A taxi is the most convenient type of public transport in many countries around the world, and Poland is no exception. It operates 24/7. There are large companies and private drivers — licensed, with all the necessary permits, and “wild” ones, who do not have such licenses. Most drivers use their own cars, but a significant number work under the patronage of international or local companies that oversee their activities. This practice exists in many European countries. Taking a licensed taxi is usually safer and cheaper than using an unlicensed one. In Poland, taxis can be found at designated stands or ordered via phone numbers listed in special directories.
How to distinguish legal taxis from illegal ones in Poland
You can tell a licensed taxi from an unlicensed one in this country by the following signs:
- Illegal taxi drivers tend to park near train stations, hotels, and shopping centers without identification signs. Licensed taxis wait at official taxi stands and have a “Taxi” sign on the roof.
- Licensed taxis display company branding on the car body, and often include a phone number for bookings.
- The driver has a license confirming the legality of their activity.
- Licensed operators have payment terminals for bank cards and issue fiscal receipts.
- Transport rates are displayed on the rear doors of the car.
You can usually pay for your ride by bank card or in cash in Polish zloty.
How much does a taxi cost in Poland and what the fare depends on
The cost of a taxi in different regions of the country, and even among different operators, can vary significantly. It depends on several factors.
- Location. The most expensive fares are in Warsaw. Rides in smaller towns further from the capital will be cheaper.
- Time of day. Poland has two fare rates – daytime from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and nighttime from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. The night fare is twice as high as the day fare.
- Day of the week. Fares also increase on weekends and public holidays.
- City or out-of-town ride. Within the city, taxi rides are about 50% cheaper than outside the city.
- Car class. The newer and more comfortable the car, the more expensive the trip.
- The starting fee also varies. It depends on the number of seats in the car. The more seats, the higher the starting fare.
- Luggage transport is charged separately.
- Waiting time is also charged separately and is quite expensive.
- Car reservations are also subject to an extra fee.
It should be noted that taxi fares are influenced by inflation levels in the country and its economic situation. Therefore, rates may change from time to time.
How to order a comfortable, affordable, and safe taxi in Poland
To order an affordable, comfortable, and safe taxi in Poland, it is best to use the “Grand Taxi” catalog. It contains contacts of only reliable and verified companies that operate legally, guarantee passenger safety, and have many positive online reviews. The catalog provides up-to-date information about each company’s rates, benefits, and promotions. You can always find the option that suits you best.