Hop onto those old-worldly trams in these 5 cities around the world

Amidst the breakneck pace of life and frantic pedestrian masses in most cities, trams are one of the few remaining reminders of the slower and calmer days of yesteryear. Most cities have scrapped this once popular mode of transport to make way for more advanced systems of transport. However, there are cities with an old-school charm that still have trams running in the streets. This is where you can still hop onto a tram and experience a charming, unhurried way to commute.

Hong Kong
Lovingly called ‘Ding Ding’ by the locals, trams have been one of the oldest means of public transport in Hong Kong. It is the only fleet in the world with all double-decker trams. For tourists, these colourful trams may be one of the easiest ways to experience the sights and sounds of Hong Kong as the tram routes pass multiple heritage attractions such as the Western Market in Sheung Wan, the former Legislative Council Building in Central, The Pawn in Wan Chai, and the Tin Hau Temple in Shau Kei Wan. Even today, over two lakh people commute via trams on various routes.

If you would like to experience a piece of history, HK Tramsways offer a special sightseeing tour called The TramOramic Tour aboard the iconic 1920s tram, with an audio narration on board. Each tram ride costs the exact same fare; keep some change ready if you are not using an Octopus Card to pay.

Melbourne
Melbourne has never wavered in its affection for the good, old tram. Its tram network, with 250 kilometres of track, is the largest in the world. Next year, the system will add another distinction; it will be the first to be powered entirely by solar energy. In the centre of the city, there is a free zone, where you can use trams free of charge through streets where only trams have access. You can also ride the City Circle Tram (Route #35) - a heritage W class tram, decorated in special maroon and green with yellow and gold trimmings that offers a free ride to tourists. You can board it at Flinders Street or any other stop in the loop. It passes some eminent tourist attractions in the Central Business District. You can grab a map and information leaflet of the city on the tram; before you grab a seat, it is better to follow the running commentary of the major city landmarks. However, you may want to buy and top-up a Myki card if you want to explore other areas of the city.

Istanbul

Turkey, a destination where East meets the West, was once served, on both its Asian and European sides, by a large network of trams in Istanbul. The horse tram system started in 1872, and was converted to electric trams in the early 20th century. This original tram network closed in 1966 but a second generation of modern tram service began service in 1992.

Locals use both the heritage tramlines and modern tram system to beat the city’s increasing traffic congestion. Perfect for those, who want to explore the diverse variety of Turkish culture, the Kabataş-Bağcılar Tramway Line, locally known as the T1, will drop you off at Zeytinburnu, Beyazit (Grand Bazaar), Sultanahmet (For Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern) Eminönü (For Spice Bazaar and ferry docks) and Tophane. You can purchase and use an Istanbulkart to pay your way through any form of public transport including trams.

Toronto

In Toronto, trams are known as Streetcars. These red and white streetcars are a hallmark of the city, and an essential part of the urban transport system in Toronto. Electric streetcars graced the streets of Toronto as early as 1892, and the newest version is called the Flexity Outlook. Trams are not a gimmick for tourists here; they are a key method of transport for visitors and locals alike. Nearly 3 lakh passengers are served daily by a strong fleet of 250, with some routes scheduled to run at two-minute intervals during peak times. You can use tokens, passes, transfers, PRESTO cards or exact change to pay for your ride.
Budapest

The history of the Budapest tram transport goes back to more than 120 years. The tram lines serve as the second most important backbone of the transit system (after the bus network), carrying almost 100 million more passengers annually than the Budapest Metro. Travelling by tram is slower, but more spectacular than by metro. Tourists are recommended to take tram No. 2, which travels along one of the city’s most scenic routes, the Danube Promenade. You will get a very good view of the Gellert Hill, Castle Hill, the Parliament, and not to mention, the Danube and the graceful bridges (Liberty, Erzsébet and Cain bridges) over it. You need to buy your ticket in advance and validate it onboard when you start your journey.

Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Hong Kong Tourism by Times Internet.