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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

Spain

Public Transportation: Getting Around Cities

Public transportation varies by city and region. It generally includes extensive bus networks, and in larger cities, metro and tram systems.

Route maps are available at stations, tourist offices, and online. Modern public transport systems, like the Bilbao Metro, newer buses, and trams, are generally accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.

Basque Country Systems

  • Bilbao: Modern metro system (Metro Bilbao).
  • Extensive bus networks (Bilbobus in Bilbao, DBus in San Sebastián).
  • Euskotren: Regional train lines connecting Bilbao, San Sebastián, and other towns.
  • Tram lines (Euskotren Tranbia) in Bilbao.

Bilbao Hubs

Abando (metro, Renfe, tram), Moyúa (metro, bus), and San Mamés (metro, bus, tram, Termibus bus station).

Santander Hubs

Estación de Autobuses (long-distance buses, some city buses) and Estación de Tren (Renfe, FEVE).

Oviedo Hubs

Estación de Autobuses and Estación de Tren. Route maps are available at stations, tourist offices, and online.

Ticketing & Fares

Single Tickets
  • Purchase on board buses or at metro/tram stations.
  • Typically cost €1.50-2.50.
  • Hours of Operation: Generally from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (around 10-11 PM).
Multi-Journey Cards
  • Basque Country: Barik Card (Bilbao) and Mugi Card (San Sebastián) deliver discounts.
  • Santander: Tarjeta Ciudadana (Citizen Card) for residents; simple rechargeable cards for visitors.
  • Asturias: Conecta Card for Renfe Cercanías or local city bus passes.

Public Transport Tips

Accessibility

Modern systems (Bilbao Metro, newer buses/trams) generally accommodate mobility challenges.

Google Maps

Excellent for real-time public transport directions.

Multi-Journey Cards

Saves money and offers convenience for frequent use.

Offline Maps

Download for navigation without data.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Convenience on Demand

Taxis and ride-sharing services deliver convenient, direct transportation, especially when time is limited or for late-night travel.

Taxi Identification

  • Licensed taxis are typically white with a red stripe or city emblem. A green light on the roof shows availability.
  • They have a visible meter. Always use licensed taxis.
  • Hailing: Hail on street if green light is on, find at designated stands, or order by phone/app.
  • Safety: Generally very safe. Drivers are regulated.

Fares & Payment

  • Fares are metered. Rates vary by city/time. Surcharges may apply (airport, luggage).
  • Most taxis accept cash. Many also accept credit/debit cards; confirm beforehand.
  • Example Fares: €3-5 base fare, then €1-1.50 per km. Typical city ride €8-20.
  • Airport/Station: Designated taxi stands at all airports and major stations. Fares to/from airports often have fixed surcharges.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Uber: Available in some major cities like Bilbao. Availability may be limited.
  • Cabify: Another popular ride-sharing app in Spain, available in cities like Bilbao. Offers similar services to Uber.
  • FREENOW (Formerly MyTaxi): Works with licensed taxis, allowing hailing and payment through the app. Available in major cities.
  • Safety: Ride-sharing apps offer convenience and transparency.
  • Verify: Ensure the driver and vehicle match the app's information before entering.
  • Share trip details with a friend for added safety.

Rental Options: Freedom to Explore

Car Rental

Book in advance. Pick up at airports or city offices. Valid driving license, IDP (if non-EU/EEA), passport, and credit card for deposit are needed. Visit DiscoverCars.com.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Available in some larger cities or coastal towns, less common than cars. Requires valid motorcycle license (engine size dependent) and often an age restriction (e.g., 21+).

Bicycle Rentals

Public bike-sharing in cities (Bilbao, San Sebastián, Gijón). Numerous shops offer daily/weekly rentals of city, mountain, or e-bikes (€15-30/day).

Driving Laws & Conditions

Mountain roads can be challenging due to curves, steep inclines, and occasional fog. Drive cautiously. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Spain has strict drink-driving laws.

Regulations

  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
  • Use dipped headlights in tunnels. Strict rules on mobile phone use while driving (hands-free only).
  • Blood alcohol limit is low (0.5 g/L, 0.3 g/L for new drivers).
  • Carrying a reflective vest and two warning triangles in the vehicle is mandatory.

Roads & Parking

  • Roads generally good quality. Autopistas (toll) and Autovías (free) connect main cities. Rural roads narrow/winding.
  • Parking difficult/expensive in city centers. Look for underground garages.
  • Avoid parking in "Zona Azul" (paid) or "Zona Verde" (resident), or areas with yellow lines.
  • A GPS device or smartphone with a reliable mapping app is highly recommended for navigation.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Old towns (Casco Viejo), coastal promenades (Gijón, Santander, San Sebastián) are perfect for walking exploration.

Nature trails exist in Picos de Europa, Senda del Oso.

Walking Tour Options

Guided tours (history, food), free walking tours operate on a tip-basis. Self-guided maps available from tourist offices or online.

Many apps help create walking routes.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Cycle lanes (Bidegorris) common in Basque Country. Greenways (Vías Verdes) offer flat, scenic, car-free routes.

Road cycling is popular; drivers are accustomed to cyclists.

Bicycle Safety & No-Go Zones

Safety on Bike
  • Wear a Helmet (compulsory outside urban areas), use lights at night.
  • Be aware of traffic laws.
  • Rural roads can be narrow.
No-Go Areas Safety
  • Generally, the Costa Verde is safe. No specific "no-go" areas exist.
  • Exercise caution in busy traffic areas.
  • For hiking, avoid unmarked trails in remote mountain areas without proper experience and equipment.

Specialized Transportation

Unique Transport
  • Tour Buses: Hop-on-Hop-off available in larger cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián.
  • Boat Taxis: Santander has ferry services across the bay. Many coastal towns offer tours.
  • Cable Cars/Funiculars: Funicular de Artxanda (Bilbao), Funicular de Igueldo (San Sebastián), Teleférico de Fuente Dé (Picos de Europa).
Accessibility Services
  • Major airports, train stations, and newer public transport vehicles are generally accessible.
  • Many larger hotels offer accessible rooms.
  • Check specific venues or transport providers for detailed accessibility information.

Local Transport Tip:

Explore cities on foot for hidden gems.

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