How to use the metro in Warsaw

The metro is the heart of urban transportation, helping residents and visitors get anywhere quickly, and Warsaw is no exception. It's not just convenient, but also very efficient, especially during rush hours when traffic jams hit the roads. The Warsaw Metro consists of two lines that connect key areas of the city, providing access to major attractions, workplaces and residential complexes. Unfortunately, the metro is not well developed and only about 30% of residents have access to a metro station within a radius of no more than 1 km, but this situation should improve in the future. 

Basics of using the subway

In Warsaw, the metro is one of the main elements of the city's transportation system, providing fast and convenient connections between different parts of the city. The Warsaw metro network has two lines: the M1, which runs from north to south, and the M2, which runs from east to west. All stations are equipped for barrier-free access, making the metro accessible to all categories of passengers.

Metro stations in Warsaw are characterized by modern design and provide a high level of comfort for passengers. Each station has unique architectural features, but all of them are equipped with necessary navigation signs that help to easily navigate in the metro space. Station entrances are usually clearly visible and marked with appropriate signs.

Metro tickets in Warsaw can be purchased at ticket machines located at each station, through a mobile app or at ticket offices. There are several types of tickets: single-use, temporary (e.g. for 20 minutes, for a day) and long-term passes. Tickets are valid for all modes of public transportation, including buses and streetcars.

Metro fares depend on the type of ticket. For example, a one-time ticket costs about PLN 3.40, while a daily pass costs about PLN 15. There are preferential fares for certain categories of passengers, such as students and pensioners, who receive significant discounts on fares. Children up to a certain age are entitled to free transportation.

It is important to note that information about prices and benefits may change, so it is recommended to check the current data on the official website of the Warsaw Metro or in a smartphone app before planning a trip.

How can you save money on the subway in Warsaw?

If you plan to use the metro and other public transportation in Warsaw frequently, there are several ways to save money on your fare. Warsaw offers convenient and economical pass options that allow you to use unlimited rides within a selected time limit. Here are some tips on how to save money:

1. Long-term transportation passes. Investing in monthly or three-month passes can significantly reduce your transportation costs, especially if you use it daily. For example, the price for a 30-day pass in one zone is 110 zł, which is more profitable than buying tickets for each trip separately - if you used the metro once every day for a month, you would spend more than 300 zł, with the card you save three times.
2. Warszawska Karta Miejska (Warsaw City Card). This is a personal plastic card that can be obtained by any resident of Warsaw. It allows you to top up your card account with tickets for 30 and 90 days, which makes it a convenient tool for regular trips.
3. Discounts for students. Students can take advantage of a 50% discount on travel, which makes the cost of the pass much lower. For example, a 30-day pass for students in one zone costs only 55 zł.
4. E-tickets. Using e-tickets through a mobile app or student ID can also simplify the process of buying and using travel passes, avoiding unnecessary spending on printed tickets.
5. Route Planning. Optimizing your route with public transportation apps can help avoid having to buy tickets for multiple zones if possible, which can also save money.
6. Free map replacement and production. The first Warszawska Karta Miejska card is issued free of charge and there is also a free replacement in case of personal data changes, thus avoiding additional costs.

Remember that choosing the right type of ticket and taking advantage of available discounts can significantly reduce your Warsaw travel costs.

Read also: Top 10 hotels in Warsaw according to Tripadvisor users

The most popular stations for tourists

Among the most popular subway stations for tourists stand out:

1. Centrum is a station on the M1 line. It is located in the heart of the city, close to the main shopping streets and cultural sites. It is an ideal starting point for walking tours of Warsaw's historic center, including the famous Nowy Świat Street.
2. Ratusz Arsenał (Ratusz Arsenał), another central station on the M1 line, is close to the Old Town, which is a must-see for every tourist. Here you can see the Royal Castle, the Market Square and many cozy cafes.
3. Świętokrzyska (Świętokrzyska) is the station where the M1 and M2 lines intersect. It is conveniently located near several important tourist sites, including the Saxon Park and the National Theater. This makes it a great choice for those who want to explore different parts of the city.
4. Plac Wilsona (Plac Wilsona), a station in the north of the city on the M1 line, is popular with tourists due to its proximity to Žibli Park, which is one of the largest science and technology museums in Europe.
5. Stadion Narodowy (Stadion Narodowy) - station on the M2 line, interesting because it is located next to Stadion Narodowy, where major sporting and musical events are held. It is also convenient for getting to the Proga district, which is popular among tourists.

These metro stations provide convenient access to Warsaw's main attractions, making them an ideal choice for tourists looking to explore the city as efficiently and comfortably as possible.