In Bucharest, the tram is more than just a means of transport—it’s an urban story written over nearly a century and a half. From the first tracks laid in the 19th century to the modern trams that now crisscross the capital, this mode of transport reflects the city’s evolution and the social, economic, and technological changes over time.

The first steps on rails: 1871 – 1900

The story of trams in Bucharest begins in 1871, when the French company “Compagnie des Tramways de Bucarest” inaugurated the first horse-drawn tram line, running between Piața Victoriei and Dealul Spirii. These were carriages pulled by horses, moving along still unpaved streets, marking a first for local public transport.

Although slow and limited, this rudimentary system opened the way for a network that quickly expanded. By the early 20th century, Bucharest was already served by horse-drawn tram lines covering the main city arteries, offering a convenient alternative for getting around the capital.

Electrification and the era of the classic tram (1900–1945)

A defining moment came in 1894 with the electrification of the network, which radically transformed urban transport. The first electric trams gradually replaced horse-drawn carriages, increasing speed and capacity. The Piața Victoriei – Gara de Nord line was among the first to be modernized, and its success led to rapid network expansion.

During the interwar period, trams became the backbone of Bucharest’s public transport, with dozens of lines covering the city in all directions. Vehicles were produced both domestically and imported, and the infrastructure evolved alongside the city’s growth.

During World War II, the network suffered significant damage but was quickly restored in the post-war years, becoming a symbol of the return to normalcy.

The communist era and the industrialization of trams (1945–1989)

After the war, influenced by the Soviet model, trams remained central to public transport but underwent major changes. Romanian-produced models, such as the Timiș 2 and V3A, were introduced and remained in service for decades.

The network expanded into new neighborhoods, and the tram became an accessible mass transit option for millions of Bucharest residents. However, maintenance quality declined, and infrastructure aged, though trams remained preferred over other transport modes.

Challenges of transition and the beginning of modernization (1990–Present)

Following the fall of communism, Bucharest’s tram system faced a difficult period. Lack of investment, financial instability, and increased car traffic put pressure on the system. Many lines were reduced or closed, and old vehicles continued to run despite clear issues with comfort and safety.

In the last 15 years, authorities have begun investing in network modernization. New trams, have been acquired, and stations have been upgraded to improve accessibility. Infrastructure work includes rail refurbishment, modern signaling, and integration with other transport modes.

The tram today: between nostalgia and innovation

Today, the tram remains a symbol of the city, with a network of approximately 140 kilometers of lines connecting peripheral neighborhoods to the city center. Although challenges persist regarding frequency and service quality, the introduction of new trams and extension projects offer an optimistic outlook.

The tram has also become a venue for cultural and social initiatives, with themed events and urban art projects that bring trams back into Bucharest’s spotlight as more than just transport.

From the first horse-drawn carriages to today’s modern trams, Bucharest’s tram transport reflects the city’s and society’s transformations. Its history is one of adaptation and survival, and its future depends on investment and long-term vision. The tram is not merely a relic of the past but an essential element of sustainable urban mobility in the capital.