The old city of Patan is compact and walkable. Durbar Square, the major temples, Mahabouddha, Oku Bahal, and Patan Dhoka can all be reached on foot from one another in less than fifteen minutes. For Jawalakhel and the Central Zoo at the southern edge, a short taxi ride is easier.
Taxis are cheap but rarely use meters — agree on a price before getting in. Cycle rickshaws are still around but slow, and not very practical given the traffic.