Is it possible to live a fulfilled life in a bustling city without the stress of daily driving? Can you imagine a day when your commute is spent reading, working, or just relaxing as you smoothly travel to your destination? Yes, it’s possible!
Welcome to the world of metro-friendly cities.
Here’s a list of the top 10 cities around the globe where public transportation isn’t just a necessity, but a preferred way of life. Let’s dive in!
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo boasts an extensive and punctual metro system that efficiently navigates the city’s sprawling landscape. It’s well-maintained, clean, and offers clear instructions in English, making it friendly for locals and tourists alike.
The city’s network of subway and train lines covers nearly every corner of the city, meaning you can reach just about any destination without the need for a car. Add in the pleasure of delicious station bento boxes for your journey, and you’ve got a transport system that’s hard to beat.
Tokyo’s metro system integrates seamlessly with its bus services, ensuring that no place is out of reach.
So, whether you’re heading to work, exploring neon-lit streets, or visiting serene temples, Tokyo’s public transport system has you covered.
2. Singapore
The island city-state of Singapore features an efficient and widespread Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system that zips through the city and suburbs. Stations are clean, well-lit, and equipped with user-friendly route maps and English announcements.
Singapore’s MRT connects all major attractions, residential areas, and business centers. So whether you’re off to a meeting in the Central Business District, shopping on Orchard Road, or visiting the Gardens by the Bay, the MRT will take you there swiftly.
Adding to the convenience, Singapore also offers a comprehensive bus network that complements the MRT system, making it easy to travel around this city without ever needing to drive.
3. Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is a marvel of efficiency, serving over five million people every day. It’s renowned for its punctuality, safety, and affordability, making it the primary mode of transportation for most residents.
The MTR covers all the main districts, from the bustling markets of Mong Kok to the financial towers of Central. It also links to outlying islands and mainland China, making regional travel a breeze.
Beyond the MTR, Hong Kong’s iconic double-decker trams and buses fill in the gaps, ensuring you can reach every corner of this vibrant city with ease.
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s transportation system, BVG, is a blend of U-Bahn (underground), S-Bahn (elevated railway), trams, and buses. This comprehensive network allows residents and visitors to traverse the city with ease, without the need for a personal vehicle.
Whether it’s a visit to the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, or a trendy café in Kreuzberg, the city’s public transit will take you there. Plus, Berlin’s transport operates late into the night, especially on weekends, making it a favorite amongst night owls and party-goers.
Berlin is extremely bike-friendly, with dedicated cycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes for those who prefer a more active commute.
5. London, United Kingdom
The London Underground, also known as the ‘Tube’, is an iconic symbol of the city. With 11 lines covering 402 kilometers, it’s a comprehensive network connecting all areas of the city, from suburban zones to the heart of London.
London’s famous red buses complement the Tube, providing an enjoyable way to see the city while getting where you need to go. And if you’re heading further afield, the city’s extensive overground rail services and the Eurostar connection to mainland Europe offer even more flexibility.
for those who enjoy a leisurely commute, London offers a robust network of bike lanes and the popular Santander Cycle hire scheme.
6. Paris, France
Paris Metro, with its distinctive Art Nouveau entrances, is one of the densest metro systems in the world. It reaches nearly every part of the city, making it a convenient and affordable way to navigate the City of Lights.
The city’s extensive bus network and tram lines offer additional options for getting around. For longer journeys, the RER trains connect central Paris with the wider Île-de-France region.
With initiatives to make the city center more pedestrian and bike-friendly, Paris continues to prioritize sustainable and accessible transport options.
7. New York, USA
Known for its iconic yellow taxis and busy streets, New York City also offers an impressive public transport system. The city’s subway operates 24/7, providing an efficient way to traverse the five boroughs around the clock.
The city’s extensive bus network supplements the subway, particularly in areas of the city where subway service is limited. Plus, the Staten Island Ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
New York is also increasingly bike-friendly, with a growing network of bike lanes and the popular Citi Bike rental scheme.
8. Madrid, Spain
Madrid’s Metro system is one of the largest in the world, serving both the city center and many suburbs. It’s an easy, efficient, and affordable way to navigate Spain’s capital city.
Beyond the Metro, Madrid’s network of buses, including an extensive night bus system, provides additional coverage across the city. For longer distances, the city’s Cercanías commuter rail system connects Madrid with other towns and cities across the region.
Madrid also has a comprehensive network of cycling lanes, and the city’s bike-sharing scheme, BiciMAD, offers an alternative way to get around.
9. Sydney, Australia
Sydney offers a range of public transport options, including trains, buses, ferries, and a light rail network. The Sydney Trains network serves the city and suburban areas, while buses provide extensive coverage across the region.
Sydney’s iconic ferries offer a particularly scenic way to travel, providing stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The light rail network, including the recently completed CBD and South East Light Rail, offers a modern and comfortable way to travel around the city.
The Opal card system makes it easy to travel across all these modes of transport with just one ticket, adding to the convenience.
10. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul’s transportation system is renowned for its efficiency, cleanliness, and tech-savviness. Its extensive subway system is the backbone of public transport in the city, connecting all districts and even reaching out to suburban areas.
Buses in Seoul offer an alternative to the subway, with four different types to suit various distances and speeds. And for a more leisurely pace, why not hop on a ferry and take in the scenic views along the Han River?
Moreover, Seoul is known for its advanced digital infrastructure, and this extends to its public transportation. English-language digital signs and announcements, mobile ticketing, and extensive travel apps make navigating the system a breeze.
In the End
Living car-free is not just a dream in these urban landscapes; it’s a delightful reality. With efficient public transportation, these cities demonstrate that it’s entirely possible to enjoy city living while also cutting down on traffic and reducing carbon footprints. Which city will you explore next?
