Appendix (TRANSPORTATION) Metro
Madrid’s metro system is an efficient, inexpensive and a comfortable way to get around town. Metro trains are typically clean and safe. The biggest problem in taking the Metro is getting on the line in the correct direction. Once you get on the platform and you’re waiting for your Metro train to arrive there are a few indicators as to which direction you’re going. The direction of the train is indicated by the END STATION on that line. Single-trip “Metro” tickets cost 1€. You can purchase the 10-trip “Metro” ticket for 9€. The most logical purchase would be a “Combed 10 Journey Metro” ticket, which allows you to travel on all lines, buses and Metro Ligero for 14,50€. All metro tickets can be purchased at any metro station. Look for the vending machines just inside the station and before entering the turnstiles, or you may buy them at the ticket window. Once you enter the Metro area with your ticket you can get on and off any Metro line as many times as you need in order to get to your destination. Once you leave the Metro area labyrinth, in order to re-enter you will need to use your pass again. Keep your ticket available because in some areas you will need your ticket to exit the Metro station again, or show to metro police during spot checks on the trains. Entering/Exiting the individual Metro cars while waiting for the metro train to stop can be confusing for the first-time metro traveler. Some metro car doors open/close automatically at each stop without touching them but others require pressing a button or “twisting” a kind of toggles-switch handle to activate the door. WARNING ABOUT SAFETY: Metro stations, platforms, and metro cars are “target-rich environments” for would-be Pick-Pockets and (less often) purse-snatchers. NEVER carry a wallet in an un-buttoned back pocket or loose front pockets. Never carry money, important documents (like passports), or other valuables in an external pocket of a backpack or purse. Be AWARE of those standing next to you and behind you at all times. Be AWARE of those attempting to draw your attention away from your bags or distract you with “diversions”. Most thieves are absolute professionals at what they do – THEY ARE GOOD - and everyone in Madrid knows someone who has had their pocketbook or wallet “lifted” from their person. BUS
Madrid’s web of bus routes cover the city more completely than metro, but can be more confusing and slower too. However, when in a neighborhood where a metro station is further than the bus stop, you may consider the bus as a better alternative. Buses are popular forms of transportation with all ages and income levels because, at times, they are more convenient than Metros. They are very safe and clean in general. Bus route maps are located at MOST bus stops, often showing not only the bus route at that location but of the entire area. Bus stops will have a sign showing ALL the bus numbers which pass through that bus stop. Be sure you get on the proper
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