Getting Around Chita
Chita is a city in Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia, and the largest city in the region. It sits on the Trans-Siberian Railway, which makes it a natural stop for travellers crossing Siberia. The city's public transport system is well developed, and getting around is generally straightforward once you know which mode to use.
Rail and the Trans-Siberian
Chita is served by the Trans-Siberian Railway, and the main station is Chita railway station (also known as Chita II, or Чита II). This is the city's key rail hub and the point at which most long-distance travellers arrive or depart. If you are continuing onward, note that some travellers prefer to take the train to Irkutsk and fly from there for certain routes, as this can work out cheaper.
Trams, Trolleybuses and the Metro
Chita does not have a metro system. Its rail-based urban transport is limited to the mainline railway station rather than a city tram network. For moving around within the city, the practical options are trolleybuses, marshrutkas and taxis.
Trolleybuses and Marshrutkas
The public transport system is well developed. Trolleybus journeys are the cheapest option, and taxibuses — known locally as marshrutkas — cost a little more per journey. Both are useful for covering longer distances across the city.
- Trolleybus — the most economical way to travel around the city.
- Marshrutka (taxibus) — slightly more expensive than the trolleybus, but a flexible and widely used option.
Fares are paid on board. As with most Russian cities, it is wise to have small change ready.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available, but where you pick one up matters. Cabs waiting at the railway station tend to charge the highest prices. If you walk beyond the station ranks and into a nearby street, the price falls the further you get from the station. Always agree the price with the driver up front — once agreed, drivers generally stick to it. This is the most reliable way to avoid being overcharged.
Walking
The city centre is compact enough that walking is a practical option for short trips, particularly around the main station and the cathedral area. The large concourse between the train station and the cathedral is a useful landmark and a key point for catching transport.
Getting from the Airport into the City
Chita's civilian airport is Kadala, located a few kilometres from the town centre. Rather than taking an expensive taxi into the city, the recommended option is to take a marshrutka taxibus.
- In the city, airport-bound marshrutkas leave from the large concourse between the train station and the cathedral.
- Look for a marshrutka marked аэропорт (airport) — these go to the airport.
Be prepared for the airport itself: it has very few facilities, so bring food and drink if you expect to wait. Delays are common, so allow plenty of time.
Arriving by Bus
There is a bus service connecting Chita with Ulan Ude, though how often it runs depends on the season. If you plan to use it, check schedules locally in advance.
Practical Tips
- Use trolleybuses for the cheapest city travel and marshrutkas when you need to reach a specific destination such as the airport.
- For taxis, walk away from the station before hailing one, and agree the fare before you get in.
- Keep small change for public transport fares.
- If you are flying onward, remember that some travellers find it cheaper to train to Irkutsk and fly from there.