Public Transportation in Pleven
Summary: Learning how to get around using public transportation in Pleven is an important step in adjusting to life in Pleven. In this article, we cover the local public transportation options.
Pleven, a city in northern Bulgaria, offers a variety of public transportation options for its residents and visitors. The city is served by buses, taxis, and a railway system. The bus system, run by the Pleven Municipality, is the most commonly used form of public transportation in the city. Taxis are also readily available and are a popular choice for shorter trips within the city. The railway station in Pleven connects the city to other major cities in Bulgaria, making it a convenient option for longer distance travel. With these options, an expat living in Pleven could comfortably live without a car, relying on the public transportation system and walking.
Buses
The bus system in Pleven is extensive and reliable. It is run by the Pleven Municipality and serves all areas of the city. The buses run regularly from early morning until late at night, making it a convenient option for commuters. The bus system is also safe to use, even at night, and is used by people of all ages, including school children. A single ticket costs around 1 BGN, making it an affordable option for daily travel. The routes cover all major areas of the city, ensuring that residents can reach their destinations with ease.
Taxis
Taxis in Pleven are another popular form of public transportation. They are readily available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. The taxis are metered and the fares are regulated by the city, ensuring that passengers are not overcharged. A typical fare within the city is around 5 BGN. Taxis are considered safe to use in Pleven, even for women travelling alone. However, it is always recommended to use a reputable taxi company and to check the meter is running to avoid any potential issues.
Railway
The railway system in Pleven connects the city to other major cities in Bulgaria, including Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv. The trains are run by the Bulgarian State Railways and are a popular choice for longer distance travel. The railway station in Pleven is centrally located and is easily accessible by bus or taxi. The trains are generally safe to use, although it is recommended to keep an eye on personal belongings, especially on overnight trains. A ticket to Sofia, for example, costs around 15 BGN. The trains run regularly, but it is always a good idea to check the timetable in advance.
Walking
Walking is also a viable option for getting around in Pleven, especially in the city center. The city is relatively compact and most of the major attractions, including the Pleven Panorama and the St George the Conqueror Chapel, are within walking distance of each other. The city is generally safe to walk around, even at night, although it is always recommended to stay in well-lit areas and to be aware of your surroundings. There are also plenty of pedestrian zones and parks in the city, making it a pleasant place to walk.
In conclusion, the public transportation system in Pleven is comprehensive and reliable, making it possible for residents and visitors to get around the city without a car. Whether you prefer to take the bus, hail a taxi, catch a train, or simply walk, Pleven has you covered.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.