Hate driving? Here are the 8 best cities in Europe for public transit
These 8 European cities lead on public transit, showing what world-class urban mobility looks like now
.jpg)
Europe’s cities are built around movement. Trams slice through historic centers. Metro lines stretch beneath medieval streets. Buses fill the gaps between rail and foot traffic.
The result is a continent where public transit is not a fallback option, but a primary one.
A different lens comes from global mobility rankings that assess systems on network integration, operational efficiency, and readiness for future transport demands. These rankings emphasize scale, reliability, and adaptability, placing several European cities among the world’s strongest performers.
Together, these perspectives show that the best transit systems balance technical excellence with everyday usability.
Here are eight of the top European cities for public transit now.
2 / 9
London sets the standard for resident approval
Cyrus Crossan / Unsplash
London ranks first in Europe, with 86% of locals rating its transit system as good or amazing, according to Time Out. The Underground anchors a dense network of buses, commuter rail, and newer lines such as the Elizabeth line. The system’s scale supports high satisfaction despite daily crowding.
3 / 9
Vienna proves that coverage and affordability can coexist
Nikolai Kolosov / Unsplash
Vienna consistently ranks among the world’s strongest transit cities according to PTV Group. Multiple metro lines, trams, and buses cover the city with minimal gaps. Affordable annual passes help keep ridership high and cars optional.
4 / 9
Zurich delivers reliability through integration
Claudio Schwarz / Unsplash
Zurich stands out globally for seamless coordination between trams, buses, and rail services according to PTV Group's rankings. Frequent service and short transfer times reduce friction for daily riders. Reliability remains the system’s defining feature.
5 / 9
Brighton earns praise by matching scale to need
Maciek WRoblewski / Unsplash
Brighton received high marks from residents, with 80% rating its transit positively according to Time Out’s survey. A compact footprint and frequent bus routes make car-free travel realistic. The city shows how smaller systems can still perform well.
6 / 9
Oslo blends coverage with everyday usability
Theo Eilertsen / Unsplash
Oslo ranks highly among European cities, based on resident feedback, says Time Out. Metro, tram, and bus services connect neighborhoods efficiently. Riders benefit from consistent service across seasons.
7 / 9
Stockholm pairs sustainability with performance
Annie Spratt / Unsplash
Stockholm earns global recognition for its transit network, notes PTV Group’s evaluation. Metro, buses, and ferries operate with a strong sustainability focus. Integration with regional rail extends mobility beyond city limits.
8 / 9
Warsaw wins local confidence through expansion
11th Gate / Unsplash
Warsaw scores strongly with residents on Time Out’s survey. Continued metro expansion complements an already extensive tram and bus network. The system supports a growing population without sacrificing reliability.
9 / 9
Copenhagen exemplifies multimodal urban mobility
Ihor Frolov / Unsplash
Copenhagen ranks among the world’s best transit cities according to PTV Group. Round-the-clock metro service integrates with buses and regional rail. Transit works alongside cycling rather than competing with it.