Trams, Light Rail & Forest Tram

There are about 20 tram routes across the city, and the ones on the Borshchahivka and Troieshchyna lines are known as Light Rail, Rapid Trams or Kyiv Express Trams. These faster trams run on dedicated tracks segregated from regular traffic so are very quick and reliable.

Unfortunately a lot of the network is neglected as you'll see by the old rolling stock and poor quality tracks and is slowly being replaced by buses. However, while they are still here they are a great alternative to buses in Kyiv and you should always choose the tram if it's more convenient.

How to Use

Like on the buses, plan your route on Google Maps to find the quickest method to your destination. You can also use the EasyWay application to see live times of the next tram and where it is on a map.

The price of a single trip on a tram is 30 UAH regardless of the length of the trip, the same as the buses.

Kyiv got rid of its conductors and paper tickets in 2021, so there's nobody on board to hand cash to. Tap a Kyiv Smart Card or a contactless bank card or phone on the validator, or buy a QR ticket in the Kyiv Digital (Київ Цифровий) app before you get on, and don't forget to scan it at one of the validators.

Kyiv Forest Tram

There's one special tram line in Kyiv that takes you on a journey through a picturesque forest to the neighbourhood of Pushcha-Voditsa. While in reality it's just a normal tram line for locals, it's an interesting journey for others. You pass through the city neighbourhoods first, passing by street markets before coming to the forest section. For around 15 minutes you'll see nothing but trees and nature before emerging in one of the suburbs. There's not much to do at the other end except a park and a local cafe, but the journey really makes it worthwhile.

Take tram number 12 from Kontraktova Ploshcha to experience this wonder. There also used to be a cafe tram you booked in advance for weekend trips, where you sat at a table drinking tea while a local guide told you the history of the route and the city. We couldn't find any sign of it running in 2026, so ask Kyivpastrans before you plan a day around it.