Getting Around Kazan. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Overview of Public Transit Systems

Kazan has a single metro line, clean and efficient, connecting northern parts of the city through the center to southern districts. It serves as a fast way to cross the city.

An extensive network of buses, trolleybuses (electric buses), and trams complements the underground. These routes reach locations not covered by the metro, offering broad coverage across Kazan.

Route Maps and Hubs

Metro Line: Connects Ploshchad Tukaya, Kremlyovskaya (near Kremlin), Kozya Sloboda.
Bus/Trolleybus/Tram Network: Maps are online and at major stops.
Important Hubs: Ploshchad Tukaya (central interchange) and Kazan-1 Railway Station.
Navigation: Use Yandex Maps or Yandex Transport for real-time tracking and schedules.

Metro System

Kazan's single metro line offers a fast, clean, and efficient way to travel through the city center.

Bus Network

An extensive bus network covers areas not reached by the metro, providing broad city coverage.

Tram & Trolleybus

Trolleybuses and trams complement the bus system, offering additional routes and public transport options.

Ticketing Systems and Fare Options

Single Ride Options

Pay cash or bank card directly on buses, trolleybuses, trams.
Metro: Purchase tokens or use a bank card at the turnstile.
Single ride costs approximately ₽36-₽45 (check current prices).

Reusable Transport Cards

"Kazan Transport Card" for extensive public transport use.
Often offers slightly lower fares per ride.
Load cash onto the card at metro stations or kiosks.

Operating Hours & Frequency

Metro Hours

Approx. 06:00 AM to midnight.

Metro Frequency

Every 5-10 minutes during peak hours.

Bus/Tram Hours

Approx. 05:30 AM to 11:00 PM or midnight.

Bus/Tram Frequency

Varies by route and time of day.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis present a convenient alternative, specifically for direct routes or upon...ing carry luggage.

Licensed Taxi Identification

Official taxis bear yellow license plates.
Hailing a taxi on the street is possible.
Using ride-sharing apps is often safer and more reliable.
Pre-booking taxis is an option for planned trips.

Ride-Sharing Apps

The Yandex go app is the dominant ride-sharing app in Kazan.
Offers various service levels, from economy to comfort.
Download the app and set up an account before your trip.
Provides driver tracking and fare transparency.

Fares and Safety

Short city rides might cost ₽150-₽300.
Airport transfers range from ₽800-₽1,500.
Payments accept cash or in-app (if card is compatible).

Ride-sharing apps generally offer better safety.
Verify the price or meter use before starting a street-hailed taxi journey.
Driver tracking and fare transparency enhance safety.

Airport & Station Services

Airport Taxi Stands

Dedicated taxi stands are available at Kazan International Airport.

Pre-Booking

You can pre-book a taxi via Yandex's Ride-hailing app for convenience upon arrival or departure.

Railway Station Taxis

Major railway stations also have taxi services readily available.

Rental Options

Consider renting a car or by bicycle for more independent exploration of Kazan and its surroundings.

Car Rental Procedures

Drivers typically need to be 21-23+ with valid national license and IDP.
Passport and a credit card are also needed.
Foreign credit cards may not function; local agencies or cash deposits are more reliable.
DiscoverCars.com for international bookings.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road.
Speed limit in urban areas is generally ABOUT 37 miles/h (37 mph).
Major roads are generally well-maintained; rural roads vary.
Aggressive driving can occur; winter driving demands be careful because of ice.

Bicycle Rentals & Cycling

Availability

Bicycle rentals are available in parks and various shops.

Mainly from spring to autumn.

Bike Lanes

Kazan expands its bike lanes, especially along embankments.

City-wide Systems

City-wide bike sharing systems are currently limited.

Always wear a Helmet and follow traffic rules.

Parking & Congestion

Parking

Paid street parking is common in the city center.
Look for designated parking signs.
Avoid parking illegally to prevent fines or towing.

Congestion

Expect congestion in central Kazan during peak hours.
Be aware of potholes on less-traveled roads.
Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Avoid dark, deserted areas at night.
Stick to well-lit, populated streets.
Exercise common sense, as in any large city.
Be aware of surroundings in unfamiliar areas.

For cyclists, prioritize designated bike lanes when possible.
Be careful about vehicle traffic, especially in busy intersections.
Yield to pedestrians in shared spaces.
Avoid distractions while cycling in urban environments.

Walking and Cycling

Kazan has many pedestrian-friendly areas, perfect for leisurely strolls and seeing the sights on foot.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Baumana Street: Ideal for walking, shopping, and dining.
Kazan Kremlin: Explore its ancient grounds on foot.
Kremlyovskaya Embankment: Scenic walks along the Kazanka River.
Gorky Park: A large park for walking, jogging, and relaxation.

Walking Tour Options

Join guided walking tours to learn about Kazan's history and culture.
Self-guided walking routes are popular, found in guidebooks or online.
Consider audio guides for independent exploration.
Photo strolls offer unique perspectives of the city's architecture.

Baumana Street

The pedestrian heart of Kazan, filled with shops, cafes, and street entertainment.

Kazan Kremlin

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient fortress complex is perfect for historical walks.

Kremlyovskaya Embankment

Enjoy picturesque riverside walks with stunning views of the city skyline and Kremlin.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated Lanes

Kazan continues to develop its bicycle infrastructure.
More dedicated bike lanes appear, especially along embankments.

Cycling Safety Tips

Always wear a Helmet when cycling.
Follow all local traffic rules.
Be aware of pedestrians and vehicle traffic.

Local Travel Advice

Consider getting a local SIM card upon arrival. This allows you to use navigation and ride-sharing apps without relying on Wi-Fi, making local travel much easier.

Download offline maps of Kazan using apps like Yandex Maps or Google Maps as a backup, especially when exploring areas with potentially limited mobile signal.

Where to Stay in Kazan

Next Up: Where to Stay in Kazan. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

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