Seasoned travelers know that when visiting a new destination, public transportation can simplify travel, allow you to gain independence, and help you save money.
However, not all transportation is equal, and in some countries, public transport can significantly increase expenses and add stress.
It can vary so much, even in the same country or region. Not every city has good public transportation, prices can change according to each method, and certain systems can be extremely complex.
However, there are cities with marvelous public transportation services that simplify things for foreigners and for their citizens.
Time Out Magazine recently published a list of the cities with the best public transportation in the world.
Here are the top 7 cities with great public transportation systems for travelers:
7) Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s highly developed transportation network ranked seventh place on this list. But a study performed by consulting firm Oliver Wyman in 2020 positioned this transportation service in the first place.
Why? This public transportation system —including the subway, buses, trams, and ferries— is efficient, affordable, clean, and comfortable.
The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) operates 10 lines that cover most areas, including the airport. 75% of the population lives within short walking distance from a subway station.
6) Singapore
Singapore makes it easy for travelers to move around. This destination already has the best airport in the world and recently launched free city tours for travelers on long layovers.
But for those who like independence and exploring a destination on its own, Singapore is perfect.
Its trains and buses are modern, and visitors can use the app MyTransport.SG to move around. Most main attractions are within walking distance from a subway station.
5) Stockholm
Even though Stockholm looks “complicated”—Sweden’s capital has more than 50 bridges and includes 14 islands—it’s actually easy and stylish to use public transportation.
Its subway is beautiful, it looks like a museum —considered by many to be the world’s longest art gallery— and it also has a museum featuring its history. It was built in 1950, and it now has 100 stations across the city.
93% of local citizens consider the public transportation service, which also including buses, ferries, and trams, simple and easy to use.
4) Copenhagen
This fascinating city has a great public transportation system, and it’s free in certain areas!
Travelers can buy the Copenhagen Card and use just one ticket to take the subway, bus, s-trains, and even waterbuses.
With the Copenhagen Card, tourists only pay a fixed price and move around the entire capital region.
It takes only 12 minutes to go from the airport to the city by train or subway. Children from 3 to 11 years old get their own free card.
3) Tokyo
Tokyo has a complex train network that takes millions of passengers across the city every day.
Despite the large crowds and the viral videos of the packed trains, the system is highly efficient, clean, and easy to use.
If travelers avoid rush hours, they will find a great way to commute and visit top attractions in this city. There are official websites in English with clear information about routes and tickets for travelers.
2) Prague
Prague is such a charming city and can be even more enjoyable by tram or bus. The buses, subway, funiculars, trams, and trains work perfectly and can take you everywhere around the city.
The subway has only three main lines —green, blue, and yellow— that take you to the main points of interest. Trains pass by every 2 to 10 minutes, depending on the time and the station, and it operates from 5 am til midnight.
Trams can be very useful and allow travelers to admire the city, its buildings, streets, and its magic essence while getting around.
1) Berlin
And the first place goes to Berlin! This German city earned this position since its citizens and visitors have great references for its public transportation network —97% of Berliners admire it.
In this city, travelers can also purchase one ticket to use all options: U-Bahn, S-Bahn, ferries, buses, regional trains, and more.
