Madrid

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Buses

Sections

1. Categories of Buses in Madrid

Madrid’s bus system includes several types of services to cater to different needs:

a. Regular Daytime Buses

  • These are the standard buses that operate throughout the city, connecting neighborhoods, landmarks, and metro stations.
  • Routes are numbered (e.g., 1, 27, 146) and typically run from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

b. Night Buses (Búhos)

  • Known as "Búhos" (owls), these buses operate after the metro and daytime buses stop running.
  • Night buses run from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM, with routes starting from Plaza de Cibeles, the central hub for night services.
  • Routes are labeled with an "N" (e.g., N1, N2).

c. Express Airport Bus

  • A special service connecting Madrid-Barajas Airport (Terminals T1, T2, T4) to the city center.
  • Operates 24/7 with stops at Atocha Station (daytime) and Cibeles (nighttime).
  • Cost: €5 per trip.

d. Special Routes

  • These include buses to specific destinations like hospitals, universities, or major events.
  • Examples: Routes to IFEMA (Madrid’s exhibition center) or seasonal routes like the Christmas lights bus.

e. Intercity Buses

  • These connect Madrid with surrounding towns and suburbs. They are operated by private companies but integrated into the public transport system.

2. Ticket Costs and Options

Madrid’s bus system uses an integrated ticketing system, meaning the same tickets can often be used on buses, the metro, and commuter trains (Cercanías). Here are the main options:

a. Single Ticket

  • Cost: €1.50 for a single bus journey.
  • Purchase: Directly from the bus driver (cash only, small bills/coins preferred).

b. Multi Card (Tarjeta Multi)

  • A reusable, contactless card used for multiple trips.
  • Cost: €2.50 for the card itself (non-refundable).
  • Load with:
    • 10-trip ticket: €12.20 (valid on buses and metro within Zone A).
    • Single tickets or other transport passes.
  • Purchase: At metro stations, tobacco shops (estancos), or EMT kiosks.

c. Tourist Travel Pass (Abono Turístico)

  • Unlimited travel on buses, metro, and trains for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days.
  • Cost: Starts at €8.40 for 1 day (Zone A).
  • Ideal for visitors planning to use public transport frequently.
  • Purchase: Online, at metro stations, or at the airport.

d. Monthly Pass (Abono Transporte)

  • For long-term visitors or residents, this pass offers unlimited travel for a month.
  • Cost: €30.50 (Zone A, under 26 years old) or €58.00 (Zone A, adults).
  • Requires a personal transport card (Tarjeta Transporte Público).

3. How to Purchase Tickets

  • On the Bus: Single tickets can be purchased directly from the driver (cash only).
  • Metro Stations: Use ticket machines to buy or recharge the Multi Card or Tourist Pass.
  • Tobacco Shops (Estancos): Purchase or recharge Multi Cards.
  • EMT App: Some tickets can be purchased digitally via the EMT Madrid app.

4. Procedures for Using the Buses

  1. Boarding: Enter through the front door. If you have a Multi Card or pass, tap it on the card reader near the driver. If paying cash, hand the money to the driver.
  2. Seating: Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority seats near the front are reserved for elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
  3. Exiting: Press the red "stop" button near your seat or on the poles to signal the driver to stop at the next bus stop. Exit through the rear doors.

5. Schedules

  • Daytime Buses: Operate from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM, with buses running every 5-15 minutes during peak hours and every 15-30 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Night Buses: Operate from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM, with buses running every 20-30 minutes.
  • Real-Time Information: Use the EMT Madrid app or check the digital screens at bus stops for live updates on bus arrival times.

6. Special Services and Routes

  • Route 27 (Paseo de la Castellana): A popular route for tourists, passing through major landmarks like Atocha, Cibeles, and Nuevos Ministerios.
  • Christmas Lights Bus (Naviluz): Seasonal service during December, offering a scenic route to view Madrid’s festive lights.
  • Airport Express Bus: A convenient and affordable way to travel between the airport and the city center.

7. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Plan Ahead: Use the EMT Madrid app or Google Maps to plan your route and check bus schedules.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: Buses can get crowded during peak times (8:00-10:00 AM and 6:00-8:00 PM).
  • Be Polite: Offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities. This is a common courtesy in Spain.
  • Validate Your Ticket: Always tap your card or validate your ticket when boarding. Inspectors occasionally check for valid tickets, and fines for traveling without one can be steep (€100 or more).
  • Language: Most bus drivers speak only Spanish, so it’s helpful to know the name of your stop or have it written down.
  • Accessibility: EMT buses are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers.

8. Cultural Considerations

  • Spaniards are generally friendly and helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask fellow passengers for assistance if you’re unsure about your stop.
  • It’s common to greet the driver with a polite "Hola" when boarding and say "Gracias" when exiting.

Madrid’s bus system is an excellent way to explore the city, offering affordable and reliable transportation. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the network like a local!