Spain is preparing to implement a single public transport ticket by 2026, enabling seamless travel across the country on buses, metros, trams, and commuter trains. The initiative, announced by Minister of Transport Óscar Puente, draws inspiration from Germany’s Deutschlandticket and Austria’s Klimaticket, which offer nationwide transport access for flat monthly fees. Spain’s new pass aims to reduce reliance on private cars, simplify travel, and encourage sustainable mobility.
"The goal is to eliminate barriers to public transport access and make it more intuitive and affordable for everyone," said Álvaro Fernández Heredia, secretary general for Sustainable Mobility. He highlighted that a single ticket would especially benefit visitors to unfamiliar cities and could significantly increase public transport usage.
Currently, Spain's transport system relies on regional passes, such as those available in Madrid and Barcelona, which are heavily subsidized by the government. The nationwide ticket will replace these subsidies, redirecting the €2 billion currently allocated annually to the new system. Pricing for the pass is yet to be finalized, though comparable programs abroad range from €49 to €79 per month.
The success of Germany’s Deutschlandticket, launched in 2023 for €58 per month, demonstrates the potential of such initiatives. Austria’s Klimaticket has similarly gained traction with an annual fee of €949 (€79 per month). Both programs have contributed to reducing car usage and greenhouse gas emissions, serving as models for Spain’s initiative.
However, significant challenges remain. Public transport in Spain is managed by multiple authorities: the Ministry of Transport oversees commuter trains and intercity buses, while metros, trams, and local buses are controlled by city councils and regional consortia. Negotiations to integrate these services under one ticket will be complex.
"Integrating urban and regional systems requires collaboration across all levels of government," said Fernández Heredia. "But the benefits for users and the environment make it a necessary step."
The announcement has garnered strong public and organizational support. Greenpeace, which has long advocated for a unified transport pass, has collected over 200,000 signatures backing the measure. Cristina Arjona, Greenpeace’s mobility spokesperson, said, "This ticket would eliminate barriers and facilitate travel nationwide, making public transport more accessible and competitive with private cars."
