Student Metro Card (Abono Joven)

Madrid has one of the best public transport systems in Europe, and if you’re under 26, you can take advantage of the Abono Joven — a monthly pass that gives you unlimited travel on metro, bus, and commuter trains (Cercanías) for just 20 euros per month.

It’s one of the best deals in the city and an absolute must-have for any student living in Madrid. Here’s how to get yours.

What Is the Abono Joven?

The Abono Joven (also called the Abono Transporte Joven) is a discounted monthly travel pass available to anyone aged 7 to 25 living in the Community of Madrid. For 20 euros per month, you get unlimited rides on all Madrid metro lines, all EMT city buses, Cercanías commuter trains, and light rail within your zone.

The standard youth pass covers Zone A (central Madrid), which is enough for most students. If you live further out, you can purchase a pass that includes additional zones for a small extra cost.

How to Get Your Card

First, you’ll need a Tarjeta de Transporte Público (public transport card). You can apply for one online through the Consorcio Regional de Transportes de Madrid website or in person at designated metro stations and tobacco shops (estancos).

To apply, you’ll need your passport or TIE, a passport-sized photo, and proof of your address in Madrid (an empadronamiento certificate or a utility bill). The card itself costs a small one-time fee and is valid for 10 years.

Loading Your Monthly Pass

Once you have your transport card, you can load the Abono Joven at any metro station ticket machine, online through the CRTM website, or via the Madrid Mobility 360 app on your phone.

The pass renews monthly and is charged to your card. You can set up automatic renewal or load it manually each month. The pass activates on the first day of the month regardless of when you purchase it, so buying it mid-month means you’re paying for a partial month.

Navigating Madrid Like a Local

Madrid’s metro system has 13 lines covering the entire city, running from around 6 AM to 1:30 AM daily. For late nights, the "búho" (night bus) network takes over with routes across the city.

Download the Madrid Metro app or Google Maps for real-time navigation. Most students find that between the metro and bus system, you can get anywhere in Madrid quickly and affordably. A car is completely unnecessary — and honestly, parking is a nightmare anyway.