A Guide to Transportation in Bratislava in 2024

Back

feb

1. Public Transportation: Buses, Trams, and Trolleybuses
Bratislava's public transport system, operated by Dopravný podnik Bratislava (DPB), is extensive and covers nearly every part of the city. The network consists of buses, trams, and trolleybuses, all of which run on a reliable schedule and are the primary mode of transportation for most residents. Many bus routes operate throughout the day and into the night. There is no subway in Bratislava.

2. Ticketing System: How Much It Costs and Where to Buy Tickets
Bratislava's public transport system operates on a time-based ticketing system, meaning that tickets are valid for a specific period rather than for a specific journey. This allows for unlimited transfers between buses, trams, and trolleybuses within the ticket’s validity period.

Types of Tickets and Prices (2024)
In 2024, ticket prices in Bratislava remain affordable compared to other European capitals. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ticket types:

30-Minute Ticket: €1.10
Valid for unlimited travel on any bus, tram, or trolleybus for 30 minutes after validation.

60-Minute Ticket: €1.60
Valid for unlimited travel on any mode of public transport for 60 minutes after validation.

90-Minute Ticket: €2.50
Valid for 90 minutes, offering more flexibility for longer trips or transfers.

24-Hour Ticket: €4.80
Unlimited travel for 24 hours on all public transportation within Bratislava.

Discounted Tickets
Discounts are available for students (under 26): Typically receive a 50% discount on tickets with a valid student card.

More information about the price can be found here.

Where to Buy Tickets
Buying tickets for public transport in Bratislava is convenient, with several options available:

Ticket Machines: Most public transport stops have electronic ticket machines where you can purchase tickets using coins, banknotes, or card payments. The machines offer multiple languages, including English, making them user-friendly for tourists.

Mobile App: The DPB’s mobile app, called IDS BK (Integrated Transport System in the Bratislava Region), allows users to buy digital tickets directly on their smartphones. The app is convenient as it lets you purchase and store tickets, which you can validate upon boarding. You get a discount when you buy tickets via this app.

SMS ticket: To order a ticket via SMS, you need to send a blank SMS message to the specified number. If your phone does not allow you to send a blank SMS message, enter a space or a single letter in the SMS. The passenger is obliged to purchase the SMS ticket before boarding the vehicle.

Time validity    SMS number         Price
40 minutes       1140               1,20 €
70 minutes     1100       1,70 €
24 hours          1124          5,40 €

Ticket Validation
When using a paper ticket, it’s essential to validate your ticket at the start of your journey. Look for the yellow validation machines on board trams, buses, and trolleybuses, and insert your ticket into the machine to stamp it. If you're using a mobile or SMS ticket, ensure it is activated as you board.

3. Public Transport Passes: Long-Term Options
It might be more cost-effective to purchase a public transport pass, which offers unlimited travel on all DPB-operated services.

Monthly Pass: €36 for adults, offering unlimited travel for 30 days within the city.
Quarterly Pass: €96 for adults, valid for 90 days.
Discounted passes are also available for students.

Where to buy PCL:

at DPB, a. s. outlets
via the online shop (eShop of the carrier that issued or personalised the PCL)
Slovenská pošta, a. s. at all branches in the Bratislava region

4. Night Transport
Bratislava’s public transport system also includes a network of night buses, which operate after regular service ends (typically after midnight). Night buses cover most of the city’s major routes and run every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the route. Night tickets cost the same as regular daytime tickets, so you can use the same tickets or passes for both day and night travel.

5. Other Transportation Options: Taxis, Ride-Hailing, and Biking
While public transport is the most common way to get around Bratislava, the city offers other transportation options for those who prefer alternatives.

Taxis: Taxis are available across the city, though they tend to be more expensive than public transport. It’s generally best to book taxis through reputable apps like HOPIN or Bolt to avoid overcharging. A typical ride within the city center costs between €5 and €10.

Ride-Hailing: Apps like Bolt and Uber are popular in Bratislava and offer a convenient alternative to taxis. Ride-hailing services are typically cheaper than traditional taxis, and prices are calculated based on distance and demand, with rides within the city usually costing between €5 and €12.

Cycling: Bratislava is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and rental services available throughout the city. Slovnaft BAjk, the city’s bike-sharing program, allows users to rent bikes at affordable rates, starting at €1 for a short ride.

Scooters: Electric scooters, provided by companies like Bolt and TIER, are another quick and eco-friendly way to get around Bratislava. Scooters can be rented via mobile apps, with prices starting at €0.50 to unlock and €0.15 per minute of use. They're particularly popular for short trips within the city center.