Getting Started on the Madrid Metro
The Madrid Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Madrid. The network covers 302 stations across 13 lines and 294 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~2.0 million journeys are made every day.
The Madrid Metro is one of Europe's most extensive and well-connected metro systems. Opened on 17 October 1919, it operates 302 stations across 13 lines and 294 km of track, making it the second largest metro network in Western Europe after London.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Multi Card — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. Everything about the Multi card: how to buy, load tickets, fares, and whether you need one as a visitor to Madrid in 2026.
All payment options: Multi card (rechargeable) · Single-trip paper ticket · Contactless bank card (select gates) · Tourist Travel Pass.
💡 Load a 10-trip Metrobus ticket (€12.20) onto a Multi card — it works on both metro and EMT buses, and at €1.22 per trip is far better value than single tickets. The Multi card costs €2.50 and is reusable.
Peak hours: No peak fare surcharge — flat zone-based fares at all times. Airport supplement €3.00 applies on top of zone fare for Line 8 airport section..
Getting from the Airport to Madrid
Line 8 connects Madrid Barajas Airport directly to the city centre — Nuevos Ministerios in 20 minutes for €4.50–€5.00, with step-by-step guide and journey times. Journey time: ~20 min to Nuevos Ministerios (T1-T2-T3) / ~30 min from T4. Estimated fare: €4.50–€5.00 (zone fare €1.50–€2.00 + €3.00 airport supplement).
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Madrid Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Always tap out — some European metros require you to tap your card at exit as well as entry. Failing to do so results in a maximum fare charge.
- Validate your ticket — in cities like Paris and Madrid, ticket validation at the barrier is mandatory. Keep your ticket until you exit.
- Travel off-peak — No peak fare surcharge — flat zone-based fares at all times. Airport supplement €3.00 applies on top of zone fare for Line 8 airport section.. Fares are lower off-peak and trains are less crowded.
- Operating hours — hours vary by city and day. Most European metros run reduced hours on Sundays. Check the operator app or website.
- Multi-trip cards save money — Multi Card Guide is cheaper than buying single tickets. Recommended for any visit of 2+ days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Multi card and do I need one?
The Multi card (€2.50) is a reusable contactless smart card on which you load credit or multi-trip tickets. You must have one to use the 10-trip Metrobus ticket (best value). Single-trip paper tickets are available but cost more per trip and are only valid for one journey.
How do I get from Barajas Airport to Madrid centre?
Take Line 8 directly from Terminal 1-2-3 or Terminal 4 to Nuevos Ministerios in about 20–25 minutes. Cost is zone fare (€1.50–€2.00) plus €3.00 airport supplement — roughly €4.50–€5.00 total. Nuevos Ministerios connects to Lines 6 and 10 for onward travel.
What is the Airport Supplement?
A €3.00 surcharge applies on top of the standard zone fare for any journey that uses the airport section of Line 8 (Nuevos Ministerios to Terminal 4). It applies regardless of which direction you are travelling. You pay it every time you use that section.
What is the Tourist Travel Pass (Abono Turístico)?
Available for 1–7 days (€8.40–€35.40 for Zone A). Gives unlimited rides on metro, bus, and Cercanías within the zone. Note: the airport supplement still applies even with a Tourist Pass for Line 8 airport journeys.
Does the Madrid Metro run at night?
Yes — special Búho (owl) night buses cover the city from midnight to 6:00. The metro itself closes at approximately 01:30 on weekdays and 02:30 on Fridays and Saturdays. Cercanías night services also run on some lines.
Which is the most useful metro line for tourists?
Line 1 (blue) runs through the city centre and connects Atocha (museums, high-speed trains), Sol (Puerta del Sol, shopping), and the main tourist belt. Line 8 is essential for the airport. Line 6 (grey, circular) is useful for getting between Line hubs without going through Sol.
Is the Madrid Metro accessible?
Madrid Metro has one of the highest accessibility ratings in Europe — nearly all stations have lifts, and newer rolling stock is wheelchair-friendly. The website lists stations with full accessibility. Line 6 was fully renovated and has lifts at every station.
Can I take a bicycle on the Madrid Metro?
Yes — bicycles are allowed on metro outside peak hours (07:00–09:30 and 17:00–20:00 on weekdays). You can take a bike in the last carriage. There is no extra charge. BiciMAD electric bikes share docking stations at many metro stops.
Fare Guide
See the full Madrid Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Multi Card Guide discount, and payment options.
Source: Metro de Madrid and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.