Warsaw Travel Card: Complete Guide | 2025
Planning a trip to Poland's vibrant capital? Understanding Warsaw's public transport system and getting the right Warsaw travel card can save you both time and money during your stay. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Warsaw travel cards, prices, and how to choose the best option for your visit.
Karolina K.
9/19/20253 min read
What is a Warsaw Travel Card?
A Warsaw travel card (Warszawska Karta Miejska) is a rechargeable smart card that gives you access to Warsaw's extensive public transportation network. Unlike tourist cards in some cities that include attractions, Warsaw's travel card is purely for transportation but covers all major public transport modes in the city.
What Transport Does It Cover?
Your Warsaw travel card works on:
Buses (day and night routes)
Trams (including modern low-floor trams)
Metro (both M1 and M2 lines)
Urban trains (including the convenient connection to Chopin Airport)
Warsaw Travel Card Types and Prices (2025)
30-Day Travel Cards
Standard 30-Day Card (Imienny)
Zone 1: 110 PLN (regular) / 55 PLN (reduced)
Zone 2: 112 PLN (regular) / 56 PLN (reduced)
Zone 1+2: 180 PLN (regular) / 90 PLN (reduced)
Tourist Bearer Card (Na okaziciela)
Zone 1+2: 230 PLN (regular) / 115 PLN (reduced)
Note: The bearer card is more expensive but can be shared between travelers, though this isn't officially recommended.
90-Day Travel Cards
Standard 90-Day Card (Imienny)
Zone 1: 280 PLN (regular) / 140 PLN (reduced)
Zone 2: 282 PLN (regular) / 141 PLN (reduced)
Zone 1+2: 460 PLN (regular) / 230 PLN (reduced)
Tourist Bearer Card
Zone 1+2: 600 PLN (regular) / 300 PLN (reduced)
Special Tourist Considerations
Warsaw+ Cards are available for residents of participating municipalities, but as a tourist, you'll likely need the standard cards listed above.
Understanding Warsaw Transport Zones
Zone 1 covers central Warsaw including:
The Old Town and city center
Most popular tourist attractions
Chopin Airport (via urban train)
Zone 2 includes:
Outer districts and suburbs
Some attractions like Wilanów Palace
Recommendation for tourists: Most visitors will find Zone 1+2 cards offer the best value and flexibility, especially since they include airport connections.
How to Get Your Warsaw Travel Card
Option 1: In-Person (Recommended for Tourists)
Where to buy:
Major train stations (Dworzec Centralny, Dworzec Wschodni)
Metro stations with ticket offices
Selected bus/tram stops with service points
What you'll need:
Photo ID (passport for tourists)
Passport-sized photo (color, head and shoulders)
Proof of address (hotel booking confirmation works)
Completed application form
Payment (cash or card accepted)
Processing time: 10-20 minutes on the spot
Option 2: Online
You can start the application online at the ZTM Warsaw website, but you'll still need to visit a station for ID verification and card pickup.
Warsaw Tourist Travel Card vs. Resident Cards
Important distinction: When searching for "Warsaw city card" or "Warsaw travel card," you might encounter information about the Warszawiak card. This is specifically for Warsaw residents and requires proof of residency. As a tourist, you'll need the standard Warszawska Karta Miejska described above.
Tips for Using Your Warsaw Travel Card
Validation and Usage
Cards are automatically validated when you tap on/off
Keep your card until the end of your journey
The card works 24/7 on all covered transport
Money-Saving Tips
30-day cards become cost-effective if you're staying more than 2 weeks
Consider the bearer card if traveling with someone who won't use transport daily
Zone 1 cards are sufficient if you're staying in central Warsaw
Alternative Options for Short Stays
If you're visiting Warsaw for less than a week, consider:
Single journey tickets: 4.40 PLN (Zone 1)
Day tickets: 15 PLN (Zone 1) / 26 PLN (Zone 1+2)
3-day tickets: 36 PLN (Zone 1+2)
Weekend tickets: 24 PLN (Zone 1+2)
Penalties and Important Rules
Travel without a valid ticket results in significant fines:
No ticket: 266 PLN (reduced to 159.60 PLN if paid immediately)
Invalid concession proof: 196 PLN (reduced to 117.60 PLN if paid immediately)
Further reductions available if paid within 7 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my Warsaw travel card for airport transfer?
A: Yes! The card works on the urban train (SKM) to Chopin Airport, which is included in Zone 1.
Q: Is the card refundable?
A: Partially. You can return unused cards with a 20% handling fee (maximum 50 PLN).
Q: Can someone else use my card?
A: Officially, no. Named cards (imienny) are personal. Bearer cards (na okaziciela) can theoretically be shared but carry risks.
Q: Does the card work on night transport?
A: Yes, your Warsaw travel card works on all night buses and trams.
Making the Most of Your Warsaw Travel Card
With your Warsaw travel card, you'll have unlimited access to explore:
Historic Old Town (Metro: Ratusz Arsenał)
Royal Castle and Castle Square (Various tram/bus stops)
Łazienki Park (Bus connections)
Praga District (Metro: Dworzec Wileński)
Modern shopping centers (Multiple transport options)
Conclusion
A Warsaw travel card is an excellent investment for anyone staying in the city for more than a few days. The Zone 1+2 30-day card offers the best flexibility for tourists, while shorter-stay visitors should compare daily ticket costs with their expected usage.
Remember to bring proper identification and a passport photo when purchasing your card in person – it's the fastest and most reliable method for tourists. With your Warsaw travel card in hand, you'll be ready to explore everything Poland's dynamic capital has to offer.
