The Complete Guide to Trains, Buses & Trams in Poland | How to Use the Jakdojade App

When travelling in Poland, one of the first things you'll wonder about is how to get around.

Unlike Japan, Poland has no unified IC card system like Suica or PASMO — instead, each city runs its own ticketing system.

Routes can also be confusing, and it's easy to get lost figuring out which ticket to buy or where to transfer.

That's where Jakdojade (pronounced "yak-do-ya-de") comes in — a public transport app that makes getting around Poland simple.

With the app, you can search routes and check timetables for trains, buses, trams, and the metro — and buy tickets without leaving the app. It provides more accurate real-time service information than Google Maps, making it an essential tool for any traveller.

This article covers everything you need to know: the basics of Jakdojade, how to buy tickets, and how to ride trains, buses, and trams in Poland.

What is Jakdojade?

• Search timetables, get route directions, and buy tickets for all public transport in Poland (trains, buses, trams, metro)

• More accurate real-time service information than Google Maps

• Supported cities: Warsaw, Kraków, Gdańsk, Wrocław, and most other major cities

• Does not support long-distance train tickets (e.g. PKP Intercity)

• Requires an internet connection

1.Installing & Setting Up Jakdojade

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Jakdojade

1.1 How to Download

• Search for "Jakdojade" on the App Store or Google Play and install it

• Note: your app store region may need to be set to Poland. You can do this after arriving, or follow the steps below before your trip.

How to change your country on the App Store (iPhone)

1. Open Settings → tap your name (Apple ID)

2. Select "Media & Purchases" → "View Account"

3. Tap "Country/Region" → "Change Country or Region"

4. Select Poland → agree to the terms

5. Enter a payment method and address (a local address may be required)

How to change your country on Google Play

1. Open the Play Store → tap your profile icon (top right)

2. Go to Settings → General → Account and Device Preferences → Country and Profiles

3. Select Poland

4. Add a payment method (local card or address may be required)

5. Changes take effect within 48 hours

• iOS : https://apps.apple.com/pl/app/jakdojade-rozk%C5%82ady-i-bilety/id506795511?l=pl

• Android：https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.citynav.jakdojade.pl.android&hl=plid=com.citynav.jakdojade.pl.android&hl=ja

• Allow location access and enable notifications (both come in handy later)

• If a pop-up appears asking about user data, select the lower option: "PRZEJDŹ DO SERWISU" (Proceed to Service)

1.2 Language Settings

• The app can be set to English (it should default to English on download)

1.3 Setting Your City

• Since each city has its own system, you need to set your current city

• If you've allowed location access, the app will switch cities automatically

• If the wrong city is selected, destinations may not appear in search results

Tap the icon in the top left

1.4 Adding Funds

• Payment works by topping up a balance within the app

• Accepted methods include credit card and Apple Pay

• Top up in advance rather than right before boarding — it saves stress

Tap the account icon

Tap "Refill"

Choose a departure time that works for you

2. How to Use Jakdojade

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2.1 Searching for a Route

①Enter your departure point and destination (searching from your current location is also fine)

②Tap Next

③ Choose a departure time that works for you

④Route options are displayed — including total travel time, transfer info, and walking segments. It also shows which platform to head to.

⑤ In most cases, the single ticket at the top is the right choice.

2.2 How Tickets Work

Polish stations generally have no ticket barriers (except on the Warsaw metro). Instead, ticket inspectors make random checks on board — and you'll need to show your ticket if approached.

If you don't have a ticket, have the wrong type, or haven't properly activated it, you can be fined. Inspectors vary in how strict they are, but to avoid any trouble, always buy your ticket through Jakdojade and activate it correctly.

How to activate tickets by city

• Warsaw: After purchasing, you must scan the QR code inside the vehicle using the app to activate the ticket

• Kraków, Gdańsk, Wrocław: Tickets activate automatically upon purchase — no extra steps needed

Rules differ by city, so check the app for the latest information before boarding.

4. Other Things to Know About Jakdojade

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Internet Connection Required

Jakdojade cannot be used offline. Wi-Fi alone may not be reliable enough, so using a SIM card or eSIM is recommended.

Also note:

• screenshots of tickets are not accepted by inspectors.

• The app doesn't work if VPN is on.

Coverage Limitations

The app works in most major cities, but coverage may not extend to rural or regional areas — worth checking in advance.

Zone Tickets (Time-Based Tickets)

Zone tickets are valid for a set time period, meaning if you miss one vehicle, you can board the next one within the same time window. Useful when you're on a tight schedule, but keep an eye on the expiry time.

Long-Distance Train Tickets

Jakdojade does not cover long-distance trains (e.g. PKP Intercity). For intercity travel, use the PKP Intercity app or official website to purchase tickets separately.