Bucharest’s public transportation system is one of the most extensive in Eastern Europe, offering affordable and accessible options for navigating the city. From modern metro lines to buses, trams, and even water transport, the Romanian capital has multiple ways to get around—whether you’re a local, expat, or tourist.

1. Overview of the Public Transport System

Bucharest's public transport is primarily operated by two major organizations:

• STB (Societatea de Transport București) – manages surface transport: buses, trolleybuses, and trams.
• Metrorex – operates the underground metro network.
• Other services: The city also has limited ferry routes, bike-sharing systems, and ride-sharing alternatives.

2. The Metro – Fast & Efficient Underground Travel

Operator: Metrorex

The Bucharest Metro is the fastest and most reliable form of public transport, especially during peak hours.

• Lines: 5 operational lines – M1 (yellow), M2 (blue), M3 (red), M4 (green), and the newest M5 (purple).
• Coverage: Key neighborhoods, universities, business districts, and main railway stations (like Gara de Nord).
• Schedule: Runs from ~5:00 AM to ~11:00 PM.
• Frequency: 3-10 minutes depending on the time of day.

Tickets:

• Magnetic cards or contactless payment.
• Prices: Around 3 lei for a single trip; multiple ride passes and subscriptions available.

3. STB – Surface Public Transport

STB operates over 100 bus lines, tram routes, and trolleybus lines that cover the entire city and extend into surrounding areas.

Types of Transport:

• Buses: The most common and wide-reaching.
• Trams: Useful in central and older neighborhoods.
• Trolleybuses: Eco-friendly options on specific routes.

Tickets:

• Integrated with the metro system since 2021.
• Use the STB card or pay contactless via card on buses/trams.
• Available passes: 24h, 72h, weekly, and monthly options.

Real-time Info:

• Use the official InfoSTB app, Google Maps, or Moovit to track arrivals and delays.

4. Night Transport

Bucharest has a dedicated night bus network (N lines), connecting major neighborhoods with the city center between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

• Buses run every 30-60 minutes depending on the route.

5. Tickets & Payment Options

You have several convenient ways to pay:

• Contactless payment (credit/debit card) directly in vehicles or at metro turnstiles.
• Mobile apps (24Pay for STB, Metrorex app for subscriptions).
• Rechargeable transport cards from kiosks.
• SMS payment for short-term tickets.

Note: Surface and metro systems have different operators, but since 2021, there's a unified travel card covering both.

6. Accessibility

• Most metro stations are equipped with elevators or ramps.
• New STB buses and trams are low-floor and wheelchair accessible.
• Voice and visual announcements are present on most new vehicles.

7. Tips for Tourists

• If you're staying for a few days, consider a 72h or weekly pass.
• Avoid peak hours (8–9 AM, 5–6 PM) for a more comfortable ride.
• Validate your ticket to avoid fines.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

8. Alternatives: Biking, Scooters & More

• Lime, Bolt, Flow: Electric scooters widely available across the city.
• iVelo and other bike-sharing services.
• Ridesharing apps: Uber, Bolt, and Free Now are popular and affordable.
• Taxis: Use authorized companies and apps—avoid random taxis at stations or airports.

9. Future Plans

Bucharest is working on:

• Expanding Metro Line M5 to the east (Pantelimon).
• Building Metro Line M6 to link the city center with Henri Coandă Airport.
• Modernizing tram lines and acquiring more electric buses.

10. Final Thoughts

Public transportation in Bucharest is budget-friendly and constantly improving. Whether you choose the metro for speed or enjoy a scenic ride on the tram, the system is designed to help you get around efficiently. For the best experience, plan your route ahead, use real-time tracking apps, and don’t be afraid to explore the city like a local.