Why the Bus and Tram Are Better Than the Metro

Whether I’m leading a Traveling Professor small group tour to Paris or traveling solo through Italy, I almost always prefer taking the bus or above-ground tram over the metro. Sure, the metro might be a bit faster, but who wants to spend their trip in a hole in the ground? Traveling above ground gives you a more scenic, comfortable, and relaxed experience. Here’s why I recommend it every time.

1. Fewer Stairs to Climb

If you’ve been to cities like Paris or Rome, you know that metro travel often means climbing up and down endless staircases. With the bus or tram, that hassle is virtually eliminated—you just hop on at street level.

2. Better Scenery

When you ride underground, you miss the charm of the city above. On a bus or tram, you get to see the architecture, neighborhoods, and everyday life unfold around you. It’s the perfect way to get your bearings and enjoy the sights along the way.  Our favorite city for trams is Oslo.  On our small group tours there, we rarely take the subway or bus.  The tram is such a delightful way to travel. 

3. Safer Travel

Unfortunately, metro stations can sometimes attract pickpockets and unruly crowds. Above ground, you’re in a more open and visible space. And if there’s an emergency, getting off a bus is far easier than navigating your way out of an underground station.

4. A More Sociable Experience

For some reason, people tend to be friendlier on buses and trams. Conversations are more likely to start, and you get a better chance to interact with locals and fellow travelers.

5. A Laid-Back Ride

Bus drivers often offer helpful directions and will even wait for you to board. Compare that to the metro’s closing doors and rushed atmosphere—it’s a much more relaxed way to travel.

6. Better Route Coverage

In cities like Rome, bus and tram networks cover far more ground than the metro. This means you can get closer to your destination without multiple transfers or long walks from underground stations.

Travel Above Ground and See More of the City

Next time you’re on a Traveling Professor tour or exploring on your own, skip the underground commute and opt for the bus or tram. You’ll see more, stress less, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.