Transit That Doesn't Suck
Public transportation can change how we move. We all agree that getting around shouldn't be a daily struggle, and while it may be in some places, some countries have figured out how to make it work beautifully. Such countries are a dream come true for daily commuters or travelers looking to explore cities like a local. As you read on, you’ll find 20 nations that have truly mastered this incredible art of travel.
1. Denmark
Stepping onto a train with no driver is an everyday reality in Copenhagen's Metro system. Even better is how one brilliant Rejsekort card unlocks every transport mode imaginable, from buses to boats throughout the region. Additionally, bicycles are welcome aboard trains for smooth multimodal journeys.
2. Spain
Madrid Metro claims its position as the world's 14th longest system. Beyond the city limits, high-speed excellence defines Renfe's AVE service by connecting major cities and whisking passengers from Madrid to Barcelona in under three hours. Universal accessibility comes standard, too, with elevators and escalators in every metro station.
3. Italy
Speed enthusiasts will love Frecciarossa trains that reach impressive speeds of 300 km/h. Similarly impressive are ancient ruins that connect effortlessly with modern business districts through Rome's cleverly designed Metro system. Some trains perfect the experience by offering onboard espresso machines.
Nelso Silva from Porto, Portugal on Wikimedia
4. Taiwan
In Taipei, the EasyCard makes life simple by working for both public transit and purchases at convenience stores. Here, passengers wait patiently in neatly marked lines, and as departure time approaches, gentle classical music fills the air, setting a calm and welcoming tone for the journey.
5. Canada
Toronto's TTC moves 1.7 million riders daily across its vast network, while Vancouver's fully automated SkyTrain glides with precision and a lighter environmental footprint. And with multilingual transit apps making travel convenient, both cities ensure every passenger can ride with ease.
Flickr user: abdallahh from Montreal on Wikimedia
6. United Kingdom
Spanning 11 lines and 272 stations, the London Underground is a sprawling network that keeps the city moving. Many Tube stations showcase stunning historical architecture and offer glimpses of the past during your commute. Famously polite announcements add a signature British charm to every journey.
Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net). on Wikimedia
7. Belgium
Efficient connections link all major Belgian cities through the comprehensive SNCB train network across this compact nation. Within the capital, multilingual accommodation excels in Brussels Metro, featuring signage designed to serve the country's diverse linguistic communities perfectly.
8. Australia
Melbourne operates the world’s largest tram network, and its ferries provide scenic harbor crossings that transform ordinary commutes into pleasant journeys filled with waterfront views. Adding to the comfort, trains feature quiet carriages and air conditioning for a relaxing ride.
9. China
Major cities are just moments apart thanks to high-speed trains cruising at 350 km/h. Pilot projects introduce facial recognition ticketing, and luxurious business-class seats let travelers enjoy the thrill of speed without sacrificing comfort or style.
Khalidshou at en.wikipedia on Wikimedia
10. South Korea
Riding the Seoul Metro feels like stepping into the future, with Wi‑Fi and phone charging stations at your fingertips. A single T‑money card gets you on any mode of transport, and heated seats in winter make every journey warm and comfortable.
11. Singapore
Over 3 million people use Singapore's public transit every single day across the island. The first thing you notice here is how the stations stay air-conditioned and spotless despite all those riders. Also, smart touches like escalators that slow down when unused show Singapore's focus on saving energy.
12. Germany
Deutsche Bahn operates 40,000 trains daily across the entire country, which is pretty incredible. They keep passengers happy with special quiet zones designed for reading and relaxing during trips. And you can even bring your bike on most local trains.
User: (WT-shared) Sroka at wts wikivoyage on Wikimedia
13. Japan
Amazing punctuality defines Shinkansen trains, which average delays of under just 1.6 minutes across the system. Another thing that’s impressive is how train conductors politely bow before entering and leaving cars, showing Japan's dedication to great service.
14. Czech Republic
During peak hours, the Prague Metro keeps commuters moving with trains arriving every 2–3 minutes. A ticket costs only about a dollar, which makes it one of the most affordable systems in Europe, and its famously fast escalators ensure even station transfers are a quick affair.
15. France
The Paris Metro's 16 lines and 300‑plus stations enable effortless exploration of the city, with some stops doubling as unique art galleries. Hop aboard a high‑speed train, and you can glide from Paris to Marseille in just three scenic hours.
16. Hong Kong
With 10 MTR lines stretching across the city, getting around Hong Kong is a breeze. Historic double‑decker trams have been rolling since 1904, and air‑conditioned stations filled with public art turn every commute into a comfortable and visually vibrant experience.
17. Finland
Heavy snow doesn't stop Helsinki's trams from running their regular routes. Meanwhile, buses keep winter journeys cozy with heated seats and offer USB ports for charging your devices. Plus, GPS tracking lets you see exactly where your bus is on your phone.
18. Austria
Vienna's U‑Bahn keeps the city moving, with trains arriving every 2–5 minutes. Most Austrians enjoy living within walking distance of reliable transit, and even dogs can ride along—provided they have their own ticket for the journey.
19. Norway
The Oslo Metro offers a ride like no other, gracefully winding through forests and alongside stunning fjords. Panoramic windows invite passengers to soak in the scenery, while handy apps provide real-time snow delay updates to keep journeys as stress-free as they are beautiful.
20. Sweden
Underground art displays turn the Stockholm Metro into the world's longest art gallery and give commuters something cool to look at. Powered entirely by clean hydroelectric energy, the system pairs creativity with sustainability. To top it off, real-time updates via mobile apps keep every journey hassle‑free.
