Experience Christmas Magic on Bratislava’s Themed Trams and Trolleybuses This Holiday Season

Published on December 9, 2025

As the season approaches, Bratislava is getting ready to celebrate the holidays with its famous Christmas tram fleet. For the 15th year in a row, the Bratislava Public Transport Company (DPB) will brighten the city’s streets with themed trams, buses, and trolleybuses, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. From December 5, 2025, to January 6, 2026, these festive vehicles will run throughout the city, offering a magical and nostalgic experience for everyone.

A Festive Tradition: The Christmas Fleet

Each year, Bratislava’s streets are adorned with these festive vehicles, and this year promises to be even more special. DPB has expanded its festive fleet, offering an array of seasonal vehicles that will be part of the city’s public transport system. The fleet includes the traditional Christmas tram, along with a blue-and-white trolleybus decorated with landmarks from the city, and a Christmas bus featuring red-green knitted patterns. These vehicles will operate along regular routes, providing a unique and festive way for passengers to travel around the city.

The Christmas tram, which operates on a central loop, remains free of charge, while other vehicles will require standard tickets. Passengers will be treated to festive bells accompanying each stop, enhancing the overall holiday atmosphere.

Two Themed Trams for a Double Dose of Festivity

This year, DPB has introduced two themed trams for even more festive cheer. The first is a Tatra T2 tram, a historical vehicle that has been part of Bratislava’s public transport system for decades. The T2 tram offers a nostalgic ride, with its classic design and warm, soft lighting that evokes the spirit of Christmases from earlier decades. This tram is a beloved symbol of tradition and is perfect for those looking to relive the magic of past holiday seasons.

The second themed tram is an articulated K2G tram, which adds a modern twist to the festive fleet. Designed by graphic artist Saki Matsumoto, this tram is wrapped in illustrations inspired by popular Christmas songs, bringing a contemporary flair to the holiday atmosphere. On Sundays in December, the K2G tram transforms into a moving concert hall, offering passengers mini acoustic concerts as it passes through the city. These performances, available for a symbolic fee, will support the Javorinská Social Services Centre, with proceeds going to the charity.

Special Family Rides and Themed Activities

As part of its commitment to bringing joy to families, DPB will offer special weekend rides designed specifically for families with children. These rides will feature fairy-tale readings and themed activities, creating a memorable experience for younger passengers. Due to limited capacity, passengers must make online reservations for these themed rides, ensuring that each family has a comfortable and personalized experience aboard the decorated Christmas tram.

These family rides continue the tradition of Bratislava’s decorated Christmas tram, providing a unique storytelling experience inside a festive tram, making it an unforgettable way to celebrate the season with loved ones.

A Classic Route with New Experiences

The Tatra T2 tram will operate daily on its classic circular route starting at Jesenského and passing through some of Bratislava’s most iconic stops, including Námestie SNP, Kapucínska, the tunnel, and the riverbank, before returning to Jesenského. The tram will run every 30 minutes between 16:00 and 20:00, with extended hours starting at 12:00 on weekends and holidays. However, the tram will not operate on December 24, allowing staff to celebrate Christmas Eve.

Christmas Pop-Up Café at Miletičova Market

Beyond the city center, visitors can enjoy another festive experience at the “Vianočná Miletrička”—a Christmas-themed K2S tram turned into a pop-up café at the Miletičova market. This special tram will open on weekends until December 21, offering a cozy spot to relax and enjoy a warm drink while taking in the Christmas spirit.

The Magical Atmosphere of Christmas in Bratislava

Bratislava’s Christmas tram fleet is not only a delightful way to travel around the city, but it also serves as a key part of the city’s Christmas celebrations, attracting visitors from near and far. The festive trams bring a sense of wonder to the city, with the warm lights and seasonal decorations transforming Bratislava’s streets into a winter wonderland. The return of the Christmas fleet enhances the festive atmosphere, offering both locals and tourists a unique way to experience the city’s holiday spirit.

A Sustainable and Accessible Celebration

In addition to the festive fun, the Christmas tram fleet is also an eco-friendly way to explore the city. By utilizing the city’s public transport system, visitors can enjoy the holiday festivities while reducing their environmental impact, making the event a sustainable choice for travelers. The free ride on the Christmas tram also makes it an accessible event for all, allowing everyone to partake in the festive atmosphere without any additional cost.

Conclusion: Celebrate Christmas in Bratislava

Bratislava’s Christmas tram fleet remains one of the most loved holiday customs in the city. From the historic Tatra T2 tram to modern music concerts on the K2G tram, this year’s festive fleet provides something for everyone. With family-friendly activities, special performances, and free rides on the famous Christmas tram, Bratislava is set to brighten the holidays for both residents and visitors.