Although there are now many countries that have good metro systems, like the single route of Glasgow or the lowest carbon emission metro of Montreal, some are favorites among the commuters. Here is a list of what are generally considered to be the top 10 countries with the best underground metro systems.
10
Denmark
The Copenhagen Metro runs a 24 hour, driverless system that attains a 98% customer satisfaction rating. It is also compliant to its country’s ‘green’ policies.
9
Singapore
This metro system has won awards for being the most energy efficient. Among the best in the Asia-Pacific region, this mass transit system has unique architecture and underwent some ‘green’ renovations in 2009, displaying some innovative technical excellence.
8
Spain
The Madrid Metro system is the 6th largest in the world but with 1,656 escalators it has more than of any other system. Even though the city only has a population of 6.5 million, this system boasts 1.5 billion passengers per year, making it one of the worlds busiest. It stations are renowned for their large size and in 2011 one of them hosted a fitness festival with almost 2,600 in attendance.
7
France
Opened in 1900, the Paris system is the second oldest in the world and boasts that every building in the city is within 400 meters of its stops.
6
Hong Kong
Although now, coming under China, this metro was opened in 1979 when Hong Kong was under British rule explaining that influence in its design. Even though the system is relatively small to other systems, it still caters to 2.4 million passengers on a daily basis. The system is known for being efficient and affordable even though it has air conditioning throughout.
5
United States of America
The New York Subway system with its 460 stations caters to 4.9 million passengers daily, making it one of the world’s busiest. One of the few to operate 24 hour days, the system is renowned for its “Music Under New York” providing live musical entertainment on many of its larger stations.
4
South Korea
The Seoul system has 8 million users per day, yet it still provides an excellent service that includes Wi-Fi access, LED screens, platform safety doors and multi-lingual announcements.
3
United Kingdom
Also known as the ‘tube’, London’s Underground system is the oldest in the world and remains the largest in Europe even if, with only 3 million users daily, it isn’t the busiest. Opened in 1863, the 260 stations are known for their cultural and art programs.
2
Russia
Although the Moscow system is probably one of the biggest in the world, it is the St. Petersburg Metro that places Russia so high on this list. This is the deepest system in the world with one station being As deep as 100 meters below the ground. As with the Moscow system, this ones stations display a look of nobility with their unique architecture, making for a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
1
Japan
The Tokyo system is the busiest in the world, moving 3.1 billion people in 2010. Although not particularly generous with its leg room, the system provides a legendary efficient service with assured punctuality and heated seating.