Top 30 Fastest Metro Systems in the World 2025

Metro systems are the lifeline of modern cities, connecting millions of people quickly and efficiently. While most metros focus on frequency and convenience, some are engineered for exceptional speed, offering high-performance travel within urban areas. In this article, we explore the Fastest Metro Systems in the World 2025, featuring record-breaking metro lines in China, India, Europe, and the Middle East. These advanced metro networks use cutting-edge technology, high-speed rolling stock, and improved track design to push urban transport to new limits. This list includes maximum design or operational speeds published by metro authorities and transportation agencies.

The metros listed here are selected based on their maximum design or operational speeds, as officially reported by metro operators, government transport regulators, and trusted infrastructure publications. These speeds represent the highest possible capability of the trains, not the average journey speed. High-speed metros, such as Guangzhou Metro Line 18 and Chengdu Line 18, use advanced signaling, precision track alignment, and streamlined trainsets to achieve impressive speeds up to 160 km/h. Some lines, especially airport express services, support faster train performance due to fewer stops and long-stretch elevated or underground tracks.

Top 10 Fastest Metro Systems in the World 2025

1. Guangzhou Metro Line 18 (China): 160 Km/h
2. Chengdu Metro Line 18 (China): 140 Km/h
3. Xi’an Metro Line 14 (China): 140 Km/h
4. Hong Kong Airport Express (Hong Kong): 135 Km/h
5. Shanghai Metro Line 16 (China): 120 Km/h
6. Shenzhen Metro Line 14 (China): 120 Km/h
7. Wuhan Metro Line 19 (China): 120 Km/h
8. Wuhan Metro Line 16 (China): 120 Km/h
9. Hangzhou Metro Line 19 (China): 120 Km/h
10. Beijing Subway Line 19 (China): 120 Km/h

China dominates the list of the fastest metro systems, with Guangzhou Metro Line 18 holding the top position at a remarkable 160 km/h, followed by Chengdu Metro Line 18 and Xi’an Metro Line 14 at 140 km/h. These high-speed metros use advanced rolling stock, modern track systems, and optimized long-distance connections, especially serving airport and regional corridors. Hong Kong Airport Express stands out as one of the fastest non-Chinese metro services, reaching 135 km/h. Shanghai, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Hangzhou, and Beijing metros all feature ultra-modern high-speed lines designed for smooth, long urban journeys with fewer stops.

Full Data Table

Note: The speeds listed above represent the maximum design or operational speeds of each metro line, not the average travel speed. Actual in-service speeds may be lower due to factors like station frequency, urban restrictions, signaling systems, and passenger safety regulations.

Key Points

• Guangzhou Metro Line 18 is the fastest metro system in the world with a top speed of 160 km/h.
• China holds 10 out of the top 10 fastest metro lines in the world by maximum speed.
• Hong Kong Airport Express is the fastest metro service outside mainland China, running at 135 km/h.
• India features three metros in this list, with Delhi Airport Express and Meerut Metro both reaching 120 km/h.
• Europe’s fastest metro is Madrid Metro (Express Lines), operating at up to 110 km/h.
• Dubai Metro is one of the fastest driverless metro systems, with both lines reaching 110 km/h.
• Riyadh Metro, SkyTrain Vancouver, Singapore MRT, and Copenhagen Metro all operate at a maximum speed of 90 km/h.
• The slowest metros listed are still relatively fast at 80 km/h, including Hong Kong MTR, Hyderabad Metro, Namma Metro, and Delhi Magenta Line.

High-speed metro lines are changing the future of urban transportation by reducing travel time, boosting connectivity, and supporting smart city initiatives. From China’s ultra-fast intercity-style metros to India’s modern airport express systems and the advanced automated metros in Dubai, these metro systems showcase engineering excellence and transit innovation. As cities grow larger and more connected, demand for fast, reliable, and sustainable transportation will continue to rise. The fastest metro systems in 2025 clearly reflect how speed, technology, and urban planning come together to shape the future of public transport.

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Sources

• List of metro systems – Wikipedia
• Which is the fastest metro in the world? – StudyCountry.com
• What is the highest speed Metro in the world?