Source: Canva
Public transport is a convenient and affordable way to travel around Slovak cities, particularly in places like Bratislava, Košice, and Žilina. As an Erasmus student, you'll find it useful to familiarize yourself with the local transport systems, which include buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
One of the easiest ways to plan your trips is by using apps like cp.sk or IDS BK, which provide schedules and real-time information for public transport. Make sure to validate your ticket once on board—there are machines for this in most vehicles. In some cities, you can even buy tickets through mobile apps, which is handy if you're in a rush.
Knowing a few Slovak phrases can also be helpful. For instance, if you're unsure where your stop is, you can ask: Kde je najbližšia zastávka? (Where is the nearest stop?). When purchasing a ticket, you might say: Koľko stojí lístok? (How much is the ticket?). Tickets are generally inexpensive, but be aware of the different options for single trips, day passes, or longer durations.
It’s a good idea to keep a close eye on the stop names, as public transport tends to be punctual in Slovakia. If you're unfamiliar with the area, sitting closer to the front might help you better track where you are and when to get off (at least this helped me during my Erasmus abroad)
Have you had any interesting or unexpected experiences on public transport in Slovakia? What tips would you share with someone new to the system?
Let us know in the comments below!
Also, here are the most useful phrases:
Kde je najbližšia zastávka?
(Where is the nearest stop?)Koľko stojí lístok?
(How much is the ticket?)Kde si môžem kúpiť lístok?
(Where can I buy a ticket?)Kedy ide ďalší autobus?
(When is the next bus?)Môžete mi povedať, kedy mám vystúpiť?
(Can you tell me when to get off?)Kde mám prestúpiť?
(Where should I transfer?)Tento autobus ide do centra?
(Does this bus go to the city center?)Ako dlho trvá cesta?
(How long does the journey take?)Môžem platiť kartou?
(Can I pay by card?)Je toto správna zastávka?
(Is this the correct stop?)
Erik, OLS Slovak Community Manager.