Tag Archives: metro

Seoul Subway

13 May, 2024 Daniel Leave a comment

The Seoul Subway, locally known as “수도권 전철”, serves the capital of South Korea.

Inaugurated on 15 of August of 1974, This system is one of the largest and most efficient in the world, con 18 lines and 767 stations covering 940 kilometres (584 miles).

Seoul Subway Schedule

The Seoul Metro operates daily from 5:30 a.m. until the 1:00 a.m., facilitating constant movement in the metropolis.

Official websites

For more details, visit the Seoul Subway official website.
To see the best of seoul, The Tiqets website is the most famous about this city (and available in several languages). It also allows you to buy cheaper tickets and save yourself from waiting in line..

Seoul Subway Fares

Single ticket price varies from 1250 a 2150 KRW (aproximadamente entre 0,94 USD y 1,62 USD), depending on the distance traveled.
Rates for children and young people: There are significant discounts for children and young people, who can register a transportation card and benefit from reduced fares.
Early hour discounts: Using a transportation card, passengers traveling before 6:30 a.m. can enjoy a 20% off.

Standard rates

Fares for traveling on the Seoul Metro vary depending on the distance traveled. The base price within the first 10 kilometers is 1,250 KRW. For distances between 10 y 50 kilometres, a supplement is added 100 KRW cada 5 kilometres. Beyond the 50 kilometres, the supplement fits 100 KRW cada 8 kilometres. These rates apply whether you use a transportation card or buy a single ticket.

Discounts for children and youth

There are significant discounts for children and young people, who can benefit from reduced fares when registering a transportation card. These discounts make the system more accessible for families and students, encouraging the use of public transport from an early age.

Descuentos por “Viaje temprano”

The Seoul Subway fare system includes a discount of 20% for passengers traveling before 6:30 a.m. This incentive is designed to encourage riders to travel during off-peak hours., helping to decompress demand during the most congested hours.

Special rates

For passengers who travel frequently, There is a card option with a fixed price of 61,600 KRW that allows up to 44 travel within the Seoul metropolitan area. This option is advantageous for regular travelers, as it offers considerable savings compared to purchasing single tickets for each trip.

Seoul Subway Map

Below we show you the Seoul Subway map in three different languages..

Maps in Korean language:

The following is the same map but with the format that existed before the year 2023:

Maps in English language:

the same map, but in the old year format 2023.

Map in Japanese language:

History of the subway

Seoul Subway, inaugurated on 15 of August of 1974, started with the Line 1, an infrastructure that revitalized transportation in the South Korean capital. This system has been developed in response to the growing demand for mobility in one of the most densely populated cities in the world..

Since its conception, The metro has played a crucial role in urban modeling and city planning, influencing the location of new residential and commercial areas.

Seoul subway expansion did not stop with the first lines. In the decade of 1980, lines were added to the metro 2, 3 y 4, while the following decades saw the introduction of lines using advanced technology, such as driverless trains and automatic platform doors to improve passenger safety. The integration of these technological advances has placed the Seoul Metro in a leading position worldwide in terms of efficiency and safety..

The most recent line, the line 9, was inaugurated in 2009 and its last extension was completed in 2021. This line is particularly notable for its express service which significantly reduces travel time between the east and west of the city..

Seoul Subway Map History

The evolution of the Seoul Subway map is a testament to its increasing expansion and complexity. The original design was relatively simple, designed to facilitate understanding of the first four lines. As the system expanded, the map was transformed into a more detailed and aesthetically attractive tool.

One of the significant changes to the map design was the introduction of distinctive colors and iconic symbols for each line in the years 90, making it easier to navigate through the system for locals and tourists alike.

Designers like Kim Hyun-Suk have played a crucial role in modernizing the map, ensuring that as new lines and stations were added, the map remained accessible and easy to use.

The latest map redesign was done to include the Line 9 and its extensions, using a more digital approach that allows integrating real-time updates and facilitating interaction with users through mobile applications and interactive screens at stations.

Additional data

The Seoul Metro is not only crucial for the daily lives of its citizens but also for tourists. Some of the sites accessible via the subway include:

Palacio Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbokgung Station, Line 3): A jewel of Joseon architecture, It is one of the largest and probably the most beautiful palaces in Seoul.
Dongdaemun Market (Dongdaemun History Station & Culture Park, Lines 2, 4 y 5): A large shopping complex known for its cutting-edge fashion and local crafts.
Torre N Seoul (Myeong-dong Station, Line 4): Offers panoramic views of the city from its location atop Mount Namsan.
Insadong neighborhood (Anguk Station, Line 3): Famous for its art shops and traditional cafes, It is an essential place to experience Korean culture.
Lotte World Tower (Jamsil Station, Lines 2 y 8): South Korea's tallest skyscraper offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck. Its facilities also include a luxurious shopping center and various entertainment attractions..
Bukchon Hanok Village (Anguk Station, Line 3): This picturesque neighborhood offers an immersion in Korean tradition and history with its well-preserved Hanok houses. It is ideal for history buffs and those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
Hang Park (Yeouinaru Station, Line 5): This sprawling park along the Han River is a popular picnic spot, sports activities and simply to enjoy the tranquility away from the urban hustle and bustle. The park is also famous for its open-air festivals and concerts..
Hongdae (Hongik University Street) (Hongik University Station, Line 2): Known for its vibrant artistic and youthful atmosphere, this area offers a wide range of coffees, stores, art galleries and clubs. It is the preferred meeting place for young people and the heart of Seoul's underground entertainment.
COEX Mall (Samseong Station, Line 2): One of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia, COEX Mall houses a wide variety of stores, a giant aquarium and the famous K-Pop Hall of Fame, making it a must-see destination for fans of Korean pop culture.
War Memorial of Korea (Samgakji Station, Lines 4 y 6): This museum and monument commemorates South Korea's fallen in various conflicts, mainly the Korean War. It is a place of deep historical and educational reflection.
Myeongdong Shopping Street (Myeong-dong Station, Line 4): Famous for its fashion stores, cosmetics and its varied gastronomic offer, especially street food, Myeongdong is a paradise for shoppers and those who want to experience modern Korean urban culture.

Each of these sites can be a starting point to explore the city of Seoul, all accessible through its extensive metro network.

Canada

Vancouver SkyTrain

5 May, 2024 Daniel Leave a comment

The Vancouver SkyTrain is an underground and elevated transportation system that operates in the city of Vancouver, Canada.

Inaugurated on 3 January 1986, has gone through several expansions, with the last one made in 2016. At the moment, It has three lines that add up to a total of 53 seasons and cover 79.6 kilometres (about 49.46 miles).

Although it is sometimes called “Vancouver Metro”, it's a automated light rail system. It gets its name because most of its infrastructure is elevated, allowing for panoramic views as you travel above the city streets and avenues. Being on elevated roads, looks “float” in the sky. Besides, some sections are also underground, allowing uninterrupted circulation.

This system is essential for the daily mobility of residents and tourists, providing access to different areas of Vancouver and the metropolitan region.

Metro Map

Below we show you the map of the Vancouver SkyTrain:

Schedules

The Vancouver SkyTrain operates with the following schedules:

Work days: of 5:00h a 1:00h.
Saturdays: of 5:00h a 1:00h of the next day.
Sundays and holidays: of 6:00h a 0:00h.

Rates

The system offers several options for passengers:

One-way ticket: 2.95 CAD (~2.17 USD) for a single trip.
DayPass: 11 CAD (~8.09 USD) for unlimited rides for one day.

Official Web site

For more information, visit the Vancouver SkyTrain Official Site.

Website with the complete list of tourist attractions in Vancouver in the popular ticket sales website. In addition to discovering new options, you can buy tickets in advance, avoiding long lines, bad weather and, sometimes, get a discount 20%.

History of the Vancouver SkyTrain

Vancouver's SkyTrain is a notable milestone in Canadian public transportation, initially inaugurated as part of Expo '86. The Expo Line, the first to work, revolutionized urban mobility in Vancouver, connecting its inhabitants to the city center and establishing a solid foundation for future expansion. Since then, The evolution of the system has been marked by meticulous planning and a constant commitment to innovation. With the addition of the Millennium Line in 2002, the SkyTrain expanded into the eastern suburbs, increasing its network to serve a growing population in Burnaby, New Westminster y Coquitlam. The Canada Line, inaugurated in 2009, spread the network further, linking Vancouver with Vancouver International Airport and the city of Richmond.

The SkyTrain has been a pioneer in the implementation of advanced technology in driverless trains, standing out for its automated operation that allows a fast and efficient service frequency. In addition to its main lines, The system has continued to expand to serve new urban areas and meet the demands of a growing city, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement.

History of the SkyTrain map

The SkyTrain map has evolved over time to reflect the transformation and growth of the transportation system.

In the first days, the map was simple, focused solely on the Expo Line, with limited but effective connections to the heart of Vancouver. As the Millennium Line and Canada Line were added, The map was adapted to illustrate the growing complexity of the network and its connection with other modes of transport..

One of the most important names in this evolution is Ken Sutherland, a graphic designer who worked extensively on modernizing SkyTrain maps. His approach was based on visual clarity and simplicity, ensuring that passengers could easily understand routes and connections.

The map's clarity and distinctive style have become a symbol of the system's accessibility, allowing both residents and tourists to navigate the city with ease. More recent editions have incorporated interactive digital elements and real-time updates.

Additional data

Vancouver's SkyTrain is not only an efficient transportation system, but also a gateway to some of the city's most impressive attractions:

Stanley Park (Burrard Station): This station connects visitors to the iconic park that features scenic trails and a unique mix of nature and cultural activities..
Granville Island (Yaletown-Roundhouse Station): A short distance from this station is the bustling market and arts center, offering a unique culinary and cultural experience.
Anthropology Museum (UBC Loop Station, bus access): Although it is not directly connected to the SkyTrain, The museum can be accessed via buses from the nearest station, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples of the region.
Gastown (Waterfront Station): The station serves as a portal to one of Vancouver's oldest historic neighborhoods, famous for its steam clock and modern boutiques.

Belgium

Antwerp Premetro

5 May, 2024 Daniel Leave a comment

The Antwerp Premetro, officially known as “Antwerpse premetro”, is the underground transportation system in the city of Antwerp, Belgium.

Inaugurated on 25 March 1975, It has a line that operates along 11 stations, covering 7.6 kilometres (about 4.72 miles).

Although sometimes they call him “Antwerp metro”, It is technically a premeter due to its relatively small size.

Schedules

The Antwerp Premetro operates with the following schedules:

Work days: of 5:00h a 0:00h.
Saturdays: of 5:30h a 0:00h.
Sundays and holidays: of 6:00h a 0:00h.

Rates

The system offers the following rate options (year 2024):

One-way ticket: 3 EUR (~3.29 USD) for a single trip.
Day Ticket: 7.50 EUR (~8.24 USD) for unlimited rides for one day.

Official Web site

For more information, visit the official site of the Antwerp Premetro.

Complete list of tourist attractions in Antwerp in the popular Ticket sales website. In addition to discovering new options, you can buy tickets in advance, avoiding long lines, bad weather and, sometimes, get a discount 20%.

Metro Map

Below we show you the map of the Antwerp Premetro:

PDF version of the map: Underground Map Antwerp (Antwerp).pdf

History of the premeter

The history of the Antwerp Premetro is marked by a series of important milestones in the evolution of the city's underground transport.. Its construction was originally conceived as a large-scale metro system covering two main axes.: one east-west and one north-south, connecting strategic points such as the Central Station and the Sportpaleis.

The first underground segment, which included the Groenplaats stations, Meir and Opera, was inaugurated in 1975, initially attending the lines 2 y 15.

For 1980, the system had expanded with the opening of the Diamant and Plantin station. During the decade of 1980, tunnel construction continued, with a focus on the north-south axis and the creation of the Brabo tunnel under the River Scheldt, Completed in 1990. The development of underground sections and new stations was temporarily stopped at the end of the 1990s. 1980 due to lack of funds.

In the following decades, new lines were added, as the 5 in 2006 and the 6 in 2007, that took advantage of previously unused tunnels.

From 2015, Partially closed stations such as Astrid and Opera were reactivated, Meanwhile he “Pegasus Plan” was approved to connect eastern areas and open new routes in the city such as the incorporation of the new Zegel station in 2015.

Stations such as Drink and Morckhoven are being developed under the leadership of a multidisciplinary team made up of GROUP A, Archipelago y Tractebel. This team has focused on maintaining the historical integrity of the design, while adapting it to the modern urban context, emphasizing the integration with the urban landscape and the use of contemporary materials

History of the Antwerp premetro map

The creation and evolution of the map of the “metro” from Antwerp, known locally as the Premetro, has followed a process of continuous refinement to accurately reflect network connections and expansions. Initially, the plan provided for a metro system, but a premetro was chosen to integrate it with the existing tram network.

The first sketches were made by local engineers and technicians during the construction of the first line, with a rudimentary approach that showed only existing routes.

As the network expanded, the map became more complex, evolving under the supervision of cartographers such as Paul Van Steenkiste, who had a notable influence on its refinement. Van Steenkiste and other designers were inspired by transportation maps of other major cities., especially in the “diagram style” of the London subway.

Their efforts resulted in a more stylish and efficient design., which allows travelers to easily identify the routes and stations of the system.

The modern map reflects a design that encompasses 11 commercial stations and multiple connections. The expansions of the Premetro in the decades of the 80 y 90, with the addition of tunnels such as the Brabotunnel and the Reuzenpijp, enriched the design, capturing critical routes like the Line 15 que connect Boechout with Linkeroever.

Additional data

The Antwerp Premetro is a gateway to the most emblematic places of the city. Some stations of interest include:

Meir: Close to the most popular shopping street in Antwerp, Meir, with shops, restaurants, and the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic monument that houses works by Rubens.
Antwerp Central Station: Antwerp central station, known as the “Railway Cathedral”, It is a place of interest in itself. From here, easy to get to Antwerp Zoo and Diamantkwartier, the diamond district.
Museum aan de Stroom (BUT): Accessible from Van Eeden station, The MAS is a museum that tells the port history of Antwerp with an impressive collection of art and historical objects.
Plantin-Moretus: From Groenplaats station, you can visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a gem declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, which houses one of the oldest printing presses in the world.
Left Bank: This station provides access to the Sint-Annastrand park on the left bank of the Scheldt River, a perfect place to relax by the water with a panoramic view of the city.

Austria

Vienna Metro

5 May, 2024 Daniel Leave a comment

The Vienna Metro, officially known as “U-Bahn Wien”, is the underground transportation system in the capital of Austria.

Inaugurated on 25 February 1978, has grown over time, with its latest expansion in 2010.

Currently it has 5 lines, 101 stations, and covers 75 kilometres (about 46.60 miles). It is essential for the daily transportation of millions of residents and tourists visiting Vienna..

Schedules

The Vienna Metro operates with the following schedules:

Every day: of 5:00h a 00:30h.
Friday, Saturdays and the eve of holidays: continuous service throughout the night.

Rates

The system offers the following options for passengers:

Type of ticket	Price in EUR (USD)	Details
One-way ticket	2.40 EUR (~2.63 USD)	a single trip.
24h ticket	8 EUR (~8.77 USD)	Unlimited trips for one day.
48h ticket	14.10 EUR (~15.45 USD)	Unlimited trips for two days.
72h ticket	17.10 EUR (~18.74 USD)	Unlimited trips for three days.

Vienna metro prices.

Official Web site

For more information, visit the official site of the Vienna Metro.

To see a list of all tourist attractions what's in vienna, we recommend using the famous ticket website. In addition to seeing options that I didn't know about, you can buy tickets in advance, avoid queues, bad weather and sometimes with 20% off.

Metro Map

Below we show you the Vienna Metro map:

Here is the same map in PDF format: Metro Map Viena.pdf

History of the Metro

The Vienna Metro, known as U-Bahn, has had a fascinating evolution that has left an indelible mark on the history of European urban transport. Although the modern system was inaugurated in 1978, Its true origin dates back to the beginning of the 20th century.

During the era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna already had a light rail network that, largely, laid the foundations for the design and planning of the current underground infrastructure.

World War II stopped their progress, and efforts to revitalize urban transportation did not resume until after the conflict.

The U-Bahn current has grown from three lines in its first years to a network of five routes that cover more than 80 kilometres.

The implementation of cutting-edge technologies has allowed the operation of trains efficiently, with a robust security system that makes it an example in Europe.

Vienna Subway Map History

The design of Vienna's subway maps also has a significant history.

Initial planning involved a team of engineers and designers under the direction of Otto Wagner, a famous Austrian architect and urban planner who influenced public transport planning in Vienna.

On the first years, The maps were quite rudimentary., but with the expansion of the system in subsequent decades, a more sophisticated approach was required.

The current design is the work of a team led by transportation systems designer Kurt Kolb, who since the years 70 managed to maintain a coherent vision of the route scheme, making the map visually clear and easy to interpret for millions of commuters.

Additional data

The Vienna Metro in addition to connecting local inhabitants and tourists with their destinations efficiently, It also offers access to some of the most emblematic points of the city:

Schönbrunn Palace: Accessible from the metro station Schönbrunn on line U4, this palace, declared World Heritage, It is an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into Austrian imperial history.
St. Stephen's Cathedral: The subway station Stephansplatz on line U1 leaves you in the heart of Vienna, right next to this imposing gothic cathedral.
Vienna State Opera: Just a few steps from the subway station Karlsplatz (U1 lines, U2, U4), the famous opera house is an essential cultural landmark.
Museum of Natural History: Located near the metro station Folk Theater (lines U2 and U3), This museum houses one of the largest natural history collections in Europe.
Vienna City Hall: From the subway station City hall on line U2, you can reach the majestic neo-Gothic building that houses the city's municipal offices.

Czech Republic

Prague Metro

5 May, 2024 Daniel Leave a comment

The Prague Metro, officially known as “Pražské metro”, It is the underground transportation system that connects the capital of the Czech Republic.

Inaugurated on 9 May 1974, This system has experienced constant expansion, with the last extension carried out in 2023.

At the moment, has 3 lines that cover 61 stations along 65.2 kilometres (about 40.51 miles). It is essential for the daily mobility of residents and tourists exploring Prague.

Prague metro timetable

The Prague Metro operates with the following schedules:

Every day: of 5:00h a 0:00h.

Rates

Prague Metro offers several options for passengers:

Type	Precio	Details
One-way ticket	30 CZK (~1.30 USD)	a single trip.
Bill of 90 min	40 CZK (~1.73 USD)	trips during 90 minutes in any medium.
Bill of 24 h	120 CZK (~5.19 USD)	Unlimited trips for one day.
Monthly payment	550 CZK (~23.79 USD)	Unlimited trips for one month.

Prague Metro Price Table

Official Web site

For more information, visit the Prague Metro official site.

To see a list of all tourist attractions what's in Prague, and be able to buy tickets in advance, save queues, bad weather and sometimes even 20% off, we recommend using the ticket website.

Prague metro map

Below we show you the Prague Metro map:

History of the subway

The Prague Metro, inaugurated on 9 May 1974, started with Line C, marking the birth of a crucial transportation system for the city. The first section connected the stations from Kačerov to Florenc. This event marked a milestone in the urban development of Prague, introducing a modern solution for the mobility needs of its growing population.

Expansion and Development

The Prague Metro, inaugurated on 9 May 1974 with Line C, has been an essential component of transportation infrastructure.

Unlike Vienna's metro system, which evolved from a network initially operated by steam locomotives from the late 19th century, The Prague metro was a later development, planned and built to meet modern demands for efficient urban transportation.

Beginnings and Initial Expansion

The system began with Line C, que conectaba Kačerov con Florenc. This line was designed to facilitate quick access through key areas of the city, significantly improving connectivity. Posteriorly, Lines A and B were developed in response to the growing need for a broader network:

Line A: Inaugurated in 1978, conectó Dejvická con Náměstí Miru, gradually expanding in subsequent years.
Line B: It started operating in 1985, linking Florenc with Smíchovské nádraží and later spreading to other areas.

Political Changes and Modernization

During the socialist era, The subway's design and expansion were closely aligned with industrial and central planning needs. However, the Velvet Revolution 1989 marked a turning point, triggering a series of modernizations in metro infrastructure and services. This included the renovation of stations, improving operational security and introducing modern ticketing and access control technologies.

Continuous Modernization

Throughout the decades of 1990 y 2000, Prague Metro continued to evolve to improve efficiency and user comfort. Automated systems and more modern rolling stock were incorporated, which increased the frequency and capacity of the lines, thereby improving the overall user experience.

Future Planning and Expansion

The system has not stagnated; Planning for the future Line D suggests continued expansion to better connect the center with the southern suburbs. This project is designed to relieve congestion on existing lines and offer more direct service to currently underserved areas..

This focus on continuous improvement and planned expansion reflects a commitment to adapting to the changing needs of the city and its inhabitants., ensuring that the Prague Metro remains a vital and efficient public transport system for the Czech capital.

History of the Prague metro map

The initial design of the Prague Metro map, obra de František Kolář and Jiří Lampa, focused exclusively on Line C, reflecting his journey from Kačerov to Florenc. This map served as a basic visual guide for early subway users in 1974.

Map Evolution and Adaptation

With the expansion of the system and the inauguration of Line A in 1978 and Line B in 1985, the map evolved to integrate these new routes. A color-coded system was adopted to facilitate distinction between lines: green for Line A, yellow for Line B, and red for Line C. This color system not only improved the functionality of the map, but also made it visually more accessible for passengers.

The map layout received significant updates in 1985 with the addition of Line B, where graphical elements were refined to provide a clearer and more detailed representation of the expanding network. These modifications allowed users to better understand the interconnections and plan their routes more effectively..

Modernization and Visual Clarity

As Prague continued to expand its metro network, The map design was also adapted to incorporate new stations and lines, including planning for the future Line D.

The modern map design stands out for its clarity, using icons and signage that provide an accurate overview of important connections and correspondences between lines.

This consistency in signage helps with orientation within the system and improves the navigation experience for daily users and tourists..

Additional data

The Prague Metro effectively connects the city's main points of interest:

Places on line A

Bridge of Carlos: It can be accessed from Malostranská station on Line A.
Astronomical clock: Located in the Old Town Square, the clock is conveniently located a short distance from the Staroměstská station (Line A).
Prague Castle: This famous complex is located near the Hradčanská station, on the same Line A.

Line B

Jewish Quarter: Accessible from Staroměstská station, on Line A, about Republic Square, on Line B.
Dancing House (The Dancing House): For lovers of modern architecture, The Dancing House is accessible from the Karlovo Náměstí station on Line B.
Old Town Square: Near Staroměstská stations (Line A) y Republic Square (Line B).
O2 Arena: Located near the Českomoravská metro station on Line B, The O2 Arena is an important event and concert center.
Center Černý Most: Large shopping center located near the Černý Most metro station (Line B), offering a variety of shopping and entertainment.

Line C

National Museum (National Museum): It's right next to the Muzeum station. (lines A and C), there they have collections of cultural and historical artifacts.
Vysehrad Castle: For a dose of history, you can visit Vyšehrad castle, close to Vyšehrad station on Line C. Besides the castle, The area offers beautiful views of the Vltava River and the city.
PVA Expo Prague en Letňany: It is a place for fairs and exhibitions, accessible from Letňany station on Line C.
National Technical Museum: For those interested in technology and engineering, this museum offers exhibitions and is close to Vltavská station (Line C).

Germany

Metro Hamburg

5 May, 2024 Daniel Leave a comment

The Metro Hamburg, officially known as “Hamburger U-Bahn”, is the underground transportation system that serves the city of Hamburg, Germany.

Inaugurated on 1 March 1912, has grown to include 4 lines that connect 93 stations. The network covers a length of 106.4 kilometres (about 66.11 miles) and is essential for the daily transportation of residents and tourists.