Many tourists ride the free Staten Island Ferry just to see the skyline and the Statue of Liberty, but New York isn’t the only place where public transportation provides outstanding vistas.

In many major cities across the world, sublime views can be had for as little as a one-way commuter fare. And you’ll get the added bonus of spending time with actual residents, avoiding those pesky other tourists. If you too want the real local experience, hop on a city bus, take a tram, board a ferry or discover a unique form of public transit in one of these nine cities.

Hong Kong

The skyline of central Hong Kong, with closely packed skyscrapers rising in front of lush hills, is stunningly reflected in Victoria Harbour. Moving passengers between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island is the Star Ferry, which has provided commuters and tourists alike with jaw-slackening vistas for more than 120 years. The cost for this mind-blowing view? Just $2.70 Hong Kong dollars (34 cents).

Lisbon

In Lisbon, everyone, especially those wanting to avoid a workout on the city’s steep hills, should purchase a one-day metro card. For less than 11 euros ($12.15), you will get access to the various canary-yellow trams , as well as Lisbon’s bus and subway system. Pile onto the popular Tram 28 and lurch past ornate churches and tile-covered dwellings, or take one of the other, less busy lines and savor the ride.