Going Around Madrid: Public Transportation System Guide

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is a big city with a lot of attractions that students can visit. To learn how students can get around Madrid, here is a quick guide to the city’s public transportation system. 

Some Facts About Madrid

Madrid has a long history, with its original settlers being the Moors. However, years after the Christians conquered the city, and after Philip III became king, it became Spain’s capital city. 

Madrid is also one of the largest cities in Europe with a 6.62 million population in 2020. Thus, you can expect busy streets when you go around the city. When it comes to culture, Madrid is home to famous museums and restaurants that pride themselves in serving world-renowned Spanish cuisine.

Madrid, whose reputation as a study destination spans centuries, is also home to many high-ranking institutions and a huge international student population. Thus, you can expect a diverse student population when you decide to study there.

Public Transportation System in Madrid

Madrid is a big city, with many attractions and activities for people staying there. If you want to go around Madrid, here are the modes of transportation you should know about. 

Riding the Metro 

With more than 300 stations across Madrid, one of the most frequently used methods to go around the city is through its metro system. It offers the citizens and guests of Madrid a fast, efficient, and reliable transport system.

Trains from the metro can be accessed by purchasing a travel card from one of the station’s machines. As of 2020, the cost for a single journey ticket in the Metro cost around €1.50 to €2. 

If you’re planning to stay in Madrid for quite a long time, you can save more money if you buy a 10-trip ticket, which usually costs around €12.20. The metro operates between 6:00 am to 1:30 am. 

Riding Madrid’s Buses

Another economic way to go around Madrid is through its EMT buses. EMT has more than 200 bus lines that serve all corners of Madrid. Once you get to a bus stop, you can check the digital screens showing the bus’ time of arrival. 

Single journey rides for EMT buses, which can be purchased through the bus driver, cost around €1.50. However, if you’re a student planning to stay in the city for a longer time, you can instead purchase a 10-journey ticket to save money. 

If you want to go around the city to do some sightseeing, you can avail the service of the Madrid City Tour, a double-decker sightseeing bus. 

Riding Cercanias Commuter Rail

If you want to visit Madrid’s suburban areas, nearby regions, and barrios, including Alcalá de Henares and Sierra de Guadarrama, you can ride the city’s Cercanias Commuter Rail service. It is also a cheap way to go from the airport to the city. Depending on the area, fares on the Cercanias Commuter rail may cost €1.60 to €8.40. 

Knowing about Spain’s public transportation system is important for students planning to stay there. If you want to learn more tips and information about living in Spain, check out MSM Unify’s articles about Spain. Start by reading our article on Studying in Spain: How Much Does it Really Cost?