15 Countries With Free (or Almost Free) Public Transport

Imagine hopping on a bus or train without fumbling for coins or tickets—because public transport is totally free. While most countries charge at least a few bucks for a ride, some places are rethinking mobility as a public right. Whether it’s nationwide systems or city-level experiments, these 15 countries offer free or ultra-low-cost public transit—making it easier (and cheaper) to explore like a local.

1. Luxembourg

Luxembourg made headlines in 2020 by becoming the first country in the world to offer completely free public transport nationwide. Buses, trams, and trains are all 100% free for everyone—residents, commuters, and tourists. You don’t need a ticket, pass, or app. Just get on and ride. The goal was to reduce traffic congestion and promote more sustainable, inclusive travel. It’s a small country, so the system works smoothly and is easy to navigate.

2. Estonia

In 2013, the capital city of Tallinn introduced free public transport for all registered residents. The idea quickly spread across the country, and now many Estonian municipalities offer free rides on local buses and trams. While tourists still pay a small fee in some places, many towns offer completely free rides for everyone. Estonia sees this as part of its broader push for digital innovation and social equity. The result? Less traffic and happier commuters.

3. Malta

Since late 2022, Malta has made all public buses free for Maltese residents. The policy is part of a plan to cut down on car use and reduce air pollution on the small island nation. While visitors still pay a modest fare, the bus system is efficient, air-conditioned, and connects all major parts of Malta and Gozo. For long-term travelers or digital nomads who register as residents, it’s a huge money-saver.

4. Germany (Pilot Programs & €49 Ticket)

Germany isn’t completely free, but it offers some of the most affordable national travel options in the world. In 2022, the country introduced a €9/month public transport pass, which allowed unlimited access to local and regional transit across the country. That experiment evolved into the current Deutschlandticket, which costs €49 per month and still covers most trains, buses, and trams. Some cities, like Augsburg and Tübingen, have also piloted free transit zones in their centers.

5. France (Several Cities)

Over 30 towns and small cities across France have launched free public transport programs, covering everything from buses to light rail. Dunkerque, a coastal city near Belgium, is one of the most successful examples. Since going fare-free in 2018, ridership has soared and traffic has dropped. Other towns like Niort, Libourne, and Châteauroux are following suit. While major cities like Paris still charge fares, France is proving that free transit can work in the right settings.

6. Slovenia

Slovenia has created a strong public transport safety net for its citizens. Students, seniors, people with disabilities, and the unemployed are all eligible for free or heavily discounted public transport. The buses and trains are clean, reliable, and cover most of the country. Tourists still pay standard fares, but they’re relatively low. The system is easy to use and designed with inclusion in mind.

7. Spain (Free Commuter Rail & Subsidized Trains)

Spain has rolled out a bold free-transport initiative for frequent riders. Commuter rail and medium-distance trains are now free for anyone who buys a multi-trip pass and commits to regular travel. The program aims to ease inflation pressures and reduce carbon emissions. Long-distance and high-speed trains still cost money, but the savings on daily or regional travel are huge. The policy has been especially popular with students and workers.

8. Austria (Klimaticket)

Austria doesn’t offer free rides outright, but it’s home to one of the world’s best deals: the KlimaTicket. For just €1 per day (about €365 per year), you get unlimited access to buses, trams, subways, and regional trains across the entire country. It’s part of Austria’s climate action plan and encourages people to ditch their cars. The system is modern, fast, and environmentally friendly—and that flat rate makes it feel practically free.

9. Czech Republic (Prague + Other Towns)

Prague and other cities in the Czech Republic offer significant discounts or free rides for children, students, and seniors. In Prague, people over 65 and kids under 15 ride for free. Smaller towns like Frýdek-Místek and Valašské Meziříčí have taken it further and made all local public transport free for everyone. The move has increased ridership and eased urban congestion, proving that even partial fare-free systems can make a big impact.

10. Norway (Oslo Youth Card + Free Pilot Zones)

Norway doesn’t offer nationwide free transit, but certain groups and cities are moving in that direction. Oslo, for example, provides free or discounted rides for youth and students, and some pilot programs offer fare-free travel within city centers. Norway is also investing heavily in electric buses, ferries, and other sustainable transit solutions. The country’s approach is about combining access with environmental responsibility.

11. Hungary (Free for Seniors & Students)

In Hungary, public transit is deeply subsidized. Students, children, and pensioners ride at discounted or zero fares on trains and city buses. Budapest’s extensive metro and tram network offers tourist day passes at very low rates. While it’s not entirely free, the system is among the cheapest in Central Europe and well-suited for budget travelers and locals alike.

12. Belarus (Some Free Zones & Discounts)

Belarus hasn’t rolled out nationwide free transport, but many cities offer fare-free travel for seniors, children, and people with disabilities. In some smaller towns, local buses are free during off-peak hours or on specific days to encourage usage. Though the system can vary widely by city, the overall direction leans toward accessibility and low-cost commuting, especially in more rural areas.

13. China (Free Shuttle Systems in Some Areas)

China’s massive public transport system isn’t free overall, but certain areas and attractions do offer complimentary rides. Some scenic areas, historical sites, or eco-tourism zones provide free shuttle buses to reduce traffic and pollution. Additionally, many airports have free internal train systems. While it’s not a nationwide policy, China is experimenting with fare-free travel in key regions to promote sustainability and tourism.

14. Brazil (Fare-Free in Select Cities)

Brazil has been quietly building one of the world’s largest fare-free transit movements. More than 40 cities—including Maricá and Caeté—have introduced Tarifa Zero, offering totally free municipal bus systems. The idea is rooted in social equity and climate resilience. In some places, these programs have sparked real economic growth by helping people commute without financial strain.

15. United States (Certain Cities & School Programs)

While most U.S. cities still charge for public transport, a growing number are experimenting with fare-free models. Kansas City, Missouri, was the first large city to make its entire bus system free. Other places like Olympia (Washington), Albuquerque (New Mexico), and Boston (Massachusetts) have piloted free routes or passes for students and low-income riders. It’s a small but growing trend aimed at removing barriers to mobility.