métro

Métro is the term used for urban rapid transit systems in many French-speaking cities. It denotes a passenger rail network that provides high-capacity service within cities and their suburbs, typically on exclusive rights-of-way with frequent trains. Although most systems are underground in central areas, some lines run at grade or on elevated alignments, and operating practices vary by city.

The word Métro is short for métropolitain. In the French-speaking world it is used to distinguish rapid transit from trams or regional rail. Each network has its own organization, fare structure, and fleet, but common features include dense station spacing, automated or manned operation, and a focus on fast movement through urban cores.

The Paris Métro, in France, is one of the oldest and most extensive networks. It opened in 1900 and is operated by the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP). It comprises numerous lines with thousands of stations, and Line 14 is automated. The network is noted for its distinctive art nouveau entrances designed by Hector Guimard and for its very dense central core.

In other French-speaking regions, the term Métro is used by several networks, including the Montreal Métro in Canada, the Brussels Métro in Belgium, and Lausanne in Switzerland. These systems form part of national or regional transit networks and reflect the widespread usage of the term in francophone areas. Outside French-speaking contexts, the term metro or subway is more common.