For those who live, work, or visit Romania’s capital, choosing the right public transport option can make a major difference in terms of time, comfort, and cost. Bucharest has at least three main public transport systems: STB (surface transport — buses, trams, trolleybuses), Metrorex (the subway), and urban/regional trains that connect the city with its metropolitan area.
This article compares these three options — how they work, their advantages and disadvantages — to give you a clear picture of how to move efficiently around the city.

STB – surface transport

What it is and how it operates

STB provides surface public transport in Bucharest through buses, trams, and trolleybuses. According to recent guides, STB covers the entire city and nearby areas.

How to pay

There are joint tickets and subscriptions between STB and Metrorex — for example, a combined ticket that can be used both for surface transport and the metro.
 Validation is done via contactless cards or purchased tickets. STB also offers mobile apps and real-time travel information systems.

Advantages and limitations

Advantages:

• A large network accessible almost everywhere in the city.
• Useful for areas not covered by the metro.
• Integrated tickets and passes with the metro help save money.

Limitations:

• Longer travel times during rush hours due to traffic.
• Dependent on road infrastructure (possible delays).
• The metro is faster for longer or central trips.

Metrorex – the Bucharest subway

What it is and how it works

Metrorex operates Bucharest’s subway network, made up of several lines crossing the city. It is generally considered the fastest and most reliable form of public transport during rush hours.

Schedule, frequency, and fares

• Operating hours: roughly from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on regular days.
• Train frequency: varies by line and time of day, usually between 3 and 10 minutes.
• Fares: a single metro trip currently costs 5 lei.

Advantages and limitations

Advantages:

• Very fast across central areas or when crossing the city.
• Unaffected by surface traffic — predictable travel times.
• Ideal for daily commuting over medium or long distances.

Limitations:

• Does not reach all neighborhoods (especially outer districts).
• Access to stations may require walking or transfers.
• Can be crowded during peak hours.

Urban and regional trains

What they are and how they fit in

Besides STB and Metrorex, there are also urban and regional train services connecting Bucharest with nearby localities. These services complement the metropolitan transport network.
For example, an Integrated Metropolitan Pass includes access to surface transport, the metro, and urban trains.

How to use them

• Integrated subscriptions can cover surface transport, metro, and urban trains within the Bucharest–Ilfov region.
• Urban trains are convenient for travel between the suburbs (e.g., Otopeni, Voluntari) and the city center.

Advantages and limitations

Advantages:

• Expands the travel area to and from suburbs or nearby towns.
• Can be more comfortable for long-distance commuting.

Limitations:

• Lower frequency than the metro.
• Train stations are not always well-connected to metro lines.
• Trips often require advance planning.

Comparison – which option to choose?

• If you need speed between central areas or are crossing the city → choose the metro.
• If you travel within neighborhoods or peripheral zones and need nearby stops → use STB buses, trams, or trolleybuses.
• If you commute to or from the metropolitan area or suburbs → consider urban trains, though these services are still being developed.

Key considerations:

• For integrated STB + Metrorex tickets, check the latest fare — starting September 4, 2025, the price increased to 7 lei for a 120-minute trip.
• If choosing between speed and cost, STB is generally cheaper, while the metro is more time-efficient.
• Use mobile apps like InfoSTB or Google Maps to check routes and estimated times.

You might also be interested in:

How to survive Bucharest traffic – a practical guide for expats

How to survive your first month in Bucharest as a student

Useful travel tips

• Before departure, check the official apps for delays or route changes.
• Always validate your ticket or pass — ticket inspections are frequent and fines are significant.
• If traveling to the suburbs, consider urban trains as an option.
• During rush hours, avoid multiple transfers — the metro offers more predictability.
• For tourists or short stays, look for 24-hour or 72-hour passes that include all three types of transport.

Bucharest’s public transport system offers diverse options: STB for surface travel, Metrorex for the subway, and urban trains for longer or metropolitan routes. Each has its own strengths and challenges, and the best choice depends on route, time, cost, and comfort.
By comparing these three systems, you can make smarter decisions for your urban mobility needs in Bucharest.