The metro system in Madrid is one of the most extensive and efficient in the world. It is a great way to get around the city quickly and conveniently. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the metro is an essential part of Madrid’s transportation infrastructure. Here we’ll explore the Madrid metro system, including its history, fares, hours, tickets, lines, stations, maps and tips for getting around.
History
The Madrid metro system opened in 1919. It is one of the oldest metro systems in the world. Since then, it has grown to become one of the largest and most modern systems in Europe, with over 300 stations and 12 lines.
Metro Hours?
The Madrid Metro runs from 6:00 am until 1:30 am every day, with slightly different hours on weekends and holidays. The frequency of trains varies depending on the time of day and the line, but most lines have trains running every few minutes during peak hours.
It is important to note that the last train of the night may arrive at its final destination a few minutes after 1:30 am, so be sure to check the exact timetable of your desired line to plan your journey accordingly.
Additionally, during certain holidays or special events, the metro may operate on a modified schedule, so it’s always a good idea to check for any updates or changes before heading out.
Metro Zones?
The Madrid Metro uses a zone system to determine fares. Zone A covers the city center and most tourist attractions, while the outer zones extend beyond the city limits.
The frequency of metro trains?
The frequency of metro trains in Madrid varies depending on the time of day and the line. During peak hours, which are typically from 7:30 am to 9:30 am and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on weekdays, trains on most lines run every 2-3 minutes.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Outside of peak hours, the frequency of trains is typically between 4-7 minutes. Some lines may have slightly longer intervals between trains, especially during off-peak hours, but overall the Madrid Metro is known for its high frequency and reliability.
You should check the timetable for your desired line before traveling to ensure that you don’t have to wait too long for the next train.
Metro tickets prices?
The prices for metro tickets in Madrid are based on a zone system, with Zone A covering the city center and most tourist attractions. As of 2023, a single trip within Zone A costs €1.50, while a 10-ride ticket (called a “Metrobus”) costs €12.20.
For those planning to use the metro frequently, there are also options for unlimited travel over a certain period of time, such as the 1-day Tourist Ticket for €8.40 or the 30-day Abono Transportes pass for €54.60.
No Regrets Booking Advice
The fares and zones may be subject to change, so be sure to check the official Madrid Metro website for the most up-to-date information.
The different types of metro tickets in Madrid?
There are several types of metro tickets available in Madrid, depending on your travel needs and how often you plan to use the metro.
Single Ticket
A single ticket allows for one trip within a specific zone, with Zone A covering the city center and most tourist attractions. Aa single trip within Zone A costs €1.50.
10-Ride Ticket (Metrobus)
A 10-ride ticket, also known as a “Metrobus,” allows for 10 trips within a specific zone. A 10-ride ticket for Zone A costs €12.20.
Tourist Ticket
The Tourist Ticket allows for unlimited travel on all public transport, including the metro, buses, and trains, for a set period of time. The 1-day Tourist Ticket costs €8.40 and is valid for 24 hours from the time of purchase.
Multi Card
The Multi Card is a rechargeable card that can be used for multiple trips on the metro and other forms of public transport. The initial cost for the card is €2.50, and you can load it with a specific amount of credit depending on your travel needs.
Abono Transportes Pass
The Abono Transportes pass allows for unlimited travel on all public transport, including the metro, buses, and trains, for a set period of time. The 30-day pass for Zone A costs €54.60.
Prices and availability of these tickets may be subject to change, so be sure to check the official Madrid Metro website for the most up-to-date information.
How to reach Madrid’s main monuments by metro?
Madrid’s metro system is an efficient way to reach many of the city’s main monuments and attractions. Here are some of the most popular metro stops for reaching key landmarks:
- Puerta del Sol: The Puerta del Sol is located in the heart of the city and is served by several metro lines, including Line 1, Line 2, and Line 3. The closest metro stop is Sol.
- Plaza Mayor: The Plaza Mayor is a short walk from the Sol metro stop on Line 1, Line 2, and Line 3.
- Royal Palace of Madrid: The Royal Palace of Madrid is located near the Opera metro stop on Line 2 and Line 5.
- Prado Museum: The Prado Museum is located near the Atocha Renfe metro stop on Line 1.
- Reina Sofia Museum: The Reina Sofia Museum is located near the Atocha metro stop on Line 1.
- Retiro Park: The Retiro Park is located near the Retiro metro stop on Line 2.
- Santiago Bernabeu Stadium: The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, is located near the Santiago Bernabeu metro stop on Line 10.
Metro Pass
A metro pass, also known as an Abono Transportes pass, is a convenient way to use the Madrid metro system if you plan to travel frequently or for an extended period of time.
The pass allows for unlimited travel on all public transport, including the metro, buses, and trains, within a specific zone for a set period of time. The cost of the pass depends on the zone and duration selected.
The cost of a 30-day Abono Transportes pass for Zone A, which covers the city center and most tourist attractions, is €54.60. Other options include a 7-day pass for €22.60 and a 90-day pass for €139.60.
The Abono Transportes pass is a rechargeable card that can be loaded with the desired duration and zone. The pass can be purchased at metro stations, bus stations, and authorized retailers. To use the pass, simply touch it to the card reader on the metro turnstile or on the bus or train.
Using a metro pass can be a cost-effective and convenient way to travel around Madrid if you plan to use public transport frequently during your stay.
How do I buy a metro ticket in Madrid?
There are several ways to buy a metro ticket in Madrid:
- Ticket machines: Metro ticket machines are located in every metro station and offer the option to purchase single tickets, 10-ride tickets, and Multi Cards. Simply select the desired ticket or card and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the purchase.
- Ticket counters: Some larger metro stations have ticket counters where you can purchase tickets from a staff member. This may be a good option if you have questions or need assistance.
- Authorized retailers: You can also purchase metro tickets and passes at authorized retailers, such as tobacco shops, newsstands, and convenience stores.
- Online: You can also purchase some types of metro tickets and passes online through the official Madrid Metro website or mobile app.
You should know that the ticket machines and online options may require a credit or debit card. Also note that the metro tickets and passes are based on a zone system.
Madrid metro stations, lines, stops, changes and connections?
Madrid’s metro system consists of 12 lines and over 300 stations, making it a convenient way to travel around the city. Here’s a brief overview of the lines, stations, stops, and connections:
Line 1:
This line runs from the Pinar de Chamartín station in the north to the Valdecarros station in the southeast, passing through the city center and major tourist attractions such as Sol, Gran Vía, and Atocha.
Line 2:
This line runs from the Las Rosas station in the southeast to the Cuatro Caminos station in the northwest, passing through the city center and major tourist attractions such as Retiro Park and the Royal Palace.
Line 3:
This line runs from the Villaverde Alto station in the south to the Moncloa station in the northwest, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia Museum.
Line 4:
This line runs from the Argüelles station in the northwest to the Parque de Santa María station in the south, passing through the city center and major tourist attractions such as Gran Vía and the Royal Palace.
Line 5:
This line runs from the Alameda de Osuna station in the northeast to the Casa de Campo station in the west, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the Prado Museum.
Line 6:
This line runs from the Moncloa station in the northwest to the Ciudad Universitaria station in the west, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace and Retiro Park.
Line 7:
This line runs from the Pitis station in the northwest to the Hospital del Henares station in the east, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Plaza Castilla and the Cuatro Torres Business Area.
Line 8:
This line runs from the Nuevos Ministerios station in the northwest to the Aeropuerto T4 station in the northeast, providing service to Madrid’s main airport.
Line 9:
This line runs from the Arganda del Rey station in the southeast to the Plaza de Castilla station in the north, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Prado Museum and the Gran Vía.
Line 10:
This line runs from the Hospital Infanta Sofía station in the north to the Puerta del Sur station in the south, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the Royal Palace.
Line 11:
This line runs from the Plaza Elíptica station in the south to the La Peseta station in the west, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace and Retiro Park.
Line 12:
This line runs from the Metropolitano station in the northwest to the Hospital del Henares station in the east, passing through major tourist attractions such as the Plaza de Castilla and the Cuatro Torres Business Area.
To make connections between lines, look for signs indicating transfers or “correspondencias” and follow the signs to the connecting line. Some stations have multiple connections, so make sure to check the metro map or ask for assistance if needed.
Accessibility and reduced mobility?
Madrid’s metro system is designed to be accessible for individuals with reduced mobility or disabilities. Here are some of the features that make the metro more accessible:
- Elevators and escalators: Many metro stations have elevators and escalators to make it easier for individuals with mobility issues to access the platforms.
- Priority seating: Each metro car has designated priority seating for individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, and seniors.
- Wide doors and spacious platforms: The metro cars have wide doors and spacious platforms to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
- Audio and visual announcements: The metro provides audio and visual announcements to help passengers with visual or hearing impairments.
- Assistance points: Many metro stations have assistance points, which are marked with a blue sign with a wheelchair symbol. These points provide information and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities.
In addition, the metro offers a special service for individuals with disabilities called the “Tarjeta Dorada”, which provides discounted fares and priority access to elevators and escalators. To obtain this card, individuals must provide proof of disability or reduced mobility.
