Zaragoza

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Public Buses

Sections

1. Overview of the Public Bus System

  • Operator: Avanza Zaragoza
  • Network: Over 40 urban and suburban bus lines, including daytime and nighttime services.
  • Accessibility: Most buses are wheelchair accessible and equipped with ramps.
  • Eco-Friendly Fleet: Zaragoza has a growing fleet of hybrid and electric buses, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainability.

2. Ticket Costs and Types

There are several ticketing options available depending on your needs:

Single Ticket

  • Cost: €1.50 per ride.
  • Purchase: Directly from the bus driver (cash only; exact change preferred).
  • Validity: One ride, no transfers.

Bonobus (Multi-Ride Card)

  • Cost: €8.00 for 8 rides (€1.00 per ride).
  • Purchase: At kiosks, tobacco shops (estancos), or vending machines at tram stops.
  • Validity: Allows transfers between buses or between buses and trams within 1 hour of the first validation.

Citizen Card (Tarjeta Ciudadana)

  • Cost: €7.00 for the card itself (non-refundable), plus a minimum initial top-up of €5.00.
  • Discounted Fare: €0.76 per ride.
  • Purchase: Apply online (if you’re a resident) or at municipal offices. Visitors can use kiosks or tram vending machines to get a temporary version.
  • Benefits: Offers the cheapest fare and can also be used for other city services (e.g., public bike rentals, parking).

Monthly Pass

  • Cost: €42.90 (unlimited rides for 30 days).
  • Purchase: Requires a Citizen Card (Tarjeta Ciudadana).
  • Best For: Long-term visitors or residents who use public transport daily.

Tourist Card

  • Cost: €8.00 for 24 hours or €12.00 for 48 hours.
  • Purchase: Zaragoza Tourism Offices or online.
  • Benefits: Unlimited travel on buses and trams, plus discounts at tourist attractions.

3. How to Purchase Tickets and Passes

  • On the Bus: Single tickets can be purchased directly from the driver (cash only).
  • Kiosks and Tobacco Shops: Bonobus cards and Citizen Cards can be purchased and recharged at authorized points throughout the city.
  • Tram Stops: Vending machines at tram stops also sell and recharge Bonobus cards and Citizen Cards.
  • Online: Some passes, like the Tourist Card, can be purchased online through the Zaragoza Tourism website.

4. Schedules and Routes

  • Daytime Buses: Operate from approximately 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM, depending on the line.
  • Night Buses (Búhos): Operate from 11:00 PM to 5:30 AM on Fridays, Saturdays, and the nights before public holidays. These are marked with an "N" (e.g., N1, N2).
  • Frequency: Buses typically run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours and every 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours.

Finding Routes and Schedules

  • Official Website: Visit the Avanza Zaragoza website (www.avanzazaragoza.com) for detailed route maps and schedules.
  • Mobile Apps: Use apps like "Zaragoza App" or "Moovit" for real-time bus tracking and route planning.
  • Bus Stops: Each stop has a detailed map and timetable for the lines that serve it.

5. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Plan Ahead: Use a mobile app or the official website to check bus schedules and avoid long waits, especially during off-peak hours.
  • Exact Change: If buying a single ticket on the bus, try to have exact change (€1.50) as drivers may not have sufficient change for large bills.
  • Transfers: If you plan to transfer between buses or between a bus and a tram, use a Bonobus or Citizen Card to save money.
  • Peak Hours: Buses can get crowded during rush hours (8:00-9:30 AM and 6:00-8:00 PM). Plan your trips accordingly.
  • Cultural Etiquette:
    • Greet the driver with a polite "Hola" when boarding.
    • Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or people with disabilities.
    • Avoid loud conversations or phone calls to respect other passengers.
  • Night Buses: If you’re out late, the night buses (Búhos) are a safe and reliable way to get home. Check the specific routes and stops, as they differ from daytime lines.

6. Additional Information

  • Lost Items: If you leave something on the bus, contact Avanza Zaragoza’s lost and found service through their website or by visiting their office.
  • Public Holidays: Bus schedules may vary on public holidays, so check in advance.
  • Integration with Trams: Zaragoza’s bus and tram systems are integrated, allowing seamless transfers with the same ticket or card.

7. Practical Advice for Visitors

  • Tourist-Friendly Routes: Some bus lines pass by major attractions, such as the Basilica del Pilar, Aljafería Palace, and the Expo 2008 area. Check routes in advance to maximize your sightseeing.
  • Language Barrier: While most drivers speak only Spanish, route maps and apps are easy to understand. Learn a few basic phrases like "¿Este autobús va a...?" (Does this bus go to...?) to ask for help.
  • Weather Considerations: Zaragoza can get very hot in summer and cold in winter. Buses are air-conditioned or heated, but plan your travel times to avoid extreme weather.

By following this guide, you’ll find Zaragoza’s public bus system to be an affordable, convenient, and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Whether you’re a short-term visitor or a long-term resident, the variety of ticketing options and extensive network make it easy to get around. Enjoy your time in Zaragoza!