Ostrava, the third 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 Dopravní podnik Ostrava a.s. (DPO). The city also has a regional railway system, operated by Czech Railways. With this extensive network, an expat living in Ostrava could comfortably live without a car, relying on public transportation and walking.
Trams
The tram system in Ostrava is the backbone of the city’s public transportation network. With 14 tram lines covering a total length of 214 kilometers, the tram system connects various parts of the city and its suburbs. The trams are generally safe to use at any time of the day, even for women traveling alone or children going to school. The tram service starts early in the morning and runs until midnight, with night trams operating at less frequent intervals. A single ticket costs 24 CZK for adults and 12 CZK for children and seniors, and it allows for unlimited transfers within a 60-minute period.
Buses
Buses in Ostrava complement the tram network by serving areas that are not accessible by trams. The city has over 50 bus lines, including regular lines, night lines, and express lines. The buses are safe and reliable, and they are equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and charging ports for electronic devices. The fare structure for buses is the same as that for trams.
Trolleybuses
Ostrava is one of the few cities in the Czech Republic that still operates a trolleybus network. The trolleybus system consists of 13 lines that primarily serve the city center and the eastern part of the city. Trolleybuses are a clean and quiet mode of transportation, and they are particularly useful for navigating the narrow streets of the city center. The fare for trolleybuses is also the same as that for trams and buses.
Regional Trains
For longer distance travel, the regional railway system operated by Czech Railways is a convenient option. The main railway station, Ostrava Hlavní Nádraží, is a major transportation hub that offers connections to other cities in the Czech Republic and neighboring countries. The trains are comfortable and punctual, and they offer amenities such as dining cars and free Wi-Fi. The fare for regional trains varies depending on the distance and the type of train.
In addition to these public transportation options, Ostrava also has a bike-sharing system and numerous pedestrian zones, making it a walkable and bike-friendly city. With a little planning, it is entirely possible to live in Ostrava without a car. In fact, many locals and expats prefer to use public transportation or walk, as it is often faster and more convenient than driving, especially during peak traffic hours.
