A transit card or app lets you tap on and off local buses, metro and trams without buying a ticket each time — load it once and top up as you go. This lists what each city uses, what it covers, whether your contactless bank card works on its own instead, and which cities are app-only, where no physical card exists and you need a digital wallet set up before you arrive. For finding the ticket gates in the first place at a station like Tokyo Shinjuku, see the Train Station Survival Guide. For getting around by car instead of transit, see Rideshare & Taxi Apps by City.
40%
of London's Tube & rail pay-as-you-go trips are now tapped with a contactless card or phone — double what it was a year earlier
Did you know
The first contactless transit card on Earth wasn't Oyster or Navigo — it was Hong Kong's Octopus card, launched in September 1997. Three million were issued in its first three months, years before any Western city had a tap-in system at all.
2M+contactless taps every day on London's network alone
80%of TfL's fare revenue is contactless now, vs under 10% in 2015
1997the year the world's first contactless transit card launched
Reloadable Motion plastic smart card, personalised or non-personalised, issued at Osypa/Pafos Buses information offices; top up via the JCC website, the Motion Cyprus Bus App, or vending machines. Paper one-way tickets can be bought straight from the driver.
On-board purchases are cash-only (banknotes up to €20; no debit/credit cards accepted by the driver) — buy the Motion smart card in advance at an information office if paying by card matters to you.
Airport: covered — Routes 612 (Tombs of the Kings Station) and 613 (Karavella Station) run to Paphos Airport on standard Motion fares
City kiosks and Correo Argentino post offices downtown; non-refundable card fee (ARS, inflation-sensitive — verify on arrival)
Cost
Bus fares in ARS (inflation-indexed — verify on arrival). Very cheap in USD/EUR terms.
Most visitors reach Ushuaia's stops by rental car, taxi or ride-app rather than city bus — the bus network covers residential Ushuaia and the airport, not the national park or day-trip roads outside town. SUBE is the same national card used in Buenos Aires and other Argentine cities.
Verified Sep 2026
VilniusGuideJUDU / Vilniečio cardTap to payjudu.lt
BusTrolleybusExpress busNight bus
Get it
JUDU customer centres, Narvesen and Lietuvos spauda kiosks, Maxima or Rimi; the card costs €1.50
Options
Load short-term or day tickets, or tap a contactless bank card onboard for a full-price 60-minute ticket
Activate a loaded ticket at the onboard validator. Narvesen stores at Vilnius Airport sell the card on arrival.
Airport: covered — city buses 1, 2, 3G, 88 and night bus 88N accept JUDU tickets
Municipal card-sale and reload points; legacy electronic travel cards are being unified under Muğla Plus Kart
Options
Reloadable contactless card with QR support for participating transport and municipal services across Muğla province
Check the municipality’s transport page for the latest Bodrum routes, sales points and accepted payment media. Airport coaches and ferries may have separate fares or booking rules.
Buy and top up a physical TFI Leap Card at participating shops displaying the Leap Card sign; use the Leap Top-Up app for supported cards.
Options
Pay-as-you-go fares on participating Galway city bus services; keep enough balance for the complete journey.
Present the card to the reader when boarding. Contactless bank-card acceptance is not a substitute for Leap on all city services, so carry the Leap Card or the operator's accepted cash fare.
Airport: separate ticket — Shannon Airport coach services use their own ticketing
Issued by participating accommodation for the duration of the registered stay; ask at check-in
Options
Free to eligible overnight guests · valid only within the published Interlaken transport zone
Use it for local buses and the included transport zone, then show it for listed visitor discounts. Mountain railways, Jungfraujoch tickets and most lake cruises are separate purchases.
Airport: not covered — buy the Zurich Airport to Interlaken rail fare separately
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work on all TfL transport with the same daily and weekly fare caps — skip the Oyster entirely if your card is contactless.
Airport: covered — Heathrow via Elizabeth line; Gatwick & Stansted = separate ticket
Navigo Découverte (weekly pass, ~€30) covers all zones Mon–Sun and is cheaper than individual tickets for any stay over 4 days. Weeks run Monday–Sunday, not 7 rolling days.
Airport: covered — CDG via RER B (zone 5); Orly via Orlyval + RER B
GVB service points, station machines, or Schiphol airport
Deposit
€7.50 refundable; separate balance for GVB and NS
OVpay (contactless bank cards, Apple/Google Pay) now works on GVB trams, metro, buses AND NS intercity trains — you can travel across Amsterdam and beyond without ever loading an OV-chipkaart.
Airport: covered — Schiphol via NS trains; OVpay contactless works too
RET service points, Rotterdam Centraal machines, or the RET app
Deposit
€7.50 refundable; separate balance for RET and NS
OVpay (contactless bank cards, Apple/Google Pay) works on RET trams, metro, and buses, and on NS intercity trains — you can travel across Rotterdam and beyond without loading an OV-chipkaart. The Waterbus to Kinderdijk accepts OV-chipkaart and contactless separately.
Airport: covered — Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) via RET Bus 33 to Rotterdam Centraal
Station machines, BVG app, or Berlin WelcomeCard at airport and hotels
Options
Single €4.00 · Day €11.20 (Zone AB) · WelcomeCard includes museum discounts · 7-day pass discontinued Jan 2026
Berlin has no reloadable card — use the BVG app for single trips or buy a day ticket. The weekly 7-day pass was discontinued January 2026; for longer stays the Deutschlandticket (€63/month) covers all German transit including BVG. Validate before boarding; inspectors check frequently.
Airport: add-on — BER Airport in zone C; standard AB ticket not enough — buy zone ABC (~€4.80)
Metro ticket windows and vending machines, kiosks, Aeroexpress ticket offices
Deposit
₽50 refundable card fee; load any amount on top
A single ride on metro, MCC, MCD central zone, bus, tram or river boat costs ₽75 with credit loaded on the card, cheaper than a paper single ticket. Cards are sold and topped up for cash at ticket windows — foreign Visa and Mastercard do not work at machines, so plan on rubles.
Airport: separate ticket — Aeroexpress trains to Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo and Vnukovo are not covered by Troika fares
Buy and load a Sofia City Card at metro ticket offices and Urban Mobility Center sales points.
Options
Stored-value and time-based products cover Sofia's integrated metro and surface network.
Tap the card at metro gates and onboard validators. A contactless bank card can also be tapped directly for standard urban journeys; use the same card or device throughout the day.
Airport: covered — Metro Line 4 links Sofia Airport with the city network
A booklet of 10 paper tickets sold at TGM and Métro Léger station windows and kiosks — not a rechargeable tap card. Single paper tickets are also sold individually at the same windows.
Cost
Flat fare per ride, under 1 TND; the Carte 10 booklet is priced at roughly ten single fares with a small discount. Tickets must be validated at the platform gate or by the onboard conductor before boarding.
Transtu operates both the TGM commuter line (downtown Tunis to La Goulette, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa) and the Métro Léger tram network across greater Tunis; the Carte 10 booklet works on both. No contactless tap-to-pay exists on either network as of this build — every ride still uses a paper ticket punched or checked at boarding.
Airport: not covered — Tunis–Carthage Airport has no TGM or Métro Léger connection; reach it by taxi or ride-hailing app.
Metro ticket offices and Podorozhnik kiosks at all metro stations; ₽80 refundable card fee
Options
PAYG stored-value; discounted vs cash; monthly and multi-day passes also available
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay do not work on Saint Petersburg transit — the Podorozhnik is essential. Buy and load one at any metro ticket office on arrival; the card fee is refundable when you return it. One card covers metro, bus, tram, trolleybus, and most minibuses (marshrutky). Load enough rubles at the start of your stay, as topping up mid-journey is not possible.
Airport: separate ticket — Pulkovo Airport is served by express bus 39E and city bus 39; these routes are not covered by the Podorozhnik on airport legs
Tabacchi, newsstands, Metro station machines, ATAC app
Options
BIT single €1.50 (100 min) · 24h €8.50 · 48h €15 · 72h €22 · 7-day €29
Validate every time you board — even with a multi-day pass. Inspectors are active near tourist areas. Machines often out of service; buy at a tabacchi instead.
Airport: separate ticket — Fiumicino: Leonardo Express or FL1 regional; not reachable on standard ATAC ticket
The Tourist Travel Pass includes the airport Line 8 surcharge (€3 normally). Zone A covers all central Madrid. Get it at the airport on arrival — it pays off immediately.
Airport: covered — Line 8 airport surcharge (€3) included in Tourist Travel Pass
U-Bahn station machines, Tabak shops, WienMobil app
Options
24h €9.70 · 7-day from €25.20 · 31-day from €65.20 · Vienna City Card (tourism combo) adds museum discounts · 48h/72h/8-day passes discontinued
The 7-day ticket is valid from your selected start date/time through 01:00 on the 8th day. The former 48h, 72h, and 8-day passes were discontinued; 24h and 7-day are now the main visitor options. Buy via the WienMobil app or station machines.
Airport: add-on — Schwechat via S7 train: VOR zone extension beyond city boundary required
Zapping (PAYG credit) · 24h unlimited €6.80 · Lisboa Card includes museums and transport
Load Zapping credit — it works on Metro, bus, tram, and Tagus ferries at the lowest per-trip rate. Historic tram lines 28 and 15E accept the card; avoid buying single tickets on board.
Airport: covered — Aeroporto on Metro Red Line; standard Viva Viagem zapping fare
Buy tickets before boarding — on-board purchase only available on some night buses at a surcharge. Validate on entry each time. Night trams run on separate routes 00:30–04:30.
Airport: covered — Bus 119 from Václav Havel Airport uses standard DPP ticket
Verified Aug 2026
AthensGuideATH.ENA Card / Tap2RideTap to payoasa.gr
MetroBusTramTrolleybus
Get it
Tap contactless Visa/Mastercard or Apple/Google Pay at validators (Tap2Ride system); ATH.ENA reloadable card at Metro offices for reduced/multi-trip fares
Options
Single €1.20 (90 min) · daily cap €4.10 (auto after 4 rides) · 5-day pass €8.20 · Airport Line €9 (separate, not covered by standard options)
Tap2Ride (Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay) works on all Metro, bus, tram, and trolleybus validators — daily cap of €4.10 applies automatically. AMEX and Google Wallet are not supported. Airport Metro Line 3 requires a separate €9 ticket regardless of payment method.
Airport: separate ticket — Airport Metro Line 3: €9 flat fare; not covered by standard pass or daily cap
Contactless bank card or phone works directly; MOBIB card at STIB kiosks and Brussels Airport
Options
Contactless single €2.40 · daily cap €8.50 (free after 4 journeys) · Brupass app 10-trip €18.90 · MOBIB card fee €6 (5-year card, for season passes)
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work directly on all STIB Metro, tram, and bus services — daily cap of €8.50 means unlimited travel after 4 rides. Fares re-indexed February 2026. De Lijn (Flanders) and TEC (Wallonia) require separate tickets.
Airport: separate ticket — Zaventem Airport: SNCB train required; STIB card not valid outside Brussels
Verified Aug 2026
BudapestGuideBudapestGO App / Pay&GOTap to paybkk.hu
Metro M1–M4BusTramTrolleybusHÉV suburban railDanube ferry
Get it
BudapestGO app (recommended for visitors); ticket machines at Metro stations; BKK passenger service centres at Deák tér and Airport
Options
Single HUF 500 · 24h HUF 2,750 · 72h HUF 4,400 · Budapest Card includes transit + museums + discounts
Pay&GO contactless (Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay) launched on all 4 Metro lines in April 2026; buses, trams, and trolleybuses still require a ticket from the BudapestGO app or machine. The Budapest Card bundles transit with free or discounted museum entry — worth comparing for museum-heavy visits.
Airport: separate ticket — 100E express bus: HUF 1,200 separate fare, not included in BKK day pass
Verified Aug 2026
CopenhagenGuideRejsekort App / BasiskortApp before arrivalrejsekort.dk
Rejsekort App or Rejsebillet app (smartphone); Basiskort (new physical card) via rejsekort.dk — order before arriving. Physical Rejsekort discontinued May 2026.
The physical Rejsekort was discontinued May 28, 2026. Contactless bank cards do NOT work directly at validators — you need the Rejsekort App, Rejsebillet app, or the new Basiskort card. Without a smartphone, order the Basiskort from rejsekort.dk before you travel.
Airport: covered — Kastrup Airport on Metro M2; included in Rejsekort App / Copenhagen Card
Spar, Centra, SuperValu, post offices, Dublin Airport; €5 refundable deposit. Leap Visitor Card (no deposit, fixed days) available at the airport and online.
Options
PAYG with fares ~€1.30–€3.30 depending on route · free transfer within 90 min on Dublin Bus · Leap30 or Adult Short Hop pass for regular travel
Leap Cards are available at the airport newsagent or any Spar shop — load 10-20 to start. The card works on Dublin Bus, Luas tram, and DART train, saving up to 30% vs cash fares with automatic daily caps. Airport buses (Aircoach and Dublin Express) do NOT accept Leap — pay by contactless card or cash on board.
Book online in advance or buy at Düsseldorf Tourismus offices; activate on first ride
Options
24h/48h/72h/96h validity from €13.90 · DüsseldorfCard Plus (from €29.90) extends free travel into the wider VRR/VRS regional network including S-Bahn
The DüsseldorfCard is a tourist card, not a reloadable transit card: it bundles free Rheinbahn bus/tram/U-Bahn travel within Düsseldorf with discounts of up to 100% on 70+ museums, tours and attractions. For a short stay focused only on transit rather than sightseeing discounts, a standard Rheinbahn single or day ticket from any station machine is cheaper.
Airport: covered — Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) is on the S-Bahn/regional line within the card's zone
No dedicated tourist card needed — tap contactless bank card or phone at any bus door or tram validator
Options
Bus flat fare £2 (contactless capped) · Tram single from £1.80 · Day ticket £4.50 · Ridacard for frequent use
Just tap your contactless card or phone — Edinburgh Trams and all Lothian Buses accept contactless with daily fare capping. The Airlink 100 bus to the airport is flat-rate and also accepts contactless. No card to buy; no cash needed.
Airport: covered — Airlink 100 to Edinburgh Airport accepts contactless bank card/phone
TPG ticket machines at tram/bus stops; or ask your hotel — most Geneva hotels distribute a free Geneva Welcome Card on check-in
Options
60-min CHF 3.50 · 24h CHF 10 · 3-day CHF 23 · Geneva City Pass includes unlimited transit + museum entry
All Geneva hotel guests receive a free Tout Geneve transport pass at check-in, covering trams, buses, and boats within the canton for the duration of the stay — no separate card purchase needed for most visitors. Passengers arriving at Geneva Airport also get a free 80-minute transit ticket from a machine in the baggage hall, valid immediately for the ride into the city.
Airport: covered — Free 80-min transit ticket dispensed in airport baggage hall; hotel guests get free city pass
Verified Aug 2026
GlasgowGuideSPT Subway / ContactlessTap to payspt.co.uk
SPT SubwayFirst Glasgow busesScotRail (suburban)
Get it
Tap contactless at any SPT Subway gate or First Glasgow bus door — no card needed
Options
Bus flat fare £2 · Subway single £1.85 · Subway Discovery Ticket (unlimited day) £4.20
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay accepted on all SPT Subway turnstiles and First Glasgow buses — no dedicated card needed. The Subway Discovery Ticket (£4.20) gives unlimited rides on the circular subway loop and is worthwhile for a day of exploring both sides of the river.
HSL service points (photo ID required), R-kioski, S-Market, HSL app; or tap contactless bank card directly; HSL card fee €5
Options
Single AB zone €3.50 · 24h €10 · 2-day €16 · 3-day €23 · 7-day €50 · Airport (zone C) add-on required
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work on all HSL services. Helsinki Airport (Vantaa) is in zone C; you need an AB+C ticket for city–airport journeys — the standard AB pass won't cover it. The Suomenlinna island ferry is included in all HSL tickets.
Airport: add-on — Vantaa Airport in zone C; AB+C ticket required — standard AB zone not enough
Biletmatik machines at Metro/tram stations, Akbil booths at major hubs; card fee ~TL 120
Options
PAYG stored-value; discounted vs cash on every ride; one card can tap for companions within 2 minutes
Get an Istanbulkart from any metro station kiosk or set it up through the Istanbulkart app before arriving. Load 50-100 TL to start — it works on metro, tram, bus, ferry, Marmaray train, and the ferry to the Princes' Islands. Transfers within 2 hours are discounted, and one card can tap for multiple passengers sequentially. Cash is not accepted on ferries or most transit, so the card is essential from day one.
Airport: covered — Istanbulkart: M11 metro to Istanbul Airport; Marmaray + metro to Sabiha Gökçen
AKTAS kiosks at major bus stops and the central bus terminal; small card fee applies
Options
PAYG stored-value; discounted vs cash on all AKTAS city buses and both AntalRay tram lines
The Antalyakart is the standard way to ride Antalya's city buses and the AntalRay tramway. Buy one at an AKTAS kiosk near the city centre and load sufficient TL for your stay; cash is not accepted on board. The card covers all numbered AKTAS city bus lines and the AntalRay tram lines through the city centre.
MPK service points at major stops (Główny, Krowodrza Górka), newsagents (Ruch kiosks), and ekp.mpk.krakow.pl online; small card fee applies
Options
Time-based tickets: 20 min · 40 min · 60 min · 24 hr · 48 hr · 72 hr. Load onto the KKM card or buy single-journey paper tickets at machines onboard.
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay are NOT accepted on MPK trams or buses — validate a paper ticket or tap a loaded KKM card at the onboard reader. For stays of 2+ days, the rechargeable KKM card with a 48- or 72-hour pass is best value. Inspectors are frequent; always validate before departure.
Verified Aug 2026
MilanGuideATM Milan Ticket / ContactlessTap to payatm.it
Metro M1–M5TramBus
Get it
ATM ticket machines at Metro stations, tobacconists (tabacchi), ATM Mi app; or tap contactless bank card
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay accepted at all Milan Metro gates and surface validators — no ticket needed. For airport connections, the Malpensa Express train and Linate City Bus require separate tickets outside the ATM network.
Airport: separate ticket — Malpensa Express and Linate City Bus: separate tickets, outside ATM network
MVV app, MVGO app, or ticket machines at stations (contactless cards accepted at machines — not at gates). No tap-at-gate system exists.
Options
Single (inner zone) ~€3.70 · Day pass €9.70 · Partner day (up to 5) €20.70 · Deutschlandticket €63/month (unlimited all German transit) · Airport zone add-on required
No tap-at-gate system — buy tickets via the MVV or MVGO app before boarding. The Deutschlandticket (€63/month subscription) is the best value for stays of a week or more: covers all Munich transit plus any German public transport. Airport is in outer zone M+X — add ~€7 per person unless you have the Deutschlandticket.
Airport: add-on — Airport in outer zone M+X; ~€7 supplement needed (Deutschlandticket covers it)
Ruter app (primary — buy before boarding); 7-Eleven, Narvesen kiosks, or ticket machines. Contactless bank cards accepted at machines to purchase, not at vehicle entry points.
Options
Single NOK 44 (app) · 24h NOK 135 · 7-day NOK 330–350 · 30-day NOK 700+
No tap-at-gate system — buy and activate tickets in the Ruter app before boarding. Inspectors check app-based tickets regularly. Non-European cards may have trouble in the app; use Apple Pay as a workaround. The Oslo Pass includes free Ruter travel within zone 1 and free museum entry — compare against a 24h pass.
Airport: add-on — R10 train to Gardermoen: zone 3 extension needed; Flytoget express is separate
Pick up an Andante card from any metro station vending machine and load Z2 or Z3 zones depending on your hotel location — Z2 covers the historic centre and most visitor areas. The card works on metro, bus, and some funiculars. The airport metro (line E, Aeroporto station) is Zone 4, so load a Z4 trip or buy a separate airport ticket at the machine before boarding.
Airport: add-on — Aeroporto on Metro line E: zone 4 ticket needed (city centre = zone 2)
Verified Aug 2026
StockholmGuideSL Access / ContactlessTap to paysl.se
SL app, Pressbyrån, 7-Eleven, SL service points; or tap contactless bank card at gates
Options
Single SEK 41 (app/contactless) · 24h SEK 165 · 72h SEK 415 · 7-day SEK 990 · daily cap SEK 180 (rides free after that)
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay accepted on all SL Tunnelbana, commuter rail, trams, and buses. The Arlanda Airport connection uses the pricey Arlanda Express (SEK 330) or the cheaper commuter train J38 (Pendeltåg) with a zone supplement — same pass works, just need to buy the airport add-on zone.
Airport: add-on — Arlanda via J38 Pendeltåg: airport zone supplement required
A single vaporetto trip is €9.50 — the 24h pass (€25) pays off after just 3 rides. Contactless "Best Fare" tap (Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay) auto-selects the cheapest option for your travel pattern. On buses and trams, tap off too. The Grand Canal Line 1 is the classic way to see the city.
Zermatt is car-free — gondolas to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Rothorn, and Sunnegga are the mountain transit network and the Peak Pass covers them all. Walk within the village; electric taxis handle luggage. Arriving by train: take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn from Visp or Brig (1 hr) — Swiss Travel Pass covers the regional train but not the lifts.
Airport: not applicable — no airport; arrive by train to Zermatt station via Visp or Brig
Verified Sep 2026
ZurichGuideZVV Ticket / Swiss Travel PassTap to payzvv.ch
Short ride CHF 2.80 · 2-zone single CHF 4.40 · 24h city CHF 17.20 · 9-O'Clock Day Pass CHF 13.60 · Swiss Travel Pass covers all ZVV
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay accepted on all ZVV trams, buses, and S-Bahn. The Swiss Travel Pass (from ~CHF 265 for 4 days) includes unlimited ZVV travel plus trains, boats, and buses nationwide — excellent value for multi-city Switzerland trips. Zurich Airport is in zone 110, covered by any 2-zone or greater ticket.
Airport: covered — Airport in zone 110; covered by any standard 2-zone ZVV ticket
Skyss Billett app or convenience stores; Bergen Card from tourist offices
Options
Single NOK 51 (60-min) · Bergen Card 24h NOK 400 / 48h NOK 500 / 72h NOK 600 (transit + museum entry)
The Bergen Card pays off quickly — it includes unlimited Skyss transit plus free or discounted entry to Bryggen, Fløibanen funicular, and most museums. Buy it at the Tourist Information Centre on Strandkaien.
Metro Bilbao station machines or customer service offices; tobacconists (estancos); reloadable
Cost
Card deposit €3 + load credit; single Metro trip ~€0.85 (vs €1.80 cash); 50% fare discount across all participating networks
The Barik card gives a 50% discount on Metro Bilbao fares vs. single tickets — essential for a multi-day visit. One card can be used by multiple travelers (tap individually). Return the card at a machine when done to recover the €3 deposit.
Ticket machines at tram stops, TBM agencies, or TBM m-ticket app
Options
Single €1.80 (1-hour) · Day €4.90 · City Pass 24h €29 / 48h €42 / 72h €55 (transit + attractions)
The TBM m-ticket app lets you buy and validate tickets on your phone without a physical card. For a 2–3 day visit, the Bordeaux City Pass (€42–55) bundles unlimited transit with Cité du Vin entry and 20+ museum admissions — solid value.
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay tap directly at all Västtrafik validators — easiest for short visits. The Västtrafik app gives full network access and lets you buy before boarding. Paper tickets are no longer sold on board.
CTGr offices, tobacconists (estancos), and machines at major bus stops; reloadable
Cost
Card deposit ~€2 + credit; single urban trip ~€0.90 with card vs ~€1.40 cash; 10-trip bono available
The Tarjeta de Transporte gives a significant discount over paying cash on the LAC network — the main way around the city centre and between the Albaicín and the Alhambra hill. Load at least €5–10 before your first full day. Single-use paper tickets are available but expensive by comparison.
Metro station machines, ilévia agencies; Pass Pass reloadable NFC card
Options
Single ~€1.75 (1-hour, all modes) · 10-trip carnet €15 · Day pass included in Lille City Pass
The Pass Pass is a reloadable NFC card that works on all ilévia metro, tram, and bus routes. Load it at any station machine. The metro is the fastest link between Lille-Flandres and Lille-Europe train stations (1 stop).
No card needed — just board any bus, tram, or regional train. Free for all riders since March 1, 2020.
Options
All 2nd class transit within Luxembourg is fare-free for everyone. 1st class train seats still require a ticket.
Luxembourg became the world's first country to make all public transit free nationwide — buses, trams, and CFL regional trains. No card, no ticket, no app required. Just board and ride. The Mobiliteit.lu app is useful for journey planning but entirely optional.
One validated TCL ticket allows 1-hour free transfers across metro, tram, funicular (to Fourvière and Saint-Just), and bus. The 24h pass (€7.20) is the most practical for a full sightseeing day. The Oùra card is reloadable and works across the greater Lyon metropolitan area.
Kiosks, estancos (tobacco shops), or contactless payment on board
Options
Single €1.40 (cash on board) · 10-trip Bonobus €8.30 (€0.83/trip) · Contactless bank card/phone accepted directly
Contactless bank cards and mobile wallets are accepted directly on EMT buses — just tap when boarding. The Bonobus 10-trip card cuts the per-trip cost to €0.83 vs €1.40 cash. Free bus transfers are included from the second leg onward with a single Bonobus fare.
RTM ticket machines, RTM agencies, or tap contactless bank card/phone at validators on all modes
Options
Single €1.70 (90-min) · 24h €5.20 · 72h €10.80 · 7-day €15.50 · Contactless bank card directly at validators
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work directly at Marseille metro, bus, and tram validators — no separate transit card needed. The 7-day pass (€15.50) is exceptional value for any stay over 3 days, covering all RTM modes including the Vieux-Port ferry.
Tram station ticket machines or Lignes d'Azur agencies; €2 refundable deposit
Options
Single €1.70 (74-min) · Day €7 · 2-day €13 · 7-day €20 · Load any amount onto La Carte
La Carte is a reloadable NFC card covering all Lignes d'Azur bus and tram routes in Nice and the Côte d'Azur network. The €2 deposit is refundable. One validated ticket includes 74-minute free transfers between tram and bus connections.
Verified Aug 2026
San SebastiánGuideDbus Contactless / MUGITap to paydbus.eus
Dbus (city bus)EuskoTrenLurraldebus
Get it
Contactless bank card or mobile wallet taps directly on any Dbus bus. MUGI card (Gipuzkoa province): Kutxabank ATMs, newsagents, or post offices. If you have a Barik (Bilbao), it also works on Dbus and EuskoTren.
Cost
Dbus contactless/bank card: €1.95/ride · 30-min free transfer · Night Búho routes: €2.65 · MUGI card: discounted rates vs contactless · EuskoTren: buy at station (accepts MUGI/Barik)
Just tap your contactless bank card or Apple/Google Pay on any Dbus bus — no separate card needed. Free transfers within 30 minutes apply to bank card taps. EuskoTren (connecting San Sebastián to Bilbao and the Basque coast) does not accept bank card tap — buy a paper ticket or use a MUGI or Barik card at station machines.
Tourist offices, major hotels, Salzburg Airport, or online. Guest Mobility Ticket: free with 2+ nights at participating hotels.
Options
Single €2.60 · Day €5.20 · Salzburg Card 24h / 48h / 72h (transit + free museum entry + Hohensalzburg)
Hotel guests staying 2+ nights in Salzburg province receive a free Guest Mobility Ticket for the entire stay — covers all trolleybuses, Albus lines, S-trains, and regional buses. If not staying in the province, the Salzburg Card (transit + Hohensalzburg + DomQuartier) easily pays for itself.
Metro stations, TUSSAM offices, newsstands; €1.50 refundable deposit
Options
Multiviaje PAYG €0.69/trip · Tourist Card 1-day €5 / 3-day €10 · Contactless bank cards on metro (40% off cash fare)
Contactless bank cards tap directly at metro turnstiles with a 40% discount vs cash. The Tarjeta Multiviaje at €0.69/trip is even cheaper and works on buses too. Tourist Cards (€5/day) cover unlimited bus + metro — worthwhile for full sightseeing days.
Strasbourg's 6 tram lines cover the entire city including the historic Grande Île and Petite France. Validate your ticket before boarding — inspectors check regularly. The 24h pass (€4.60) is excellent value for a full sightseeing day.
Ticket machines at all stations or VVS app; tickets must be purchased before boarding
Options
Single €3.30 (3-hour, Stammbereich) · Day pass €6.60 (valid until 7am next day) · Deutschland-Ticket €58/month (nationwide)
The Deutschland-Ticket (€58/month) covers all local and regional transit across Germany — excellent if visiting multiple German cities in a month. For a short stay, buy single or day tickets via the VVS app or station machines. Tickets must be purchased before boarding.
R-Kiosk convenience stores or Tallinn Transport offices; €2 non-refundable card fee
Options
Ühiskaart PAYG €2/hr · Day €5.50 · 3-day €9 · 5-day €11 · Contactless bank card €1.50/ride (cheaper single rate)
Contactless bank cards tap at €1.50/ride — cheaper than the Ühiskaart PAYG rate of €2/hour. For multi-day visits, the 3-day Ühiskaart pass (€9) is best overall value. Validate on board — trams and buses have validators but no gates; inspectors are active.
ten+ card (€2 fee): TITSA stations, kiosks, airports, or the ten+ Móvil app; or tap any contactless bank card/phone directly on any bus
Options
Contactless single: ~€1.45 (urban) · Interurban: varies by distance ~€1–5 · Daily tourist pass (ten+ card or app): €10 unlimited · MetroTenerife: also accepts contactless and ten+
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay tap directly on all TITSA buses across Tenerife — no card needed for occasional riders. The ten+ card (€2) gives discounted fares. The €10 daily tourist pass (via ten+ card or app) covers unlimited TITSA and MetroTenerife — worthwhile for a full sightseeing day.
GTT ticket machines, tabacchi shops, GTT app, or tap contactless bank card at metro gates
Options
City ticket €2.00 (100-min, all modes) · Day €8 · 2-day €12 · Contactless "Tap & Go" on metro + modern buses/trams
GTT Tap & Go accepts contactless bank cards and mobile wallets at metro gates and modern bus/tram validators. One City Ticket (€2) gives 100 minutes of free transfers — board the metro and transfer to a bus at no extra charge. Validate on board at older tram/bus stops.
Bus (Malta + Gozo)Ferry (Valletta–Sliema · Three Cities)
Get it
Explore Card (€25, 7-day unlimited) or 12-Trip Card (€19, shareable): publictransport.com.mt, kiosks, and bus stops. Contactless bank card also accepted on board.
Contactless bank cards and mobile wallets accepted directly on all Malta buses. The Explore Card (€25) gives 7 days of unlimited travel on every Malta and Gozo bus route plus the Valletta–Sliema and Three Cities ferries — far better value than per-trip taps for any stay of 3+ days. Single fares go up to €2.50 in summer.
STB kiosks and Restu machines at major stops; also at select STB offices and online at stb.ro
Fares
Single trip ~3.5 RON loaded onto the card; day and multi-day passes available
The STB Card covers only STB surface transport (buses, trams, trolleybuses). The metro (Metrorex) uses separate paper tickets or its own card purchased at metro station kiosks — buy them there before boarding. Uber and Bolt both operate in Bucharest and are often more practical for visitors than learning two separate card systems.
Buy the standard stored-value card at Macau Pass customer-service centres, supermarkets and convenience stores. The standard card costs MOP 130, including MOP 100 stored value and a MOP 30 card fee.
Use it
Tap on public buses and at Macao LRT gates; it also works at many convenience stores, bakeries and vending machines. Reload before the balance runs low.
On regular public buses, Macau Pass reduces the standard MOP 6 cash fare to MOP 3 and enables transfer concessions. Visitors who prefer not to buy a card can pay the full bus fare with supported QR payment methods.
Airport: covered — airport bus routes and the LRT Taipa Line accept Macau Pass
JR linesTokyo MetroToei SubwayBusMonorailConvenience storesTaxis
Get it
JR station machines, or add Suica to Apple Wallet — no physical card needed
Deposit
¥500 refundable for physical card; none for Apple Wallet
Suica works at nearly every transit system across Japan — not just Tokyo. Also accepted at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and most vending machines. Add to Apple Wallet before departure for the simplest setup.
Airport: add-on — Haneda: Monorail/Keikyu covered by Suica; Narita: Keisei or N'EX requires fare add-on
JR WestOsaka MetroKeihanHankyuKintetsuMost local transit
Get it
JR West ticket machines at Osaka, Kyoto, or Kansai Airport stations
Deposit
¥500 refundable; load as needed at any JR machine
ICOCA is fully interoperable with Suica — if you already have a Suica from Tokyo, use it in Osaka and Kyoto without getting ICOCA. Both work at convenience stores throughout Japan.
ICOCA: JR West ticket machines at Hiroshima Station (¥2,000 initial — ¥500 refundable deposit + ¥1,500 usable). Suica or ICOCA via Apple Wallet before arrival (Welcome Suica iOS app: no Japanese Apple ID needed)
Fare
Hiroden streetcar flat ¥220/adult, ¥110/child (tap out only — single zone fare). All 10 nationwide IC cards accepted since March 2025 — Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, PiTaPa, and 6 others (PASPY retired March 2025)
If you already have a Suica or ICOCA from Tokyo or Osaka, use it everywhere in Hiroshima — all 10 nationwide IC cards work on Hiroden streetcar, JR West trains, and city buses since March 2025. The Welcome Suica iOS app (English, accepts foreign cards) lets you add Suica to Apple Wallet before departure — the easiest setup for first-time Japan visitors.
Airport MTR station or any MTR customer service centre; also available as app
Deposit
HK$50 refundable; minimum HK$100 initial load
Refund the full balance at any MTR station on departure — staff can process it even with a negative balance. The Octopus app requires a local HK bank account.
TransitLink counters at MRT stations, 7-Eleven; S$5 non-refundable card fee
Contactless
Visa/Mastercard contactless and Apple/Google Pay accepted on all MRT and bus — no EZ-Link needed
Skip EZ-Link entirely — just tap your contactless card or phone. Fares are identical and you avoid the S$5 non-refundable card fee. Note: non-Singaporean contactless cards carry a S$0.60/day surcharge.
Airport: covered — Changi Airport on MRT East–West/Thomson–East Coast lines
Any MRT station service centre or 7-Eleven; NT$100 refundable deposit
Discount
Monthly ridership rebate of 10–30% on MRT fares, credited back to the card at month end
Refund remaining balance at any MRT station on departure. The EasyCard works on YouBike city bikes — use it to transfer between YouBike and MRT/bus within 1 hour for a NT$5 discount per transfer.
BTS SkytrainMRT Blue/PurpleRed LineAirport Rail LinkBRT bus
Get it
Rabbit Card: any BTS station (passport required); ฿100 non-refundable fee. MRT: no card needed — tap your contactless bank card or phone directly at the yellow gate reader.
Cost
BTS PAYG ฿16–47/trip (distance). MRT PAYG distance-based, fare auto-calculated tap-in/out.
Two separate systems, two separate payments. BTS turnstiles do not accept contactless bank cards — you need the Rabbit Card for BTS Skytrain. MRT (Blue/Purple/Red/Pink/Yellow lines + Airport Rail Link) transitioned fully to EMV contactless in June 2026: just tap your Visa, Mastercard, or Apple/Google Pay at every MRT gate.
Airport: covered — Airport Rail Link: contactless Visa/MC/Apple Pay (MRT system); Rabbit Card not valid on ARL
All 29 Subway linesCity busAirport ExpressSuburban rail S2
Get it
Subway station service counters; ¥20 refundable deposit + ¥20 minimum load. Virtual card available in Apple Wallet (no deposit needed, no physical card).
Cost
Subway from ¥3 (distance). Bus 50% off cash fares with Yikatong. Monthly rebate: 20% back after ¥100 spent, 50% after ¥150.
As of March 2026, all 29 Beijing subway lines accept foreign Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, JCB, and Amex contactless at every gate — no card needed for subway-only use. Get the Yikatong (or add it to Apple Wallet) if you plan frequent bus trips: the 50% bus discount is substantial and foreign contactless cards are not widely accepted on buses.
All Metro linesBusFerryTramMaglev (Pudong Airport)
Get it
Metro station service counters or ticket machines; Lawson/FamilyMart; ¥20 refundable deposit. Add directly to Apple Wallet (same ¥20 deposit applies).
Cost
Metro from ¥3–4 (distance) · Bus ¥2 flat. No card discount — same fares as single-journey tickets, but accepted on buses and Maglev where contactless bank cards don't work.
iPhone users: add the Shanghai transit card to Apple Wallet (¥20 deposit) and ride metro, buses, and Maglev. Foreign Visa/Mastercard contactless works on all metro lines (since June 2025) but not buses — get the physical card if you plan to take buses. Google Pay unverified in China.
Metro service centers, 7-Eleven and FamilyMart stores, ticket machines; ¥20 refundable deposit
Cost
Metro from ¥2–12 (distance-based) · Bus ¥2 flat. Card gives a transfer discount within 90 minutes.
The Shenzhen Tong covers metro, buses, ferries, and even taxis — tap on the in-car card reader. Foreign contactless bank cards work on some newer metro gate readers but not on buses or ferries; the physical Shenzhen Tong is the reliable option for all modes. iPhone users can add a virtual Shenzhen Tong to Apple Wallet.
Airport: covered — Shenzhen Tong accepted on Metro Line 11 (Airport Express) to Bao'an International Airport
Ticket machines or customer service desks at any metro station; QAR 10 non-refundable card fee. Travel Cards are Gold, Silver, or Standard class.
Options
Standard class single from QAR 2 (peak) · QAR 1 (off-peak). Load a value top-up. Contactless Visa/Mastercard also accepted at turnstiles.
The Doha Metro is the fastest way between the airport, West Bay, and Souq Waqif — well air-conditioned, clean, and cheap by any standard. Contactless bank cards work at every turnstile, so occasional riders can skip the card. The Lusail Tram connects at the Lusail Metro Station on the Red Line and accepts the same Travel Card.
Airport: covered — Hamad International Airport on Metro Gold Line
Main bus terminals and designated outlets; AED 10 non-refundable card fee (5-year validity)
Cost
Zone-based fares from AED 2 · Weekly AED 30 · Monthly AED 80 · Cash NOT accepted on buses — card required
Abu Dhabi buses are entirely cashless — a Hafilat Card is required to board. Load it at terminals before your first trip. The network covers central Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and inter-emirate routes to Dubai and Al Ain. The weekly pass (AED 30) pays off after 15 rides.
Ticket windows at any metro station; load value at ticket machines
Cost
EGP 8 (up to 9 stations) · EGP 10 (10–16 stations) · EGP 15 (17+ stations) · No fare discount, but avoids queues
The Cairo Metro smart card offers no fare discount vs paper tickets but saves significant time at busy stations during rush hour. Women-only carriages (painted pink) are available on all trains — the middle cars. The metro is far faster and cheaper than taxis for cross-city trips.
Metro station service centres or 7-Eleven stores; RMB 20 refundable deposit
Options
Metro ¥2–11 (distance-based) with 10% card discount · Day pass ¥18 · 3-day ¥45 · 5-day ¥70
Chongqing Rail Transit is one of the world's longest metro networks — essential in a city built across mountains and rivers. The Yikatong card gives 10% off metro fares and works on city buses. The Yangtze River cable car (Line 2 branch) is a spectacular transit experience crossing the river.
Any RTA station machine or customer service desk; AED 25 total (AED 6 card fee + AED 19 preloaded credit)
Cost
Metro AED 3–7.50 (zone-based, Silver class) · Daily cap AED 14 · Weekly AED 35 · Monthly AED 100 · Cash NOT accepted
The Nol Silver Card is required for all RTA transit — cash is not accepted at metro gates or on buses. The daily cap (AED 14) auto-applies after approximately 5 metro trips, so you ride free for the rest of the day. Reload at any station machine or RTA outlet.
Airport: covered — Nol Card: Metro Red Line to Terminals 1 & 3 directly
Metro Line 2A (Cát Linh–Hà Đông)Line 3 (Nhổn–Hà Nội Station)
Get it
Metro station ticket counters, Hanoi Metro app, or tap EMV/NFC bank card at gates (since Dec 2025)
Options
Single VND 8,000–15,000 (distance-based) · 72h unlimited VND 150,000 (~USD 6) · Contactless bank card/phone at gates
Since December 2025, Hanoi Metro accepts EMV contactless bank cards and NFC phones at all fare gates. The 72-hour unlimited pass (VND 150,000 / ~USD 6) is excellent value. The metro is the fastest connection between central Hanoi and Hà Đông, avoiding the city's notorious traffic.
Stored Fare Card (SFC) — top up and valid 1 year; also 1-day and 3-day unlimited passes available
The Stored Fare Card (SFC) is the reusable option on HCMC Metro's Line 1, which opened December 2024. Buy and top up at station vending machines. The VND 35,000 deposit is fully refundable when you return the card. Paper tickets are being phased out in favour of contactless and app payment — single-use tickets still cost a non-refundable VND 15,000 deposit.
Pink Line (Mansarovar–Badi Chaupar)Green Line (Sitapura–Ambabari)
Get it
Metro station ticket counters; card costs ₹100 (₹50 refundable deposit + ₹50 stored value)
Fares
₹10–₹23 distance-based; 10% discount on every journey with Smart Card
The Jaipur Metro Smart Card gives a 10% fare discount on all trips. Recharge at station kiosks or via the Jaipur Metro app. Student (15% off) and Senior Citizen (25% off) cards are available at Mansarovar and Sindhi Camp stations with valid ID. The ₹50 security deposit is fully refundable when you return the card.
Light rail station kiosks or bus company offices; NIS 5 non-refundable card fee
Fares
NIS 5.50 per ride (bus or light rail); transfer within 90 min costs NIS 1.80 on buses
The Rav-Kav is Israel's national smart transit card — load it at station kiosks or bus terminals. The Jerusalem Light Rail (Red and Blue lines) covers the Old City area, Mahane Yehuda market, and Yad Vashem. The NIS 5 card fee is non-refundable; any remaining balance is refundable.
Any metro station kiosk; GEL 2 refundable deposit. Entire system is cashless — card required.
Options
Single GEL 1 (90-min, metro + bus transfer) · Day pass GEL 3 · 7-day GEL 20 · Load any amount
Tbilisi transit is entirely cashless — the Metromoney card is required for all metro, buses, and minibuses. The GEL 2 deposit is refundable at station kiosks. One tap covers 90-minute free transfers between metro and bus. The same card works on the Rike–Narikala cable car.
Any Mumbai Metro station counter or ticket machine
Deposit
Refundable card fee; load any amount on top
An NCMC-based contactless card that works across Metro, BEST buses, and (on newer readers) the suburban railway — one card instead of separate metro tokens and local-train tickets.
No card needed — tap any contactless Visa/Mastercard or Apple/Google Pay at any turnstile
Fare cap
$35/week — rolling 7-day window starting from your first tap; rides are free once cap is reached
MetroCard is fully retired as of January 2026. OMNY contactless is the only option. The OMNY card (available at station machines) works identically to tapping a contactless bank card or phone.
CTA station machines, Walgreens, or Ventra app; $5 card fee (refunded after $5 in rides)
Options
'L' train $2.75/ride · Bus $2.50/ride · Transfer $0.25 within 2h · 1-day $6 · 7-day $25 (3-day pass discontinued)
The Ventra app works as a mobile card — load it and tap your phone at turnstiles. Contactless bank cards accepted at all CTA gates. Transfers cost $0.25 each and apply once within a 2-hour window.
Airport: covered — O'Hare via CTA Blue Line; Midway via CTA Orange Line
Purchase and top up at any metro station ticket window or authorized resellers throughout the city
Options
PAYG stored-value card valid on all metro, CPTM commuter rail, and city bus lines; no contactless bank card acceptance
The Bilhete Único gives you 3 free bus transfers within 2 hours. Top up at metro stations before heading out — the card saves time at turnstiles versus buying single tickets each ride.
Purchase and top up at Trensurb metro stations and authorized EPTC resellers across the city
Options
PAYG stored-value card used on all city buses and Trensurb metro lines; no contactless bank card acceptance
The TRI Card covers both the EPTC surface bus network and the Trensurb suburban metro. Top up at any Trensurb station before boarding — cash accepted at station booths.
Any URBS integration terminal (terminal de integração) or bus tube station; load credit at the attendant booth or ticket machine inside the tube
Cost
Flat fare per boarding (BRL, verify on arrival — roughly R$5–7 as of 2025). The RIT Card enables free transfers within a 2-hour window.
Curitiba's famous tube-shaped BRT stations (Ligeirinho) are pre-paid — buy your ticket inside the tube before the bus arrives, then board at level. The RIT Card gives you 2-hour free transfers across the entire network, making it far better value than paying each boarding separately. Load at least R$20–30 before heading out.
Free from station agents at Government Center, Park Street, Back Bay; or tap contactless bank card/phone directly at gates (same $2.40 fare)
Options
Subway $2.40/ride · Bus $1.70/ride · 1-Day Pass $11 (unlimited; CharlieCard or CharlieTicket only — not loadable on bank card)
For pay-as-you-go rides, just tap a contactless bank card or Apple/Google Pay — same $2.40 fare, no card needed. For unlimited 1-day or 7-day passes, grab a free CharlieCard from a station agent or buy a CharlieTicket at any machine and load the pass there.
Airport: covered — Logan Airport via Silver Line SL1 (free outbound from terminals; standard fare inbound)
Subte (A–F+H)City bus (colectivos)Suburban commuter trains
Get it
City kiosks (kioskos), Subte ticket offices, Correo Argentino post offices, supermarkets; non-refundable card fee (ARS, inflation-sensitive — verify on arrival)
Cost
Subte and bus fares in ARS (inflation-indexed quarterly — verify on arrival). Fares are very cheap in USD/EUR terms. Contactless (Visa/Mastercard/Apple Pay) now accepted on Subte and city buses within BA city.
Since December 2024, all Subte stations and city buses accept foreign Mastercard/Visa contactless and Apple/Google Pay — no SUBE card needed for city travel. SUBE remains required for suburban commuter trains. Argentina's inflation makes all ARS prices stale quickly: verify fares at the turnstile on arrival.
LA Metro Rail (A/B/C/D/E/G/K)Metro Bus26 partner agencies (Big Blue Bus, Culver CityBus…)
Get it
TAP machines at all Metro rail stations; Ralphs/CVS/7-Eleven; $2 non-refundable fee. Digital TAP: free via Apple Wallet (taptogo.net).
Options
Single $1.75 · daily cap $5 (free after 3 rides) · weekly cap $18 · 2-hour free transfer window. Contactless bank card/Apple Pay accepted (launched May 2026).
Full-fare riders don't need a TAP card — tap any contactless bank card or phone; the $5 daily cap and $18 weekly cap apply automatically. Discount/reduced fares (seniors, youth) still require a physical TAP card. Digital TAP is free to add to Apple Wallet.
Airport: covered — LAX via Metro K Line to Westchester/Veterans + free APM connector to terminals
$6 non-refundable (standard); $15 (photo card, required for reduced fares). 4-year validity. Not refundable.
Options
Single $3.75 · 10-trip $35 · weekly $33.25 · monthly $110 (All Modes A, effective July 2026)
Get an OPUS card from an STM metro station vending machine and load the fare for every zone and mode in the trip. The 747 airport bus accepts qualifying 24-hour, 3-day, weekly and monthly fares on OPUS; a separate digital airport fare can be bought by credit card in the Chrono app. A bank card is not tapped directly on board.
Airport: covered — YUL Airport: bus 747 accepts OPUS card
Market-Frankford ElBroad Street SubwayTrolleyBusRegional Rail
Get it
SEPTA vending machines or septakey.org; $4.95 card fee — fully refunded if registered online within 30 days. Contactless bank card/phone works directly.
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay accepted on all SEPTA modes — bus, subway, trolley, AND Regional Rail. Multi-rider support (up to 5 people on one tap) added May 2026. For occasional visits, skip the card entirely and tap your phone. Register the $4.95 card within 30 days to get the fee refunded.
MetrôRioSuperVia commuter trainsBRT corridorsVLT light railCity bus
Get it
RioCard Mais (R$4 fee): metro stations, riocard.com.br. Jaé (R$5 fee or free app): metro/VLT stations, jae.rio app. Two separate cards — no balance sharing.
Cost
Metro R$7.90/ride · City bus/VLT R$4.30/ride. Contactless Visa/Mastercard accepted on MetrôRio turnstiles — no card purchase needed for metro-only use.
Rio requires two separate cards (RioCard Mais for metro/trains, Jaé for buses/VLT/BRT) with no cross-card integration. For metro-only travel, tap your foreign contactless bank card — no card purchase needed. For buses or VLT, download the Jaé app and load credit before you need it.
BART/Muni ticket machines, Walgreens, Safeway, clippercard.com (mailed); $3 non-refundable fee. Digital Clipper: free via Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Options
Muni single $2.85 · BART distance-based (~$2.40+) · 1-Day Muni Visitor Passport $15 · 3-Day $35 · 7-Day $47 (Visitor Passports require Clipper card, not bank card)
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work on all Muni and BART fare gates — pay per ride. For cable cars or unlimited multi-day passes, you need a Clipper card (or Digital Clipper via Apple/Google Pay) to load Visitor Passports. Muni gives free 90-min transfers; BART is distance-based regardless.
Airport: covered — SFO via BART (Clipper accepted at all gates)
CLP 1,550 non-refundable (~$1.70 USD) + CLP 1,000 minimum load required. Get at any Metro station ticket office, bip! Centers, or Unimarc/Líder supermarkets.
Cost
Metro CLP 735–895/trip (off-peak to peak) · Bus CLP 640–750. bip! integrated transfer: one bus-to-metro connection within 2h at fare difference only. Contactless bank cards do NOT include this transfer discount.
Pago Ágil (contactless Visa/Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay) works on Metro and MetroTren since February 2026, but does NOT include the integrated bus transfer discount. If you plan to take both metro and buses — as most visitors do — get a bip! card on arrival; the integrated fare covers bus connections within 2 hours at just the fare difference.
Anonymous card from any TransMilenio portal ticket window or station machine, or a personalized card (ID required) at select points — about COP 7,000–8,000, no balance included.
Cost
COP 3,550/trip flat fare across TransMilenio, SITP buses and TransMiCable — no per-distance charge. A personalized card gets up to two free transfers within a 125-minute window; an anonymous card pays full fare on every tap.
The TransMiCable up to Ciudad Bolívar runs on the same TuLlave fare and transfer window as TransMilenio and SITP — no separate ticket for the cable car.
Airport: TuLlave sold on-site — a personalization point at El Dorado's Entrance 4 (second floor) sells the card; the free Shuttle 16-14 reaches the nearest TransMilenio portal, or ride bus M86/K86 with a loaded TuLlave.
Rechargeable personalized card at station ticket offices (passport required), or a one-time "Eventual" rechargeable card from a station kiosk with no ID needed — COP 10,900 to start, card fee included.
Cost
COP 3,430/trip with a personalized card · flat fare across Metro, Metrocable and Tram, one tap in only — no tap-out and no per-distance charge.
The Metrocable lines up to Santo Domingo and Arví run on the same Cívica fare as the Metro — no separate ticket for the cable car. Cards are not shared between people mid-trip; each rider taps their own card once at entry.
Airport: separate ticket — José María Córdova (MDE) is outside the city; the Cívica card is not valid on the airport shuttle bus or taxi transfer into Medellín.
Rechargeable "Tarjeta Metro" from customer-service counters or kiosks at any Metro station — no ID needed; minimum recharge $2.00.
Cost
$0.35/trip flat fare on Metro Lines 1 and 2; the same card also pays MetroBus fares for convenient transfers.
One tap in only — no tap-out and no per-distance charge. The card is not shared mid-trip; each rider taps their own card once at entry.
Airport: separate ticket — Tocumen International (PTY) sits well outside the Metro network; take a taxi or rideshare into the city rather than the Metro Card.
Link Light RailKing County Metro BusST ExpressSounder commuter railWA State Ferries (select)
Card fee
$3 non-refundable (physical); free via MyORCA app to Apple/Google Wallet. Buy at Link Light Rail vending machines, myorca.com, or King County Metro offices.
Options
Link Light Rail $3 flat · Metro Bus $2.75 · 2-hour transfer window across all ORCA agencies. Contactless Visa/Mastercard/Apple/Google Pay accepted (launched Feb 2026).
Tap contactless bank card or Apple/Google Pay on all ORCA lines since February 2026. Get the ORCA card at SeaTac Airport Link station on arrival — the 1 Line light rail takes you directly downtown. Discount fares (seniors, youth, ORCA LIFT low-income) require a physical ORCA card.
Airport: covered — SeaTac Airport via 1 Line Link Light Rail (ORCA card or contactless)
TTC subway vending machines, Shoppers Drug Mart; $4 non-refundable fee. Digital PRESTO: free via PRESTO app → Apple/Google Wallet. Contactless bank card/phone also works directly.
Options
TTC flat $3.30/ride · 2-hour free transfer · Day Pass $13.50. Monthly fare capping replaces upfront monthly passes from September 2026.
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work on all TTC subway gates, streetcar readers, and bus validators — same $3.30 fare with the 2-hour free transfer. Skip the PRESTO card for short visits. From September 2026, monthly fare capping (auto-caps spending at the monthly pass equivalent) rewards frequent riders without requiring an upfront pass purchase.
Airport: covered — Pearson Airport via UP Express (Presto card accepted)
$6 refundable deposit (returned with balance when card is returned). Available at all SkyTrain vending machines, London Drugs, compasscard.ca.
Options
1-zone $2.85 · 2-zone $4.20 · 3-zone $5.40 · Day Pass $12.55 (all zones, effective July 2026). Contactless bank card/Apple Pay accepted at all fare gates.
Contactless bank cards and mobile wallets work at SkyTrain, SeaBus and bus readers, but they charge the adult cash fare; Compass Stored Value is cheaper. Tap in and out on rail and SeaBus, but only tap in on buses. A $6.50 YVR AddFare applies when a trip starts at YVR, Sea Island Centre or Templeton and leaves Sea Island.
Airport: add-on — YVR via Canada Line: regular zone fare plus $6.50 AddFare when leaving Sea Island
MARTA station vending machines or MARTA on the Go app; no card fee. Launched March 28, 2026. Old silver Breeze cards expired May 2, 2026.
Options
Single $2.50 (3-hour window, 4 free transfers) · Day pass $9 · Contactless Visa/MC/Apple/Google Pay at all rail gates and buses
Contactless bank cards and phones now tap directly at all MARTA gates. If you have an old silver Breeze card, it expired May 2, 2026 — get the new Better Breeze card at any station. The airport (Hartsfield-Jackson) is on the Gold Line: direct rail to downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead.
Airport: covered — Hartsfield–Jackson via MARTA Gold Line (direct from downtown)
CapMetro app, transit centers, or HEB / Randalls stores; no card fee, no deposit
Options
Local: $2.50/day cap (fare capping) · Commuter: $7/day · Contactless bank card/phone on most buses (not on MetroRail)
CapMetro caps the daily local fare at $2.50 — ride all day after that at no charge. Contactless tap-to-pay works on most bus routes but NOT on the MetroRail Red Line; use the Q card or CapMetro app for rail. The Q card is free with no deposit required.
BusLYNX Blue Line (light rail)CityLYNX Gold Line (free streetcar)
Get it
CATS ticket machines at LYNX stations or Charlotte Transportation Center; no deposit
Options
Local bus / LYNX $2.20/ride · Day pass $4.40 · CityLYNX Gold Line streetcar is free · Contactless tap coming under 2026 Fare Modernization Plan
The CityLYNX Gold Line streetcar is completely free to ride and connects uptown Charlotte. CATS announced a Fare Modernization Plan in May 2026 — contactless bank card payments are coming but not yet live. For now, use the EZ Rider card or purchase single-ride tickets at station machines.
GoPass app, DART rail station machines, or tap any contactless Visa/MC/Amex/Discover card at GoPass Tap readers
Options
Local single $3.00 (2.5-hour) · Day cap $6 (auto fare capping) · Monthly cap $96 (registered contactless cards)
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay tap at all DART rail platform readers, bus boarding readers, and Dallas Streetcar vehicles. The GoPass Tap system auto-caps daily charges at $6 — no need to buy a day pass. Register your card at gopass.org to unlock the monthly cap of $96.
RTD MyRide app, King Soopers / Safeway stores, or RTD sales outlets; free card
Options
3-hour pass $2.75 · Day pass $5.50 · Monthly $88 · Fare capping: 3-hr passes auto-convert to day/monthly at cap
RTD fare capping means you never overpay — buy $2.75 3-hour passes and the system auto-upgrades to a $5.50 day pass once you hit the threshold. The A Line connects Denver Union Station to Denver International Airport (DIA) in 37 minutes. Youth 19 and under ride free on all RTD services.
Airport: covered — DIA via RTD A Line (University of Colorado A Line) — 37 min to Union Station
Bus stop kiosks along the Strip, RTC app, or tap contactless Visa/MC at readers
Options
Deuce (Strip): single $4 · 2-hr $6 · 24h $8 · 3-day $20 · Local bus $2/ride · Contactless cards accepted
The Deuce double-decker runs the full Las Vegas Strip 24/7 — the cheapest way to travel between casino hotels. The 24h pass ($8) is the best value for a Strip-heavy day. Local bus routes (off-Strip) cost $2/ride. Contactless cards work at all RTC readers on both Deuce and local buses.
Any Line 1 station or 1,200+ reload points across Lima; S/5 non-refundable card cost
Cost
S/1.50/ride (Villa El Salvador to San Juan de Lurigancho, north-south corridor) · Load in S/5 increments
Metro Line 1 is Lima's only fully operational metro line, running elevated through the city north to south. It's the fastest way to avoid Lima's notorious traffic. The S/5 card fee is non-refundable. Metro Line 2 (east-west) is under construction and not yet operational.
Metrorail stations and select Walgreens; $2 non-refundable card fee
Options
Single $2.25 · Daily cap $5.65 (auto fare capping) · Contactless Visa/MC/Amex at Metrorail gates and Metrobus readers
The Metromover (downtown and Brickell circulator) is completely free — no card needed. Contactless bank cards tap at Metrorail gate readers with the same $5.65 daily cap as the EASY Card. The Metrorail connects Miami International Airport directly to downtown via the Orange Line (~30 min).
Airport: covered — MIA via Metrorail Orange Line directly to airport station
STM offices and select kiosks; minimum load UYU 100
Cost
UYU 52/ride (Jan 2026 rate) · 1-hour free transfer window · 40+ trips/month: UYU 2 refund per trip auto-credited
The STM card is cheaper than cash and includes a free 1-hour transfer window — useful for connections across Montevideo's extensive bus network. Frequent riders (40+ trips/month) automatically receive a per-trip discount credited the following month. Some routes require the card; cash is accepted on most others.
WeGo Bus (all local + express)WeGo Star (commuter rail)
Get it
Contactless bank card or Apple/Google/Samsung Pay on all buses and WeGo Star (launched August 2025). QuickTicket reloadable card ($3 fee, refunded if registered online) at WeGo Central and ticket machines. QuickTicket app also available.
Options
Single $2.00 (2-hour) · Daily cap $4.00 (auto applied with card or app) · Monthly cap $65 · Cash $2.00/boarding, no transfers or daily cap
Tap any contactless bank card or phone on any WeGo bus or WeGo Star — the $4.00 daily cap applies automatically (since August 2025). Cash riders pay $2/boarding with no transfer benefit. WeGo Central is the main downtown transfer hub. The WeGo Star commuter rail connects downtown Nashville to Lebanon, Tennessee.
Single $3/ride · Daily cap $7.50 · 3-day $20 · 7-day $45 (from July 1, 2026) · Works on TheBus + Skyline Rail
The Holo Card daily cap ($7.50) kicks in after 2.5 rides — after that, ride TheBus and Skyline Rail free for the rest of the day. The 7-day pass ($45) is best value for a week-long stay. Cash fares ($3) require exact change; the Holo Card is far more convenient island-wide.
Light Rail (Valley Metro Rail)Bus (local + express)Streetcar (Tempe)
Get it
Valley Metro app, fare vending machines at rail stations, transit center windows, or participating retailers; $4 one-time fee (non-refundable), no deposit
Options
Local single $2.00 (2-hour) · Daily cap $4.00 · Weekly cap $20 · Monthly cap $64 · Express daily cap $6.50 · Fare capping is automatic — no need to buy a pass
The Copper Card uses automatic fare capping — tap every ride and the system stops charging once your daily ($4), weekly ($20), or monthly ($64) cap is reached without buying a pass upfront. Contactless bank cards do not work at fare readers; use the Copper Card or Valley Metro app QR code. The light rail connects downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa.
MAX Light RailBus (TriMet)Portland StreetcarWES Commuter Rail
Get it
Fred Meyer, New Seasons, and other retail partners; $3 non-refundable card fee (or use the Hop app for a free digital card)
Options
Adult local $2.80/ride · 2.5-hour transfer window included · Monthly fare capping auto-applies at the monthly pass rate
One Hop tap covers 2.5 hours of free transfers across MAX, TriMet buses, and the Portland Streetcar — ideal for a day of exploring. The system auto-caps your monthly spend at the pass rate (no need to pre-purchase a monthly pass). The Hop app provides a digital card with the same fares and no $3 card fee.
RTC counters, participating hotels (2+ night guests receive a free 3-day pass), or RTCQuébec app
Options
1-day CAD $9 · 5-day CAD $32 · Free 3-day unlimited pass for hotel guests staying 2+ nights in a participating accommodation
Hotel guests staying 2+ nights at participating Québec City accommodations receive a complimentary 3-day unlimited bus pass — ask at check-in. Most of Old Québec is walkable; the bus is most useful for trips to the Plains of Abraham, Sainte-Foy, and outer districts.
Trolley (Blue/Orange/UC San Diego)Bus (MTS)Rapid Bus
Get it
MTS ticket machines at Trolley stations, PRONTO app, or tap contactless bank card/phone at all readers
Options
Single $2.50 · 2-hour free transfer included · Contactless bank card/Apple/Google Pay accepted at all Trolley and bus readers
PRONTO replaced the old Compass Card — if you have an old Compass Card, migrate it or get PRONTO. Contactless bank cards and phones tap at all Trolley and bus readers with the same fares. The 2-hour transfer covers connections between Trolley lines and bus routes within that window.
Clipper Card: free at Walgreens and Clipper service centers; or add Digital Clipper free to Apple/Google Wallet (Clipper 2.0). Contactless bank cards also accepted at all VTA readers (since December 2025).
Options
VTA single $2.50 · 2-hour free transfer (Clipper, any payment method) · Cross-agency Clipper transfer credit up to $2.85 off next agency within 2h · Caltrain zone-based ($3.75+)
Clipper 2.0 (launched December 2025) — tap any contactless bank card or phone directly at all VTA light rail and bus readers. Same Clipper Card used in San Francisco works seamlessly on VTA; Caltrain and BART (Blue Line extension to Milpitas/Berryessa) are also on Clipper. Diridon Station is the main hub connecting VTA light rail, Caltrain, and Amtrak.
BC Transit website, Umo app (free card), or tap any contactless Visa/MC/Amex/Interac or mobile wallet since May 19, 2026
Options
Adult CAD $2.50/ride · Day cap auto-applies after 2 full-fare rides (free rides for the rest of the day) · Umo card free, no deposit
Since May 19, 2026, all BC Transit buses in Victoria accept contactless bank cards, Interac, and mobile wallets — simplest for short visits. The day cap kicks in after 2 rides (CAD $5 max per day). The Umo app provides a digital card with the same rates and automatic fare capping.
Any Mi Teleférico station ticket window; rechargeable, no deposit
Fares
BOB 3 per single ride (~USD 0.43); load credit at any station window
Mi Teleférico is the world's highest urban cable car network and the main way locals commute between La Paz and El Alto. The 10 colour-coded lines connect key neighbourhoods including the city centre, El Alto market, and the south valley. Buy or reload the rechargeable card at any station window — no deposit required.
JUTC customer service locations and authorized top-up outlets
Fares
Smartercard fares run about 50% below cash fare; load any amount
Most visitor transport in Montego Bay is route taxi and resort transfer rather than JUTC bus, so the Smartercard mainly matters if you're riding JUTC's own routes. Cash fare works everywhere the card does — the card is a discount, not a requirement.
Authorized card-sale points and top-up machines at main Trolebús and Metrobús-Q stations; bring cash — around $2–5 to load initially.
Cost
$0.25/trip flat fare across Trolebús, Ecovía and all three Metrobús-Q corridors (NorOriente, Suroriental, Central Norte).
The Metro de Quito uses a separate ticket system — the Tarjeta Ciudad is not accepted there. For the Metro, buy a single-use paper ticket at station machines ($0.45 flat fare). The Trolebús, Ecovía and Metrobús-Q corridors cover most of the Historic Center and the main northbound axis to La Carolina and La Mariscal.
Convenience stores, newsagencies, station machines, or opal.com.au; no card fee
Fare caps
Daily cap A$19.30 (Mon–Thu) · A$9.65 (Fri–Sun & holidays) · Weekly cap A$50 (free travel once reached)
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay are accepted with the same fares and caps as the Opal card. No separate card needed if you tap with your phone.
Airport: add-on — Kingsford Smith: $16.80 station access surcharge per journey, on top of standard Opal fare
CBD tram network is free — no need to tap within the Free Tram Zone boundary
Always touch on AND off for trains, buses, and trams outside the Free Tram Zone — failure to touch off charges the maximum fare. Inside the Free Tram Zone, no touch required. Contactless bank cards and phones now accepted on trains and trams (buses still require Myki). The A$6 card fee is non-refundable.
Airport: separate ticket — No rail to airport; SkyBus is separate (does not accept Myki)
Z Energy stations, Metlink counters, or snapper.co.nz; NZD 10 refundable deposit. Contactless bank cards also accepted (1.5% surcharge, from Apr 12, 2026)
Cost
Zone-based Snapper fares; 3-zone peak ~NZD 4.67 · Monthly Snapper passes available · Contactless bank card: same zones + 1.5% surcharge
Since April 12, 2026, contactless bank cards are accepted on all Metlink buses and trains — a 1.5% surcharge applies vs the Snapper card rate. The Snapper deposit (NZD 10) is refundable at staffed service points. Wellington is transitioning to the Motu Move national ticketing system in 2027; Snapper cards will remain valid through the transition.
at.govt.nz, staffed HOP retailers, or train station machines; NZD 5 card fee
Fare caps
NZD 50 7-day cap on AT HOP · NZD 20 daily cap on contactless bank card/phone
Contactless bank cards and Apple/Google Pay work as an alternative to AT HOP on buses, trains, and most ferries at the same zone fares — the AT HOP card's 7-day cap beats the contactless daily cap on a multi-day trip. Register the card online to protect the balance if it's lost and to enable auto top-up.
Airport: covered — AirportLink bus to Puhinui Station, then train into the CBD, ~NZD 8 total on AT HOP (SkyDrive Express, ~NZD 20, is a separate ticket and does not accept HOP)
A booklet of 10 paper tickets sold at TGM and Métro Léger station windows and kiosks — not a rechargeable tap card. Single paper tickets are also sold individually at the same windows.
Cost
Flat fare per ride, under 1 TND; the Carte 10 booklet is priced at roughly ten single fares with a small discount. Tickets must be validated at the platform gate or by the onboard conductor before boarding.
Transtu operates both the TGM commuter line (downtown Tunis to La Goulette, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa) and the Métro Léger tram network across greater Tunis; the Carte 10 booklet works on both. No contactless tap-to-pay exists on either network as of this build — every ride still uses a paper ticket punched or checked at boarding.
Airport: not covered — Tunis–Carthage Airport has no TGM or Métro Léger connection; reach it by taxi or ride-hailing app.
MyCiTi station kiosks (R40 card fee, non-refundable, no expiry); load "Mover points" separately at kiosks. Bank card tap-to-ride is in pilot phase as of 2026.
Cost
Distance and time-of-day based; peak surcharge Mon–Fri 06:45–08:00 and 16:15–17:30. Use the fare calculator at myciti.org.za. MyCiTi does not cover Metrorail or Golden Arrow buses.
The myconnect card (redesigned February 2026) is required for all MyCiTi buses — R40 non-refundable card fee, load "Mover points" separately at station kiosks. The network covers the CBD, Waterfront, Sea Point, Table View, Hout Bay, and the airport. Bank card tap-to-ride validators were rolling out in 2026; check myciti.org.za for current status. Metrorail commuter trains and Golden Arrow buses use separate payment systems.
Airport: covered — Airport served by MyCiTi bus network (myconnect card)