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Living in Madrid
Getting around Madrid: metro, travel pass and apps
Madrid has one of Europe's best public transport systems: metro, bus and Cercanías cover the whole city and you'll rarely need a car. Here's how the travel pass works, how much it costs in 2026 and which apps will make your life easier.
The travel pass, your best ally
The Abono Transportes is a monthly card that lets you use metro, bus, Cercanías and tram without limit within your zone. For stays of a month or more, it's far cheaper than single tickets.
- —Young pass (ages 15-25) — €10/month in 2026, unlimited travel across the region.
- —Zone A pass (ages 26-64) — €32.70/month with the current discount.
- —Under 14 and over 65 — free.
Discounts are extended until 31 December 2026. Check current fares with the CRTM before renewing.
Metro, bus and Cercanías
The metro is the fastest way to cross the city and reaches almost every area. The bus (EMT) covers what the metro doesn't and runs at night with the búho lines. Cercanías trains connect the outskirts, the airport and nearby towns. With the pass, all three are included in your zone.
The apps you need
To get around effortlessly:
- —Google Maps / Citymapper — real-time routes combining metro and bus.
- —Metro de Madrid and EMT — timetables and network status.
- —Cabify / Uber / FREE NOW — taxi and ride-hailing for the night or a rush.
- —BiciMAD — public e-bikes for short trips.
Living inside the M-30, like our homes, means almost everything is walkable or a few metro stops away.
Key takeaways
- The travel pass is the best value for a month or more.
- Young pass 15-25: €10/month; Zone A: €32.70/month in 2026.
- Metro, bus and Cercanías are included in your zone.
- Key apps: Google Maps, Metro de Madrid, EMT, Cabify, BiciMAD.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
How much is the travel pass in Madrid?
In 2026 the Young pass (15-25) is €10/month and the Zone A pass (26-64) is €32.70/month, with discounts extended until 31/12/2026.
Do I need a car in Madrid?
No. Public transport covers the whole city; inside the M-30 almost everything is done on foot or by metro.
Where do I buy the pass?
It works with the Public Transport Card; you can request and top it up online or at tobacconists and metro machines.
Looking for a well-connected home?
All our homes are inside the M-30, next to the metro.
Request information