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12 cities with the best public transport

These cities are known for their efficient and well-developed transportation systems.

Lim Yian Lu

·Contributor

Updated 14 February 2024 at 8:03 pm

Tokyo is known for its crowded but highly efficient rail network. (Photo: Gettyimages) — Tokyo is known for its crowded but highly efficient rail network and public transport. (Photo: Gettyimages)

When it comes to choosing a travel destination, the transport system plays a crucial role. After all, how enjoyable can a trip be if getting around is difficult and nothing seems easily accessible?

Several cities around the world are known for their efficient and well-developed transportation systems. Here are some that we’ve found, including some activities you can try out there.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo boasts an extensive and punctual public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses. The city is known for its crowded but highly efficient rail network. If you’re travelling around Japan, you can also make use of the Japan Rail pass and plan your routes accordingly.

Check out the things to do in Tokyo.

Sanrio Puroland Tokyo Ticket

S$26.09

Tokyo Tower Observatory Ticket

From S$11.29

2. New York City, United States

New York City also has an extensive and iconic transportation system, featuring an intricate subway network, buses, and an extensive fleet of taxis. Additionally, walking and cycling are popular modes of transportation in this vibrant metropolis.

New York Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)

From S$72 (was S$80)

Experience Statue of Liberty with Various Tour Options

From S$38.69

3. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong's transportation system is efficient and well-organised, featuring an extensive and well-connected MTR (Mass Transit Railway) system, buses, trams, and ferries. If you’re going to Hong Kong, it is also more convenient if you have their Octopus travel card.

Find out what you can do in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Disneyland Park Tickets

From S$100.95 (was S$109.29)

Ocean Park Hong Kong Ticket

From S$62.95

4. London, United Kingdom

London has an iconic public transportation system, including the London Underground (Tube), buses, and overground trains. The Oyster card system makes it easy for commuters to use various modes of transportation seamlessly. If you're planning to visit London, Singapore Airlines is launching non-stop flights to Gatwick Airport from next June.

Magical World of Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studio Tour from Central London

From S$175.29 (was S$185.39)

London Eye Ticket

From S$23.59

5. Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s public transportation system is known for its reliability and convenience, with an extensive network of buses, trams, and an efficient U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (urban rail) system.

Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Half Day Tour From Berlin

S$42.20

Berlin Red Buses Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus

From S$39.29

6. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul has a modern and efficient transportation system, including an extensive subway system, buses, and high-speed trains. The T-money card allows easy access to various modes of transportation.

N Seoul Tower Ticket

From S$19.45 (was S$21.49)

Nami Island / Alpaca / Railbike / Petite France / Morning Calm Tour

From S$36.29 (was S$56.25)

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen has a well-developed and sustainable transportation system, featuring an extensive network of cycle lanes, a metro system, buses, and water taxis.

Copenhagen Card

From S$89.60

Tivoli Gardens Admission in Copenhagen

From S$30.25

8. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich’s public transportation system is known for its punctuality and cleanliness. It includes trains, trams, and buses, providing seamless connectivity throughout the city.

Swiss Travel Pass

From S$356.25

Day Trip to Mount Titlis with Aerial Cable Cars from Zurich

S$259.49

9. Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s public transportation system is well-regarded for its efficiency and reliability. It includes buses, trams, and an extensive U-Bahn (subway) system.

Danube Valley Day Trip From Vienna

S$135.35

Hallstatt Day Tour from Vienna

S$187.75

10. Curitiba, Brazil

Curitiba is often cited as a model for sustainable urban planning and public transportation. The city’s bus rapid transit (BRT) system is efficient and has been emulated in various places worldwide.

Curitiba's tube bus station. (Photo: Gettyimages)

11. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh features a well-organised transportation system, including buses, a modern tram connecting the city centre to the airport, and railway connections. With a walkable city centre, cycling options, and efficient public transport, Edinburgh facilitates convenient travel for residents and visitors.

Palace of Holyroodhouse Ticket in Edinburgh

S$30.35

The Scotch Whisky Experience Ticket

From S$38.79

12. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City has a diverse transportation system, including an extensive metro and bus network. The Metrobús rapid transit system helps alleviate traffic, although congestion remains a challenge with ongoing efforts focusing on improving sustainability and accessibility.

Teotihuacan Afternoon guided tour

S$56

Palaces and Historical Buildings of Mexico City Tour

S$42.69

Check airfare here: Skyscanner | Trip.com | Expedia
Book accommodations and activities here: Agoda | Booking.com | Klook | KKday | HotelsCombined | LuxuryEscapes
Save big, get the all-inclusive pass & explore your destination in-depth: GoCity
General info here: Tripadvisor
Affordable data plans here
And while you are at it, get your travel insurance with Alliance Assistance | Income | Prudential!

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