Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a city that is well-served by a variety of public transportation options. The city’s public transportation system is comprised of buses, trolleybuses, and trains, all of which are operated by Vilniaus Viešasis Transportas (VVT). Additionally, there are also numerous bike rental stations and taxi services available throughout the city. With such a comprehensive public transportation system, it is entirely possible for an expat living in Vilnius to comfortably live without a car, relying solely on public transportation and walking.
Buses
The bus system in Vilnius is extensive, with over 60 routes that cover the entire city and its suburbs. The buses are modern and comfortable, with most of them equipped with free Wi-Fi and electronic information boards that display the upcoming stops. The bus service is generally safe to use at any time of the day, with regular patrols by the municipal police ensuring the safety of passengers. A single ticket costs €1 if bought from the driver, but it’s cheaper if you use a Vilnie?io kortel?, a contactless smart card. The buses run from early morning until late at night, with a reduced service operating overnight.
Trolleybuses
Vilnius is one of the few cities in Europe that still has a functioning trolleybus network. The trolleybuses are a popular mode of transport in the city, with 19 routes that mainly serve the city center and the northern parts of Vilnius. Like the buses, the trolleybuses are safe and reliable, with the same ticketing system and prices. The trolleybuses are a great way to see the city, offering a slower and more scenic ride than the buses.
Trains
The train service in Vilnius is operated by Lithuanian Railways and provides an efficient way to travel to the suburbs and other cities in Lithuania. The trains are modern and comfortable, with free Wi-Fi and power outlets available on most services. The train station in Vilnius is centrally located, making it easy to get to and from the city. The trains are safe to use, with security personnel present on all services. A single ticket to the suburbs costs around €1.50, with discounts available for students and seniors.
Bike Rental
Vilnius is a bike-friendly city, with numerous bike lanes and bike rental stations scattered throughout the city. The bike rental system is operated by Cyclocity Vilnius and offers a cheap and eco-friendly way to get around the city. The bikes are available 24/7 and can be rented for as little as €0.50 for 30 minutes. The bike rental stations are easy to use and accept both cash and card payments.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Vilnius and provide a convenient way to get around the city, especially if you’re carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group. The taxis in Vilnius are metered, with the average fare being around €0.70 per kilometer. There are also several ride-hailing apps available in Vilnius, including Bolt and Uber, which offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.
In conclusion, the public transportation system in Vilnius is comprehensive, reliable, and affordable, making it entirely possible for an expat to live comfortably in the city without a car. Whether you prefer to travel by bus, trolleybus, train, bike, or taxi, Vilnius has got you covered.
