Last modified 04/21/2025

Top Taxi Companies in Spain:
Cheap Taxis in Madrid, Barcelona

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The taxi in Spain is one of the most used transportation methods by tourists and locals. From its humble beginnings to modern mobile app services, the history of Spanish taxis is fascinating.

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In this article, we’ll explore its origins, the most important companies, prices, and fun facts that will surprise you.

History of Taxis in Spain

1. The First Taxis: Horse-Drawn Carriages 🐎

The first taxi services in Spain date back to the 19th century, when horse-drawn carriages (called “simones”) roamed the streets of Madrid and Barcelona. They were a luxury reserved for nobility and the bourgeoisie.

2. The Automobile Era: The First Motorized Taxis 🚗

In the early 20th century, the first motorized taxis arrived in Spain. In 1914, Barcelona was one of the first cities to adopt them, using models like the Renault Type AG.

3. Regulation and Expansion 📜

In the 1950s and 60s, the Spanish government regulated the service with official licenses and standardized fares. Today, taxis are recognized by their white color (in most cities) and green light (indicating availability).

Major Taxi Companies in Spain

1. Radio Taxi Barcelona 📞

  • The largest taxi fleet in Barcelona, with over 10,000 vehicles.
  • Offers 24/7 service and app bookings (MyTaxi, Cabify).

2. TeleTaxi Madrid 🚖

  • The main taxi company in Madrid, with over 15,000 licenses.
  • Known for its speed and citywide coverage.

3. Taxi Valencia 🚕

  • Operates a modern fleet, including hybrid and electric cars.
  • Ideal for reaching the Oceanogràfic or City of Arts and Sciences.

4. Malaga Taxi ☀️

  • Popular among tourists arriving at Malaga Airport.
  • Offers fixed fares to the historic center.

Fun Facts About Taxis in Spain 🚕

  1. Spain’s oldest taxi (a Renault 4CV from 1956) is still in service in Seville.
  2. In Barcelona, some taxis have sunroofs to enjoy the views.
  3. Taxi licenses can cost up to €200,000 in cities like Madrid.
  4. Spanish taxi drivers must pass a local geography exam.
  5. In Ibiza, taxis are the main nighttime transport during the party season.

Taxi Prices in Spain 💶

City Flag Drop Per Kilometer
Madrid €2.50 €1.10
Barcelona €2.40 €1.20
Valencia €3.00 €0.95
Malaga €2.80 €1.05

💡 Tip: At airports like Barajas (Madrid) or El Prat (Barcelona), there are fixed fares to the city center.

How to Hail a Taxi in Spain? 📱

✅ Taxi stand: Look for designated street stops.
✅ App: Cabify, FREE NOW, Uber work in major cities.
✅ Phone: Call companies like Radio Taxi (933 033 033 in Barcelona).

❌ Avoid pirate taxis: Only use licensed vehicles (with a meter and permit).

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Conclusion

The taxi in Spain is a comfortable and safe way to get around, with a rich history and modern services. Whether in Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia, knowing the fares, key companies, and fun facts will help you travel with confidence.

Do you have questions about taxis in Spain? Leave them in the comments! 👇

🚖 Travel in style and enjoy the best taxi experience!

🚖 Taxi Apps in Spain:
Essential Tips for TravelersImage about taxi service in Madrid, history of Spanish taxis, taxi Valencia, taxi fares in Malaga. #CheapTaxiSpain #AirportTaxiSpain

 


Looking for the best way to get around Spain? Taxi apps offer a convenient, fast, and safe way to travel. In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know about taxi services in Spain, including the best apps, prices, and some surprising facts.

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📱 Best Taxi Apps in Spain

These are the most popular apps that work in major cities:

  1. Cabify – The most widely used, with professional drivers.

  2. Uber – Available in some cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia).

  3. Bolt – Affordable alternative with good coverage.

  4. Free Now – Works with official taxis (ideal for traditional cabs).

  5. PideTaxi – Local app used in some regions.

💡 Tip: Cabify and Free Now are the most reliable to avoid scams.

💰 Taxi Prices in Spain

Prices vary by city, but generally:

  • Madrid: €1.10/km + €2.50 flag drop.

  • Barcelona: €1.20/km + €2.40 flag drop.

  • Seville: €0.95/km + €2.30 flag drop.

⚠️ Avoid pirate taxis (they often overcharge tourists).

🚗 Fun Facts About Taxis in Spain

✅ White and Red Taxis – In Madrid they’re white with a red stripe, while in Barcelona they’re yellow and black.
✅ Uber is Limited – Only operates as UberX (licensed drivers) in some cities.
✅ Cabify Dominates – It’s the most popular app, especially in Madrid and Barcelona.
✅ Night Surcharge – Between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM prices increase by 20%.
✅ Fixed Rates from Airports – Many cities (like Madrid and Barcelona) have fixed prices to downtown.

📲 How to Book a Taxi via App in Spain

  1. Download Cabify, Free Now or Bolt.

  2. Enable GPS and enter your destination.

  3. Check the estimated price before confirming.

  4. Pay by card or cash (depends on the app).

  5. Rate your driver to improve the service.

🚨 Important Taxi Tips in Spain

✔ Always check the meter (if hailing a cab on the street).
✔ Official taxis have SP plates on the door.
✔ Night and holiday rates are more expensive.
✔ Use apps to avoid overcharging.
✔ Tipping is optional (rounding up is common).

✈️ Taxis at Spanish Airports

Major airports have fixed rates to downtown:

  • Madrid (Barajas) → Center: €30 (day) / €35 (night).

  • Barcelona (El Prat) → Center: €39 (flat rate).

  • Malaga → Center: €22 (approx.).

🚕 Booking in advance via app is usually cheaper!

🎯 Conclusion

Using taxi apps in Spain is the best way to get around safely without surprises. Choose Cabify, Free Now or Bolt for the best experience and always check prices before your trip.

Ready to explore Spain? Book your taxi and enjoy your journey! 🇪🇸🚖

Madrid’s Bus and Metro Service

Madrid boasts one of Europe’s most efficient public transport systems, featuring an extensive network of urban buses, Madrid Metro and other mobility options.

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, knowing how to get around is essential, especially if you’re arriving at Barajas Airport and need to reach downtown Madrid.


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In this article, we’ll share the history, evolution and fun facts about public transport in Madrid, plus the best routes from the airport.

History of Madrid’s Metro and Buses

The Madrid Metro is one of the oldest in the world. Inaugurated in 1919, its first line connected Sol with Cuatro Caminos. Over the years, the network expanded to become Europe’s second largest, only behind London.

Meanwhile, Madrid’s urban buses (EMT) began operating in 1947, gradually replacing trams. Today, the Municipal Transport Company (EMT) manages over 200 lines covering the entire capital.

How to Get from Barajas to Downtown Madrid

If you land at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, you have several options to reach downtown Madrid:

  1. Madrid Metro (Line 8 – Pink):

    • Connects the airport (T1-T2-T3 and T4 stations) with Nuevos Ministerios in about 20-25 minutes.

    • Price: Airport supplement (€3 extra on single ticket).

  2. Airport Express Bus (Line 203):

    • 24-hour direct service between Barajas and Atocha.

    • Approximate time: 40 minutes.

  3. Cercanías Renfe (Line C1):

    • Departs from T4 and reaches Chamartín, Atocha and Príncipe Pío.

    • Ideal if you have lots of luggage.

  4. Taxi or Uber/Cabify:

    • Fixed rate from Barajas to center: €30-€35 (depending on terminal).

Fun Facts About Madrid Transport

  • The Madrid Metro has Spain’s most famous ghost station: Chamberí, closed since 1966 and now a museum.

  • The longest metro line is Line 12 (MetroSur), spanning 41 km.

  • Madrid’s urban buses (EMT) carry over 400 million passengers annually.

  • Sol station is the busiest, with over 50 million annual users.

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The bus and metro service in Madrid is key to enjoying the city. Whether for tourism or business, knowing your options will save time and money. Enjoy your trip to Madrid with the best information! 🚇🚌✈️

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