Longest metro networks in European cities in 2023

In 2023, London boasted the most extensive metro network in Europe of over 470 kilometers in length. By comparison, the second largest metro network, in the Spanish capital of Madrid, was around 291 kilometers long – just over half the size of London’s metro system.

The Tube

The London Underground, also sometimes referred to as the Tube, makes up the majority of London’s metro network. It was the world’s first underground train line, opening in 1863 on what is today known as the Metropolitan Line. Today, the London Underground carries nearly 1.1 billion passengers per year, about a third of all passengers traveling on Transport for London’s public transport services.

Worldwide largest metro networks in China

The longest metro network in the world can be found in China. Shanghai’s metro network extends to a length of 694 kilometers and is closely followed by Beijing, which has a metro network measuring 653 kilometers. London’s metro network only comes fourth in the global ranking, following Seoul in third place.