Top 10 Cities with the Best Public Transport in the World

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Public transport has become a cornerstone of living a comfortable life for many, and some of the world’s top cities know how to nail it. With the best public transport in the world, these cities combined efficiency, affordability, and convenience to create a reliable option for locals and visitors alike.

Cities with the Best Public Transport in the World

According to TimeOut, Hong Kong is ranked as the top city with the best public transport in the world. Other cities that share this prestigious reputation include:

1. Hong Kong

Hong Kong boasts the best public transport in the world. From its expansive 10-line MTR (Mass Transit Railway) to its affordable buses and minibuses, the city offers unparalleled convenience for people to easily get from one side of the city to the other.

The city also provides ferries for those looking to travel between Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the Outlying Islands. The mode of transport not only gets you where you need to go but also provides a fun and scenic way to explore Hong Kong.

2. Shanghai, China

Shanghai’s public transport infrastructure is a well-oiled machine. The reliable metro system connects all major districts with over 800 kilometers of track across 20 lines. 

Additionally, the buses and ferries ensure easy access to nearly every corner of the city, all at an affordable price. Not to forget are the ultra-modern trains that glide through the city at remarkable speeds, covering 30 kilometers in just eight minutes. 

3. Beijing, China

Home to more than 22.6 million people, Beijing brings in plenty of public transportation options. The city ensures that every commuter can reach their destination smoothly, with 800 trains at four railway stations, 8 long-distance bus terminals, and over 1,200 bus routes. 

Beijing is also the first city in China to have a subway system, and it now operates 26 subway lines. For cyclists, the city is incredibly bike-friendly, earning the nickname 'Bicycle Kingdom.’

4. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi is brimming with the best public transport in the world. The city’s buses are reliable, clean, and air-conditioned, offering a comfort level at a low cost across eight distinct routes. And with a metro system currently under construction, Abu Dhabi is poised to take efficiency to new heights. 

5. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei never stops leaving people who hop on any of its public transport impressed. The Taipei Metro, also known as MRT, is one of the most user-friendly systems, connecting all of Taipei and New Taipei City, as quoted from Lonely Planet. The city's buses are equally accessible, with electronic screens displaying upcoming bus information in both English and Mandarin. 

6. London, UK

Although London’s Tube system has been in operation for over 150 years, it remains one of the quickest and most efficient ways to travel. Spanning 402 kilometers, it covers 11 color-coded lines. Additional options include the iconic red buses, which offer a blend of commuting and sightseeing, though traffic can sometimes be a challenge.

7. Vienna, Austria

With world-class standards, it’s easy to see why Vienna has the best public transport in the world. The backbone of the city includes 28 tram lines, 131 bus routes, and five subway lines, serving around two million passengers daily. Plus, Vienna places a strong emphasis on sustainability in its transport system.

8. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is another Asian city with the best public transit in the world. The system is as smart as the city itself, offering free Wi-Fi, convenient buses and subways that can be accessed with the T-money card. Be sure to download KakaoMap to make your travels smoother and track the next bus in real time.

9. Mumbai, India

One of the world’s largest cities by population, Mumbai keeps things running smoothly with its well-developed public transport system. Its local trains are the most efficient choice, often considered easy to navigate and reliable.

However, crowds can be unavoidable, and in those cases, a bus or taxi is a good alternative. 

10. Doha, Qatar

Doha is among the cities with the best public transportation globally. It successfully integrates innovation and technology into public transport, as evident by its driverless, high-speed Doha Metro. 

The air-conditioned Karwa buses, metrolink, and trams also contribute to the city’s excellent connectivity. And with a growing fleet of electrically-powered vehicles, the city truly balances modernity with sustainability.

These cities stand as shining examples of how effective and reliable public transport can reshape the way we move through urban spaces. Next time you travel, consider exploring one of these top-notch transport systems. For more exploration, these cities that provide free public transportation can be considered pioneers in making mobility accessible to all.

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