Poznań’s public transport system has long been a model of convenience, and with a major overhaul on the horizon, it’s about to get even better. The PEKA system is not just a ticketing method but a digital gateway to moving effortlessly through the city. Whether you’re a local, a new resident, or just visiting, understanding how PEKA works can save you time, money, and a lot of confusion.
What Exactly is the PEKA System?
The PEKA system is an integrated smart travel solution used throughout Poznań and surrounding areas. It allows passengers to pay for journeys on buses and trams using a PEKA card, the PEKA mobile app, or even contactless bank cards and mobile devices. Unlike standard paper tickets, PEKA supports both time-based and distance-based fares. It adapts to different users’ needs, offering flexibility and efficiency.
How Does PEKA Work?
At its core, the PEKA system combines ease of use with financial logic. For those who travel frequently, it offers monthly or semester tickets that provide unlimited travel within selected zones. Occasional users, on the other hand, benefit from the tPortmonetka system, which deducts fares based on the exact number of stops travelled, making short journeys particularly cost-effective. Just remember to tap the card or device when boarding and again before getting off—the system takes care of the rest.
- Time-Based Tickets: Ideal for those who prefer unlimited travel within a specific period.
- tPortmonetka (tPurse): A pay-as-you-go system where fares are calculated based on the number of stops traveled. This option is cost-effective for short trips and requires users to tap their PEKA card upon entering and exiting the vehicle.
For instance, traveling one stop costs 0.72 PLN, while a nine-stop journey totals 3.24 PLN. Notably, if your daily tPurse expenses exceed the cost of a 24-hour ticket (15 PLN), no additional charges apply for the rest of the day.
A System for Everyone
One of PEKA’s strengths is its accessibility. Anyone can use it—from daily commuters and students to tourists exploring the city. Students benefit from special pricing, while seniors, children, and large families are eligible for additional discounts. Tourists can choose between traditional paper tickets or use contactless bank cards to pay directly on board. For those planning to stay longer, obtaining a PEKA card is a worthwhile investment. It not only saves money but unlocks a full suite of services through the PEKA online portal, where users can top up their account, purchase new tickets, or manage multiple cards.
How to Get Tickets and Use PEKA
Tickets can be purchased in several ways, making the system highly accessible.
- PEKA Card: Apply online at peka.poznan.pl or visit a ZTM Customer Service Point. You’ll need a photo and identification.
- Mobile Applications: Use apps like Jakdojade, MoBilet, mPay, or SkyCash to purchase electronic tickets.
- Ticket Machines: Available at major stops and stations for both paper and electronic tickets.
- Onboard Terminals: Most trams and buses are equipped with terminals accepting contactless payments via bank cards or smartphones.
Understanding Ticket Prices
Poznań’s transport system is divided into tariff zones A to D, which affect the pricing of your journey. Here are some ticket options:
- Time-Based Tickets:
- 15-minute ticket: 4 PLN (normal), 2 PLN (reduced)
- 45-minute ticket: 6 PLN (normal), 3 PLN (reduced)
- 90-minute ticket: 8 PLN (normal), 4 PLN (reduced)
- Short-Term Tickets:
- 24-hour ticket for Zone A: 15 PLN (normal), 7.50 PLN (reduced)
- 7-day ticket for Zones A-D: 80 PLN (normal), 40 PLN (reduced)
- tPurse Fares:
- Fares decrease with each additional stop, promoting affordability for longer journeys.
Who Qualifies for Discounts?
A wide range of discounts are available under the PEKA system. Children under 7 travel for free, while students, pensioners, people with disabilities, and families with multiple children can access half-price or even free travel depending on eligibility. Senior citizens aged 70 or older also enjoy free rides across the ZTM network. To activate these discounts, you’ll need to register the appropriate credentials with ZTM and have them linked to your PEKA account or card.
Major Upgrades Ahead – Thanks to EU Support
In one of its biggest updates to date, the PEKA system is set to receive a significant upgrade, supported by European Union funds. In April 2025, the City of Poznań secured over 41 million PLN in EU funding—part of a broader investment of 72.5 million PLN—to completely modernise its ticketing infrastructure. This modernisation aims to bring the system in line with the latest technological standards and enhance user experience on multiple levels.
We want riding a tram or a bus to be as intuitive and quick as making a purchase in a shop—simple, efficient and barrier-free.
explained Jan Gosiewski, director of ZTM.
To achieve that, all existing PEKA card readers—many of which have been in service for over a decade—will be replaced with modern terminals. These new devices will support not only contactless payment via cards and smartphones but also enable future integration with other urban services, such as parking and bike rentals.
The upgraded system will also feature dynamic fare management and flexible ticket inspection technologies, which will allow for more adaptable and responsive public transport. Once the tender process concludes, contracts are expected to be signed between late 2025 and early 2026, with the first visible effects scheduled for 2027.
Practical Tips for First-Time Users
If you’re new to Poznań or just moved to Poland, start by downloading the PEKA app or visiting ztm.poznan.pl. You can register for a PEKA account, upload necessary documents, and link multiple family members under one login for convenience. The app provides real-time updates, lets you check your travel history, and even submit complaints or apply for a duplicate card.
To make sure you’re always covered during inspections, keep your PEKA card or app ready for scanning. And if you’re using a bank card or smartphone, make sure to tap it in and out every time—otherwise, you might be charged for the full route or face fines.
Moving Forward with PEKA
The PEKA system in Poznań is more than just a ticket—it’s an evolving digital platform designed to make public transport accessible, economical, and user-friendly. With the upcoming EU-funded enhancements, the future of travel in Poznań looks even more efficient and inclusive. Whether you’re commuting daily, visiting the city, or settling into a new life here, PEKA makes moving around Poznań smart, simple, and connected.
