Kabul is the capital of Afghanistan, a mountain-ringed city of roughly 4.6 million at 1,790 m. This guide records its historic sites, markets and food while stating plainly that every government advises against travel there.
- Public
- City minibuses and Millie buses cover main roads but are crowded and not advised for visitors.
- Taxi
- Yellow-and-white taxis cruise Shahr-e Naw and hotels; always agree the fare before getting in.
- Rental
- Self-drive is not advised; hire a car with driver for day trips.
- Walking
- Central Shahr-e Naw, Chicken Street and the Old City are walkable in daytime.
Transport at a glance
- Public
- 2/5
- Taxi
- 3/5
- Rental
- 2/5
- Walking
- 3/5
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
| Option | Cost | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel pickup | Often free or 700-1,500 AFN ($10-21) | 30-45 minutes | Book in writing through the hotel. |
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Overview
- Yellow-and-white taxis; no meters; agree the fare before departure; avoid unmarked cars at night.
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Kabul to Jalalabad
Cost: 400-600 AFN ($6-9)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Kabul to Bamyan
Cost: 1,000-1,500 AFN ($14-21)
Duration: 7-9 hours
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Kabul is reached by air at Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL) or overland from Pakistan (Torkham) and Uzbekistan (Hairatan); within the city, taxis arranged by hotels are the practical option.
Airports
Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL)
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Use hotel-booked taxis or drivers after dark.
Agree the fare before moving; a cross-town ride is 100-400 AFN ($1.50-6).
Expect many checkpoints and carry your passport and permission letter.
Allow extra time: traffic is heavy from 7:30-9:30 AM and 4:00-6:30 PM.