Kazan, the vibrant capital of Tatarstan, is a bustling city full of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and dynamic neighborhoods. While the city has an efficient public transportation system, taxis are a popular and convenient way to get around, especially if you’re looking for comfort, speed, and ease of travel. Whether you’re heading to the Kazan Kremlin, the historic Bauman Street, or exploring the surrounding areas, taxis offer a reliable option for getting from point A to point B.
Here’s everything you need to know about taxi services in Kazan:
1. Taxi Options in Kazan
There are several options for taking a taxi in Kazan, from traditional street taxis to ride-hailing apps. Each option comes with its own advantages, so you can choose the one that suits your preferences and needs.
Street Taxis
Street taxis are available throughout Kazan, and you can hail one directly from the street. However, it’s important to note that street taxis in Kazan don’t always have a meter, which means you’ll need to agree on a fare before getting in the car. If you’re not familiar with the typical fare for a ride, it’s best to negotiate with the driver or ask a local for advice on how much the trip should cost.
Insider Tip: Always agree on the fare with the driver before starting the trip to avoid any misunderstandings later.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Yandex.Taxi, Uber)
Ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi and Uber are widely available in Kazan and offer a more transparent, convenient, and reliable way to book a taxi. Both services allow you to track your ride, pay electronically, and see the price before you get in, which eliminates the uncertainty of hailing a street taxi.
- Yandex.Taxi: This is one of the most popular taxi apps in Russia and is widely used in Kazan. It offers competitive pricing, the ability to choose the type of car you want (economy, comfort, business), and easy cashless payments via the app.
- Uber: Uber operates in Kazan as well, and while it may not be as widespread as Yandex.Taxi, it’s still a great option for quick and efficient rides. Uber also allows for electronic payments and gives you a clear price estimate before your ride.
Hotel Taxis
Many hotels in Kazan offer taxi booking services for their guests. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can ask the reception to arrange a taxi for you. While this can be convenient, it’s often more expensive than using a ride-hailing app or hailing a taxi from the street, so be sure to check the fare in advance.
Private Taxi Companies
There are also a number of local taxi companies that operate in Kazan. These companies can be contacted directly by phone or via their websites. Some well-known taxi services include Kazan Taxi, Taxi 24, and Avtobaza 123. You can call these companies for a more traditional, pre-arranged taxi experience, or they may offer apps for booking rides.
2. Taxi Fares in Kazan
Taxi fares in Kazan can vary depending on the type of service you use (street taxi, ride-hailing app, or private taxi) and the distance traveled. However, here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Starting Fare: The starting fare for most taxis is typically around 100-150 RUB ($1.50 – $2 USD).
- Per Kilometer: After the initial fare, the cost per kilometer is generally between 25-40 RUB ($0.35 – $0.60 USD).
- Minimum Fare: For shorter trips, most taxis have a minimum fare, which is usually around 200 RUB ($3 USD).
- Airport Transfers: If you’re taking a taxi from Kazan International Airport (KZN), fares to the city center can range between 400-600 RUB ($5.50 – $8.50 USD), depending on the traffic and the taxi service.
Insider Tip: To avoid surprises, use a ride-hailing app like Yandex.Taxi or Uber, where the fare is calculated in advance and shown to you before the ride starts.
3. Booking a Taxi in Kazan
How to Book via Ride-Hailing Apps
- Yandex.Taxi: Simply download the Yandex.Taxi app on your smartphone, enter your destination, select the type of car you want, and confirm your booking. You can also track the progress of your ride in real-time.
- Uber: The Uber app works in the same way—enter your pick-up location and destination, and Uber will give you an estimate of the fare. You can then book your ride and track its arrival on the app.
Both apps are available in English, making it easy for non-Russian speakers to use.
How to Book a Traditional Taxi
If you prefer a traditional street taxi or want to book with a local taxi company, you can either:
- Hail a taxi on the street: Look for taxis with a taxi sign on the roof. Make sure the car is official and use your judgment to ensure it’s a legitimate service.
- Call a taxi company: Most taxi services in Kazan have a phone number listed online, so you can call ahead and arrange a taxi. It’s common for the dispatcher to give you a fixed fare estimate for your trip.
Insider Tip: When using a street taxi or calling a company, it’s a good idea to have some basic Russian phrases ready, such as “сколько стоит” (how much does it cost), or have a local guide or hotel staff help you with the arrangements.
4. Payment Methods
Cash Payments
While cash is widely accepted in most taxis in Kazan, it’s always a good idea to have rubles on hand. You can pay the driver directly at the end of your ride. Be sure to confirm the fare in advance if you’re taking a street taxi, as some drivers may not have a meter.
Cashless Payments
Both Yandex.Taxi and Uber allow for cashless payments through the app, making it easier to pay with your credit card or digital wallet. This is especially convenient for international travelers who may not want to carry cash.
Other Payment Options
Some traditional taxi companies may also accept payments through mobile apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or local bank cards, so it’s worth checking with the driver beforehand if you want to pay via card.
5. Things to Keep in Mind When Taking a Taxi in Kazan
Traffic and Time of Day
Kazan can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours (mornings and evenings). It’s important to allow extra time when planning your trip to ensure that you arrive on time.
- Peak Hours: From 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, expect heavier traffic in and around the city center.
- Nighttime: After 11 PM, traffic tends to ease up, but some taxis may charge extra for late-night rides, so confirm the fare in advance if you’re traveling late.
Language Barrier
While many drivers in Kazan can understand basic English, not all of them may speak it fluently. It’s helpful to know a few basic Russian phrases or use a translation app if you’re not familiar with the language. For example, knowing how to say “улица” (street) or “центр” (center) can be useful when communicating with your driver.
Safety
Taxis in Kazan are generally safe, but as in any major city, it’s always a good idea to use common sense. Stick with licensed taxi services, avoid accepting rides from unmarked cars, and ensure you’re using a reputable taxi company or app.
6. Alternative Transportation Options
In addition to taxis, Kazan offers several alternative transportation options:
- Public Transport: Kazan has an extensive public transport system of buses, trams, and trolleybuses, which are an affordable way to get around the city. However, these can be crowded and less convenient for tourists.
- Bicycles and Scooters: Kazan has several bike-sharing and scooter-sharing services, such as Yandex Go and Delimobil, offering easy access to short-distance travel.
Conclusion
Taxis are one of the most convenient and efficient ways to get around Kazan, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the public transport system or want to travel in comfort. Whether you’re hailing a traditional street taxi, using Yandex.Taxi or Uber, or booking through a local company, taxis in Kazan offer a wide variety of options to suit your needs. Just be sure to check the fare, use a reliable service, and allow for some extra time during peak traffic hours. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to navigate Kazan’s streets with ease and enjoy your visit to this beautiful and historic city!
