Plzen, also known as Pilsen, is the fourth most populous city in the Czech Republic. It boasts a well-organized and efficient public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and trains. The Plzen City Transport Company (PMHD) operates the trams and buses, while the Czech Railways (?D) runs the train services. With this extensive network, it’s entirely possible for an expat living in Plzen to comfortably live without a car, relying solely on public transportation and walking. However, the need for a car may arise depending on personal preferences and lifestyle.
Trams
The tram system in Plzen is the backbone of the city’s public transportation. Operated by PMHD, the tram network consists of six lines that cover most parts of the city. Trams are generally safe to use at any time of the day, even at night. They are also safe for women traveling alone and for children going to school. The cost of a single journey ticket is 20 CZK for adults and 10 CZK for children aged 6-15. The trams run from early morning until midnight, with a frequency of about 10 minutes during peak hours. The tram system is reliable and punctual, making it a preferred mode of transport for many residents and visitors.
Buses
Buses in Plzen complement the tram services by covering areas not reached by the trams. PMHD operates a total of 19 daytime and 11 night bus lines. Similar to the trams, buses are safe to use at all times. A single journey ticket costs the same as the tram, 20 CZK for adults and 10 CZK for children. The buses are less frequent than the trams, running every 20-30 minutes during the day and every hour at night. However, they are a convenient option for reaching destinations outside the city center.
Trains
Train services in Plzen are operated by the Czech Railways. The main train station, Plzen Hlavni Nadrazi, is a major hub connecting Plzen with other cities in the Czech Republic and neighboring countries. Trains are safe and reliable, but they are more expensive than trams and buses. A single journey ticket from Plzen to Prague, for example, costs around 140 CZK. However, trains offer a comfortable and fast way to travel long distances, making them a popular choice for intercity travel.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
For those who prefer private transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are available in Plzen. Taxis can be hailed on the street, booked over the phone, or through mobile apps. The starting fare is around 40 CZK, with an additional 25 CZK per kilometer. Ride-sharing services offer a cheaper and more convenient alternative, with fares typically lower than traditional taxis. However, these services are not as widespread as in larger cities, so availability may be limited during peak hours or in less central areas.
In conclusion, the public transportation system in Plzen is comprehensive and efficient, making it possible for expats to live comfortably without a car. However, depending on personal needs and lifestyle, some may still find owning a car more convenient. Regardless, with its trams, buses, trains, taxis, and ride-sharing services, Plzen offers a variety of options to get around the city and beyond.
