During the debate on the state of the nation in the Congress of Deputies on July 12th, Spain's prime minister Pedro Sánchez announced a number of initiatives in a effort to mitigate the economic and social impact of the war in Ukraine. One such measure is the plan to implement free travel on state-owned public transport for four months from September 1 to December 31, 2022.
Great news right? But before you start planning an autumn getaway, you should know that the 100% discount does not apply to all travel on Renfe.
Which Tickets Are Free?
The policy's goal is to encourage commuters to opt for more sustainable travel and leave their cars at home. Because the measure is aimed at Spanish workers that commute daily between cities, single trip tickets and round-trip tickets are not included. Also, integrated tickets that combine multiple modes of transport are not included.
The 100% discount will apply to all multi-journey tickets on Cercanías, Rodalias and media distancia routes of less than 300 kilometers, such as the Bono 10 Regional (which can be shared with other people) and regional monthly passes.
What about Intercity Transport?
For public transport services not within the scheme for free travel, the Spanish government is subsidizing 30% of the cost in all of the autonomous regions. Some regions are further subsidizing the cost; here in Catalunya the Generalitat is shaving another 20% off the ticket price.
So, while travel within the metropolitan area won't be free, you will still enjoy significant savings. All public transport in Barcelona—metro, bus, tram, train—will be reduced by 50%. This means that starting September 1, single journey tickets will be just €1.20, the T-casual will be €5.70 and 30-day passes will be reduced to €20.00.
For How Long Are the Subsidized Tickets Valid?
Unfortunately, you cannot acquire tickets for travel beyond the dates of the discount. Tickets will be good for travel only from September 1 to December 31. Any unused trips left on your tickets after December 31 will be invalid—unless, of course the government chooses to extend the subsidy.
The government has yet to announce when the tickets will be available for purchase. Also, it is unclear if the government will compensate those who purchase tickets before the 100% discount comes into effect.