Organised by NEXUS partner UITP, 17 April 2026 marks the first World Public Transport Day, a global celebration of public transport and its critical role in our everyday lives. The initiative highlights its contribution to the success of our towns and cities, our economic prosperity, and its essential role in achieving sustainable development.
Metro services are key to the growth of cities, shaping their history and supporting the well-being of their inhabitants. NEXUS contributes to their continued relevance by optimising their use, improving travellers’ experiences, and developing tools for the next generation of urban rail transport.
Pietro de Vito (STAM), Project Coordinator of NEXUS, commented:
“Public transport is essential for building sustainable, inclusive and efficient cities. Through NEXUS, we are helping to shape the future of urban mobility – and metro transport – by improving passenger experience and operational performance, addressing today’s challenges with an eye to tomorrow..”
As this event celebrates urban transport, let’s explore some fascinating facts about metros in Europe and around the world:
Did you know…?
- …that in 2024, rail transport in the European Union accounted for 443 billion passenger-kilometres?
- …that the first metro system in the world opened in London in 1863?
- …that several metro systems are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites, including those in Budapest?
- …that the smallest city with a metro system is Lausanne, with a population of around 150,000?
- …that while its origins date back to the early twentieth century, the metro in Genoa was officially opened in 1990 for the FIFA World Cup?
- …that the metro in Sofia is the only metro system in Bulgaria?
- …that the metro in Lisbon was designed with aesthetics in mind from the outset, with traditional azulejos featured in many stations?
If you want to learn more about how the rest of the world is celebrating World Public Transport Day, follow the hashtag #WorldPublicTransportDay and join the celebration at: https://worldpublictransportday.com/
