Metropolitan transport is comparatively easy here given the size of the city. And our public transport network is extensive and inexpensive: make the best of it!

By car:

Avoid travelling by car to skip the omnipresent traffic jams and construction works as well as the high price and scarcity of parking. If a car is necessary however, it is not too hard to find your way about in Madrid, with the basic street grid delineated by the Gran Via and the Calle de Alcala from east to west and the Paseo de la Castellana from north to south. See our car rental page if you want to hire a car.

By bus or underground:

The Madrid underground is one of the world’s most extensive and modern. It is particularly clean and the service is frequent, running up to 1:30 in the morning. After this, the night owl (‘Buhos’) buses provide an excellent alternative. By day, the bus service–also frequent and extensive–provides a logical alternative if you want to see the city as you travel. To make matters even better, bus and underground fares in Madrid are definitely a good deal: 5.80 euros for ten tickets valid for either network (2005 prices).

By taxi:

Madrid’s taxis, white with a red band on the doors, are ubiquitous and quite economical, with fares ranging typically from four to 15 euros.