Getting around Lodz: public transport, taxis and tips

Last updated 8 August 2026 · by Aleks

Welcome to Lodz! Our city offers a range of transport options to help you explore its unique sights. This guide covers all the methods, so you can choose what best suits your plans.

Apps we use and recommend

Please note: this list isn't an exhaustive survey of every transport app - it's meant to help you quickly decide which apps might be useful during a short or mid-length visit to Lodz. These are apps we often use ourselves. We don't earn any commission for recommending them; we simply want to share what we find helpful.

Pro tip - walking and cycling are the most predictable: While public transport reaches many areas, for time-sensitive journeys, walking or cycling can often be more predictable.

Below, we break down every way to get around Lodz - on foot or by bike, tram and bus, e-scooter, car, or taxi - so you can pick what best fits each trip.

Walking and cycling: reliable and scenic routes

For central areas of Lodz, exploring on foot is often the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems - namely the street art.

City bikes (Łódzki Rower Publiczny)

Lodz offers a public bike-sharing system called Łódzki Rower Publiczny, which can be a pleasant and efficient way to get around.

App and usage

You'll need to download the dedicated mobile app from the Łódzki Rower Publiczny website - or the current operator's app at nextbike.pl. The app interface is available in English and German. Registration and an initial account payment are usually required. Bikes are unlocked via the app, often by scanning a QR code. Check the app for current pricing, station locations, and instructions for correctly returning and locking the bike.

Pro tip - cycling safety in Lodz: Bike infrastructure in Lodz has improved a lot in recent years, and the city center is quite well covered with bike lanes. However, if you venture into less central neighbourhoods, you might find yourself sharing the road with cars. For your safety, wear a helmet.

Public transport: buses and trams

Lodz has an extensive network of buses and trams operated by MPK Łódź. These can be useful for reaching areas further from the center, or when it's chilly outside.

Planning your journey

  • Google Maps: provides good public transport routing, reliable, available in English, and you probably already know it.
  • Jakdojade: a very popular app in Poland for public transport, offering detailed route planning, transfers, timetables, often real-time vehicle locations, and ticket purchasing for Lodz. Generally available in English and free, with an optional premium version.

Buying your tickets

  • Ticket machines (biletomaty): located at many major stops, train stations, and sometimes inside newer vehicles. These usually offer instructions in multiple languages, including English, and accept card payments.
  • Kiosks and shops: paper tickets can often be bought at newsstands or shops displaying a ticket-sales emblem. These paper tickets can also make for a fun, small souvenir of your trip!
  • Mobile apps: several Polish apps offer ticket purchases and are available in English. Note that even with an English interface, some show instructions partly in Polish, so have a translator app handy too. Popular options include:
    • Jakdojade (also for route planning and tickets)
    • moBiLET (also for parking payments)
    • SkyCash (public transport tickets, parking, highway tolls, train tickets and other mobile payments)
    • mPay (public transport tickets, parking, highway tolls, train tickets and various other services)
    • zBiletem (specialising in public transport tickets, including period passes)
    You'll typically need to register and add a payment method. Remember to validate your ticket in the app as per its instructions.

Ticket types

Common options include timed tickets (e.g. valid for 20, 40, or 60 minutes, allowing transfers) or day passes.

Pro tip - public transport insights: Buses and trams can sometimes experience delays or not arrive as scheduled. If you have a tight schedule or need to be somewhere quickly, walking or cycling for shorter distances, or a taxi / ride-share for longer ones, might be a more predictable option.

Electric scooters

Electric scooters offer a quick way to cover short to medium distances.

Operators and apps

Companies like Lime (also available in the Uber app) and Bolt operate in Lodz. Each uses its own mobile app (available in English) for locating, unlocking, and paying for rides.

Usage

Always check the app for riding zones and parking guidelines to avoid fines. Ride responsibly and be mindful of pedestrians.

Travelling by car

Driving in Lodz

Navigational apps like Google Maps or Waze are reliable. City-center traffic can be busy, especially during peak hours.

Parking in the city

Central Lodz has Paid Parking Zones (Strefa Płatnego Parkowania - SPP). Payment is usually required on weekdays (e.g. Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM). Weekends and public holidays are often free - check local signage for specific hours and rates. Always double-check the specific zone requirements and payment instructions on nearby signage or parking meters.

Payment

  • Parking meters (parkomaty): you'll find these machines on streets within the city's Paid Parking Zones. Most accept coins (but often do not give change) or cards. Look for a sticker on the meter or nearby signage indicating the specific zone and its rules.
  • Mobile apps: apps like moBiLET, mPay, SkyCash (parking alongside other services), or CityParkingApp offer parking payments in Lodz. Most are available in English, and some can show you which zone you're currently in.

Parking lots

Numerous paid parking lots are available, especially near major attractions and in the city center. It's often a good idea to check the website of your specific destination (e.g. a museum or venue), as they may list recommended nearby parking. Parking lots at major shopping centers are often free of charge and can be a convenient option if your visit aligns with their location.

Taxis and ride-sharing services

Using ride-sharing apps

International apps like Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow operate in Lodz and are fully available in English. Download their apps to request rides, see fare estimates, and pay securely. iTaxi is another option, with an English app that works with licensed taxi drivers.

Traditional taxis

You can order traditional taxis by phone. One local number is 400 400 (though their services and app may not be in English).

Pro tip - ordering taxis safely: Be cautious taking taxis directly from train stations or hailing them on the street, as there's a higher chance of being overcharged. For safety and fair pricing, it's generally better to use one of the recommended ride-sharing or taxi apps, or call a reputable taxi company by phone.

Choosing how to get around Lodz depends on your destination, schedule, and personal preference. We hope these tips help you explore our city comfortably and confidently!

Aleks

About the author

Aleks

Hi, I'm Aleks - born and raised in Lodz. As an avid traveller myself, I write these guides to help you find exactly what you're looking for in my city, while you stay in my apartment.