Transport in Kyiv

Kyiv has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city quickly. The main types of public transport include the metro, buses, trolleybuses, trams, and marshrutkas (minibuses). You can also easily order a taxi, rent an electric scooter or bicycle, or rent a car.

Here’s everything you need to know about getting around Kyiv.

Metro

The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get around Kyiv. It provides easy access to most tourist attractions, the central railway station, bus stations, and quick travel between the city’s right and left banks.

The system has three lines: the red M1, blue M2, and green M3. Metro maps in Ukrainian and English are available on the official Kyiv Metro website, on the walls across from each platform, and inside every train — usually above or near the doors.

Current and next stations are announced in Ukrainian and English, and in some trains, the next stop is also displayed on overhead screens. Transfer stations have clear signs. Thanks to this, navigating Kyiv’s metro is straightforward.

How much does a metro ride cost in Kyiv and how to pay

A metro ride costs 8 UAH per trip. You can pay in several ways:

• Bank card, phone, or smartwatch: simply tap your card or NFC-enabled device on the yellow turnstiles — black turnstiles do not have payment terminals and only accept QR tickets or paper tickets with barcodes. Some stations have newly installed tall metal turnstiles that accept both bank cards and ticket validation.
• Digital QR ticket: you can buy it through the Kyiv Digital app. After purchase, scan the QR code at the turnstile.
• Paper ticket with barcode: available at self-service machines at station entrances — payment can be made by card or cash. To enter, scan the barcode on the ticket just like a QR code.

Kyiv does not offer 24-, 48-, or 72-hour metro passes, so for tourists, paying per ride is the most convenient option.

Kyiv metro operating hours

Trains run approximately from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM, depending on the line.

Weekday intervals:

• 7–10 minutes before 8:00 AM and after 9:00 PM
• 2–3 minutes during peak hours (8:00–9:00 AM and 6:00–7:00 PM)
• 4–6 minutes during the rest of the day

Weekend intervals:

• 8–10 minutes in the mornings and evenings
• 5–7 minutes during the daytime.

How the metro operates during air raids

During air raid alert, the metro continues running, but only along the underground sections of the lines, without crossing the Dnipro River bridges. At this time, you can travel between the right and left banks of the city only by minibus (marshrutka) or taxi.

• On the Red Line (M1), trains run from Akademmistechko Station to Arsenalna Station.
• On the Green Line (M3), trains operate from Syrets Station to Vydubychi Station, and separately from Osokorky Station to Chervony Khutir Station.
• On the Blue Line (M2), all stations are underground, so the trains continue running as usual.

All underground metro stations stay open 24/7 as free bomb shelters.

Ground public transport (buses, trolleybuses, trams, and marshrutkas)

Kyiv has an extensive ground public transport system. Buses, trolleybuses, and trams are operated by the municipal company Kyivpastrans, while marshrutkas (small minibuses following fixed routes) are run by private carriers.

This distinction is important because all Kyivpastrans vehicles stop operating during air raid alerts, while marshrutkas continue running. There are also differences in ticket prices and payment methods.

Surface transport fares in Kyiv and how to pay

In Kyivpastrans buses, trolleybuses, and trams, a ride costs 8 UAH. You can pay in several ways:

• QR ticket – buy it through the Kyiv Digital app and scan it at any of the orange validators inside the vehicle. A sound signal and a “Ticket valid / Квиток дійсний” message on the screen confirm ticket validation. If a ticket inspector checks, just show your QR code for scanning.
• Bank card, phone, or smartwatch – simply tap your card or device at the validator. If asked, you’ll need to either give the inspector the last four digits of your card or show the payment confirmation in your banking app.
• You cannot pay with cash onboard.

In marshrutkas, fares usually range from 10 to 15 UAH, most often 15 UAH. Pay the driver in cash when you get on. Contactless payment is generally not available in marshrutkas.

How buses, trolleybuses, trams, and marshrutkas operate during air raid alerts

During air raid alerts, Kyivpastrans buses, trolleybuses, and trams pull over at the nearest stop and ask passengers to leave the vehicles. Marshrutkas continue operating. Here’s what you need to know:

• To travel between the right and left banks of the city during an alert, you can use marshrutkas or taxis. Expect longer lines for marshrutkas and higher taxi fares.
• If you’re traveling by bus, trolleybus, or tram, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan involving a marshrutka running a similar route.

Other important information about ground transport in Kyiv

• Stops: Buses, trolleybuses, and trams stop at every designated stop along the route — you don’t need to request a stop. In a marshrutka, it’s best to ask the driver for your stop shortly before you reach it.
• Accessibility: Buses, trolleybuses, and trams are equipped with ramps. If needed, the driver can assist you.

Taxi in Kyiv

Popular taxi services in Kyiv include Bolt, Uklon, and Uber, all available through mobile apps.

• Fares depend on the distance, time of day, and demand. Expect higher prices during rush hours (7:30 AM–10:00 AM, 5:00 PM–7:30 PM) and close to curfew (10:30 PM–12:00 AM).
• You can pay by card through the app or in cash.
• Waiting times usually range from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your location and the car class you request. Uklon and Uber also offer a ride-scheduling option.
• Tipping taxi drivers in Ukraine isn’t mandatory but is appreciated. If the driver is polite, helps with luggage, or waits for you longer, a 10–15% tip is a nice way to show gratitude. You can tip either in cash or through the taxi app after your ride.
• “Street” taxis (cabs you catch directly without an app) are becoming rare in Kyiv but can still be found near places like train stations. They tend to be more expensive.

E-scooters and bicycles in Kyiv

Popular e-scooter rental services in Kyiv include Bolt, Zelektra, Jet, and Bike Now. Bike Now also offers bicycles for rent. You can rent and pay through each service’s mobile app.

• Rental prices for e-scooters: 9–10 UAH to unlock, plus 3.5–3.9 UAH per minute.
• Rental prices for Bike Now bicycles: 5 UAH to unlock, plus 1.5 UAH per minute.
• Some apps offer subscription plans that can save you money compared to paying per minute.

There are some bike lanes in Kyiv, but they’re quite limited. You’ll often need to ride on sidewalks or along the side of the road.

Car sharing in Kyiv

The easiest way to rent a car in Kyiv is through the Getmancar car-sharing service. Foreign visitors can use it just as easily as locals.

How does it work?

• Download the app, sign up, and upload a photo of your driver’s license and a selfie. Verification usually takes up to 10 minutes.
• Select a car on the map and reserve it.
• Unlock the car through the app, choose your rate, take photos of the car, and start your trip.
• After your trip, park the car in an allowed area, take photos again, lock it through the app, and end your rental.

There are three rate options:

• Pay-per-minute: 2.65 UAH/min + 13.80 UAH/km
• Hourly: 244–260 UAH/hour
• Daily: 1050–1200 UAH/day

You can check the latest rental conditions and prices on the Getmancar website or in the app.