Getting around Madrid
Central Madrid is served by a network of bus routes, an extensive metro system and trains. The main hub is Puerta del Sol. The Consorcio de Transportes de Madrid (tel: 112, in Spain only; www.ctm-madrid.es) offers maps and information.
The metro (tel: +34 902 444 403; www.metromadrid.es) runs regularly until 0130. Each of the 12 metro lines is distinguished by a colour and number.
EMT (tel: +34 902 507 850; www.emtmadrid.es) runs Madrid's bus service. Night buses depart from Plaza de Cibeles between 2330 and 0600.
The local train network, operated by Cercanías (www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/cercanias/madrid), comprises 12 lines with a link between Charmartín and Atocha stations.
The Tarjeta Transporte Público (www.tarjetatransportepublico.es) is Madrid's transport smartcard. A tourist version for one, two, three, five or seven days is available in metro stations, at the tourist office on Plaza Mayor and online.
Taxis can be hired at ranks or on the street, with surcharges for additional passengers, luggage and telephone pick-ups.
Private taxi companies include TeleTaxi (tel: +34 91 371 2131) and Radio Taxi Independiente (tel: +34 91 405 1213).
Driving in central Madrid is not recommended. It's much easier to get around on foot and using public transport. If you choose to drive, consult the rules of Servicio de Estacionamiento Regulado (SER) (Regulated Parking Service).
Drivers aged 21 years and above need a passport, a valid insurance policy and valid driving licence held for at least one year. A Green Card is strongly recommended for all visitors and is compulsory for those from outside the EU.
Recommended car hire companies include Avis (tel: +34 902 110 291; www.avis.es), Europcar (tel: +34 902 105 055; www.europcar.es) and Hertz (tel: +34 902 023 932; www.hertz.es).
You can hire bikes through Madrid's bikeshare scheme, BiciMAD (tel: 010, in Spain only or +34 91 529 8210; www.bicimad.com), which has 165 stations stocked with more than 2,000 electric bikes across the city.
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