Category: Europe

How to Get from Chișinău to Tiraspol – The Border-Bending Mini Adventure

by Anna Powaska, posted in Europe, moldova, Tiraspol, transnistria, Travelling

Quick Facts

  • Destination: Tiraspol — capital of Transnistria, an unrecognized autonomous region within Moldova
  • Best transport: Marshrutka (minibus)
  • 🛂 Border control: Yes, prepare for migration card, but takes around 5-10 minutes
  • Ticket price: 57 MDL (~€2.90)
  • Travel Duration: ~1.5 hours
  • Departure point: Chișinău Central Bus Station, right next to the market

Finding the Right Marshrutka

Head to Chișinău’s Central Bus Station, next to the buzzing market stalls. Exact spot on map here. Look for signs (or people shouting “Tiraspol!”). And here’s the golden tip:

The ticket booth is literally 2 meters from the marshrutka — you can’t miss it unless you’re distracted by roadside plums.

They run very often (every 20 minutes or so) from 6.00 am till late.

Cash preferred, but card payments were accepted on my trip. Cost: 57 Moldovan lei, confirmed by photo — no guessing!

Say “Tiraspol?” with confident curiosity — locals respect head-tilts.

🍚 The Most Important Tip (More Important Than Your Migration Card)

Inside the market next to Chișinău’s Central Bus Station, hidden among stands and shouting sellers, there’s a food stand: A man who serves Uzbek plov that’s straight-up 10/10.

No fancy sign.

Location: Inside the market hall — follow the scent. Price: Budget-friendly — but you’ll pay in loyalty, because you’ll come back daily. Quantity: Measured in kilograms (not exaggerating — I did exactly that)

Border Crossing into Transnistria

Yes, Transnistria has its own de facto border — but no visa needed.

At the checkpoint:

  • You’ll receive a migration card (white paper with Soviet-style fonts) — guard it like treasure.
  • The border officers are neutral, almost theatrical in their seriousness — no drama if you keep calm.
  • Your driver usually collects all passports on the way back and returns them after inspection — strange but normal. But on arrival, you go trough the office for the card and passport check.

Want to stay overnight? Tell the officer! Otherwise, you might get a same-day transit permit.

Returning from Tiraspol – The Escape Plan (but make it casual)

If you’re ready to head back to Chișinău after exploring Lenin, nostalgia, and beach vibes by the Dniester — don’t panic, the marshrutka is always waiting here (exact spot of the stand), by the train station.

Return ticket? Buy it at the railway station in Tiraspol — look for the kiosk next to the waiting area. I paid in Molvodan leu with no problem. It’s got that time-stood-still aura and the staff are surprisingly efficient.

Departures: Marshrutkas leave every ~20 minutes, give or take a philosophical pause. No need to book in advance — just show up, say “Chișinău?”, and hop in. Ticket price should match your arrival fare: ~57 MDL

Tip: If you liked the plov in Chișinău, you’ve got just enough time to crave it again by the time you’re back.

Language, Currency & Vibe

  • Everyone speaks Russian
  • Local money = Transnistrian rubles — they’re plastic coins, like arcade tokens from a Soviet theme park
  • Leu isn’t widely accepted — change money in Tiraspol

“It’s Moldova, but not Moldova. It’s legal, but not official. It’s chill, but politically confusing.”

Why Tiraspol (Without Saying “Why Tiraspol”)

This is a country that never made it to the UN. Tiraspol is strange, safe, quiet and mildly cinematic — perfect for those who enjoy layered maps and unexpected detours. No bucket list hype — just curiosity, Cyrillic and clouds of cold-war nostalgia.

How to Get from Chișinău to Comrat in Gagauzia

by Anna Powaska, posted in comrat, Europe, Gagauzia, moldova

Comrat – capital of Gagauzia. It sounds mysterious, and it is. But it’s also reachable. Here’s the breakdown for fellow wanderers.

Why Comrat?

Comrat isn’t just a stop — it’s the capital of an autonomous region where ethnic Turks speak Russian, wave Moldovan flags, and drink ayran. It’s where geopolitics gets cozy with kebab, and where you’re never quite sure if you’re closer to Istanbul or Moscow…

🛂 Border Crossing & Travel Requirements

Gagauzia is part of Moldova, so traveling to Comrat does not involve any border control, passport checks, or special permits. It’s just like going from Katowice to Wrocław, but with more grapevines and unexpected kebab stands.

This is the opposite of Transnistria, where entry does require a quick stop at a de facto border, and you’ll usually fill out a migration card upon arrival. While Transnistria isn’t internationally recognized, it functions with its own rules — including border formalities, checkpoints, and a charm straight out of a Cold War novella.

So if you’re heading to Comrat, relax: your passport can stay buried in your backpack.

Option 1 (and best?): Marshrutka from Gara de Sud (Stand 16)

  • Link to map of bus station here.
  • Departures are roughly every hour – mine left Monday at 9:00 or 9.10 AM (cant remember)
  • Marshrutkas leave from Stand 16 at Chișinău’s Southern Bus Station (Gara de Sud)
  • Tickets: buy them at the booth right next to the number 16 stand – card payment accepted. The marshrutka ticket from Chișinău to Comrat costs 67 Moldovan lei, which is around $3.80 USD. I don’t think you can buy a ticket in advance. When I arrived in Comrat, I tried to purchase a return ticket, but the woman selling them didn’t want to sell it to me — I couldn’t understand her. Then the bus driver who had brought me arrived, talked to her, and she ended up selling it to me
  • Just say: “Comrat?” – smiles and head nods
  • Duration: 1h 30min to 2h 30min, depending on traffic, road karma, and whether the driver feels
  • The main bus stop in Comrat is located at Strada Victoriei 2, right in the heart of town. Locally, it’s known as the Comrat Bus Station, and it’s just a short walk from the central park and Lenin Street — so if you see a statue or a cathedral nearby, you’re probably close!
  • From Komrat to Chișinău’s Southern Bus Station at: 6.00, 6.30, 6.50, 7.00, 7.15, 7.30, 7.36, 7.55, 8.15, 8.20, 8.45, 9.00, 9.15, 9.55, 10.00, 10.25, 11.20, 12.20, 13.05, 13.35, 14.15, 14.26, 15.00, 15.30, 16.00, 16.30, 17.50, 18.20, 19.00.
  • 💡 Pro tip from the road: if you have time before departure, there’s a tiny spot around the corner serving delicious borscht – comfort soup

Option 2: Taxi

  • Duration: around 1h 20min
  • Cost: $26–31 USD
  • Not sure YandexGo will take you all the way, but it’s worth checking
  • Great for chats about local politics or sharing sunflower seeds with the driver

Getting to Gara de Sud from Chișinău City Center

If you’re staying near the city center (like around the Cathedral Park or Boulevard Ștefan cel Mare), here’s how to reach Gara de Sud:

Public Transport Options:

  • Bus 120, 124 or 186 – all stop near Gara de Sud
  • Trolleybus 9, 17 or 36 – also good options if you’re near a trolley line

🕒 Travel time: 20–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Cost: ~6 MDL (~$0.30 USD) and you can buy it inside the bus from conductor ;)– pay onboard or via e-ticket app (I paid in cash, not sure about card). Stop to look for: Gara de Sud / Autogara de Sud

Getting from the Airport to the city center in Wrocław (updated June 2018)

by Anna Powaska, posted in Europe, Poland

 Welcome to Wrocław, the coolest city on Earth. The best place on the planet. Most beautiful, amazing, interesting, with the tastiest food ever and the best nightlife, you will experience. Yes, you guessed it right, I am from there. Been born there, raised, studied and worked. Welcome to my home. However, since I wont pick you up from the airport, at least I can guide you on getting from there to your hotel.

Bus

  • Update April 2018. New bus available from the airport to the city center called WRO AIRPORT EXPRESS, a nice and easy option for tourists.

A shuttle bus operates on the route Airport –  City Centre (Plac Dominikański) – Dworzec Wrocław (Central Bus and Railway Station). A ticket will cost PLN 10 or 2.5 Euro (to be paid directly to the driver by cash or by card). The journey will take about 30 minutes. Bus is waiting just outside the airport, blue colored, can`t be missed.

Departures from the airport:

04:10 05:00 05:50 06:40 07:30 08:20 09:10
10:00 10:50 11:40 12:30 13:20 14:10 15:00
15:50 16:40 17:30 18:20 19:10 20:00 21:05
22:55* 23:40* 01:00*        

* departure time depending on the aircraft’s’ arrivals

Price: 3$ or 2.5 Euro or 10 PLN (but paid only in Polish currency PLN) 

Length: 30 minutes

  •   Nice, easy and cheap option. The bus stand is located just outside the main entrance on the right hand side and runs very frequently (mostly every 20 minutes). The number is 106, but no need to remember that, as it is the only one there anyway. Night bus 206 is also available available. See the timetables below.Here are the current MPK Wrocław ticket prices (as of January 2025) in both Polish złoty (PLN) and approximate US dollars (USD). The prices below represent the full-fare (normal) ticket; discounted fares (for students, seniors, etc.) are generally about half the price.
    • Single-use ticket: 4.60 PLN ≈ $1.15
    • 15-minute ticket: 3.20 PLN ≈ $0.80
    • 30-minute ticket: 4.00 PLN ≈ $1.00
    • 60-minute ticket: 5.20 PLN ≈ $1.30
    • 90-minute ticket: 7.00 PLN ≈ $1.75
    • 24-hour ticket: 15.00 PLN ≈ $3.75
    • 48-hour ticket: 26.00 PLN ≈ $6.50
    • 72-hour ticket: 32.00 PLN ≈ $8.00

    Note: These USD values are approximate using an exchange rate of about 1 USD ≈ 4 PLN.

    . You can buy a ticket at the kiosk inside the airport, from the dispenser close the stand, or just from the machine inside the bus that is, actually, inside every public transport in Wroclaw, but accepts only cards. The bus will terminate at the main railway and bus station (called Dworcowa), from where you can continue your journey, if Wrocław is not your final destination. The railway station will be just in front of you, and the main bus station, called Wroclavia (with shopping mall), is hidden behind it.

  For the city center (where your hotel/hostel probably will be) you have to get off just one stop before the last one. The stand is called Renoma, and from there you will, I assume, just walk to your accommodation. It takes around 30-40 minutes to get to the city center, unless traffic is very bad.

106: PORT LOTNICZY (Airport bus stop) Day Bus

PORT LOTNICZY – DWORCOWA

Airport-Main railway/bus station
Time Slot Weekdays (Mon–Fri) Weekends (Sat & Sun)
05:00 :14, :29, :44, :51 :21, :36, :51
06:00 :00, :06, :12, :27, :42 :05, :20, :35, :50
07:00 :01, :20, :32, :47 :05, :20, :35, :50
08:00 :02, :20, :35, :50 :05, :20, :35, :56
09:00 :03, :18, :33, :48 :14, :29, :44, :59
10:00–12:00 Every hour at :03, :18, :33, :48 Every hour at :14, :29, :44, :59
13:00 :03, :18, :33, :53 :14, :29, :44, :59
14:00 :01, :10, :24, :39, :53 :14, :29, :44, :59
15:00–16:00 Every hour at :10, :25, :40, :55 Every hour at :14, :29, :44, :59
17:00 :15, :30, :39, :55 :14, :29, :44, :59
18:00 :09, :22, :37, :57 :14, :29, :44, :59
19:00 :12, :27, :42, :57 :14, :29, :44, :59
20:00 :07, :19, :34, :49 :19, :34, :49
21:00 :02, :19, :34, :49 :02, :19, :34, :49
22:00 :00, :07, :19, :34, :40 :00, :07, :19, :34, :40
23:00 :09, :19, :39, :43 :09, :19, :39, :43

206: PORT LOTNICZY (Airport bus stop) Night Bus

PORT LOTNICZY – DWORZEC AUTOBUSOWY

Airport-Main railway/bus station
Time Slot Weekdays (Mon–Fri) Weekends (Sat & Sun)
00:00–01:00 00:07, 00:37 00:07, 00:37
02:00–03:00 02:07 02:07
03:00–04:00 03:37 Z (no direct city center) 03:37 Z (no direct city center)
04:00–05:00 04:37 Z (no direct city center) 04:37 Z (no direct city center)
05:00–06:00 05:03 Z (last departure; transfer required) 05:03 Z (last departure; transfer required)

PLEASE NOTE that the night bus 206 with Z letter does not go straight to the city center, you have to change, so during the night I really would suggest taxi or Wro Airport Express buss!!

Length: 30-40 minutes

Taxi

  Nice, quick and comfortable way. Please always agree on the price before getting in! You shouldn’t pay more than 50-60 złoty to the city center area. That`s around 15$. Taxis are just outside the main entrance, and driver should speak good/enough English.

Price: 15$

length: 15-20 minutes

Other

I am sorry, but there are no more options, unless you want me to come and pick you on my bike. The tram does not go there, and we do not have an underground. Walking is not an option too, since the airport is on the edge of the city.

Please contact me if you need any tips. I will be more than happy to help and thank you for visiting my city 🙂

Getting to Kościeliska Valle in Tatra Mountains by public bus from Zakopane with timetable (May 2025)

by Anna Powaska, posted in Europe, Poland

  Kościeliska Valle is one of the most beautiful valleys in Poland. Located around Tatra Mountains, on a Polish side of the range, creates an absolutely amazing and breath-taking trial. It is one of the most popular family walks while visiting close by Zakopane, as the whole path up to Ornak Hall (Hala Ornak-Schronisko) is flat and easy done even by a small children. Walk from the entrance right up to hall, even with breaks, wont take longer than 2 hours each way. There are also 4 caves on the way to add, but you have to allow extra time for it, as some of them are located 1h of walk away from the main road of the valley, some just 25 mins. This place is definitely a must see and can be extended to a proper hike trial, if you will carry on after Ornak Hall. More or less, even that the entrance to the park is located 20 mins ride from the center of Zakopane, you do not need to take a taxi. Bus is the best and cheapest option. Some can even get to Kiry, for Kasprowy Wierch cable card, with one of the numerous mini buses operating in the area along with a public PKS bus. The ticket cost just 3zl (less than 1$) each way, and is paid to the bus driver only by cash. There are two main bus stops in Zakopane. One is at the main Bus Station and the other one at the beginning of Krupowki Street, main street in Zakopane. Both places got a signs pointing the bus stop, in polish called Dolina Kościeliska or Kościelisko. Please see the map attached for bus stop near Krupowki street.

Zakopane – Kościeliska Valle

And here is a timetable, but please be at the stop 10-15 mins before, as the bus is always early and never waits!! Welcome to Poland 🙂

Bus Line 52 Schedule Route: Zakopane – Kościeliska Valley (via Skibówki, Krzeptówki)

Departures from Zakopane:

  • Zakopane PKP Station (St. 2): 08:05, 09:05, 09:35, 10:05, 11:45, 13:30, 13:50, 14:40, 15:40, 16:50.
  • Zakopane, Aleja 3-Maja (Lower): 08:07, 09:07, 09:37, 10:07, 11:47, 13:32, 13:52, 14:42, 15:42, 16:52.
  • Zakopane, Targowica: 08:09, 09:09, 09:39, 10:09, 11:49, 13:34, 13:54, 14:44, 15:44, 16:54.
  • Zakopane, Strug: 08:10, 09:10, 09:40, 10:10, 11:50, 13:35, 13:55, 14:45, 15:45, 16:55.
  • Skibówki I: 08:11, 09:11, 09:41, 10:11, 11:51, 13:36, 13:56, 14:46, 15:46, 16:56.
  • Skibówki II: 08:13, 09:13, 09:43, 10:13, 11:53, 13:38, 13:58, 14:48, 15:48, 16:58.
  • Krzeptówki: 08:15, 09:15, 09:45, 10:15, 11:55, 13:40, 14:00, 14:50, 15:50, 17:00.
  • Gronik: 08:17, 09:17, 09:47, 10:17, 11:57, 13:42, 14:02, 14:52, 15:52, 17:02.
  • Nędzówka: 08:19, 09:19, 09:49, 10:19, 11:59, 13:44, 14:04, 14:54, 15:54, 17:04.
  • Kościelisko UG: 08:20, 09:20, 09:50, 10:20, 12:00, 13:45, 14:05, 14:55, 15:55, 17:05.
  • Kościeliska Valley: 08:21, 09:21, 09:51, 10:21, 12:01, 13:46, 14:06, 14:56, 15:56, 17:06.

Departures from Kościeliska Valley:

  • Kościeliska Valley: 08:30, 09:30, 09:55, 10:30, 12:15, 13:50, 14:15, 15:15, 16:15, 17:15.
  • Kościelisko UG: 08:31, 09:31, 09:56, 10:31, 12:16, 13:21, 14:16, 15:16, 16:16, 17:16.
  • Nędzówka: 08:32, 09:32, 09:57, 10:32, 12:17, 13:52, 14:17, 15:17, 16:17, 17:17.
  • Gronik: 08:34, 09:34, 09:59, 10:34, 12:19, 13:54, 14:19, 15:19, 16:19, 17:19.
  • Krzeptówki: 08:36, 09:36, 10:01, 10:36, 12:21, 13:56, 14:21, 15:21, 16:21, 17:21.
  • Skibówki II: 08:38, 09:38, 10:03, 10:38, 12:23, 13:58, 14:23, 15:23, 16:23, 17:23.
  • Skibówki I: 08:40, 09:40, 10:05, 10:40, 12:25, 14:00, 14:25, 15:25, 16:25, 17:25.
  • Zakopane, Strug: 08:41, 09:41, 10:06, 10:41, 12:26, 14:01, 14:26, 15:26, 16:26, 17:26.
  • Zakopane, Targowica: 08:42, 09:42, 10:07, 10:42, 12:27, 14:02, 14:27, 15:27, 16:27, 17:27.
  • Zakopane, Równia Krupowa: 08:44, 09:44, 10:09, 10:44, 12:29, 14:04, 14:29, 15:29, 16:29, 17:29.
  • Zakopane PKP Station (St. 8): 08:46, 09:46, 10:11, 10:46, 12:31, 14:06, 14:31, 15:31, 16:31, 17:31.

Note: The “G” mark indicates buses running only from July 1 to September 30, as well as during May holidays. The line is not operational on All Saints’ Day.

Here is the schedule for Bus Line 53 from Zakopane to Kościeliska Valley via Wojdyłówka:
Departures from Zakopane:
  • Zakopane PKP Station (St. 2): 08:35, 09:15, 09:45, 10:45, 11:15, 11:55, 12:25, 13:05, 13:45, 14:55, 15:50, 16:30.
  • Zakopane, Aleja 3-Maja (Lower): 08:37, 09:17, 09:47, 10:47, 11:17, 11:57, 12:27, 13:07, 13:47, 14:57, 15:52, 16:32.
  • Zakopane, Górka: 08:40, 09:20, 09:50, 10:50, 11:20, 12:00, 12:30, 13:10, 13:50, 15:00, 15:55, 16:35.
  • Zakopane, Szymaszkowa: 08:41, 09:21, 09:51, 10:51, 11:21, 12:01, 12:31, 13:11, 13:51, 15:01, 15:56, 16:36.
  • Zakopane, Czajki: 08:42, 09:22, 09:52, 10:52, 11:22, 12:02, 12:32, 13:12, 13:52, 15:02, 15:57, 16:37.
  • Kościelisko, Sobiczkowa: 08:43, 09:23, 09:53, 10:53, 11:23, 12:03, 12:33, 13:13, 13:53, 15:03, 15:58, 16:38.
  • Kościelisko, Karpielówka: 08:44, 09:24, 09:54, 10:54, 11:24, 12:04, 12:34, 13:14, 13:54, 15:04, 15:59, 16:39.
  • Kościelisko, WDW Kościelisko: 08:45, 09:25, 09:55, 10:55, 11:25, 12:05, 12:35, 13:15, 13:55, 15:05, 16:00, 16:40.
  • Kościelisko, Wojdyłówka: 08:46, 09:26, 09:56, 10:56, 11:26, 12:06, 12:36, 13:16, 13:56, 15:06, 16:01, 16:41.
  • Kościelisko, Ośrodek Zdrowia: 08:47, 09:27, 09:57, 10:57, 11:27, 12:07, 12:37, 13:17, 13:57, 15:07, 16:02, 16:42.
  • Kościelisko, Szeligówka: 08:48, 09:28, 09:58, 10:58, 11:28, 12:08, 12:38, 13:18, 13:58, 15:08, 16:03, 16:43.
  • Kościelisko, Chotarz Polany: 08:49, 09:29, 09:59, 10:59, 11:29, 12:09, 12:39, 13:19, 13:59, 15:09, 16:04, 16:44.
  • Kościelisko, Chotarz Hajduk: 08:50, 09:30, 10:00, 11:00, 11:30, 12:10, 12:40, 13:20, 14:00, 15:10, 16:05, 16:45.
  • Kościelisko, Nędzówka: 08:51, 09:31, 10:01, 11:01, 11:31, 12:11, 12:41, 13:21, 14:01, 15:11, 16:06, 16:46.
  • Kościelisko, Urząd Gminy: 08:52, 09:32, 10:02, 11:02, 11:32, 12:12, 12:42, 13:22, 14:02, 15:12, 16:07, 16:47.
  • Kościeliska Valley: 08:53, 09:33, 10:03, 11:03, 11:33, 12:13, 12:43, 13:23, 14:03, 15:13, 16:08, 16:48.
Here is the return schedule for Bus Line 53 from Kościeliska Valley to Zakopane:
Departures from Kościeliska Valley:
  • Kościeliska Valley: 08:55, 09:35, 10:05, 11:05, 11:40, 12:25, 13:10, 14:00, 14:25, 15:25, 16:25, 17:25.
  • Kościelisko, Urząd Gminy: 08:56, 09:36, 10:06, 11:06, 11:41, 12:26, 13:11, 14:01, 14:26, 15:26, 16:26, 17:26.
  • Kościelisko, Nędzówka: 08:57, 09:37, 10:07, 11:07, 11:42, 12:27, 13:12, 14:02, 14:27, 15:27, 16:27, 17:27.
  • Kościelisko, Chotarz Hajduk: 08:58, 09:38, 10:08, 11:08, 11:43, 12:28, 13:13, 14:03, 14:28, 15:28, 16:28, 17:28.
  • Kościelisko, Chotarz Polany: 08:59, 09:39, 10:09, 11:09, 11:44, 12:29, 13:14, 14:04, 14:29, 15:29, 16:29, 17:29.
  • Kościelisko, Szeligówka: 09:00, 09:40, 10:10, 11:10, 11:45, 12:30, 13:15, 14:05, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30, 17:30.
  • Kościelisko, Ośrodek Zdrowia: 09:01, 09:41, 10:11, 11:11, 11:46, 12:31, 13:16, 14:06, 14:31, 15:31, 16:31, 17:31.
  • Kościelisko, Wojdyłówka: 09:02, 09:42, 10:12, 11:12, 11:47, 12:32, 13:17, 14:07, 14:32, 15:32, 16:32, 17:32.
  • Kościelisko, WDW Kościelisko: 09:03, 09:43, 10:13, 11:13, 11:48, 12:33, 13:18, 14:08, 14:33, 15:33, 16:33, 17:33.
  • Kościelisko, Karpielówka: 09:04, 09:44, 10:14, 11:14, 11:49, 12:34, 13:19, 14:09, 14:34, 15:34, 16:34, 17:34.
  • Kościelisko, Sobiczkowa: 09:05, 09:45, 10:15, 11:15, 11:50, 12:35, 13:20, 14:10, 14:35, 15:35, 16:35, 17:35.
  • Zakopane, Czajki: 09:06, 09:46, 10:16, 11:16, 11:51, 12:36, 13:21, 14:11, 14:36, 15:36, 16:36, 17:36.
  • Zakopane, Szymaszkowa: 09:07, 09:47, 10:17, 11:17, 11:52, 12:37, 13:22, 14:12, 14:37, 15:37, 16:37, 17:37.
  • Zakopane, Górka: 09:08, 09:48, 10:18, 11:18, 11:53, 12:38, 13:23, 14:13, 14:38, 15:38, 16:38, 17:38.
  • Zakopane, Równia Krupowa: 09:11, 09:51, 10:21, 11:21, 11:56, 12:41, 13:25, 14:16, 14:41, 15:41, 16:41, 17:41.
  • Zakopane PKP Station (St. 8): 09:13, 09:53, 10:23, 11:23, 11:58, 12:43, 13:28, 14:18, 14:43, 15:43, 16:43, 17:43.
Here is the schedule for Bus Line 54 from Zakopane to Kościeliska Valley via Wojdyłówka and Chotarz:
Departures from Zakopane:
  • Zakopane PKP Station (St. 2): 07:35, 08:55, 10:15, 11:35, 13:25, 14:20, 15:35, 16:45, 18:10, 19:25, 20:30, 21:30.
  • Zakopane, Aleja 3-Maja (Lower): 07:37, 08:57, 10:17, 11:37, 13:27, 14:22, 15:37, 16:47, 18:12, 19:27, 20:32, 21:32.
  • Zakopane, Górka (Wiadukt): 07:40, 09:00, 10:20, 11:40, 13:30, 14:25, 15:40, 16:50, 18:15, 19:30, 20:35, 21:35.
  • Zakopane, Szymaszkowa: 07:41, 09:01, 10:21, 11:41, 13:31, 14:26, 15:41, 16:51, 18:16, 19:31, 20:36, 21:36.
  • Zakopane, Czajki: 07:42, 09:02, 10:22, 11:42, 13:32, 14:27, 15:42, 16:52, 18:17, 19:32, 20:37, 21:37.
  • Kościelisko, Sobiczkowa: 07:43, 09:03, 10:23, 11:43, 13:33, 14:28, 15:43, 16:53, 18:18, 19:33, 20:38, 21:38.
  • Kościelisko, Karpielówka: 07:44, 09:04, 10:24, 11:44, 13:34, 14:29, 15:44, 16:54, 18:19, 19:34, 20:39, 21:39.
  • Kościelisko, WDW: 07:45, 09:05, 10:25, 11:45, 13:35, 14:30, 15:45, 16:55, 18:20, 19:35, 20:40, 21:40.
  • Kościelisko, Wojdyłówka: 07:46, 09:06, 10:26, 11:46, 13:36, 14:31, 15:46, 16:56, 18:21, 19:36, 20:41, 21:41.
  • Kościelisko, Ośrodek Zdrowia: 07:47, 09:07, 10:27, 11:47, 13:37, 14:32, 15:47, 16:57, 18:22, 19:37, 20:42, 21:42.
  • Kościelisko, Szeligówka: 07:48, 09:08, 10:28, 11:48, 13:38, 14:33, 15:48, 16:58, 18:23, 19:38, 20:43, 21:43.
  • Kościelisko, Chotarz Polany: 07:49, 09:09, 10:29, 11:49, 13:39, 14:34, 15:49, 16:59, 18:24, 19:39, 20:44, 21:44.
  • Kościelisko, Chotarz Hajduk: 07:50, 09:10, 10:30, 11:50, 13:40, 14:35, 15:50, 17:00, 18:25, 19:40, 20:45, 21:45.
  • Kościelisko, Nędzówka: 07:51, 09:11, 10:31, 11:51, 13:41, 14:36, 15:51, 17:01, 18:26, 19:41, 20:46, 21:46.
  • Kościelisko, Urząd Gminy: 07:52, 09:12, 10:32, 11:52, 13:42, 14:37, 15:52, 17:02, 18:27, 19:42, 20:47, 21:47.
  • Kościeliska Valley: 07:53, 09:13, 10:33, 11:53, 13:43, 14:38, 15:53, 17:03, 18:28, 19:43, 20:48, 21:48.
Return Departures from Kościeliska Valley:
    • Kościeliska Valley: 07:08, 08:05, 09:25, 10:55, 12:05, 13:50, 14:50, 16:00, 17:15, 18:50, 19:55, 20:55.
    • Kościelisko, Urząd Gminy: 07:09, 08:06, 09:26, 10:56, 12:06, 13:51, 14:51, 16:01, 17:16, 18:51, 19:56, 20:56.
    • Kościelisko, Nędzówka: 07:10, 08:07, 09:27, 10:57, 12:07, 13:52, 14:52, 16:02, 17:17, 18:52, 19:57, 20:57.
    • Kościelisko, Chotarz Hajduk: 07:11, 08:08, 09:28, 10:58, 12:08, 13:53, 14:53, 16:03, 17:18, 18:53, 19:58, 20:58.
    • Kościelisko, Chotarz Polany: 07:12, 08:09, 09:29, 10:59, 12:09, 13:54, 14:54, 16:04, 17:19, 18:54, 19:59, 20:59.
    • Kościelisko, Szeligówka: 07:13, 08:10, 09:30, 11:00, 12:10, 13:55, 14:55, 16:05, 17:20, 18:55, 20:00, 21:00.
    • Kościelisko, Ośrodek Zdrowia: 07:14, 08:11, 09:31, 11:01, 12:11, 13:56, 14:56, 16:06, 17:21, 18:56, 20:01, 21:01.
    • Kościelisko, Wojdyłówka: 07:15, 08:12, 09:32, 11:02, 12:12, 13:57, 14:57, 16:07, 17:22, 18:57, 20:02, 21:02.
    • Kościelisko, WDW: 07:16, 08:13, 09:33, 11:03, 12:13, 13:58, 14:58, 16:08, 17:23, 18:58, 20:03, 21:03.
    • Kościelisko, Karpielówka: 07:17, 08:14, 09:34, 11:04, 12:14, 13:59, 14:59, 16:09, 17:24, 18:59, 20:04, 21:04.
    • Kościelisko, Sobiczkowa: 07:18, 08:15, 09:35, 11:05, 12:15, 14:00, 15:00, 16:10, 17:25, 19:00, 20:05, 21:05.
    • Zakopane, Czajki: 07:

Kościeliska Valle-Zakopane

Return bus stop from Kościeliska Valley offers loads of options towards Zakopane, almost every 15-20 minutes in high season time. Just please don’t be later than 18.00 – 19.00 to be sure to catch one. Thought, they run till 21.00, I suggest to take earlier one anyway. See up for timetable for 52, 53 and 54. They all stop in few places in Zakopane (near main street Krupowki, finishing usually near main bus station). The bus stop is located just outside of the entrance to the park (to the left, when leaving the valley)

Discovering Shkoder by bike

by Anna Powaska, posted in Albania, Balkans, Europe

  Thank universe for bicycles! Whats an amazing invention. Not only that they are an eco-friendly, enjoyable, affordable and timeless. It is also a very useful vehicle to conquer surrounded area around newly visited places. And all done in a nice, easy and quick way.

  I have visited Shkoder, a cute town in the northern part of Albania located by the Skadar Lake, in March. It was one of my many stops during my backpacking trip around Balkans. Landscape packed with magnificent hills, medieval structures, lakes and rivers creates many brilliant cycling paths to enjoy. So try to always hire a bike, if possible, while traveling, especially around Albania. There is usually an agency or hostel that can provide the service, pretty much in most places. You could really explore tree times more things than by foot, and Shkoder is probably the best place to do so.

It really is a great way to see the marvelous landscape around the castle hill, and the beautiful lake with water as clear that could be easily mistaken for Adriatic coast of Albania. Luckily, I was able to get a bike from my hostel (just 2 Euro for the whole day!), so decision has been made quickly, and I went off to enjoy the area first thing in the morning.

There are 2 routs from Shkoder you can do. Well, you can do an many as you like, but these are most popular. I would suggest one day for each, but  fit and quick bionic human can do both in one day.

First path

  This path allows you to get to the castle hill, that is actually located just 3 kilometers from the city center, and to cycle around absolutely stunning Skadar Lake. Actually, for me, it is the second (after Titicaca Lake in Bolivia/Peru) most amazing lake I have seen so far. It should be around 25 kilometers in total, and the whole path is pretty flat (except castle hill, but you will walk up), so I would rate difficulty as easy!

Before starting, please just have a 200 Lek with you, as that is the entrance fee to the castle. I beg you…don’t skip it! 200 Lek is around 1.5 Euro, and the remain ruins are absolutely in a great condition, not even mentioning the view from the top. You can spot the Albanian, and at some point Montenegrin, landscape that surround the place from every single angle there. Geologically diverse area, build of lakes, rivers and high range of North Albanian Alps, will become as a great bonus to the Castle itself.

So you will start in a place where your bike will be coming from. From the city center you will have to fallow one of the main roads in town, called Bulevardi Zogu I. You will have to head south till the point where you will see the sigh pointing the directions towards Castle Rozafa. Once you see it, cross the street (wherever you want really, as Albanian traffic is a bit anarchistic), so you will be on the left side of the road. Now you can leave your bike somewhere there, as the road up to the hill is way to rocky to cycle. If you haven’t got any lock with you, you can take your bike right to the entrance where the guard, that’s there all the time, will look after it for you. I have to say it here…Albanians are very friendly and nice.

After probably an hour on the top you can carry on with your trip. You will pick your bike, and you will go to the same place from where you turned left towards castle. Now its time to go right to wonder around the lake. The bridge is just 200 meters away on the right hand side. You have to cross it (heh a challenge as well, as the wooden bridge is full of holes), and once you are on the other side, you will take the road to the right. Now, I really don’t have to add anything, as the path from there is pretty straight forward. The whole road by the breath-taking lake is a great experience. The area around will stunt you with the beauty and peacefulness, you will face around. The clear blue waters of the lake, with the green hills full of sheep and cows, will help your mind to relax a bit. You will be also able to stop anywhere you like. There are loads of places for that.

Cycling route will finish at the camping side where road terminates. From there you can start heading back to the Shkoder. For me it was one of the best days trough my backpacking, but I know I was also lucky with great weather and an off-season time once there (not many tourists around is always as a plus for me).

Second rout

The second trip will contain cycling around different lake, river and another castle. This journey is longer than the first one, as the castle, I mentioned, is already 17 kilometers away from the city, and from there you can carry on on cycling along the river and lake. This time you will breath with the fresh air of green lowlands of Drin River Basin that will accompany you trough the whole journey. It really is up to you how far you want to go. I would recommend to do 10 km more from the castle, if you have the whole day for it. You will pass trough few little villages, so you will be ale to stack up on water and food.  This area is way less busy than the first route, I mention, so you will spend one day away from busy city life with the nature.

I, myself, loves tips like that, especially when you are visiting many cities on your way. It really can create a great balance that will aloud your eyes to have a rest from busy life, and your mind to get completely lost in simple thoughts admiring the background around you. I have to add that Albania is a very interesting country in general. You can relax there on one of many beautiful Adriatic sea beaches, you can do some hiking on North Albanian Albs, Koral Mountains or just enjoy beautiful lakes. I definitely loved my time there, and I would highly recommend to visit this country. Plus, it`s extremely cheap too, so really, there is no excuse for you not to come here! Just pack your backpack.

Visual trip around Tatra Mountains

by Anna Powaska, posted in Europe, Poland, Tatra Mountains, Travelling

Year has pass, and yet, no new trips, no new photos. Luckily, still got many memories from the past. Here, just some of the captures from a very cool trip I did with just my niece and nephew to the south of Poland. Zakopane offers many easy and beautiful trials around lakes, to and from the tops of mountains, around valleys and more. This makes this place as a great option to visit with young ones.

Meet the Gods in Sounion (May 2025 timetable/price update)

by Anna Powaska, posted in Europe, Greece

  Having a break in the heart of the land where the democracy, philosophy and many more amazing inventions come from? Good! You wont even have to look hard as art will surround you in every single corner in Athens, and not only because Acropolis is visible from every edge of the city. Even that the unique combination of religion and literature, known as a Greek mythology, is not estrange to most of us, you will definitely leave this country with much greater knowledge about the ancient culture, history and art. dddBut apart from the capital there is one more thing to discover. It is one of the most stunning monuments in the world, build on a high hill by Aegean cost. The location makes it definitely as a must see place, and the ruins remain in a really great condition. So here we go.

Athens-Sounion

  Bus towards Sounion leaves from the Pedion Areos Park bus terminal near the National Archaeological Museum. It is located close to the entrance of the park. Transport, as the direct one, should have a label with Sounion name on the front, so you really shouldn’t miss it. My hotel was very close, so I just walked there, but it is accessible by bus, metro, tram or taxi of course. Please note that during 2017 the Athens transport ticket system will transition from paper tickets to modern electronic tickets with the use of plastic smart cards (similar to London’s Oyster cards), so please recheck before for updates on transport in this capital. Distance to Sounion is 70 km long, so it takes around 1.5-2 hours. Great news is that almost the whole way there, you will be able to view the charming Aegean Sea, as the road lays very close to the beautiful coast line of Greece.

Operator: KTEL Attikis Ticket Price: Approximately €4–€7 per one-way journey Journey Duration: Around 2 hours

During the summer season (from May 1st to August 31st, 2025), the local service now runs twice daily. For example:

Departure Time from Athens (KTEL Attikis Terminal) Arrival Time at Cape Sounion Duration
10:30 AM 12:30 PM 2 hours
2:45 PM 4:45 PM 2 hours

Additional Notes:

  • The bus departs from the Athens KTEL Attikis station (commonly located near the Pedion Areos Park area).
  • Off-season schedules might be less frequent, so it’s always best to verify times on the official KTEL Attikis website or trusted aggregators (like Rome2Rio) prior to your journey.
  • Prices reflect current rates for 2025 and may vary slightly depending on the day or any seasonal adjustments.

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Here’s how you can buy your bus ticket for the Athens–Cape Sounion route in 2025:

  1. Online Purchase: KTEL Attikis has rolled out an electronic ticketing system, so you can buy your ticket in advance on their official website. Additionally, trusted travel aggregators like Rome2rio and Viator offer booking options for this journey. These online systems let you pay by card and receive a digital ticket, which can simplify the boarding process.
  2. Bus Terminal Kiosks: If you prefer buying your ticket in person, you can head to the Pedion Areos bus terminal in Athens. There, you’ll find kiosks or ticket vending machines installed by KTEL Attikis. This option is perfect if you decide to purchase at the last minute or if you’re not comfortable booking online.
  3. Onboard Purchase: In some cases, a ticket vendor might come onboard to sell tickets. However, note that this vendor isn’t the driver and often has limited card acceptance, so it’s wise to have some cash handy. That said, given the shift to electronic ticketing, onboard purchases are becoming less common in 2025.

Please carefully check a proper timetable here, as during the summer holiday bus leaves every hour, otherwise every 2 h. I, as always, did not check it properly, so I`ve had to wait  an hour. I took this opportunity to walk around the park. Not really my recommendation as its full of junkies.

  I arrived quiet early, around 12.00. I think it is too soon if you are planning on staying till sunset. Journey terminates at the top of the hill, so you wont have to hike much to the monument. My goal was, of course, to watch the sunset, so I`ve had some spare time to look around. At the top you can find a restaurant and bar where you can have a hot meal, drink or coffee. Apart from that there is a beautiful coast line to look at too. I did go down to sit on the beach for a little while by the crystal clear water, but quickly run away after a completely naked Greek came towards me to chat. Around 14.00 I entered the Temple of Poseidon side.

The entrance fee is just 4 Euros (2015), and it is open till the sun will disappear in to the waters of Aegean Sea. I visited the place in January, so the staff closed the passage around 16.30. As you can imagine, the Temple is the main point of interest, but there is a route around the hill with some other remains of the ancient structures. So go and have a look! You will find sits there as well to have a rest in a stunning spot. That`s what I did. I sat alone for few minutes to watch epic scenery, when a cute turtle kindly decided to accompany me, so we watched the panorama together. The view from there is truly stunning and makes you understand why Greeks has chosen this place to cherish one of most important god in their ancient religion. Magic dusk light at sunset makes this place to look very special with the magnificent panorama of Aegean Sea that surround the cliff. When the spectacular sunset will finish, you have to leave as the side is just about to close down. As far as I remember, the return bus departs at 18.00 and is stopping at the same place from where it left in Athens. So really, it is an outstanding one day, or half day city break trip. As you see the cost is not high, and I know that some agencies will charge you around 100 Euros, so why not to do it yourself. Also, if it’s a summer time, why not to go there early in the morning. I have spotted a very beautiful sandy beach close by, where you could swim or just relax before going to see the temple. If you haven’t got much time in the Athens, you could also add Acropolis area to your day in the evening. Trust me, it is absolutely remarkable at night!

Guide on Lisbon with entrance fesses and directions (May 2025)

by Anna Powaska, posted in Europe, Portugal

  This time spearing you some hassle to read, and me some trouble to write, a brief description about Lisbon to start with, I will take you straight to must see places once in this very capital of Portugal. Thought, there are many free tours available to pick, with a schedule offering almost any possible time and many places to start from, somehow there are travellers, like myself, who always prefer to do everything alone in their own time. This kind of a “extremely social and normal” group of people, again like myself, may find my guide useful. If you are planning on spending some time there and visit loads of places, I would suggest getting a Lisboa Card that can get you a free admission to many places, along with free use of Lisbon’s metro, buses, and trams. Anyway, so what is worth seeing in Lisbon then?

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

This imperious 15th-century Manueline monastery was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s “discovery” of India. It is also his resting place. The main attraction is the delicate Gothic chapel that opens up on to a grand monastery, in which some of Portugal’s greatest historical figures are entombed. 

Address: Praça do Império, Belem. You can take a tram 15 from the city center.

Entrance fee:

Jerónimos Monastery

    • Regular ticket: €18
    • Youth (12-25 years old): €9
    • Children under 12: Free
    • Seniors (65+): €9
    • Lisboa Card holders: Free
    • Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (May–September), 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (October–April). Closed on Mondays, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, and December 25.
  • Tram Number: Tram 15 connects the city center to Belém.

  • A monument to sea exploration

    The 50 meters high Padrão dos Descobrimentos (seen under) was built to mark 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator’s death – one of Portugal’s greatest sailor. You can also get a nice view of the mouth of the River Tagus. 

    Address: Avenida de Brasilia, Belem. Accessible by tram number 15 from the city center.

    Entrance fee: free

    • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (March–September), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (October–February). Closed on January 1, May 1, December 24, 25, and 31.
    • Tram Number: Tram 15 is the best option.

     

  • Torre de Belém

    UNESCO world heritage site and one of Portugal’s most famous monuments. Perhaps a great suggestion to start with. Very close to the city center and harbour, Gothic towers dates back to 1500. It is very close to Jeronimos Monastery, just further to the west.

    Address: Belém Tower, Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, you can take a tram 15 from the center.

    Entrance fee:

    • Regular ticket: €15
    • Youth (13-24 years old): €7.50
    • Children under 12: Free
    • Seniors (65+): €7.50
    • Lisboa Card holders: Free
    • Family ticket (2 adults + 2 youth): €12
  • Tram Number: Tram 15 serves this route.

  • Castelo de São Jorge

    Towering dramatically above Lisbon, the mid-11th-century hilltop fortifications of Castelo de São Jorge sneak into almost every snapshot. Roam its snaking ramparts and pine-shaded courtyards for superlative views over the city’s red rooftops to the river.

    Address: Castelo de S. Jorge 1100º 129 Lisboa. The nearest metro station is Rossio (Green Metro Line), but involves a 20 minute walk. Mini bus service 37 goes directly to the main entrance, while the tram 28 is more enjoyable option, but also does require a slight walk.

    Entrance fee:

    • Adult: €15
    • Youth (13–25 years old): €7.50
    • Seniors (65+): €12.50
    • Children under 12: Free
    • Persons with Specific Needs: €10.50
    • Lisboa Card holders: Free

     

    • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (March–October), 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (November–February).
    • Tram Number: Tram 28 or Mini Bus 37 can take you close to the entrance.

  • Take a tram 28

    The Remodelado trams were built in the 1930s, and I do recommend the very pretty Tram 28 route. You can jump off and explore one of the passing neighborhoods, or use it as a way to get up the steep hills. Highly recommended to do so, to explore the city. The route screeches through the hills of Alfama before passing through downtown Baixa and on to the Estrela basilica.

    Entrance fee: Single ticket for this 40 minute tour of Lisbon costs now 2.85€ whether you buy from the driver or ticket machine.DSC_052.jpg

  • Elevador de Santa Justa: An Antique Elevator With City Views

    A very odd-looking Santa Justa Lift, a neo-Gothic elevator and the most eccentric and novel means of public transport in the city, creates a very interesting panorama next to surrounded buildings. It was built as a means of connecting the Baixa with the Largo do Carmo in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, a trendy area of the city. At first glance, its riveted wrought-iron frame and battleship-grey paint conjure images of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and there is a connection: the French architect Raoul Mésnier du Ponsard, an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, designed the elevator, which was inaugurated in 1901.

    Address: south east of Praça Dom Pedro IV (Rossio Square) in the Baixa district and the closest metro station is Rossio. In the city center.

    Entrance fee: A return ride cost €5.15 and included in the fare is the entrance to the viewing platform, which costs €1.50. Ride on the lift is included in the 24-hour public transport ticket that cost €6.30 and can be purchased from any metro station.

    • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM (summer), 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM (winter).
    • Entrance fee: 
    • Round trip ticket: €6.00 (includes access to the observation deck).
    • Observation deck only: €1.50.
    • Lisboa Card holders: Free access to both the elevator and the observation deck.
    • Tram Number: Tram 28 passes nearby.

  • Main square in the city is Praça do Comércio 

    The main square in the city is Praça do Comércio, a lively place with restaurants on both sides.

  • Cool down on the beautiful beach in Cascais

    Close by Cascais can be a perfect place for a break from the busy streets of the city. The beach in very beautiful and it is only 30 minutes away from Lisbon, so could be a perfect one day trip to rest, swim, get a sunbath and just relax.

    Train ticket: A single ticket from Lisbon to Cascais costs:

  • Adult: €2.40 (single ticket)
  • Child: €1.20 (single ticket)
  • Return ticket: Not available; you need to purchase two single tickets (€4.80 for adults and €2.40 for children).
  • 24-hour public transport ticket: €6.30 (includes unlimited travel on trains, buses, and metro).

There are no return tickets so the price of a return would be €4.50/€2.30 (two single tickets).

During daylight hours there is a departure every 20 minutes. The first train departs at 5.30 from the main train station (Cais do Sodre). The last trains of the night depart from both Cascais and Lisbon at 0:30am, 1:00am and 1:30am. Here is a current timetable.

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  • Sé: Lisbon’s Imposing Cathedral

    Cathedral is a wonderful ancient complex that is steeped in history and no holiday to Lisbon is complete without visiting this magnificent monument.DSC_0553.jpg

    Address: Sé Lisbon is situated on the main road from Baixa to Alfama. The nearest metro station is Rossio (Green Metro Line) but involves a 20 minute walk. Mini bus service 37 goes directly to the main entrance, while the tram 28 is more enjoyable option but does require a slight walk.

    Entrance fee:

    • Adult: €5
    • Children (7–12 years old): €3
    • Children under 6: Free
    • Group visits: Prices vary; contact the cathedral for details.

    The ticket includes access to the High Choir, the Museum of the Treasury, and a walk through the naves and deambulatory of the church

    Open:

    • October to March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday).
    • April to September: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Monday to Saturday).
    • Sundays and Holy Days

  • Take the Lavra funicular to Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara as 2 in 1

    This is one of the most attractive viewpoints, with a pleasant garden and the castle standing on the opposite side. It is especially beautiful at night when the city is lit up below. Best to take the iconic Lavra funicular to climb up the hill of mirador.

    Address: Largo da Anunciada – Rua Câmara Pestana for Lavra funicular, then the viewpoint is just on a right hand side.

    • Entrance Fee: €4 for a one-way ticket (€2 for children aged 4–10). A return ticket costs €5.40 (€3 for children).
    • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:45 PM daily, except Sundays when it opens at 9:00 AM.
    • Tram Numbers: The funicular itself is the Elevador da Glória, and nearby tram 24 also connects to this area.

    This funicular not only provides a convenient ride but also leads to one of Lisbon’s most beautiful viewpoints, perfect for enjoying the city’s charm.