Madrid Metro

About

The Madrid Metro is Spain’s largest rapid‑transit network, spanning more than 330 km across the city and its suburbs. Since its first line opened in 1919, the system has expanded to 13 conventional underground lines and 3 light‑rail Metro Ligero lines—ML‑1, ML‑2 and ML‑3—serving a total of 312 stations. The Metro Ligero network itself stretches 28 km (17 mi), comprises 37 stations, and was inaugurated across three lines between 2007 and 2008, offering a unique, right‑hand‑driving, low‑floor Alstom Citadis 302 tram fleet that can carry up to 200 passengers (54 seated) and reaches 70 km/h. The metro’s design blends historic and modern elements: iconic tile mosaics and Art‑Deco lobbies at early stations such as Plaza de España transition to contemporary glass‑roofed designs like Arcos. Key interchange hubs—Atocha, Sol, Chamartín, and Nuevos Ministerios—connect seamlessly with Cercanías commuter rail, EMT buses, and the Metro Ligero lines on a unified contact‑less fare system managed by CRTM. Operationally, trains run from 6:00 AM until 1:30 AM on weekdays, with 24‑hour service on weekends, and are frequently scheduled to avoid long waits. High‑speed trains depart from Atocha to the Spanish high‑speed network, while the airport bus link and Madrid 2008 Olympic venues are easily reachable via the network’s integrated connections. For visitors, the metro offers an efficient, affordable experience with a spectrum of routes that guide travelers through Madrid’s cultural districts, historic landmarks, and modern business districts, making it an essential gateway to the city’s attractions and a first‑hand showcase of Madrid’s evolution in urban transit.

Highlights

• Extensive Network
• 24‑Hour Weekend Service
• Seamless Integration
• Historic Stations
• Driver‑less Operations

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour