Airport bus

[Sansthing]

I know I have to get the red no. 204 bus outside Madrid airport to go to the bus station at Av de Americas. Please, can anyone tell me whether you have to buy tickets beforehand for this bus or do you pay a conductor? Also, any idea how much it costs?
Any info would be much appreciated, thank you.

Sandra

 

[Canuck]

A ticket is 2 euros and you buy it from the driver.

A little word of wisdom, have small change ready. The drivers get nasty when you pay with bills.

Otherwise, it's an excellent service for the price.

Cheers,

Jean-Marc

 

[Sansthing]

Thank you so much Jean-Marc, it is these niggling little questions that make life so complicated in a foreign country.
Sandra :arrow:

 

[jeff001]

You can also take the Metro from the airport. Take the Metro train (Line 8) to the Mar de Cristal station (2nd stop after T 1-2-3) and transfer to Line 4 direction Arguelles. The 7th stop is Ave. de Americas. Go up 2 levels for the long distance buses. The whole trip takes about 45 minutes.

 

[NaKwendaSafari]

Dear Sandra,
Another word of wisdom, we were pick-pocketed at the crowded Metro station. Be very careful at these stations and at the other tourist sites.

Joe

 

[Sansthing]

Wow, thanks for the warning Joe :shock: I shall be extra careful in crowded places. I intend to have just my fare accessible, the rest will be safely stashed away under clothes and out of sight.

Sandra

 

[WolverineDG]

Sandra, that is a good rule of thumb. Keep only your "walking around" money in your pockets & the rest under your clothes, in your bra, or shoe.

Kelly

 

[crackmrmac]

Hi Sandra, yes these things happen, especially in busy places to new arrivals. Watch out in big cities and on crowded methods of transport. But also know that 99% of folk around you are honest and will give you assistance.
As regards loose change, it's the same all over Europe. Many bus companies operate on exact fare / no change given or prepaid tickets ......or helpfully credit card. Many ATMs dispense cash in €50 notes......is that helpful for a cafe con leche?
Your anticipation must be building by now that your departure date is approaching.

Buen Camino.

 

[Sansthing]

Thanks for all the suggestions. Luckily I have some coins left over from a previous trip to Europe. That will do for a start , anyway, until I get myself sorted.

Anticipation has reached the point where I can´t wait to get through the next couple of days and be on my way - despite a poor weather forecast for next week

Sandra :arrow:

 

[crackmrmac]

Hi Sandra, Look forward to your departure moment, it will be special if you wish. Everyone on this forum wishes a special experience. Most of us have no Spanish language but we wish you Buen Camino, and relish the Spanish folk you meet along the way.

Buen Camino