Railways are often seen as symbols of progress as they connect places, people, and economies but even at that, a handful of countries don’t have any rail system at all.

To some countries, the challenge boils down to geography while to others, it is financial.

Here’s a look at seven countries that manage just fine without railways, opting instead for other alternatives.

Bhutan

Bhutan is hidden in the Himalayas and because of this county’s majestic mountains, it make building railways tricky and an expensive venture. Its landscape is dominated by steep valleys and high-altitude passes, leaving limited flat land for tracks.
Instead, Bhutan has a solid road network that allows for reliable road travel.

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Cyprus

Cyprus once had a railway system operating from 1905 to 1951. However, economic issues led to its closure, and a second attempt at revival was also abandoned in the 1970s.

Adding to the challenge is Cyprus’s political divide, which complicates cross-country infrastructure projects. For now, buses and an extensive road network connect people and places across this Mediterranean island.

Iceland

Iceland has tried three different times to set up railway networks, but none have become a full public transit system. Many factors played a role, like the country’s small population, the popularity of cars, and the tough landscape and climate, which made it challenging to maintain a railway.

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The idea of railways in Iceland dates back to the early 1900s, though these early plans eventually lost momentum. New discussions came up in the 2000s about a rail link around Reykjavik and nearby areas. However, that project faced similar obstacles and hasn’t moved forward yet.

Andorra

This small, landlocked country in the Pyrenees mountains has no railways as it relies mainly on road transport. The nearest rail station is in France, and regular bus services connect travellers from there to Andorra’s capital, Andorra la Vella. Given its small population and limited size, Andorra manages well without its own railway infrastructure.

Monaco

One of the world’s smallest countries, Monaco is densely urbanised and doesn’t need railways within its borders. Its location along the French Riviera allows for easy access to French trains, and the principality itself uses an efficient system of buses and taxis.

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At just 2.1 square kilometers, Monaco can be easily navigated without rail transport.

Yemen

Yemen’s lack of a railway system is due to its long-standing political instability and economic difficulties. The country’s desert terrain and ongoing conflict make infrastructure projects nearly impossible.

Instead, Yemen uses a road network for most of its transportation, but even this is affected by the country’s economic struggles.

Malta

Malta’s small size and densely packed streets make rail systems impractical. Although it had a short-lived railway in the early 20th century, it closed down in 1931. Malta’s public transport system now relies on buses, which are well-suited to the island’s limited geography and urban layout.

Each of these countries has found ways to meet transportation needs without railways. Whether it’s air, road, or sea transport, these alternative modes show that connectivity and mobility can adapt to any terrain or challenge.