What's the smartest way to use public transit in Madrid?

Buy a ten-trip Metrobus card (the *tarjeta multiviaje*) from any Metro station or tobacco shop — it cuts per-ride cost roughly in half compared to single tickets and works across Metro, bus, and light rail. The Metro covers the city efficiently with 13 lines running 6am to 1:30am daily, extended to 2:30am on weekends. For the airport, take Line 8 from Nuevos Ministerios to Terminal 4, which adds a €3 supplement to your fare. Within the city center, the yellow EMT buses fill the gaps the Metro misses, particularly in Lavapiés and La Latina where stations are sparse. If you're staying longer than a few days, a monthly *Abono Transportes* pass starts around €54 for Zone A and covers unlimited trips. Avoid taxis during peak hours on Gran Vía and Paseo de la Castellana — the Metro will get you there faster and for a fraction of the price.

Trip Friend knows Madrid cold.

Plan a real trip there, and Trip Friend can answer every follow-up — with your dates, your style, and your places baked into the conversation.

• Where do locals actually go for aperitivo in Madrid?
• Where do locals drink coffee in Madrid?
• What does a local breakfast look like in Madrid?
• Where is the street food in Madrid actually good?
• Where can I eat after midnight in Madrid?
• How do I get from the airport to the city in Madrid?