Free Travel Options in Spain: The Long-Distance Bus and Train Initiative
Starting next year, many passengers who travel on long-distance coaches in Spain will be able to do so for free, as confirmed by the government. This innovative measure is set to enhance mobility and accessibility across the region.
Earlier this year, free train tickets were introduced for short and medium-distance journeys in Spain. Initially launched on September 1 for a three-month duration to assist individuals grappling with rising energy costs, its success has prompted an extension throughout the upcoming year.
Transport and mobility minister Raquel Sánchez confirmed on Tuesday that the program will expand again, now encompassing long-distance coaches that are part of the state concession network.
In addition to relieving commuters of costs amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the transport minister noted that the bus scheme aims to save over 350 million liters of fuel, potentially averting the emission of one million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere during 2023.
How Does the Free Long-Distance Bus Scheme Work?
At present, individuals can purchase tickets from companies operating state-owned bus routes at a 50% discount—which will rise to 100% next year. However, it is essential to note that this free travel does not apply to single journeys. Instead, participants must purchase season or multi-trip tickets (in batches of 10, 20, or 30) and pay a €20 deposit.
Thanks to the state’s vast bus network, which spans 1,837 municipalities, travelers can cover extensive distances across Spain—from Madrid to Barcelona, Alicante to Murcia, and beyond.
Details regarding the number of journeys required to receive a refund on the deposit are still unclear. For the free train scheme, passengers must complete 16 trips to qualify for the deposit refund, yet such specifics for the bus initiative have not yet been clarified. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Travelers planning to visit Spain next year can look forward to substantial savings across the rail network under the free train tickets initiative. This offer is not exclusive to locals; it invites travelers from all corners of the globe, including American and European visitors to Spain.
What Train Lines Are Covered by the Free Ticket Scheme?
The free ticket initiative encompasses rail journeys on Cercanías, Rodalies, and Media Distancia rail lines, which generally travel across short and medium distances—typically up to 186 miles (300km).
- Cercanías: Connecting main cities with their metropolitan areas, operating in cities like Alicante, Barcelona, Bilbao, Cádiz, Madrid, and more.
- Rodalies: Serving the same function in the region of Catalonia.
- Media Distancia (MD): Linking diverse cities, towns, and villages within a single autonomous region.
It is important to note that this measure does not include long-distance train journeys or high-speed lines such as AVE, Avant, and Avlo.
Is It Worth It for Tourists?
If exploring less-visited regions is on your agenda, certainly! Even without reaching the minimum required trips for the deposit refund, significant savings can still be realized.
For instance, if visiting Barcelona, utilizing the city as a base to explore adjacent areas is highly recommended. A Media Distancia round-trip ticket from Barcelona to Figueres costs €32—surpassing the €20 deposit. Therefore, even without the necessary trips for a deposit refund, travelers can save €12 on that one journey alone.
Spain by Train: The Best Local and Medium-Distance Itineraries
Easy Train Trips from Madrid
The capital of Spain stands as the primary transportation hub, boasting direct train connections to nearly every significant city. Notably, the historical region of Castile offers numerous day trip opportunities from Madrid.
Toledo, famous for its rich history and architecture, is an excellent day trip to consider. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts can explore Segovia, renowned for its cochinillo asado.
Easy Train Trips from Barcelona
As the most popular city in Spain, Barcelona provides an ideal base for excursions throughout the Catalonia region.
First-time visitors should consider a train journey to Girona, a city filled with history and charm, followed by a continuation to Figueres, home of the renowned Salvador Dalí.
Easy Train Trips from Bilbao
Bilbao, the most populous city in the Basque Country, offers memorable train travel options, particularly a journey to San Sebastián—a city celebrated for its culinary excellence.
Easy Train Trips from Málaga
Málaga serves as a cosmopolitan hub in Andalucía, facilitating easy access to nearby Seville—a city bursting with stunning architecture and vibrant cultural experiences.
Additionally, Cádiz, an ancient coastal city, provides a rich nightlife scene along with delicious local seafood, inviting travelers to dive into regional culinary delights.
For the most updated schedules and prices, it’s advisable to consultation with external sources specializing in travel within Spain.
