Riding some public transportation while abroad? Then it would be important for one to have knowledge of proper etiquette when it comes to riding the train, tube, or metro. This etiquette includes everything from entering the station, riding the escalator to the trains, and behavior on the train itself.
First, when entering the station, it is important to have tickets or metrocard ready. Locals will become frustrated or flustered if they have to wait while people fumble through their bags for their tickets. Get the ticket out and ready before you get in queue to enter the station.
After swiping the metrocard or ticket, normally it is required to go up or down a set of escalators or stairs to reach the trains. If people are in a hurry or do not wish to "ride" the escalator, they will walk down the left side. If you are strolling at leisurely pace or wish to ride down, then stand to the right. For a set of stairs, people in more of a hurry push down on the left, slower walkers stick to the right. This is widely known in most European countries, and for those where it is not, signs are often displayed. An example would be in German train stations there are often signs by the escalator reading, "Rechts stehen, links gehen" – "stand on the right, walk on the left."
Once riders are waiting on the platform for the train, it is courteous to move down the platform as far as possible so that people entering have room to stand. When the train arrives in the station, remember to mind the gap and enter the cars carefully. There are always seating and standing options aboard. The seating to be aware of is the handicap or disabilities seating. Normally those are marked seats by the doors to the train. Also in London there are special seats sometimes marked for pregnant women or signs that say to give them seats if necessary. The important part to remember is offer your seat to those who need it more than you.
Riders must be courteous and polite to other passengers, not only by giving them the special seats, but also by making as much room as possible so that everyone can fit on the train. Another obvious rule would be to keep to yourself and not cause distractions to other riders. These riders do not want to hear others loud conversations or watch any obnoxious behavior.
If all these rules are remembered, and etiquette is followed, it will make for a great trip on public transportation in Europe. The ride will be smooth and easy, and people may even take you for a local.