How to Survive in Ukrainian Marshrutka

Marshrutkas are the mini buses that roam the streets of Kyiv. Marshrutkas can be small or on a bigger side, but the principle is the same – it follows the designated route and stops on demand.

How to enter

Marshrutkas stop only on designated bus stops. These buses can skip the stop, so if you see the necessary marshrutka, just flag it down.

Sometimes there are long queues at the starting point. Usually, the queue is for the seats. After all seats are taken, you can enter to stand.

Standing in marshrutka is the art on its own, because the driver is talking on the phone, accepting money and driving at the same time. Better hold tight!

How to pay

Marshrutkas are not expensive at all. This unique commuting experience costs just 2 to 6 hryvnas (0.08 to 0.25$). Everybody pays to the driver. Rarely there is a conductor in the bus. If you’re located far from the driver, ask people to pass the fee ("peredayte pozhaluista"). It’s better to pass the exact sum, because getting a change is a hassle too.

If you sit near the driver, prepare to pass money in both directions all the time.

How to escape

To stop the bus, you need to tell driver the magic words "ostanovite pozhalusta" (stop please). Don’t be afraid to shout! When the bus stops, make your way to the door. Congrats, you just took your first marshrutka ride!