The Metro is the fastest transportation system when traveling across a city. And because it’s my favourite public transport system, I’d like to share a review of all the tubes in Europe I have visited and used. Kindly keep in mind that this article describes my personal view only. It might differ from your experience or the others. Countries are sorted alphabetically.
Austria: Vienna 🇦🇹
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Modern architecture
+ Working ticket machines that support payment with credit card
+ Clearly described map
+ Clean surroundings
Cons:
– Pricey, especially single tickets for 2,40 € valid only for one ride
– The ride feels slow sometimes
Although Vienna’s population stands for about 1,8 million people, its tube system, also known as U-Bahn, can be described as very modern and clean. Vienna U-Bahn has in total 5 lines: red U1, purple U2, orange U3, green U4 and brown U6. It is accessible almost everywhere and you don’t need to know German because the map is well described with pictures and ticket machines support English and several other languages. And also the ride feels slow sometimes, especially in the main lines like U1 or U2. In summary, Vienna’s U-Bahn presents an exemplary model of a modern and sophisticated tube system. With its well-planned network, architecture, cleanliness, efficiency and accessibility, the U-Bahn enhances the overall Vienna experience. Vienna has been continually expanding its metro network to accommodate the growing population and address transportation needs. The U5 line, under construction in 2021, was a notable expansion project aimed at improving connectivity in the city.
Prices:
- 24h ticket: 8 €
- Single ticket: 2,40 €
Some important stations:
- Hauptbahnhof/Südtiroler Platz (U1): direct connection between the centre and Vienna main station, also works as a transfer station between city and airport
- Westbahnhof (U3 and U6): direct connection between the centre and Vienna West station
- Stephansplatz (U1 and U3): the historical centre
- Praterstern (U1 and U2): station near Prater, the iconic fun park
- Volkstheater (U2 and U3): Vienna state opera
- Museumsquartier (U2): Art history and Natural history museums
- Schönbrunn (U4): the station named after majestic baroque palace
Czechia: Prague 🇨🇿
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Fast paced rides
+ Easy to understand network
+ Affordable
+ Escalators nearly everywhere, easier to travel with large suitcases
Cons:
– No direct connection between city and the airport
– Some stops further away from the centre are unclean or smell weird
– Lack of safety doors
– Ticket machines aren’t much maintained, for example 2 of 4 available are working
– Quite boring architecture and older, slower trains still in operation
Prague has simple, yet very effective underground system. Rides are swift, smooth and with modern network system with clear explanation it’s almost impossible to get lost. Tickets are cheaper compared to other European cities. I think Prague rapid network has a very big potential for growing bigger. Currently, it has 3 lines in operation: green A, yellow B and red C. Prague Main Station has a direct access to the C line from where you can get anywhere you want. I found very strategic, that one stop away from the Main Station the tube has transfer options both to A or B, you just need to find the right direction. On the other hand, the architecture doesn’t show anything special, mostly just walls with squares and circles and variety of colours. Some of the colours have historical context, but still… Anyway it isn’t that much important overall. And lastly, what honestly shocked me for quite a developed city was the lack of safety doors – nowadays it’s a standard in almost every other city. Maybe people in Prague are so happy that they don’t need to jump out of the platform, which is actually great.
Lack of direct connection to the airport – what are the alternatives?
What I actually consider as a priority, I would love if Prague had a tube connection between the centre and the airport. Currently, there are only two ways how get there, either by very slow paced bus (I wouldn’t recommend taking it) or Uber, which is the fastest way how to get to/from the Prague airport. You will get to the centre in about 20 minutes with Uber or about 45 minutes with bus.
Prices:
- 90-minute ticket: 40 CZK (about 1,65 €)
- 24h ticket: 120 CZK (about 5 €)
- 72h ticket: 330 CZK (about 13,50 €)
Note: 24h and 72h tickets are also valid for the Petřín funicular.
Some important stations:
- Hlavní nádraží (C): Prague main station
- Nádraží Veleslavín (A): you can use this station to transfer to/from the airport bus stop
- Staroměstská (A): Historic Old Town square
- Muzeum (A or C) or Náměstí míru (A): Wenceslas square and National museum
- Vyšehrad (C): station named after historic fort from the 10th century
- Florenc (B or C): connection to the Florenc bus station
- Nádraží Holešovice (C): connection to the Holešovice train station and there is also an exhibition ground for concerts or cultural events
- Petřiny (A): Petřín hill and tower, you can get to the top either by walking or using a funicular
Denmark: Copenhagen 🇩🇰
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Direct connection between airport and city centre
+ Friendly, English-speaking employees that will help you guide
+ Escalators nearly everywhere, easier to travel with large suitcases
+ Clean and very modern architecture
Cons:
– Very, very expensive ticket price
– Not enough capacity for transporting so much people from/to the airport, trains may be overcrowded
Copenhagen’s underground is one of my favourite from all I have experienced, yet. Apart from the ticket price which costs approximately 4 € for just 90 minutes (that’s why took 1 star down because for budget travelers that’s insane), I don’t have anything much to complain about. Well, I mentioned the small capacity that slows down the pace but I believe this might be fixed soon. I’m pretty sure they have the budget for expanding the airport tube connection, however it’s questionable whether they want to expand it or if it’s technologically possible. Currently, Copenhagen metro consists of 4 lines (green 1, yellow 2, red 3 and blue 4).
The tube system in Copenhagen generally seems very modern and safe, although I was wondering if they actually need the rest of the lines because Copenhagen is quite small and most people preferably ride on bike here. The advantage when visiting smaller cities is you don’t have to spend much on public transport. You can get everywhere for free by walking. Overall, for a small city, their tube system is very modern, efficient and other cities should take Copenhagen as an example.
Prices:
- 90-minute ticket: 30 DKK (about 4 €)
- 3-zone ticket (if traveling from/to airport): 36 DKK (about 4,90 €), half price for children
- 2-zone ticket (if traveling only in the city): 24 DKK (about 3,25 €), half price for children
- Copenhagen card: from 459 DKK (about 62 €)
Some important stations:
- København H (3 or 4): Copenhagen central station
- Københavns Lufthavn (2): Copenhagen airport
- Nørreport (1 or 2): City centre
- Christianshavn (1 or 2): lively part of the city, near iconic Nyhavn
- Amager Strand (2): near local beach, recommended visiting in summer
- Marmokirken (3 or 4): beautiful baroque Frederik’s church
- Østerport (3 or 4): famous star-shaped fortress defending Copenhagen back in the time, also near the Little Mermaid statue
France: Paris 🇫🇷
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Huge range of stations, you can get everywhere
+ Friendly employees that will help you guide if you know at least a little bit of French
+ Mostly modern and fast trains
+ Some stations look gorgeous, for example the Louvre one
+ Contactless payment
Cons:
– Escalators are rare here, more difficult to travel with larger suitcases or with limited mobility
– Too many pickpockets and it’s dangerous traveling alone especially during the nighttime
– Although the tube map is understandable, some lines are highlighted in very similar colours
– Aggresive doors
If I had to describe Paris metro in one sentence, I would say not great, not terrible. From technological perspective I must say although Paris has one of the oldest underground systems, it seems greatly upgraded and the new vehicles are admirable. The ride is fast even when it’s crowded because nobody waits for anybody here. When I was traveling in a over crowded train, I couldn’t get out to my final destination because there were so many people and I wasn’t able to make it through on time so the doors won’t squish me. Instead, I had to go one station further and then get back. So it’s definitely better to stay near the exit shortly before arriving to your final destination, if possible.
Prices:
I don’t know the price exactly, because I have been issued the passe navigo card and for 7 days the fare costed me 30€. According to other resources across the web, the single ticket costs 2,10 euros and is valid for 1,5 hours. However, you can also pay with contactless payment method.
Are automatic doors more dangerous than people?
You might heard about the pickpockets operating here and that’s unfortunately true. There are lots of them. Consider keeping your belongings in a handbag or a kidney bag instead of a backpack. You will have your things right on your watch. Never use pockets without zipping for storing your e.g. phone or keys. This potential danger is well-known, but have you ever heard about how aggressive are doors here? Not only those safety doors between the train and the platform, that aggressively open and close. Those doors even don’t have any sensors, so be careful to not be squished by them. But also some automatic doors when you are exiting the tube have really sudden movements. These doors simply don’t respect slower walkers. My friend once went through these doors slower and they actually got hurt, when the doors suddenly decided to close. So keep in mind that.
Some important stations:
- Gare du Nord (4 or 5): Paris North train station, transfer station between city centre and the Charles de Gaulle airport
- Denfert (4): transfer station between train station and the Orly airport
- Champs-Elysées Clémenceau (1 or 9): Champs-Elysées district
- Bir-Hakeim (6): 5 minutes away from the Eiffel Tower
- Palais Royal (1 or 7) or Louvre Rivoli (1 or 7): Louvre museum
- Saint Michel Notre Dame (4) or Cité (4): Notre Dame cathedral, also near flower shop
- Cardinal Lemoine (10): the nearest station to the Panthéon
- Abbesses (12): that station with the popular “Metropolitain” sign, also near Sacre Cœur cathedral
Hungary: Budapest 🇭🇺
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Beautiful historic line no. 1
+ Low ticket price
+ Extensive network covering all important parts of the city
Cons:
– Aging infrastructure with almost no modern technology
– No contactless payment
– Lack of safety doors
– Very outdated entrance system completely under human staff control
The Budapest Metro is the second oldest metro systems in the world (right after London) with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Nowadays it’s consisted of 4 metro lines (yellow M1, red M2, blue M3 and green M4). The first line (M1), also known as the Millennium Underground, was officially opened on 2nd May 1896. It was built to coincide with the celebrations of Hungary’s 1,000th anniversary and was the first underground electric railway in continental Europe. The line runs from Vörösmarty Square to Mexikói Road Station and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance. The construction of line M2 began in 1950, and it was opened in 1970. Line 3 followed, with construction starting in 1970, and was opened in stages, with the final section becoming operational in 1990. These lines significantly expanded the metro network and improved transportation in the city. The most recent line M4 was opened in March 2014 and brought modern, air-conditioned trains and improved infrastructure to the metro network.
Currently, the Budapest Metro is the most effective way of traveling in the capital of Hungary. The network has the most coverage in the Pest part, because hills and the Danube river in Buda part present challenges for building metro system here. Also, while both sides of the city are important, Pest has seen more significant population growth and urban development. Pest part has a lot more commercial and cultural centers. For not getting lost in Budapest I’d recommend the official app BudapestGO.
Prices:
- one ride: 450 HUF (about 1,20 €)
- 90-minute ticket: 750 HUF (about 1,95 €)
- 24h ticket: 2500 HUF (about 6,55 €)
- 72h ticket: 5500 HUF (about 14,40 €)
Some important stations:
- Kelenföld vasútallomás (4): Kelenföld train station, direct connection to the city centre
- Nyugati pályaudvar (3): Nyugati train station, also near shopping centre
- Kossuth Lajos tér (1): famous Budapest government building
- Deák Ferenc tér (1,2 or 3): city centre
- Keleti pályaudvar (1 or 4): Keleti train and bus station
- Batthyány tér H (2): stunning view to the Parliament from the other side of Danube river, also transfer station between other public transport. From here you can get to the Fisherman’s bastion.
- Széchenyi fürdő (1): station in the middle of a park, near Vajdahunyad castle, House of Music and Széchenyi thermal baths
Italy: Milan 🇮🇹
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Original, artistic architecture: Milan’s cultural heritage is evident even within the metro system
+ Extensive network coverage, efficient connectivity
+ Well-equipped with escalators, elevators and tactile guidance system
+ Contactless payment
Cons:
– Lots of stations are under construction due to planned massive expansion
– Weird, old-fashioned mobile app for buying tickets online
The Milan Metro is renowned for its contemporary design and architectural aesthetics. In the stations you can often find artistic installations, for example the stunning mosaics of Duomo station or the avant-garde architectural elements of Porta Garibaldi. Each stop within the network has a distinctive character, creating a visually satisfying experience for passengers. The tube system in Milan is very modern and accessible for everybody regardless of the ability of movement. The metro also provides ample seating and spacious platforms, promoting passenger comfort and prioritizing the diverse needs. At the moment, Milan metro is consisted of 4 lines (red M1, green M2, yellow M3 and purple M5). The fifth blue M4 is under construction and is expected to open in 2024. Other lines are also expected to expand within few years.
Prices:
The prices are similar to Vienna’s, but standard ticket costs 2,20 euros for 90 minutes, not for only one ride. This ticket is also valid for other public transport and for the Milan S railway connecting Milan with other bordering municipalities. For 24 hours it’s 7,60€. Even though you can buy tickets online via their public transport application, I would suggest you to use the contactless payment method instead.
Italy: Rome 🇮🇹
Overall rating: ⭐️
Pros:
+ Strategic position of stations, direct access to historical landmarks
+ Some stations show archaeological artifacts discovered during construction, that’s really creative and interesting
+ Also well-equipped with escalators, elevators
Cons:
– Extremely archaic infrastructure
– Despite the tube network is small, it may be more difficult to get oriented here
– Not safe at all, even worse than in Paris
– Not enough capacity, during peak hours and tourist seasons trains are very overcrowded
I don’t know where to start. I’ve felt so disappointed and riding with Rome underground was my worst experience ever. The first thing that shocked me was the architecture, that honestly looks like from some post-apocalyptic movie. Grey bricks and ugly graffiti everywhere even on trains makes the tube look really gross. When I was walking inside I was seriously worried if the whole infrastructure could eventually fall down. Keep in mind that Rome’s metro is quite old when it was opened in 1958. I don’t know if it’s a purpose keeping the tube almost exactly the same as from the beginning as the whole city is historical itself. However, I don’t think that it’s a great idea when it comes to modern technology, that needs to be maintained.
Although, we’re talking about an underground of a capital city, it has only 3 lines: orange A, blue B and green C. I remember that the last time I visited Rome (2018 – which is a long time ago) the entire green line C wasn’t in operation. I’m not saying that big cities and capitals should automatically have a lot of lines, but it has the downside. The tube has very limited coverage and you’re not able to get everywhere in Rome so instead you will need to find alternatives, for example buses or trains.
Prices
24h ticket costs 7€, so it’s a little bit cheaper than in Milan. Single ticket is for 1,50€ and is valid for 100 minutes. That is quite cheap compared to similar major cities in the southern Europe. You will have to buy tickets on very old ticket machines, but they support those other languages: English, French, German and Spanish.
Poland: Warsaw 🇵🇱
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Easy to understand network
+ Efficient connectivity even with less lines
+ Modern and stunning architecture
+ Well maintained
+ Supports discounts for students up to age 26
Cons:
– When you want to change to the other line, for some reason you have to exit the tube completely and return back to the other side
– Lack of safety doors
The tube in Warsaw is one of the youngest in Europe that also integrates with other modes of public transportation, including buses and trams. This interconnectedness allows passengers to transfer smoothly between different transport options. While currently consisting of two lines (blue M1 and red M2), the Warsaw Metro network is quickly expanding. Future plans include the development of additional lines, which will further enhance connectivity and accessibility within the city. This commitment to expanding the metro system clearly reflects Warsaw’s dedication to provide efficient transportation solutions for its growing population. And that’s what I personally appreciate. Also the modern, even futuristic architecture truly delighted me how a city can get improved even after its harsh history events that had to overcome.
The Warsaw Metro literally stands out for its modernity and excellent maintenance. Riding on train is comfortable, with air conditioning providing cooling during hot summer months. That is also quite rare among European metro trains. Also the overall attention to cleanliness ensures a pleasant and comfortable journey for everyone. Accessibility is also a priority in the Warsaw Metro. Stations are designed to be accessible to individuals with mobility challenges, featuring elevators, escalators, and tactile paving for visually impaired passengers. The trains have designated areas for wheelchair users and ample space to accommodate all passengers comfortably.
Prices:
- 24h ticket price: 26PLN = about 6 € (with discount 13PLN = about 3 euros)
- Single ticket: 7PLN = about 1,60 € (with discount 3,50PLN = about 0,80 euros)
Some important stations:
- Świętokrzyska (1 or 2): The only transfer station between lines 1 and 2, also near the famous Palace of Culture and Science
- Rondo Daszyńskiego (2): Museum of the Warsaw Uprising
- Stadion Narodowy (2): nearest station to the Warsaw East station (Warszawa Wschodnia)
- Nowy Świat-Uniwersytet (2): Museum of Fryderyk Chopin in Warsaw, also near the Presidential palace and the museum of illusions
Spain: Barcelona 🇪🇸
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ User-friendly navigation
+ Extensive network coverage, efficient connectivity
+ Reliable English-speaking staff
+ Eye-catching architecture
+ Direct connection with the airport
Cons:
– Sometimes delayed due to frequent maintenance
– Be aware of pickpockets
– Even small children from 4 years have to ride with full fare ticket
The Barcelona Metro, known as the Metro de Barcelona, is an integral part of the city’s efficient and well-connected transportation system. The Barcelona Metro boasts an extensive network that covers the city and its surrounding areas. With multiple lines and interconnections, it allows for seamless travel to various neighborhoods, major attractions, and transportation hubs. Whether you’re exploring the stunning architecture of Gaudí’s masterpieces, basking in the sun on the beautiful sandy beaches, or immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, the Barcelona Metro ensures convenient access to the city’s diverse offerings. Stations are equipped with informative maps, both in Spanish and English, guiding passengers and travelers to their desired destinations. The clear labeling of lines, platforms, and exits facilitates a straightforward and intuitive experience, especially for visitors exploring the city for the first time.
Some stations feature unique and eye-catching elements, for example colorful tiles, intricate mosaics, and contemporary artworks. Notable stations, such as Passeig de Gràcia and Diagonal, show stunning architectural aesthetics. The tube is consisted of 12 lines: red L1, purple L2, green L3, yellow L4, darker blue L5, lighter blue L6, brown L7, pink L8, orange L9, sky blue L10, lighter green L11 and lighter purple L12.
Prices:
The orange L9 line connects the city centre with airport. If you want to travel to/from airport, you have to buy a special ticket for 5,15€. Single ticket for all other lines, bus, train and ferry costs 2,40 euros and is valid for 75 minutes.
UK: London 🇬🇧
Overall rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pros:
+ Extensive network coverage, efficient connectivity and fast ride
+ Reliable and useful official mobile app
+ Contactless payment
+ Unique design, both old and new lines
Cons:
– Riding on older trains is almost deafening experience
– Might be expensive for budget travelers
The London Underground boasts an extensive network of lines that crisscross the city, providing comprehensive coverage to virtually every corner of London. With 11 lines and over 270 stations, it facilitates convenient access to major landmarks, cultural attractions, business districts, and residential areas. London Underground’s frequent train services set a high standard for reliability. Trains run at regular intervals, ensuring minimal waiting times for passengers. Even during peak hours, the Underground manages to maintain a precise flow, ensuring timely arrivals.
Its unique design became the synonym of London itself. From its iconic rounded symbol to the unique station architecture, the Tube exudes a sense of history and heritage. Many stations feature striking Victorian-era facades, while others point out modern and innovative designs. The mix of old and new creates a visually captivating experience focusing on London’s architectural legacy.
What you need to know
Sometimes delays might occur, but you will always be informed about that directly in the tube or if you download the TfL mobile app. This app is a must have if you’re not local – it has a tube map and it is able to help you guide or find buses near you. It’s modern yet very simple and user-friendly design will help you get oriented in the massive network pretty soon. Other countries should take London’s app as a perfect example of how a public transport app should work and look.
The cost really depends on the zones traveled. But using an Oyster card or contactless payment method, such as a bank card or mobile payment, is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel on the London Underground. With these payment methods, the fare is automatically calculated based on the distance traveled and any applicable daily fare capping. And the cost per journey is often cheaper compared to purchasing a single paper ticket.
Prices:
The price typically ranges from around £2.40 to £6.00 for journeys within central London (Zone 1) and may increase for travel to outer zones. The fare is determined by the number of zones crossed during the journey and also whether you travel during peak or off-peak time.
Some important stations:
- Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Metropolitan, Hammersmith and City): One of the key stations with a lot of options to transfer, also a connection to the National Rail
- Heathrow terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 (Elisabeth Line or Piccadilly): connection between city centre and Heathrow airport
- Westminster (Circle, District or Jubilee): Westminster Abbey, Elisabeth Tower (Big Ben), London Eye
- Oxford Circus (Central, Bakerloo or Victoria): shopping streets and districts
- Tottenham Court Road (Northern, Circle or Elisabeth Line): 5 minutes walk to the British Museum from here
- Charing Cross (Bakerloo or Northern): National Gallery and Trafalgar Square, transfer station to the National Rail
- London Bridge (Jubilee or Northern): 5 minutes walk to the Tower Bridge, also near Tower of London and transfer station to the National Rail. Also the Shard is near.
- Camden Town or Chalk Farm (both Northern): near Camden market
- Green Park (Piccadilly or Victoria) or Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly): near Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Green Park and St. James’ Park
- Baker Street (Bakerloo, Metropolitan, Hammersmith and City or Circle): Sherlock Holmes and Madame Tussauds museums
- South Kensington (Circle or District): near Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum
- Leicester Square (Piccadilly or Northern): near ChinaTown
- Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly or Bakerloo): Piccadilly Circus square with the famous advertisement wall
- Waterloo (Northern, Jubilee, Waterloo and City or Bakerloo): transfer station to the National Rail
