5 Cities With the Best Public Transportation This 2021

Itching to get somewhere fast? These cities are the best transportation-friendly options around the world

Great public transportation is one of the hallmarks of a liveable city. It provides people with better access to jobs, housing, and services that may not necessarily be close to home. Additionally, it's a more sustainable and cost-effective way to get around a bustling urban area. If you're looking to travel somewhere that's fun, exciting, and most importantly, easy to get around, these cities may be for you!

1. New York

Above (Photo: Guido Coppa on Unsplash)

New Yorkers aren't exactly fans of the subway, yet the Empire State's public transportation system usually ranks at the top of the list. In itself, transportation in New York is iconic—who hasn't heard of the yellow taxis or the crowded subway?

According to engineering company Arcadis, New York's public transportation ranks at the top of 23 US cities overall. This is thanks to its 24 hour operating time, plus its comprehensive network that takes anyone from Long Island to New Jersey. On top of that, almost everyone who lives there commutes, making the public transportation a real New York experience.

2. Tokyo

Above (Photo: Joseph Chan / Unsplash)

The Tokyo public transit system is among the best in the world. Though it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, the city's extensive network of trains is an incredibly convenient (though possibly confusing) way for travellers and locals to get around the city. Trains are always punctual and well-maintained; many can also opt for a ride on the incredibly fast Shinkansen, which races up to 320 kph.

Though different train lines within the city are serviced by different companies, a comprehensive, prepaid Suica or Pasmo card can be used for convenience. These cards are also accepted at various groceries and convenience stores.

3. Paris

Above (Photo: Louis Paulin / Unsplash)

The romantic city of Paris is known for many things, among which are its inclusive public transportation mandates. The City of Love has slowly but surely tried to lessen cars on its busy streets, and has pushed for its citizens to make use of bikes or simply take a walk. One of its best examples is its monthly tradition of pedestrian Sunday at the Champs-Elysées, where the famous avenue remains closed to cars for one Sunday out of every month. Part of the River Seine quayside is also a car-free zone.

Parisian public transportation also ranks high in safety according to a 2018 McKinsey report. Officials have installed 2,400 real-time information screens to help travellers navigate the sometimes labyrinthine Métro. Its train system is also all-encompassing, with multiple lines that service parts all over the city—bon voyage indeed.

4. Shanghai

Shanghai magnetic levitation (maglev) train departure for Pudong airport.This train link Pudong international airport with Shanghai downtown area.

Above Shanghai magnetic levitation (maglev) train departure for Pudong airport.This train link Pudong international airport with Shanghai downtown area. (Photo: Getty Images)

Shanghai is among the most populated cities on Earth; and it's an impressive feat that their public transportation is as punctual, efficient, and reliable as it currently is. Its system includes an encompassing—yet rapidly expanding—network of trains, buses, and taxis operated by multiple concessionaires.

Aside from conveniently carrying passengers through the city, Shanghai also boasts of high-speed maglev trains that link the city to various points such as Beijing, Hangzhou, and Nanjing. These trains can go up to 600 kph and can make the journey much quicker than even airplanes can.

5. Singapore

A view of Singapore mass rapid transit (MRT) train service in central Kallang station during sunset with Singapore city skyline in background. Singapore MRT train system serves as one of Singapore daily transportation for most commuters

Above A view of Singapore mass rapid transit (MRT) train service in central Kallang station during sunset with Singapore city skyline in background. Singapore MRT train system serves as one of Singapore daily transportation for most commuters (Photo: Getty Images)

In 2018, Singapore ranked among the top ten city profiles on Mckinsey's report, Elements of Success: Urban Transportation Systems of 24 Global Cities. Their systems are known to be clean, efficient, and incredibly safe.

According to their data, 86 per cent of the country's population is satisfied with their public transportation, which services a population of around six million. The government is also working towards predictive maintenance, in anticipation of further growth within the country. As such, they have upgraded the reliability of their Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), opened more cycling paths, and launched more inclusive mandates for affordability (which saw a 15 per cent discount on adult fares for low-wage workers and free use of the MRT for children). Their EZ-link card is also incredibly versatile and can be used to earn and redeem rewards points.