The city centre is compact enough to walk, but the full urban area is spread out. Public transport runs on trams and buses.
Trams are the most useful form of public transport for visitors. Four routes cover the main areas of the city, running frequently and cheaply. The tram system is a legacy of the Soviet period and remains functional.
Buses fill in routes not covered by trams. The bus station is the hub for routes to surrounding towns, including Ridder (formerly Leninogorsk) to the north and services toward the Russian border.
Taxis are the easiest option for getting across the city quickly, or for reaching the airport (about 11 km northwest of the centre). Negotiate the price before you get in, or use one of the local taxi apps. Rates are cheap by European or North American standards.
Car hire is available from the airport and a few city offices. A car is essential if you want to explore the reservoir at Ablaketka, the surrounding hills, or take the road toward Lake Markakol.