Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic, boasts a well-developed and efficient public transportation system. The city’s public transportation network is primarily composed of trams, buses, and trolleybuses, all operated by the city’s transport authority, Dopravní podnik m?sta Brna (DPMB). The city also has a central railway station, Brno Hlavní nádraží, which provides regional and international train services. With such a comprehensive public transportation system, an expat living in Brno could comfortably live without a car, relying on public transportation and walking.
Trams
Trams are the backbone of Brno’s public transportation system. With 11 daytime and 2 nighttime lines, trams cover most areas of the city, making them a convenient and reliable mode of transport. The trams are generally safe to use at any time of the day, even for women traveling alone or children going to school. A single journey ticket costs 20 CZK (around 0.80 EUR) and can be purchased from ticket machines at tram stops or directly from the driver. The trams in Brno are known for their punctuality and frequency, with trams running every few minutes during peak hours.
Buses
Buses in Brno complement the tram network, covering areas that are not accessible by tram. There are 14 daytime and 11 nighttime bus lines. Similar to trams, buses are safe and reliable, with regular services throughout the day and night. The cost of a single journey ticket is the same as for trams, 20 CZK. Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at bus stops, directly from the driver, or via SMS. Buses are particularly useful for reaching the outskirts of the city or the nearby countryside.
Trolleybuses
Trolleybuses are a unique feature of Brno’s public transportation system. There are 13 trolleybus lines in the city, mainly serving the northern and eastern parts of Brno. Trolleybuses are a quieter and more environmentally friendly alternative to regular buses. They are safe to use, with services running from early morning until midnight. The cost of a single journey ticket is the same as for trams and buses, 20 CZK.
Trains
Brno Hlavní nádraží, the city’s central railway station, is a major transport hub in the Czech Republic. It offers regional train services to other cities in the region, as well as international train services to destinations such as Vienna, Budapest, and Prague. The station is safe and well-maintained, with facilities including a waiting room, ticket office, and luggage storage. The cost of train tickets varies depending on the destination and type of train, but they are generally affordable.
In conclusion, Brno’s public transportation system is comprehensive, reliable, and safe. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city, or planning a day trip to the countryside, you can easily get around without a car. The city’s trams, buses, trolleybuses, and trains provide excellent coverage of the city and beyond, making Brno a great place for expats who prefer to live car-free.
