20 Cities With The Best Public Transportation In The World

Imagine a world without public transportation—pretty hard, right? Trains, buses, and metros aren’t just ways to get from point A to point B; they’re lifelines for cities and the people who live there. Whether you’re dodging traffic in a bustling metropolis or soaking in the sights of a new place, public transit makes life simpler, greener, and way more exciting. Plus, it’s not just about getting around—it’s about experiencing the true pulse of a city alongside the locals.

Some cities take their public transport game to a whole new level, turning ordinary commutes into unforgettable adventures. From sleek, futuristic subways to charming trams that roll through historic streets, these systems are a window into culture, design, and even a bit of art. We’ve scoped out 20 cities across the globe where public transportation isn’t just good—it’s the best of the best. Pack your imagination, because we’re about to take you on a ride through the world’s most impressive transit systems!

Tokyo

Tokyo’s public transport is a marvel of efficiency and precision. With trains arriving down to the second and a network that stretches across the entire city, you can get just about anywhere in no time. Plus, for visitors, signs in multiple languages make navigating the sprawling system easier than you’d think. It’s clean, reliable, and honestly feels like a glimpse into the future.

But there’s one thing to prepare for—rush hour. Those viral videos of station attendants gently “packing” passengers into trains? Totally legit. The crowds can be overwhelming, so if you value personal space, aim to travel outside peak hours. Otherwise, Tokyo’s transport is a game-changer!

Berlin

Berlin’s public transport system is nothing short of amazing. The U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses connect every corner of the city, making it super easy to explore everything from famous landmarks to hidden spots. With 175 U-Bahn stations and nine lines, it might sound huge, but the system is surprisingly simple to get the hang of. Plus, it’s fast, clean, and safe, which is pretty much all you could want.

The only tricky part? Night travel. While Berlin is a 24/7 city, the transport timetable isn’t always as round-the-clock as you’d hope. Missing the last train and waiting for a night bus can be a slight buzzkill. But plan ahead, and the city’s transport will make your adventures unforgettable!

Prague

Prague’s public transport is like stepping into a fairytale with a modern twist. The iconic trams zipping through cobblestone streets past Gothic castles and charming old buildings are straight out of a postcard. The metro, with its three color-coded lines, makes getting around super easy. From the arty green line to the sleek red, every station feels like a mini adventure.

But as dreamy as it sounds, it’s not all perfect. Trams can get crowded during peak hours, and sometimes navigating ticket machines might feel tricky for first-timers. Still, once you figure it out, Prague’s system is smooth, reliable, and unforgettable!

Stockholm

Stockholm’s public transport isn’t just a way to get around—it’s like walking through an art museum. The metro, or tunnelbana, is famous for its jaw-dropping underground stations covered in colorful murals, mosaics, and even sculptures. It’s seriously a feast for the eyes. Plus, with buses, trams, and ferries all tying the city together, getting from one gorgeous Scandinavian sight to another is a breeze.

But it’s not always perfect. Tickets can be pricey, especially for tourists, and winter commuting can mean battling icy winds at outdoor stops. Still, it’s efficient, clean, and cooler than you’d expect for public transport!