Adelaide

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Ticketing

Information on purchasing and using tickets or travel cards for public transport, such as the MetroCARD system.

Sections

1. Overview of Adelaide Metro Ticketing System

Adelaide Metro uses a tap-on, tap-off system with a rechargeable smart card called the MetroCARD. Alternatively, you can purchase single-use paper tickets or use contactless payment methods (credit/debit cards or mobile wallets) on some services. The system is designed to be user-friendly and cost-effective for both residents and visitors.

2. Ticket Categories

Adelaide Metro offers several ticketing options to suit different needs:

a. MetroCARD

  • A reusable smart card for frequent travelers.
  • Offers discounted fares compared to single-use tickets.
  • Can be loaded with credit or passes (e.g., daily or weekly passes).

b. Single-Trip Paper Tickets

  • For occasional travelers or visitors who donโ€™t want to purchase a MetroCARD.
  • Valid for unlimited travel within 2 hours of validation.

c. Contactless Payment

  • Available on trams and some buses.
  • Use your credit/debit card or mobile wallet (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay) to tap on and off.
  • Charged at the same rate as a single-trip ticket.

d. Concession Tickets

  • Available for eligible groups, including students, seniors, and people with disabilities.
  • Requires proof of eligibility (e.g., student ID, concession card).

e. Free Travel Options

  • City Connector Buses: Free bus services (routes 98A, 98C, 99A, and 99C) that loop around the city and North Adelaide.
  • Tram Free Zone: Travel on trams is free within the city center, between the South Terrace and Entertainment Centre stops.

3. Ticket Costs (as of 2023)

Fares are divided into peak and interpeak/off-peak times:

  • Peak Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AMโ€“9:00 AM and 3:00 PMโ€“7:00 PM.
  • Interpeak/Off-Peak Hours: All other times, including weekends and public holidays.

MetroCARD Fares

| Ticket Type | Peak Fare | Off-Peak Fare | |---------------------|-----------|---------------| | Regular Adult | $3.84 | $2.11 | | Concession | $1.92 | $1.05 | | Seniors (with card) | Free | Free |

Single-Trip Paper Tickets

| Ticket Type | Cost | |---------------------|-----------| | Regular Adult | $5.90 | | Concession | $2.90 |

Daytrip Pass

  • Unlimited travel for one day: $11.20 (adult) or $5.60 (concession).

Weekly Pass

  • Unlimited travel for 7 days: $25.75 (adult) or $12.87 (concession).

4. Payment Procedures

a. MetroCARD

  1. Purchase a MetroCARD at:
    • Adelaide Metro InfoCentre (e.g., at the Adelaide Railway Station).
    • Selected retailers (newsagents, convenience stores).
    • Online via the Adelaide Metro website.
  2. Load credit or passes onto your MetroCARD:
    • At ticket vending machines (located at train stations and major tram stops).
    • Online or via the Adelaide Metro app.
    • At participating retailers.
  3. Tap your MetroCARD on the card reader when boarding and alighting.

b. Single-Trip Paper Tickets

  • Purchase from vending machines at train stations or tram stops.
  • Validate the ticket in the machine when boarding.

c. Contactless Payment

  • Simply tap your credit/debit card or mobile wallet on the card reader when boarding and alighting.
  • Ensure you use the same card/device for both tap-on and tap-off to avoid being overcharged.

5. How to Use the System

  1. Plan Your Journey:

    • Use the Adelaide Metro website, app, or Google Maps to plan your trip.
    • Check schedules and routes for buses, trains, and trams.

  2. Boarding:

    • For buses: Wait at the designated stop and signal the driver as the bus approaches.
    • For trains and trams: Board at the station or stop.

  3. Tapping On and Off:

    • Tap your MetroCARD or contactless payment method on the reader when boarding.
    • Tap off when alighting to ensure the correct fare is charged.

  4. Free Travel Zones:

    • No need to tap on or off when traveling within the free tram zone or on City Connector buses.

6. Local Tips and Considerations

  • MetroCARD for Visitors: If youโ€™re staying in Adelaide for more than a day, consider purchasing a MetroCARD to save on fares.
  • Off-Peak Travel: Travel during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower fares.
  • Free Tram Zone: Use the free tram zone to explore the city center without spending money on transport.
  • City Connector Buses: These free buses are a great way to see the city and North Adelaide.
  • Accessibility: Adelaide Metro services are wheelchair accessible, and assistance is available for passengers with disabilities.
  • Public Holidays: Services may operate on a reduced schedule, so check ahead.
  • Adelaide Metro App: Download the app for real-time updates, journey planning, and managing your MetroCARD.

7. Additional Resources

  • Adelaide Metro Website: www.adelaidemetro.com.au
  • Adelaide Metro InfoLine: Call 1300 311 108 for assistance.
  • Adelaide Metro App: Available on iOS and Android for journey planning and ticket management.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate Adelaideโ€™s public transportation system efficiently and enjoyably. Safe travels!