The Best Public Transport Hacks to Get Around Any City Cheaply

Public transportation is the key to exploring any city affordably, but figuring out metro lines, bus schedules, and ticketing systems can be overwhelming—especially in a new destination. While taxis and ride-hailing apps drain your budget, public transit offers a cheap, efficient, and often more immersive way to travel. Whether you’re hopping on a subway in Tokyo or catching a tram in Lisbon, these hacks will help you save money, avoid common mistakes, and navigate any city’s transit system like a pro.

Use Transit Apps for Real-Time Updates

Many cities have their own transit apps that provide real-time arrival times, route planners, and service updates. Instead of relying on outdated paper maps or guessing which bus to take, use apps like Google Maps, Moovit, or Citymapper to plan your journey.

Some apps even show which train cars are less crowded or notify you of delays before you leave. If you’re in a city with complex public transport like London or New York, having a reliable transit app can save you a lot of frustration.

Get a Multi-Day or Unlimited Pass

If you plan to use public transport frequently, single tickets add up fast. Many cities offer unlimited ride passes for a set period—daily, weekly, or monthly—which are often much cheaper than paying per trip.

For example, in cities like Paris, the Navigo card gives unlimited rides within certain zones, while Tokyo’s subway pass offers a cost-effective way to explore without repeatedly buying tickets. Always check if a visitor travel pass exists—it’s often a hidden gem for savings.

Know the Cheapest and Fastest Routes

Not all public transport options are priced the same. In some cities, trams or buses may be cheaper than the metro, while others have off-peak discounts that can save you money if you travel outside rush hours.

For example, in Bangkok, the local buses are cheaper than the BTS Skytrain, but in Berlin, the S-Bahn is faster and more efficient than buses for long distances. Check local transit guides or ask a local which option is best for your route.

Avoid Buying Single Tickets at Peak Times

Many transit systems still use ticket machines that get crowded during rush hours. Instead of wasting time in line, buy your tickets in advance or use a reloadable transport card.

Some cities, like London (Oyster card) and Hong Kong (Octopus card), allow you to tap in and out with a preloaded card, making travel faster and often cheaper than buying paper tickets each time.

Use Contactless Payment When Available

Many cities now allow direct contactless payment with credit or debit cards, removing the need for tickets or transit cards altogether. This is common in cities like New York, London, and Singapore, where tapping your card or phone directly at the turnstile can save both time and money.

Before you travel, check if your bank supports international contactless payments to avoid transaction fees.

Take Advantage of Free or Discounted Transit Days

Some cities offer free public transport on special days or discounts for students, seniors, and tourists. For example, many European cities provide free tram or bus rides on certain Sundays, while cities like Tallinn, Estonia, offer free public transit for residents.

Check local transit authority websites or ask at a tourist information center for special deals and discount programs.

Learn the Basics of the Local Ticketing System

Public transit ticketing rules vary widely—some cities use zone-based pricing, while others have a flat fare. In places like Tokyo, fares change based on distance traveled, while in Mexico City, a metro ride costs the same no matter how far you go.

Always check:

• Whether tickets need to be validated before boarding.
• If there’s a time limit on transfers between different transport types.
• What type of ticketing system is used (prepaid, contactless, paper).

Consider Alternative Transport Options

Sometimes, public transit isn’t the cheapest or fastest option. In some cities, bike-sharing services, ferries, or shared rides offer better alternatives. Cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen are better explored by bike, while Hong Kong’s Star Ferry is a scenic and affordable way to cross the harbor.

Also, many cities have free shuttle buses in certain areas, such as Las Vegas and Sydney’s central district. Look beyond just trains and buses to find unique and budget-friendly transport.

Know When to Walk Instead

Many travelers automatically take public transit even when walking would be faster or more enjoyable. In cities with a compact layout like Florence or Prague, walking saves money and allows you to experience the city more intimately.

When checking routes on Google Maps, always compare the walking time—if it’s under 20 minutes, it might be worth skipping the subway and enjoying the streets instead.

Public Transport Can Be Your Best Travel Ally

Mastering a city’s public transport system not only saves you money but also makes travel smoother and more enjoyable. With a little planning, the right apps, and an understanding of local transit hacks, you can navigate any city cheaply, efficiently, and like a local.