detailed map of the Bucharest City Tour, with a new and attractive design, in addition to the general data on the route and the operation of the line (schedule, price, stations), also offers information on the possibilities of spending time in Bucharest. The partners' landmarks in the clubs-bars-restaurants category are marked on the map with various symbols to guide tourists to these locations. The map is available, free of charge, inside hotel receptions, at all bus card centers, at tourist information points, at the airport and the main stations in Bucharest.
Currently, the Bucharest City Tour service is temporarily suspended, but we recommend you book a private tour.
Bucharest City Tour
Starting in 2011, the Bucharest City Tour project had an integrated functioning and promotion concept. Given the special character of this line, in addition to the transport service, it offers tourists the opportunity to be informed about the possibilities of spending their free time in Bucharest through the available informative materials.
The detailed map of the Bucharest City Tour, with a new and attractive design, in addition to the general data on the route and the operation of the line (schedule, price, stations), also offers information on the possibilities of spending time in Bucharest. The partners' landmarks in the clubs-bars-restaurants category are marked on the map with various symbols to guide tourists to these locations. The map is available, free of charge, inside hotel receptions, at all bus card centers, at tourist information points, at the airport and the main stations in Bucharest.
Currently, the Bucharest City Tour service is temporarily suspended, but we recommend you book a private tour.
Tuk-Tuk Rentals
Zip through Bucharest's highlights on a private tuk-tuk adventure! Your expert guide will narrate the city's history as you whiz by iconic landmarks like the Palace of Parliament, Victory Avenue, and Revolution Square.
This personalized tour is perfect for getting oriented and discovering hidden gems.
Want insider tips? Ask your guide for recommendations to tailor the rest of your trip!
Tuk-Tuk Rentals
Zip through Bucharest's highlights on a private tuk-tuk adventure! Your expert guide will narrate the city's history as you whiz by iconic landmarks like the Palace of Parliament, Victory Avenue, and Revolution Square.
This personalized tour is perfect for getting oriented and discovering hidden gems.
Want insider tips? Ask your guide for recommendations to tailor the rest of your trip!
Bucharest City Tour with Dacia Cars
Buck Bucharest in a Communist time capsule! Cruise the city for hours in a classic Dacia, the iconic Romanian car. Drive yourself or relax as your guide navigates past iconic landmarks from Bucharest's fascinating Communist era.
This private tour guarantees a personalized experience and a unique view of Bucharest's history. Choose your start time and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Bucharest City Tour with Dacia Cars
Buck Bucharest in a Communist time capsule! Cruise the city for hours in a classic Dacia, the iconic Romanian car. Drive yourself or relax as your guide navigates past iconic landmarks from Bucharest's fascinating Communist era.
This private tour guarantees a personalized experience and a unique view of Bucharest's history. Choose your start time and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Bike Rentals
Ditch the crowded buses and explore Bucharest at your own pace with a convenient bike rental! Cruise down charming streets, weave through parks, and discover hidden gems all on two wheels.
Bike rentals offer freedom and flexibility, perfect for sightseeing on your schedule.
No need to rely on public transport or expensive taxis – explore Bucharest like a local, get some exercise, and enjoy the town vibe!
You can rent a bike through the iVelo app, too.
Bike Rentals
Ditch the crowded buses and explore Bucharest at your own pace with a convenient bike rental! Cruise down charming streets, weave through parks, and discover hidden gems all on two wheels.
Bike rentals offer freedom and flexibility, perfect for sightseeing on your schedule.
No need to rely on public transport or expensive taxis – explore Bucharest like a local, get some exercise, and enjoy the town vibe!
You can rent a bike through the iVelo app, too.
Tourist in Bucharest?
Tourist travel card - one card & unlimited options
The tourist travel card is valid on buses, trolleys, trams, metro, and train (Otopeni Airport to North Railway Station route).
For 24 hours of availability, you have to pay 20 RON, and for 72 hours, 40 RON.
*The 24-hour and 72-hour Tourist Card Travel tickets allow any number of transfers in the metro network, on any surface transport vehicle in the Bucharest-Ilfov region and the railway on the Gara de Nord-Henri Coandă Airport connection during the time interval of validity.
*Travel tickets will have a delay of 15 minutes for access to the subway.
The card must be validated.
Bucharest Airport Transfer
Skip the taxi line and navigate Bucharest like a VIP with a private airport transfer.
A friendly driver will wait for you upon arrival, comfortably whisking you away to your hotel or destination.
This stress-free option is ideal for tourists – no fumbling with maps or haggling over fares.
Relax and enjoy the city views as your driver takes care of everything, ensuring a smooth and stylish start to your Bucharest adventure.
How Can You Buy Tickets?
By SMS at 7458 directly from the mobile device. Text C for one metropolitan ticket (90 min) or AB for a metropolitan pass (24h).
By the free app 24pay that you can download from the App Store and Google Play (there is no need to have a transport card, just an enrolled credit card).
By contactless bank card, directly at the validator (be aware that contactless card can be used only this product is currently available on Otokar, hybrid Mercedes Citaro, on night trams (1 and 10) and tram 41.
By vending machines from Piata Unirii (Splaiul Independentei 25-27), Piata Romana (Magheru Boulevard, 131 bus station), Gara de Nord (Piata Gara de Nord 1-3), Mihai Bravu (Soseaua Colentina 1), and Otopeni Airport. You can check the vending machine points here.
At any STB selling point where you can buy a rechargeable card and as many trips you need. You can check the physical STB selling points here.
By SelfPay Pay Stations where it can be found in large retail chains, commercial centers, markets, petrol stations, convenience stores, offices of partner banks, town halls and other public institutions. You can check the SelfPay Station selling points here.
By online paying, with an available STB account here.
Transport Program
Buses and trams program: at infrequent intervals from very early in the morning (around 04:30) to around 22:50 (earlier at weekends).
The subway train schedule: from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with the mention that the last subway trains leave at 11:00 p.m. from the end stations of the subway lines.
Metropolitan Tickets and Passes
Metropolitan tickets
1 metropolitan ticket – 90 min – 3 RON (approx. 0.60 EUR)
2 metropolitan tickets - 90 min - 6 RON (approx. 1.20 EUR)
10 metropolitan tickets– 90 min – 25 RON (approx. 5.03 EUR)
Metropolitan passes (surface)
Metropolitan Pass – 24 h – 8 RON (approx. 1.61 EUR)
Metropolitan Pass – 72 h – 20 RON (approx. 4 EUR)
Metropolitan Pass – 7 days – 30 RON (approx. 6.03 EUR)
Metropolitan Pass – 1 month – 80 RON (approx. 16.09 EUR)
Metropolitan Pass – 6 months – 400 RON (approx. 80.43 EUR)
Metropolitan Pass – 12 months – 700 RON (approx. 140.72 EUR)
Penalty fare 80 RON (approx. 16 EUR) - Special fare ticket, gold on the spot by the person using the public transport service without a valid ticket. This penalty fare is valid on the current day until the end of the day (24:00).
Metropolitan Integrated with Metro Tickets and Passes
Metro, Bus, Trolley, Tram (Bucharest-Ilfov metropolitan area)
Metropolitan integrated tickets
1 Metropolitan and Metro ticket – 120 min – 5 RON (approx. 1.01 EUR)
2 Metropolitan and Metro tickets - 120 min - 10 RON (approx. 2 EUR)
10 Metropolitan and Metro tickets – 120 min – 45 RON (approx. 9.05 EUR)
Metropolitan integrated passes
Metropolitan and Metro Pass – 24 h – 14 RON (approx. 2.81 EUR)
Metropolitan and Metro Pass – 72 h – 35 RON (approx. 7.04 EUR)
Metropolitan and Metro Pass – 7 days – 50 RON (approx. 10.05 EUR)
Metropolitan and Metro Pass – 1 month – 140 RON (approx. 28.15 EUR)
Metropolitan and Metro Pass – 6 months – 700 RON (approx. 140.75 EUR)
Metropolitan and Metro Pass – 12 months – 1200 RON (approx. 241.29 EUR)
Integrated Metropolitan Passes with Train Passes (Surface + Train North Railway Station-Otopeni Airport)
Metropolitan integrated passes
Metropolitan and Train Pass – 1 month – 140 RON (approx. 28.15 EUR)
Metropolitan and Train Pass – 6 months – 800 RON (approx. 160.81 EUR)
Metropolitan and Train Pass – 12 months – 1400 RON (approx. 281.41 EUR)
Subway Ticket Prices
Single Trip - Price: 5.00 RON, Non-nominal, Magnetic card holder, No timing
2 Trips - Price: 10.00 RON, Non-nominal, Magnetic card holder, Nominal rechargeable contactless card (pre-issued), No timing
10 Trips - Price: 40.00 RON, Non-nominal, Magnetic card holder, Nominal rechargeable contactless card (pre-issued), No timing
24-Hour Pass - Price: 12.00 RON, Non-nominal, Ultralight contactless card, 15-minute delay
72-Hour Pass - Price: 35.00 RON, Non-nominal, Ultralight contactless card, 15-minute delay
Weekly Pass - Price: 45.00 RON, Non-nominal magnetic card, Nominal rechargeable contactless card, 15-minute delay
Monthly Pass - Price: 100.00 RON, Non-nominal magnetic card, Nominal rechargeable contactless card, 15-minute delay
6-Month Pass - Price: 500.00 RON, Nominal, Rechargeable contactless card, 15-minute delay
Annual Pass - Price: 900.00 RON, Nominal, Rechargeable contactless card, 15-minute delay
Metro Ticket Payment Options
Cash - at cashiers, access booths and card vending machines;
Bank card - at cashiers (there are stickers that visually signal travelers regarding the acceptance for payment of cards issued under the Visa, MasterCard, VisaElectron and Maestro logo),
- at card vending machines,
- at access gates or terminals specially installed for contactless technology.
When validating a magnetic card or a Metrorex contactless card, other bank cards with contactless technology must not be kept in their proximity, as it is possible to accidentally/inadvertently pay the cost of a trip on the bank card by being near them by the area marked with the contactless symbol on the gate display.
Payment for the journey at the access gates or terminals specially set up for contactless technology can be made using any MasterCard, Maestro or Visa contactless bank card. The price of the metro ride does not involve any additional fees.
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